The Battery: Notes

Model: All

Production Date: All

Fig 1: View Of Electrical Components Connected To Battery

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Purpose of the Automotive Battery:

The battery is the primary EMF source in the automobile. In addition the battery performs the following functions:

Provides voltage and current for the starter motor.
Provides voltage and current for the ignition during cranking.
Supplies all electrical power when the charging system is not operating.
Supplies the extra power necessary when the vehicle's electrical load exceeds the supply from the charging system.
Acts as a voltage stabilizer in the electrical system. The battery evens out voltage spikes and prevents them from damaging other components in the electrical system.
Provides power to KL30, KL15 and KLR.

The battery does not store electrical energy. It stores chemical energy that is converted to electrical energy as it discharges.