Trickle charging a mild hybrid can seem complicated, but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
Let’s start with the fundamentals though. Mild hybrid vehicles have an internal combustion engine as well as a tiny electric generator/motor. This handy generator assists the engine during startup, cruising, and heavy acceleration.
You may be asking how the 48V battery that powers the hybrid system is charged. That’s where regenerative braking comes into play. The generator basically harvests energy while coasting and braking, which is then stored and used to restart the engine and help with acceleration.
But even when the electrical system is powered via regenerative braking, the 12V battery must still be charged. This battery is essential for all the functions in your car, like air conditioning, lights, and even the radio.
A standard 12v charger is usually sufficient to keep a mild-hybrid battery charged. However, some vehicles may require at least 20 amps to charge the battery. In that instance, a charger such as the CTEK PRO25S battery charger may provide up to 25 amps.
The PRO25S is a versatile and portable charger that is compatible with all 12V batteries, including lithium (LiFePO4) batteries. It also features a reconditioning mode for recovering from deep discharge.
Furthermore, it has many built-in safety features that make it completely safe for all battery types as well as the sensitive electronics in your vehicle. The PRO25S is also spark proof and reverse-polarity protected, protecting both the user and the battery.
