The A123Systems batteries comprise a power boost component which provides higher specific power, lighter weight and smaller overall volume than the existing battery packs, resulting in a more robust energy storage system suitable for heavy-duty commercial use. The company’s fast-charging, inherently safe batteries are significantly smaller and lighter than previous Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) batteries while offering superior price performance. In addition, the nanophosphate based chemistry is not prone to thermal runaway and does not pose the hazard that conventional lithium ion does, which is of key importance given the large size and proximity of the battery packs to passengers.

‘A123Systems battery technology offers advances over other battery technologies that have hindered the commercialization of electric drive transportation systems,” said David Vieau, President and CEO of A123Systems. “We are therefore very pleased to partner with GE and Ballard Power Systems to help develop emission-free, energy-efficient transit buses that will drive mainstream adoption.”

 The focus of the research partnership will be to reduce fuel cell power requirements and improve energy storage technologies, which would help to increase the commercial viability of the technology. The hybrid fuel cell bus being developed by GE, A123Systems and Ballard Power Systems is expected to be completely emissions free, have a range of 200 miles with accessories operating and improved fuel cell life.

About A123Systems
A123Systems is one of the world’s leading suppliers of high-power lithium ion batteries. The company’s patent pending Nanophosphate™ technology enables its batteries to deliver previously unattainable levels of power, safety and life. Applicable to a wide range of industries, A123Systems’ products remove many traditional technology constraints to provide OEMs expanded flexibility in system design. With the largest lithium ion R&D team in North America, world-class expertise and management, and global manufacturing operations, A123Systems’ Automotive Class Lithium Ion™ batteries are leading the automotive movement towards platform electrification. Founded in 2001 and headquartered in Massachusetts, A123Systems’ proprietary nanoscale electrode technology is built on initial developments from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. A123Systems' wholly owned subsidiary T/J Technologies (Ann Arbor, Michigan) is nationally recognized for new materials development and cutting-edge research.

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