13 Jan Commercial fleet to be powered by Johnson Controls-Saft technology
Milwaukee, Wis. – Johnson Controls–Saft and Azure Dynamics Corp, today announced a new agreement that will provide lithium-ion hybrid battery technology to power commercial vehicles in North America.
Mary Ann Wright, who leads the Johnson Controls-Saft joint venture and is vice president and general manager of Johnson Controls’ hybrid business, said the five-year supply agreement is a sign of progress in the manufacture of hybrid electric vehicles. The battery systems, including electrical and mechanical components, will be assembled at the Johnson Controls-Saft facility in Milwaukee.
The companies said commercial transportation in an urban environment accounts for only 12 percent of total miles driven but is responsible for 25 percent of total greenhouse emissions.
“As more and more consumers demand energy-efficient vehicles, it is also critical that commercial fleets do their part to reduce their reliance on foreign oil while also improving the impact they have on the environment,” Wright said in a statement released by Johnson Controls-Saft. “This is great progress for the U.S. supply base.”
According to Johnson Controls-Saft, most current hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology uses nickel metal hydride batteries. The company is marketing lithium-ion as a lighter, more powerful and longer-lasting alternative.
Johnson Controls-Saft has developed a 345-volt battery system that will be used in Azure’s hybrid electric and electric components and power train systems for commercial vehicles. The company’s vehicles are in operation for major fleet customers like AT&T, Con Edison, FedEx Express, and Purolator Couriers.
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