NYSERDA Issues Multiple Awards to A123Systems and Hymotion for New York State Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle Initiative
WATERTOWN, Mass.--A123Systems, developer of next-generation nanophosphate-based batteries, today announced that the New York State Energy and Research Development Authority (NYSERDA) has awarded the company contracts to provide three converted plug-in hybrid electric passenger vehicles (PHEVs). The NYSERDA PHEV program will evaluate and identify a PHEV-conversion method applicable to the 400-plus New York State-owned hybrid electric vehicles, primarily late-model Toyota Prius, Honda Civic and Ford Escape HEVs.
“NYSERDA’s objective is to evaluate PHEV technology in our most common hybrid vehicles and to promote its adoption by the State’s hybrid fleet. Eventually, with economies of scale, we hope plug-in conversion companies can offer this service to the general public,” explained Peter R. Smith, NYSERDA President and CEO, “A123Systems and Hymotion are offering us a unique conversion package to demonstrate this technology quickly, safely and efficiently.”
A123Systems has further demonstrated the rapid nature of potential fleet integration by delivering within 30 days, the first PHEV conversion, a Toyota Prius, to NYSERDA for approval and testing.
The solution uses A123Systems’ automotive-class nanophosphate technology that provides unprecedented specific power, safety and life – all critical to the optimization and commercialization of PHEVs. Unlike competitive lithium-ion offerings, A123Systems’ technology renders the solution inherently safe and durable, exhibiting none of the tell-tale thermal run-away problems that plague competitive chemistries. The system is expected to get up to 220 miles per gallon and cut carbon dioxide emissions in half.
“We recognize New York State’s visionary leadership in organizing the first program of this magnitude in the country,” said David Vieau, President and CEO of A123Systems. “A123Systems looks forward to enabling NY Governor George Pataki’s vision of a more sustainable and secure transportation future and anticipate that the state will reap significant economic and environmental benefits from these conversions.”
The A123Systems solution incorporates batteries into a highly advanced, production-ready PHEV module that is lightweight, compact and requires minimal modification to the stock vehicle. All necessary components and safety features are integrated and contained within the module, including batteries, power electronics, charger, battery management system, safety sensors and manual-electric interlock. Due to its plug and play installation, the system does not require removal of the OEM battery pack.
“Leveraging A123Systems’ battery technology has enabled us to produce a very efficient, lightweight and marketable product that allows plug-in hybrids to save more energy and produce less pollution than the hybrids running on the road today,” said Akos Toth, Vice President of Research and Development at Hymotion. “We are excited to be working with A123Systems and NYSERDA to help hasten PHEV adoption.”
About A123Systems
A123Systems is the developer of a new generation of nanophosphate based batteries that deliver previously unattainable levels of power, safety and life to a wide range of applications. These batteries enable manufacturers to eliminate the power technology constraints they face in developing and building new products. Founded in 2001, A123Systems’ proprietary nanoscale electrode technology is built on initial developments from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. For additional information please visit www.a123systems.com.
About Hymotion
Hymotion Inc. is a provider of complete integration for hybrid and fuel cell systems. Hymotion brings over ten years of experience in the alternative fuel industry. It can offer mechanical, electrical, control system and power electronics design for OEM customers. As a green technology company, their mission is to provide new generation hybrid and alternative fuel solutions to customers that value green and innovative technologies.
About NYSERDA
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority is a public benefit corporation created in 1975 by the New York State Legislature. NYSERDA has successfully developed and brought into use more than 140 innovative, energy-efficient, and environmentally beneficial products, processes, and services. NYSERDA also administers the New York Energy $martSM program, which assists the State’s businesses and consumers in implementing energy efficiency measures.
