Hitachi, Johnson Controls in Lithium-Ion Battery Tie-Up
Hitachi Ltd. and Johnson Controls Inc. will team up to produce lithium-ion batteries for electric cars and advanced power distribution systems, the latest in a series of tie-ups and joint ventures looking to capitalize on the burgeoning market for next-generation batteries.
Hitachi and Johnson Controls said they will work together in all aspects of the lithium-ion battery business—from research, development and production to marketing and sales.
By combining Hitachi’s technological expertise in lithium-ion batteries with Johnson Control’s strong auto maker client-base and mass production infrastructure, the partnership will benefit both firms, a Hitachi spokeswoman said.
Tokyo-based Hitachi makes everything from consumer electronics to nuclear power plants and railway systems. Johnson Controls, based in Milwaukee, is a leading supplier of conventional lead-acid car batteries.