Ultracapacitor Analysis Optimistic

Advanced Battery Technology, Nov 2003

World Ultracapacitors Market from Frost & Sullivan reveals that industry revenues totaled $33.9 million in 2002 and are projected to reach $88.1 million by 2006.

High initial costs of these alternative solutions compared to those of lead acid batteries are deterring customers. However, a surge in power requirements from nextgeneration electronics as well as the automotive and industrial sectors is expected to provide impetus to this market.

Mobile applications and 42V automotive electric systems are a strong area of growth for ultracapacitors. Vendors can leverage the advantages of ultracapacitor technology such as greater power capacity, longer life cycles, and lower maintenance.

Demand from the automotive sector is expected to increase as present-day vehicles are increasingly being equipped with additional features that require more power. Manufacturers of uninterruptible power supplies and DC power systems that use lead acid batteries are likely to consider the possibility of implementing ultracapacitors as the primary energy storage to boost power reliability.

Initial market penetration is expected to be slow, but is likely to improve as prices of ultracapacitors drop and their commercial viability improves

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