GS Yuasa, Mitsubishi and Robert Bosch have set up Lithium Energy and Power GmbH & Co — a joint venture to develop next generation lithium-ion batteries.
The group has ambitious plans to double the energy capacity of batteries within the next decade for the electric vehicle market.
“In setting up this joint venture, we want to achieve nothing less than a giant leap forward in the development of battery technology. Our aim is to make lithium-ion batteries twice as efficient,” said Volkmar Denner, chairman of the board at Robert Bosch.
The three companies will bring a host of expertise to the joint venture: Bosch has an existing portfolio of components for electro-mobility and extensive experience in the area of battery packs and BMS. It specialises in cell and system monitoring and control, and how these can be integrated into vehicles.
GS Yuasa has almost a century of battery manufacturing experience, including decades in lithium-ion and materials systems and electrochemistry expertise. It has a strong engineering team and production lines with a high level of automation.
Mitsubishi brings its experience working with global value-added chains— including raw materials, semi-finished products, and marketing— to the group.
The intention to set up the group was announced in June 2013, it is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, where Robert Bosch – which holds a 50% stake in the JV – is also based.
