Well, it looks like the Mercedes uses Li-Ion
Energy Store: Lithium-Ion battery solution, between 20 and 25 kg.[/size]
so that would explain Lauda referencing the Dreamliner problems.
All it really does it narrow it down though.
Within the the Lithium-Ion family, there are different chemistries, with different applications and levels of safety.
Handheld electronics mostly use LIBs based on lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2), which offers high energy density, but presents safety risks, especially when damaged. Lithium iron phosphate (LFP), lithium manganese oxide (LMO) and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) offer lower energy density, but longer lives and inherent safety. Such batteries are widely used for electric tools, medical equipment and other roles. NMC in particular is a leading contender for automotive applications. Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA) and lithium titanate (LTO) are specialty designs aimed at particular niche roles.
The Dreamliner famously used the older and cheaper LiCoO2 chemistry from what I've read, and it does present more significant safety risks. In particular NMC as mentioned above is used in the automotive industry and has inherent safety.
Not to mention NCA and LTO, which I know nothing about, but are made for niche roles. I seem to remember when KERS first came in, it being mentioned that the batteries were very niche and expensive and not likely to be used anywhere else, making the whole exercise pointless.
Remember, all of these fall under the category of Lithium-Ion. Or as the BBC or Sky would put it "the same kinds of batteries you'd find in your laptop".
Also, I can't remember where I saw or heard it, but the energy density in the Energy Store™ of a Formula 1 car is staggering, so it might not be the older LiCoO2 that Boeing used. They really might be the niche chemistry.
Niki also alluded to manufacturing defect as being a cause, rather than heat management.
Personally, on the grounds of safety, I think if the technology has been tested and is being used correctly, with appropriate safety measures built in, the location they are in is the safest place for them now.
I think all Lithium batteries are under pressure and vulnerable to puncture, but not all of them have equal thermal properties or vulnerabilities. The FIA must know more than us about it as they're the ones that said they should be moved there, and on grounds of safety no less.
Edited by RoutariEnjinu, 06 February 2014 - 13:14.