Lithium Battery Definitions
in UN Manual of Tests and Criteria
George A. Kerchner
PRBA – The Rechargeable Battery Association
1776 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20006
202.719.4109
gkerchner@wileyrein.com
Definitions
 Background
• “Module” frequently used by industry; referenced in NOTE under
“Battery” definition in UN Manual
 Generally recognized as electrically connected cells and a
“component” designed for use in battery assembly
• “Battery Assembly” referenced eight times in 38.3.3 but not defined
 Generally recognized as assembly of electrically connected
modules or batteries
 “Battery System” more frequently used in industry
SAE 2984 Definitions
 Battery Module: A group of interconnected cells in a single
mechanical and electrical unit
 Battery System: A completely functional energy storage
system consisting of the pack(s), necessary ancillary
subsystems for physical support, thermal management and
electronic control.
UL 2580 Definitions
 Module – A subassembly consisting of a group of cells or
electrochemical capacitors connected together either in a series
and/or parallel configuration (sometimes referred to as a block)
with or without protective devices and monitoring circuitry. A
module is a component of an electric energy storage assembly.
Proposed Definitions
 Module or Component Module is two or more cells that are
electrically connected in a single mechanical and electrical unit
and designed for use in a battery system. It may include
housing, terminals, electronic circuits, protective devices and
markings.
Proposed Definitions
 Replace Battery Assembly with Battery System in UN Manual
 Define Battery System as a completely functional energy storage
system consisting of two or more modules or batteries and
necessary ancillary subsystems for physical support, thermal
management, protection management and electronic control.
Definitions
 Large battery defined as battery with a gross mass of more than
12 kg
– Generally associated with industrial-type batteries (e.g., EV, HEV)
 Largest consumer-type Li ion battery found in E-bikes weighs
approximately 3.0 – 5.0 kg
 Proposed changes would better differentiate between consumertype and industrial-type lithium batteries
Proposed Definitions
 Large battery means a lithium metal battery or lithium ion
battery with a gross mass of more than 5 kg.
 Small battery means a lithium metal battery or lithium ion
battery with a gross mass of not more than 5 kg.