Traction battery approval according to ECE R100

TÜV SÜD is actively supporting the efforts of OEMs of xEV batteries and battery systems to validate the safety and performance of their products, and to successfully navigate the homologation process in major markets around the world. Our homologation experts have in-depth know-how about key safety and performance issues that must be addressed in all xEV battery designs, as well as the specialised requirements that apply to xEV battery systems in the EU, the U.S., China and other key battery markets around the world.

What does traction battery approval mean?

Any manufacturer that wishes to sell traction batteries (or vehicles powered by them) in Europe or other international markets requires battery approval from the respective authorities. This procedure is also known as homologation. For producers of xEV battery and battery systems, the acceptance of their products is therefore dependent on successfully demonstrating compliance with the requirements and standards imposed by regulatory authorities in major automotive markets around the world, like the UNECE Regulation 100 (ECE R 100).

The UN World Forum for the Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations and UNECE Regulation No. 100

Established in the early 1950s, the United Nations’ World Forum for the Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations is responsible for harmonising global technical requirements and protocols for the homologation of all types of vehicles and vehicle components. More than 50 countries are signatories to the 1958 Agreement that provides the legal framework for the World Forum’s activities. Signatory countries include all EU member states, as well as Australia and New Zealand, Japan and Thailand.

UNECE Regulation No. 100 is the internationally recognised standard for rechargeable energy storage systems (REESS) used in xEVs. The second revision of ECE R100 provides an expanded set of specific tests applicable to REESS and rechargeable battery packs.

Why is battery homologation important?

As the market for advanced electrified vehicles (xEVs) continues to expand globally, developers and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are confronted with a growing array of regulations and standards for the safety and performance of rechargeable battery systems. Although many of these regulations touch on similar considerations, there are also important differences that must be taken into account.

Traction batteries without type approval cannot be placed on global markets. Type testing according to ECE-R100. and other global regulations is therefore essential for manufacturers of traction batteries used in both electric and hybrid-electric vehicles.

Achieving traction battery type approval brings manufacturers multiple benefits:

With ECE R100 type approval received from the regulatory authority in one of the Forum’s signatory countries, your traction battery can be legally imported, sold and used in other signatory nations.
Traction battery tests identify issues early so that you can implement any redesigns before production and avoid costly reworks and delays in market access.
Ensures the safety of the traction battery which increases your customers’ confidence in your battery products.

TÜV SÜD supports you along the type approval process for your traction battery

TÜV SÜD has extensive experience conducting traction battery approval testing in line with UNECE Regulation 100 and other international standards and regulations like FMVSS 305, GB 18384-2020, GB 38032-2020 and GB 38031-2020. Our testing laboratories are equipped with state-of-the-art test benches for testing traction batteries according to your required country regulation. TÜV SÜD technicians are also engaged in the development of standards around battery safety and are fully informed of all regulatory developments and forthcoming changes.

After conducting tests, TÜV SÜD as Technical Service prepares the necessary technical reporting and assists in handling the approval process with the authorities (homologation). This provides manufacturers with a one-stop solution for achieving traction battery type approval.

Our traction battery approval services

TÜV SÜD is actively supporting OEMs of xEV batteries and battery systems to validate the safety and performance of their products, and access global markets. The scope of our service includes: