New nanotech-enabled lithium-ion batteries developed by the US based A123Systems company deliver up to 10X longer cycle life, 5X power gains and five minute charge time. The new battery performance was validated by independent testing at Motorola and government research labs. The new technology uses nanoscale electrode technology, licensed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The new family of batteries is targeted at applications that require high power, high levels of safety, and longer life. Initial implementation of the new technology is aimed at the cordless power tools market. For hybrid electric/gasoline cars, currently using nickel-metal-hydride batteries, A123 believes its new lithium-ion batteries could provide equivalent power density and discharge rate at 20% of the weight. Other applications include advanced medical devices, hybrid electric vehicles, mobility products, robotics, and consumer electronics.
