Revolutionizing Marine Batteries: RELiON’s RB100-HP Lithium Starting And House Battery

We’ve seen lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries make serious inroads in the deep-cycle department, but not so much when it comes to starting batteries. RELiON aims to change that with its new RB100-HP lithium starting battery.

The new RB100-HP has increased peak amps for starting motors, electric start generators and other high-amp-draw devices. It also doubles as a house battery, powering peripherals, accessories and more. The new enhanced version features six terminals versus the two on standard batteries, offering users more flexibility when connecting electronics to the battery.

This group 31, 12-volt, 100 amp-hour battery is the first lithium power-pack to be tested and approved for use with a wide range of Mercury Marine outboards, including the uber-potent 600-hp V12 Verado.

It’s IP67 rated (submersible in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes) for dust and water protection, has six terminals instead of the usual two for easier accessory wiring, and along with increased peak amps for cranking starter motors — up to 800 amps for up to eight seconds — also has the deep cycle traits necessary for doing double-duty as a house battery. In this video, Bassmaster Pro Angler Matt Peters explains why lithium marine batteries are the better choice for his bass boat.

Those same li-ion battery strengths that Peters the pro angler notes are equally appealing to sailors, which RELiON stresses through partnerships with social media savvy sailors.

The downside to the RB-100-HP is the same as we often see with LiFePO4 batteries, in that cost is about triple that of a traditional battery with the same basic suite of capabilities. However, the list of advantages is extensive: extended lifespan with 3,500-plus discharge cycles versus 300 or so for lead-acid batteries; faster charging; the ability to discharge to 80% as opposed to 50% for lead-acid batteries; and the integrated battery management system. These are all huge perks, but just as huge is the weight-savings. While a lead-acid battery playing in the same arena will weight around 60 pounds, the RB-100-HP tips the scales at just 29.8 pounds.

$1,159.95 | relionbattery.com