Glossary

Battery Cell

The smallest electrochemical unit inside a hybrid battery module. Cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy and are arranged in series or parallel.

Battery Balancing

The process of equalizing voltage levels across all modules or cells to ensure even performance and prevent premature degradation.

Battery Capacity

The total amount of electrical charge a battery can store, usually measured in amp-hours (Ah).

Battery Conditioning

The process of charging, discharging, and balancing modules to restore lost capacity — a key part of Green Bean’s reconditioning service.

Battery Cycle

One complete charge and discharge sequence. Hybrid batteries are rated for thousands of partial cycles during normal use.

Battery Diagnostic Test

A performance test that measures voltage, resistance, and balance across each module to identify weak or failing cells.

Battery ECU (Electronic Control Unit)

A dedicated computer within the hybrid vehicle that manages hybrid battery performance, state of charge, and cooling systems.

Battery Harness

The wiring assembly that connects the hybrid battery modules to the control electronics and sensors.

Battery Management System (BMS)

The onboard control system that monitors voltage, temperature, and charge levels across battery modules to maintain balanced operation.

Battery Module

A single, self-contained unit made up of several individual battery cells. Multiple modules make up a full hybrid battery pack.

Battery Voltage

The electrical potential across the entire pack, typically 200–300 volts for most hybrid vehicles.

Core Battery/Core Return

The customer’s old battery that’s removed and returned when a reconditioned or new pack is installed.

Core Charge

A refundable fee charged to ensure the customer returns their old hybrid battery core for recycling.

Cylindrical Cell Hybrid Battery

A hybrid battery pack design that uses cylindrical-shaped cells (similar to AA batteries). Offers improved heat dissipation and longevity.

Depth of Discharge (DOD)

The amount of battery capacity used during a discharge cycle. Shallower DOD improves battery lifespan.

Hybrid Battery Pack

A complete assembly that contains multiple battery modules or cells connected together to store and deliver energy for hybrid vehicles.

Hybrid Battery Warranty

A written guarantee covering the repair or replacement of the reconditioned hybrid battery for a specified term.

Hybrid Inverter

The electronic component that converts DC power from the battery to AC power for the electric motor.

Insulation Resistance Test

A safety test performed to detect electrical leakage or shorts within the battery pack.

Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) Hybrid Battery

A newer hybrid battery chemistry used in late-model vehicles. Lighter and more energy-dense but more complex to service.

New Hybrid Battery

A factory-fresh, OEM or aftermarket battery pack containing all new cells and modules.

New Module Hybrid Battery

A hybrid battery pack rebuilt with brand-new modules, rather than reconditioned ones. Offers maximum longevity and performance.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Battery

The most common type of hybrid battery chemistry used in Toyota, Honda, and Ford hybrids. Offers durability and safety; easily reconditioned.

Operating Range

This is defined as the range of external temperatures under which the modules are under slightly increased stress in the range where the Operating Range exceeds the Optimal Range. For Example: The optimal range goes to 100 but the Operating Range goes to 130 the area between 100 and 130 the modules are under more stress but still within the safe range for module degradation.

Optimal Range

This is defined as the range of external temperatures under which the modules will be under minimal stress.

Prismatic Cell Hybrid Battery

A flat, rectangular cell design used in most OEM NiMH packs. Compact and efficient, but can develop heat and voltage imbalances over time.

Reconditioned Hybrid Battery

A used hybrid battery that has been restored to optimal performance through diagnostic testing, cell balancing, and replacement of weak modules. (Core product offered by Green Bean Battery.)

Refurbished Hybrid Battery

Synonymous with reconditioned battery — a previously used battery pack that’s been repaired, balanced, and tested to meet performance standards.

State of Charge (SOC)

The current energy level of a battery relative to its maximum capacity, expressed as a percentage.

Sodium Hybrid Battery

A newer generation of hybrid battery technology that uses sodium-ion chemistry instead of traditional nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) or lithium-ion cells.

Thermal Management System

A cooling system that prevents the hybrid battery pack from overheating during operation.

Used Hybrid Battery

A previously installed battery pack that has not been tested, balanced, or repaired. Usually sold “as-is” without warranty.