Abstract: A jump start circuit (26) for electrical connection between a battery (12) of a motor vehicle and jump start terminals (22,24) in the motor vehicle, the jump start circuit comprising a switch (28) for positioning in an electrical line (18) between one (22) of the jump start terminals and the battery, the switch being biased to a normally open position; and a logic circuit (32) having means for monitoring the polarity of a voltage across the jump start terminals, means for closing the switch on detection of a predetermined polarity, and a timer circuit for opening the switch after closing for a predetermined period of time. Provides protection against incorrect polarity connection during jump starting.

Abstract: A battery disconnection system (10) comprising a first electrical conductor (12) electrically connectable to a terminal of a battery; a second electrical conductor (16) electrically connectable to an electrical load (18); a first electrical contact (22) attached to the first electrical conductor; a second electrical contact (24) attached to the second electrical conductor; electrical connecting means (22) reciprocally movable in an axial direction (A) between a first position in which the connecting means electrically connects the first and second contacts and a second position in which the first and second contacts are disconnected; electric drive means (26) for moving the connecting means from the first position to the second position on receipt of a predetermined signal. The predetermined signal may be generated by a crash sensor, anti-theft device, or other adverse condition sensor, or a manually operable switch.

Abstract: A fuse assembly (10) for mounting on a battery of a motor vehicle comprising a housing (12) of electrically insulating material having a base plate (22); a starter motor cable terminal (18) mounted on the base plate; a number of cable harness terminals (20); a fuse strip (14) secured on the base plate and including a busbar (36), a contact portion (40) adjacent the starter motor cable terminal, contact portions (38) making an electrical connection with each cable harness terminal, and fusible links (42) connecting the contact portions with the busbar; and a battery terminal clamp (16) having a mounting portion (26) positioned inside the housing and making an electrical connection with the busbar of the fuse strip, and a clamp portion (28) positioned outside the housing for making an electrical connection with a terminal post of the battery. Provides a compact fuse assembly for a motor vehicle.