Borrowings (Debt outstanding - short-term) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Maxwell SA short-term loan [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt	$ 3,278	$ 3,201
Maxwell SA credit agreement [Member]
Short-term Debt [Line Items]
Short-term Debt	$ 2,185	$ 2,134