Ford’s goal is to reduce the weight of new cars and trucks by up to 750 pounds by the end of the decade, and carbon fiber components could be a big part of their strategy.
The Tech
A123 gets two more years to spend federal grant
The DOE agreed to extend the deadline for the company to use a federal grant to build a factory in Michigan.
Prototype battery explosion injures two at GM research center
Two employees were hurt and 80 were evacuated following an explosion at the GM Tech Center in Warren, Michigan this morning.
Market mauls A123 as it recalls defective battery packs
A123 Systems (Nasdaq: AONE) announced today that it will replace battery modules built at the company’s Livonia, Michigan factory, because they may contain defective prismatic cells.
Mercedes-Benz introduces Vito E-CELL Crewbus
With a range of around 130 km (81 miles), the E-CELL is designed for short routes involving numerous stops.
Cabot launches new performance additive for lithium-ion batteries
The Boston-based specialty chemical company announced the launch of the new LITX50™ carbon conductive additive, designed to increase the power and energy of lithium-ion batteries.
Tests confirm Envia Systems’ lithium-ion battery breakthrough
Envia Systems announced today that a test sponsored by ARPA-E has verified the company’s impressive claims for its new battery cells. Envia’s prototype juice boxes have achieved an energy density of 400 Watt-hours/kilogram – the highest ever recorded for a rechargeable lithium-ion cell. We’ll leave the hyperbole to the marketing folks, and settle for a… Read more »
Panasonic to supply lithium-ion cells for Ford’s hybrid stable
Upcoming models that will use Panasonic cells include the Fusion and C-Max hybrids, as well as the Fusion Energi and C-Max Energi PHEVs.
New Japanese battery plant slashes production costs
The new facility, which is being built in partnership with Mitsubishi, will make batteries for the i-MiEV (sold in the US as the i, and in France as the Peugeot iOn and Citroën C-ZERO)
KLD Energy’s electric motor system named Edison Awards finalist
The yearly Edison Awards recognize new inventions and developments in a wide range of categories. Several EV-related products are finalists this year, including the Fisker Karma, the Ford Focus Electric, and Ecotality’s Blink Level 2 charger. Winners will be announced April 26. KLD Energy Technologies has a new electric motor system that was named as… Read more »