Three automotive giants have unfurled their banners in the crusade to build a better battery. Robert Bosch, GS Yuasa and Mitsubishi have set up a joint venture, called Lithium Energy and Power, to develop next-generation lithium-ion battery technology with an ambitious goal of doubling energy capacity.

The intrepid partners announced no target date for reaching this milestone, but said they are confident that electromobility will become a mass market from 2020 onward.

Bosch will support the new JV with its competence in the area of battery packs and battery management systems. Bosch specializes in the monitoring and control of cells and complete systems, as well as integrating them into vehicles.

GS Yuasa will contribute its experience in manufacturing high energy-density lithium-ion cells, as well as its expertise in materials systems and electrochemistry.

Mitsubishi will contribute its global sales network and experience in the establishment of global value-added chains.

“In setting up this joint venture, we want to achieve nothing less than a giant leap forward in the development of battery technology,” said Dr. Volkmar Denner, Chairman of the Board of Robert Bosch. “Our aim is to make lithium-ion batteries twice as efficient.”

Source: Bosch via Green Car Congress
Image: Charles & Hudson/Flickr