Toyota's Green Plan: Li-ion Battery Production to Begin in 2009

[Dover]

Toyota's Green Plan: Li-ion Battery Production to Begin in 2009


Toyota Motor Corp announced its action plan for contributing to a low carbon society at the "Toyota Environmental Forum," which took place June 11, 2008. The plan proposes initiatives in the areas of "research and development," "manufacturing" and "social contribution."

In the research and development area, Toyota announced efforts aimed at reducing oil consumption and promoting the adaptation of vehicles to energy diversification. Toward the commercialization and mass-production of plug-in hybrids and small electric vehicles, Panasonic EV Energy Co Ltd will start production of Li-ion secondary batteries at a small volume in 2009 and volume production in earnest in 2010.

Moreover, Toyota will set up a "battery research department" in late June 2008 in an effort to research and develop a next-generation battery that can outperform a Li-ion secondary battery.

In the powertrain segment, average fuel efficiency for new Toyota vehicles sold in Japan rose by approximately 28% in the 10 years from 1997 to 2007, Toyota said. By the end of 2010, Toyota will complete the transition to a new series of highly efficient engines and transmissions.

cont'd

http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20080612/153224/?ST=english_PRINT




Toyota Develops New Fuel Cell Hybrid 'FCHV-adv'

Toyota Motor Corp developed a fuel cell hybrid vehicle "Fuel Cell Hybrid Vehicle-advanced (FCHV-adv)" equipped with a newly designed high-performance fuel cell "FC Stack."

The FCHV-adv acquired vehicle-type certification from Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure Transport and Tourism on June 3, 2008. The cruising distance of the FCHV, which was released for leasing in 2002 and is the predecessor of the FCHV-adv, was only 330km...cont'd

http://techon.nikkeibp.co.jp/english/NEWS_EN/20080609/153023/

[Zachstar]

1. Never mind the side stuff I am just happy to hear they are finally getting more Li-ion production

One factory had a fire and laptop batteries were in shortage for months.


Its going to be another few years before effective laptop fuel cells come to market.