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US carmaker Chrysler has announced a partnership with battery supplier A123Systems for its first production electric vehicles (EVs).

Under the terms of the agreement, A123Systems will supply its advanced lithium-ion batteries for Chrysler’s ENVI extended-range and battery-only EVs.

Despite financial problems, Chrysler maintains that its first electric vehicles, which include the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV concept, will be on the market in 2010.

A123Systems says it plans to build a manufacturing site for its Nanophosphate™ lithium ion prismatic battery cells, modules and battery packs in Michigan to supply Chrysler. The lithium ion cells can meet consumer demands for performance, driving range and durability, says A123Systems.

The prismatic battery cells – the type used in laptops and mobile phones – are assembled into larger packs for EVs and integrated with a proprietary battery management safety system.

The two companies have worked together for the last three years on the technology and the new agreement indicates Chrysler’s commitment to finding a US supplier for its EV batteries. General Motors, by contrast, went for South Korean company LG Chem as its battery supplier.

“Chrysler’s partnership with A123Systems marks a significant milestone at a critical time in the automotive industry and in the state of Michigan,” comments Michigan Governor Jennifer M. Granholm.

For further information:
www.chrysler.com/
www.a123systems.com/

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