A123 Systems (Nasdaq:AONE), a developer and manufacturer of advanced Nanophosphate® lithium ion batteries and systems, congratulates BMW on the launch of the ActiveHybrid 3 and ActiveHybrid 5 hybrid electric vehicles, which are on display at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Consistent with BMW's commitment to automotive engineering excellence, these vehicles combine innovative systems that are designed to deliver both increased fuel economy and superior driving performance. A123 is pleased to be the lithium ion battery supplier for both the ActiveHybrid 3 and ActiveHybrid 5.
"We believe that the ActiveHybrid 5 and ActiveHybrid 3 are truly remarkable vehicles. They employ sophisticated power electronics and advanced energy management technologies that showcase BMW's commitment to both cutting-edge innovation and environmental responsibility," said Jason Forcier, vice president of the Automotive Solutions Group at A123. "These systems require robust batteries to maximize their efficiency and performance, so we believe that BMW's selection of A123 as the battery supplier for the ActiveHybrid 5 and ActiveHybrid 3 is strong validation for our advanced Nanophosphate lithium ion technology. We look forward to working with BMW as it continues to embrace vehicle electrification."
The ActiveHybrid 5 and ActiveHybrid 3 use A123's 32113 batteries, which are designed to deliver the high power, increased usable energy, extended life and overall performance capabilities necessary to meet the requirements of the advanced systems integrated into each vehicle.
For example, according to BMW, the ActiveHybrid 5 is equipped with an ECO PRO mode, which can switch off the internal combustion engine while the vehicle is coasting, as well as a customized Hybrid Auto Start-Stop function that shuts off the engine while the vehicle is stopped and restarts it when the car accelerates. Both systems are designed to draw power to run the vehicle's electronics from the A123 lithium ion batteries when the engine is off, providing for a consistent driving experience. The batteries are charged when the vehicle is coasting or braking, and A123's Nanophosphate technology is designed with a high charge-acceptance rate, enabling the batteries to absorb and save the maximum amount of energy possible, which is expected to enhance the capabilities and increase the efficiency of these systems.