A123 Systems, a developer and manufacturer of advanced nanophosphate lithium ion batteries and systems, announced that it will supply complete lithium ion battery packs to VIA Motors, an electric vehicle company building next-generation electrified trucks, vans and SUVs. To be integrated into VIA’s Extended-Range Electric Vehicle Powertrain, A123’s 24kWh battery packs combine with a 300kW electric motor and an onboard generator to deliver an expected all-electric driving range of up to 40 miles.
“VIA plans to ramp up production significantly over the next three years to satisfy demand for clean fuel-efficient full-size trucks and SUVs,” says Kraig Higginson, chief executive officer of VIA Motors. “We selected A123’s Nanophosphate lithium ion battery systems because they are able to package higher power into a compact space in the vehicle.”
VIA offers a full lineup of extended-range electric trucks, vans and SUVs called VTrux, each equipped with the company’s eRev Powertrain. A123’s lithium ion battery systems are designed to provide exportable power capabilities that can be used externally. A123 already has begun producing the battery packs at its facility in Livonia, Mich., as VIA has started delivering trucks to commercial fleet customers.
“We believe that the high power, greater usable energy and long life offered by our Nanophosphate lithium ion battery solutions will help VIA better position its eRev Powertrain platform as a cost-effective solution to maximize vehicle range and increase fuel economy,” says Jason Forcier, vice president of A123’s Automotive Solutions Group. “We think that commercial and government fleets represent a tremendous opportunity for vehicle electrification, and we look forward to working with VIA Motors to design eRev trucks, vans and SUVs that meet fleet customers’ needs for efficient, environmentally friendly vehicles that also satisfy their performance, range and reliability requirements.”
