Freudenberg e-Power Systems (FEPS) announces a new stackable battery system for maritime applications. The modular solution called XWAVE is specifically designed for battery-electric and hybrid-electric vessels.
Freudenberg e-Power Systems is a well-known player in the industry: the company has energy systems in use in a good 30 hybrid or fully electric ships worldwide. With the XWAVE system, Freudenberg now wants to step up and address the “growing demands of electrification in the shipping industry.” The new battery pack should be available from 2027.
The stackable system features nickel-dominated cells (‘the Gen 3 SHP mid-nickel single-crystal power cells’), a modern battery management system and an integrated telematics system. In this way, the new product should enable ship designers, shipyards and system integrators to “customize the power and energy set up to each vessel’s specific needs,” according to the manufacturer. The Gen 3 SHP cells developed in-house are designed to offer both high charging and discharging performance as well as a competitive energy density and a long service life.
FEPS further specifies that the battery system consists of modular components that can be connected in series. Each module has a capacity of 17 kWh and a nominal voltage of 132 volts. According to the manufacturer, the modules and the battery disconnect unit (BDU) can be connected in series to a total voltage of up to 1,048 volts. Up to this limit, the system can be “customized to the size of the room in the vessel without compromising power.” The voltage and height of the battery block can be scaled independently of each other. The associated battery management system from FEPS monitors the system and can be integrated into telematics software.
“XWAVE was developed with our customers in mind, who told us they need a battery system with a more flexible design, and ample energy to power everything from ferries to cargo ships,” said Lisa McKenzie, President and General Manager of Battery Systems at Freudenberg e-Power Systems. “This new system builds on our proven track record powering vessels in the maritime market while adapting to the changing needs of the industry.”
Freudenberg e-Power Systems is a major supplier of battery and fuel cell systems for heavy-duty applications. The company, which employs around 800 people, is part of the Freudenberg Group, which generated sales of €11.9 billion in the 2024 financial year with its Seals and Vibration Control Technology, Nonwovens and Filtration, Household Products and Specialities divisions.
