Germany-based Liacon, one of Europe’s largest battery manufacturers, has released a new, more versatile lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery that can replace all Group 31 lead-acid units.

“Liacon’s been developing its LFP batteries since before Trion acquired the company,” says Timothy Mayne, CEO of Trion Battery Technologies, which owns Liacon. “We anticipate further disrupting the battery industry with Trion’s advanced materials that will result in superior cells, batteries, and systems to meet the world’s need for better energy.”

Designed as a drop-in replacement, Liacon’s LFP battery does not require any change to existing charging systems. The energy storage capacity is also superior to typical lead acid units, and its stable discharge curve mitigates damage to sensitive electronics.

Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries with oxide-based chemistries, Liacon’s doesn’t contain expensive and rare heavy metals such as cobalt and nickel, nor does it contain lead, which is toxic to the environment.

The new Group 31 LFP 12.8V 150 Ah battery has two to three times the energy of a lead-acid battery, and 1,000 cranking amps for starting heavy duty diesel engines.