If you regularly use power tools in your line of work, you’ll most likely have experienced battery failure when you need it most. Whether this is due to poor technology or weak battery life, it’s frustrating for all.
Fortunately, battery technology is on the rise and advancements mean you can get more power, faster-charging speeds and longer lifespans. But why is this? We’ve taken a deep dive into the world of battery technologies to show you the state of play with modern options and how they’ll improve in the future.
So, if you’re a professional in the trades or a DIYer who frequently uses power tools, find out more about the future of batteries below.
Lithium-ion advancements
Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common and they’re seeing huge improvements currently. Batteries like the MILWAUKEE® M18™ Forge show how far the technology has come with greater energy density, charging speed and durability available.
Each of these features is likely to improve over the years, ensuring your performance levels can continue to progress.
Next-generation battery chemistries
New battery chemistries are surfacing too and show huge potential for the future of power tool batteries. Batteries like solid-state and lithium-sulphur could be used more in the future.
Solid-state batteries will be beneficial because they have excellent cell safety and performance levels, and lithium-sulphur alternatives can achieve an energy density that’s four times higher than what lithium-ion produces.
Smart batteries and connectivity features
You can expect to see new technologies to enhance batteries too. These should help to prolong battery life, enhance worker performance and reduce power tool theft. This is thanks to the following benefits:
- Real-time monitoring and diagnostics
- Performance optimisation
- Battery tracking for peace of mind
Sustainable and Eco-friendly Solutions
Future battery designs are likely to be more sustainable too, which will please the eight in 10 UK businesses that want to improve this aspect. Recycled and environmentally friendly materials could be used in production to make the tools more sustainable from the moment they’re purchased.
Plus, energy-efficient battery charging means less power will be needed to charge them, lowering fossil fuel usage on site.
It’s easy to see why the UK’s power tool industry is expected to continue growing for the foreseeable future thanks to these battery improvements. This will benefit manufacturers and professionals, making now an exciting time for those involved with the sector.