A123 Systems announced that it will supply complete lithium ion battery packs to VIA Motors, an electric vehicle company headquartered in Utah.
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 offers a full lineup of extended-range electric trucks, vans and SUVs called VTRUX, each equipped with the company’s eREV Powertrain.
Via Motors will introduce the world’s first extended range electric Pickup Truck, SUV and Van, in a press conference at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Tuesday, January 10, 2012.
“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.”
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.
