BMW to use Bosch-Samsung batteries for e-car

BMW currently is testing the e-car within its project 'Megacity Vehicles' in locations in the USA, Great Britain and Germany. Serial production start for the zero emission vehicle is scheduled rather vague for 'the first half of the next decade'.

"Batteries are a critical component of electric vehicles since they decide on driving range and performance. With SB LiMotive we found a supplier that can provide the best technology available," said BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer.

SB LiMotive, based in Suwon (Korea), plans to invest $500 million in the development of lithium ion batteries for electric cars in the years through 2013. The company expects a production volume of 3 million electric cars and plug-in HEVs plus 6 million HEVs by 2020, explained Joachim Fetzer, SB LiMotive Executive Vice President.

According to Fetzer, the joint venture combines the respective expertise of Samsung's in lithium ion batteries and Bosch in automotive technology.

Related links and articles:

Bosch, Samsung form lithium-ion battery joint venture

BMW plans E-Mini pilot project in UK

Volkswagen, Sanyo cooperate on Lithium Ion batteries

Nissan to produce li-ion battery in Europe