Daimler links with battery specialist Evonik to progress lithium-ion technology

摘要

Evonik Industries AG of Essen and Daimler AG of Stuttgart have announced a partnership to develop energy storage systems based on lithium-ion technology. Daimler states that both parties are to be responsible for driving forward research, development and production of battery cells and battery systems in Germany. Battery technology is seen as key in the development of hybrid vehicles. Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) battery technology that was introduced to the automotive market is now being regarded as not a model for the future due to its limited energy density. Lithium-ion batteries provide a much more promising technology for the future, say the companies, and great efforts are currently being made to develop systems that are suitable for motor vehicles. Last month saw Daimler AG acquire 49.9% of the Evonik Group subsidiary Li-Tec Vermogensverwaltung GmbH (Li-Tec), with Evonik retaining 50.1% of the shares. Daimler announced that both partners were now seeking the involvement of a third share holder in Li-Tec, that can contribute expertise in electrical and electronic systems integration.