A123 Systems Becomes First Major U.S. Battery Manufacturer to Earn TS 16949 Certification

A123 Systems (Nasdaq:AONE), a developer and manufacturer of advanced Nanophosphate™ lithium ion batteries and systems, today announced it has received TS 16949 certification which validates that A123’s product design and manufacturing processes meet the highest standards for excellence in the automotive industry.

A123 is the first major U.S.-based battery manufacturer to receive this automotive certification for cylindrical lithium ion cells.

"Combined with our North America manufacturing build out, this important certification further demonstrates that we meet the most stringent quality standards and have the high volume production capability required by today’s international automotive industry," said A123 Systems CEO David Vieau. "It also underscores our focus on customer feedback and continuous improvement."

The TS 16949 certification earned by A123 applies to the company’s cylindrical cell design and manufacturing operations worldwide. In order to obtain TS 16949 certification, a company must demonstrate that it complies with the TS 16949 quality management system and pass annual surveillance audits by an independent third-party.

A123 Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:AONE) develops and manufactures advanced lithium ion batteries and battery systems for the electric vehicles, electric grid services and consumer markets. Headquartered in Massachusetts and founded in 2001, A123 Systems’ proprietary nanoscale electrode technology is built on initial developments from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

www.a123systems.com