[jeepmor]

I sent Shorai a note and they basically advised me against it.

Please see the below info on using the LFX for cars:





*** We are actively working on a higher capacity, higher amperage battery for cars and trucks at this time and project its release in 2018.***



Shorai LFX Lithium Batteries: For Use In Cars & Trucks



Although we are aware of the reported success of our LFX batteries in the Acura NSX, Mazda RX7 and Miatas with our current LFX36 series (LFX36L3-BS12 (- +) and the LFX36A3-BS12 (+ -), we cannot officially recommend their use in cars or trucks at this time. The current model of the LFX is designed for use as a powersports (motorcycle, off-road vehicles, ATV, UTV, scooters, personal watercraft) starter battery only. We have conducted sufficient testing to determine that two issues are preventing its use in cars at this time: low capacity, and alternators producing too much voltage/current.

Low Capacity: Lithium Iron Phosphate has 1/3 the actual capacity of the lead acid equivalent and has insufficient capacity reserve for vehicles with considerable accessory load (stereos, alarms, GPS, accessory chargers, air conditioners, etc.) as compared to the charging system output. Accessories are designed to run off the charging system of a vehicle and not the reserve of a battery If your charging system cannot support the standard vehicle operation and the accessories simultaneously, the battery will discharge or run below optimum for sustained periods, resulting in a dead battery or a battery which is being continually damaged. This includes usage of lights and the stereo when the key is off. Also, most vehicles also have parasitic draw for computers, clocks, alarms, etc. which discharge the battery even when not in operation.


High Starter Current Amperage: IMPORTANT: Please be mindful when using batteries for non-approved starting methods such as in larger motors than it was designed for (do not use in vehicles with displacements above 110ci/1802.5cc/1.8L) such is commonly found in cars and trucks. This is usually the biggest barrier in using it for your car. This can cause performance issues and could possibly be dangerous from overcurrent/voltage from the alternator. For custom vehicles, or cars, the starter/ignition should ideally be designed around an amperage draw which is 25% of the CCA and never more than 50% CCA in the LFX battery being utilized. Too much current or voltage from larger motors, or from excessive cranking attempts, can cause catastrophic failure in the form of outgassing and the battery case material melting.


Charging System Output Requirements:



At least 13.1V at idle, although 13.3V is preferable.
13.6V to 14.4V at approximately 2000 rpm
No more than 15.2V at the terminals. Anything over 14.8V can lessen lifespan over time.
The battery shouldn’t be allowed to fall below 12.86V resting voltage (20% capacity remaining), or it can damage the battery and hinder it from holding a charge in the future.
We recommend charging if you see 13.1V, or sooner. Most racecar owners use a cutoff switch to isolate the battery during non-use.


Parallel Usage

I have spoken to a few customers who have used two batteries in parallel, but the charge and discharge cycles left the cells imbalanced. Usually the end cells get the most damage from overcharge/ overcurrent. Using a Balance Charger such as the Shorai SHO-BMS01 can assist in balancing the cells. In addition, you may consider an external balancer and cell checker.





If you decide to go with the battery anyway, please use the attached Troubleshooting guide to prevent a battery failure.





Best Regards,

Marianne Guarena

Customer Service & Warranty Manager



“The World’s Lightest, Longest-Lasting Powersports Batteries”

Shorai, Inc. | T:408-720-8821 | shop@shorai.org | www.shoraipower.com