GLEN JUSTICE

Mastervolt's new Lithium Ion Battery is a potential game changer.

Lithium Ion battery technology is widely used in other applications, but has not yet penetrated the marine space when it comes to cranking or house batteries. Mastervolt's entry is the first on the market and, though we have not tested it, it holds a great deal of potential. The battery won an IBEX Innovation Award in the Electrical Systems category.

The 24-volt battery — a 12-volt model is in development — weighs just 115 pounds, with an output comparable to four 8D batteries. Made with lithium iron phosphate, it can be discharged to 80 percent as rapidly and as often as desired without the wear that traditional batteries experience. The company claims a lifespan of 2,000 cycles, which is three times that of normal batteries.

Mastervolt's lithium ion battery produces no gas byproducts, and includes the company's battery management system, which balances cells to provide full voltage, current and temperature control. It can be connected in parallel without limitation and in series up to 250-volt DC, according to Mastervolt.   

One drawback is the cost: at more than $7,500, it is expensive. But company officials say that the battery will outlast three sets of 8D batteries, which would mitigate the costs over a period of years. They also expect it to come down in price.