Borrowings (Other long-term borrowings) (Details) (Financing Agreements [Member], Maxwell SA auto leases [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financing Agreements [Member] | Maxwell SA auto leases [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt instrument, term	3 years
Stated interest rate, minimum	1.90%
Stated interest rate, maximum	5.10%
Long-term borrowings	$ 179	$ 159