mdbuilder wrote:FWIW, "Full" for lithium packs is generally considered to be 4.2 per cell 4.1 is only 90%
Mitsubishi incorporated the buffering margin by calling the i-MiEV's cell 100% charged when 4.1v is reached - that is the number CaniOn reads from the car and which we consistently refer to.
4.1v * 88cells= 360.8vdc = 100% (I won't quibble over the last 0.8v)
Other manufacturers take an even narrower view of the operating window; e.g., Volt IIRC.
Let's not forget, the conservative approach is aimed at prolonging the life of the battery by restricting both the usable battery operating window and peak currents and temperatures seen by the battery. It's a constant battle between the marketeers (who want to tout range and acceleration) and the engineers trying to quantify the degradation from extreme use, with the beancounters trying not to expose the company to too much warranty liability. I'd bet that they factored in the few cars exposed to the blistering Arizona heat or the Canadian ultra-low temperatures as potentially having a higher failure rate which would need to be accommodated. I personally am amazed that the battery warranty is as good as it is.
Back on topic,
cyders wrote:... it died on the freeway after driving like 5 miles from the dealership…
I was confused by this as I thought we were talking about 12v not working and causing a problem with charging. What died?
Anyway, cyders, you mention that the main pack is charging and that is good. Let us know if any more hiccups occur and exactly what the symptoms are - in the meantime, try not to go below two bars and if you charge fully then drive it off soon and don't leave it sitting fully fully charged in hot weather.