The company claims that it will provide Fisker Automotive with automotive battery systems that combine high power and energy density with safety and life performance. Fisker Automotive and A123 will also collaborate on Fisker’s Project Nina platform, with the intent of having A123 supply batteries for that vehicle based on meeting the automaker’s performance and delivery requirements. Project Nina is expected to launch in 2012.
A123 plans to manufacture the cells and systems at its Livonia, Michigan facility with production slated to commence later this year.
The Fisker Karma is expected to have a range of 50 full-electric miles on a charge of A123’s lithium ion battery system and a total range of 300 miles with an on-board generator turned by a traditional but efficient four-cylinder gasoline engine. The Karma features 403hp and is designed to go from 0 to 60mph in about six seconds, reaching a top speed of 125mph.
Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Automotive, said: ”Fisker Automotive selected A123 because of the company’s ability to meet our performance needs and rapidly scale to our production volume. Fisker is committed to developing environmentally friendly cars that don’t sacrifice style or performance. A123’s technology will ensure the Karma delivers.”
David Vieau, president and CEO of A123 Systems, said: ”We believe the opportunity to supply batteries for Fisker’s premium plug-in hybrid vehicles is further confirmation of the competitive advantages of A123’s technology, including our ability to deliver on the critical safety, high power, useable energy and extended life requirements for PHEV applications.
”A123 looks forward to a long partnership with Fisker Automotive that will help advance the future of transportation, improve fuel economy and reduce global CO(2) emissions.”
A123 also intends to invest up to $23m in Fisker Automotive’s funding round in order to establish a strategic relationship with the car company. This investment would closely align the interests of both companies in delivering technologies for safe and reliable PHEVs.
