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A123 Systems to Supply Advanced Lithium Ion Batteries Packs to Electric Vehicles

A123 Systems, a developer and manufacturer of advanced Nanophosphate(R)lithium ion batteries and systems, today 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 (eREV) 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," said Kraig Higginson, CEO 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. In addition to supporting an expected all-electric range of about 40 miles, A123’s lithium ion battery systems are also designed to provide exportable power capabilities that can be used externally. A123 has already begun producing the battery packs at its Livonia, Mich. facility 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," said 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."

A123 Systems, Inc. is a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced lithium-ion batteries and energy storage systems for electric cars, electric grid and commercial applications. The company’s proprietary Nanophosphate(R) technology is built on novel nanoscale materials initially developed at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and is designed to deliver high power and energy density, increased safety and extended life. A123 leverages breakthrough technology, high-quality manufacturing and expert systems integration capabilities to deliver innovative solutions that enable customers to bring next-generation products to market.

www.a123systems.com