LAKE FOREST, CA, May 17, 2011
Chroma Systems Solutions, a leading provider of power test equipment and systems, has announced its official equipment sponsorship with Mission Motors. As a leader in the development of flexible, modular, high-performance electric powertrain systems for hybrid and electric vehicles, Mission Motors is home to the Mission R, acclaimed as the most advanced electric racing motorcycle in the world. Primarily, Mission Motors will use Chroma’s power test equipment and software for testing their EV battery modules.
Mission showcases their technology in the fast-paced world of electric superbike racing. The cornerstone of their technology, a lithium-ion battery pack, relies on rigorous testing to determine performance and lifetime characteristics. Mission Motors chose Chroma’s 63208 DC Electronic Load. The 63208 is capable of pulling a 15.6-kW continuous load from the battery modules. That is enough power to propel the Mission R race bike at a continuous 80 mph.
“Mission is the first equipment sponsorship for Chroma Systems Solutions,” said Steve Grodt, Chroma marketing executive. “Chroma now is bringing the latest in power supply testing technology to the EV market, and we are thrilled that Mission Motors will be one of many in the market to benefit from it. Also having promotional access to the Mission R electric racing bike is something to get excited about.”
Chroma’s 63208 Electronic Load plays two main roles for Mission. First, it acts as a research tool. Mission demands high power and energy from their packs while keeping the form factor small and lightweight and achieving automotive lifetimes. To achieve their specifications, tests must characterize electrical and thermal characteristics throughout a module’s lifetime. Mission uses power vs. time profiles from the vehicles to simulate true automotive power loads. Chroma’s software allows Mission to test the modules on the bench as though they were in a Mission vehicle.
Second, when not being used for R&D, the Chroma load acts as a qualification tester in Mission module production. It first verifies each module’s capacity with a constant rate 1C discharge. If a module’s energy capacity passes this test, it then is tested for power capability. At three different states of charge, Mission pulse tests each module to verify that it will meet its performance requirements. These tests are done at roughly 14 kW loads using Chroma’s equipment in full.
“We’ve been using the Chroma 63208 Electronic DC Load for a number of applications,” said Edward West, Mission’s president. “The unit has been very intuitive and easy to use. More importantly, it has saved us a tremendous amount of time and has improved our data-collection methodology.”
About Chroma Systems Solutions
Chroma Systems Solutions is the North American business unit of Chroma ATE, a leader in electrical power testing instruments and systems. With offices and manufacturing facilities located around the globe, Chroma is committed to providing excellence in product, service, and innovation. The company is located in Lake Forest, CA. For more information, visit http://www.chromausa.com or call 949-600-6400.
About Mission Motors
Mission Motors provides flexible, modular, high-performance electric powertrain systems, components, and software for hybrid and electric vehicle manufacturers. Mission’s hardware features industry-leading energy and power density and proven reliability. Mission’s electric vehicle technology products, developed initially for demanding high-performance powersports applications, can make electric powertrains of all types more powerful, intelligent, and efficient. For more information, visit http://ridemission.com