Chrysler and A123 Systems come together to develop advanced battery technology and also provide new employment opportunities. Facilitated by an agreement with Chrysler LLC and its commitment to introduce production electric-drive vehicles starting in 2010, A123Systems has received a $100 million tax grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to build a full-scale battery manufacturing facility in Michigan. The new plant will bring additional high-tech jobs to Michigan, and will help Chrysler achieve its leadership goals in electric vehicle development and production.
“Today’s recognition of this Michigan-based partnership represents tremendous forward thinking by the government, and demonstrates how government can greatly affect the development of – and costs associated with – this type of advanced technology,” said John Bozzella, Senior Vice President – External Affairs and Public Policy. “Chrysler is proud to participate in this effort that will bring high-technology jobs to Michigan, and will help solidify American innovation in electric vehicles – ultimately leading to more advanced fuel-efficient vehicles for the American consumer and the environment.”
Last week, Chrysler LLC announced A123Systems as the supplier for energy storage systems for Chrysler’s first-generation ENVI Range-extended Electric Vehicles and battery only Electric Vehicles.
The heart of ENVI’s battery system is a scalable battery module, as demonstrated in ENVI’s five electric-drive vehicles showcased at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The five vehicles included the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep Wrangler EV, Jeep Patriot EV, Chrysler Town & Country EV and the Chrysler 200C EV concept. At the reveal, Chrysler announced its intention to bring the company’s first production electric vehicle to market in 2010.
(Source) Press
Tags: a123 systems, american international auto show, battery manufacturing, chrysler town, energy storage systems, fuel efficient vehicles, high tech jobs, international auto show, jeep patriot, jeep wrangler, michigan economic development, michigan economic development corporation, michigan facility, north american international auto