Johnson Controls and Toshiba join forces to bring leading automakers low-voltage lithium-ion solutions

2018.11.28

Paired battery systems expected to grow to 20 percent globally by 2025

November 27, 2018 -MILWAUKEE- Johnson Controls Power Solutions and Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation have partnered to deliver low-voltage lithium-ion solutions to meet automaker demands for improved efficiency, lower costs and less complexity. Under the agreement, Johnson Controls will collaborate with Toshiba to develop and manufacture lithium-ion batteries at its Holland, MI, plant and pair them with existing lead-acid battery technology as part of dual-battery systems.

Dual-battery vehicles are expected to be the fastest-growing form of electrification and by 2025 will account for approximately 20 percent of new vehicles built globally, according to IHS, Markit. Adoption rates will be even greater in locations with strict fuel economy standards. Because paired systems require minimal powertrain alterations, automakers can deploy them across multiple vehicle lines with a lower investment than other electrified powertrains. Consumers also benefit, as paired systems achieve up to 8 percent greater fuel efficiency than a conventional systems.

"Low-voltage dual-battery technology is the next step in the evolution of vehicle systems that helps to strike a balance between consumer demands, increasing regulations and automaker economics," said Brian Cooke, group vice president, Products, Power Solutions, Johnson Controls. "Combining Johnson Controls' partnerships and battery system capabilities with Toshiba's lithium-ion cell expertise provides automakers with a compelling, competitive product for vehicles of today and tomorrow."

"We are happy to team with Johnson Controls to advance the potential and application of low-voltage battery systems, and to use our lithium-ion technology to realize an eco-friendlier world," said Fujio Takahashi, general manager of Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation. "Our SCiB™ is distinguished by its excellent characteristics and the use of a lithium-titanium anode to deliver safety, a long life, low-temperature performance, rapid charging, high input and output power, and a large effective capacity. It is also a good match with lead-acid batteries, and we are sure our joint work with Johnson Controls will greatly benefit automakers around the globe facing efficiency challenges."

The Holland, MI, plant opened in 2010 and was first in the United States to produce complete lithium-ion battery cells and systems. The two companies plan to collaborate on future technology development and exploration of additional applications where Toshiba technology can be integrated.

About Johnson Controls:

Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and multi industrial leader serving a wide range of customers in more than 150 countries. Our 120,000 employees create intelligent buildings, efficient energy solutions, integrated infrastructure and next generation transportation systems that work seamlessly together to deliver on the promise of smart cities and communities. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. We are committed to helping our customers win and creating greater value for all of our stakeholders through strategic focus on our buildings and energy growth platforms. For additional information, please visit https://www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow us @johnsoncontrols on Twitter.

About Johnson Controls Power Solutions

Johnson Controls Power Solutions is a world leader working in partnership with our customers to meet increasing market demands for energy storage on a global scale. We create the most advanced battery technologies for virtually every type of vehicle on the planet. Our employees develop, manufacture and distribute the smartest portfolio of lead-acid and lithium-ion technologies in the world. These technologies deliver uniquely sustainable, next-generation performance. We partner with our customers at every link in the supply chain, contributing to the communities we serve and the planet we share. For additional information, please visit https://www.johnsoncontrols.com or follow us @JCI_BatteryBeat on Twitter.

About Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation

Toshiba Infrastructure Systems & Solutions Corporation is the core company promoting Toshiba Group's business in social infrastructure. Split off from Toshiba Corporation (Tokyo: 6502) in 2017, the company and its group companies promote realization of a reliable products and systems for a sustainable future that is safe and secure, and seeks to improve value for customers with solutions for social and industrial infrastructure, buildings and facilities.
Find out more about TISS at https://www.global.toshiba/ww/company/infrastructure.html