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Bergstrom Inc. and Johnson Controls-Saft develop lithium-ion battery
for NITE® no-idle systems
Advanced battery technology for commercial vehicle industry weighs less and
results in longer lifespan
Louisville, Ky. (March 24, 2010) – Bergstrom Inc. and Johnson Controls-Saft today
announced the development of a lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery for NITE® no-idle systems
(www.nitesystem.com) that will improve power efficiency, result in longer run times and
enhance the environmental benefits of its no-idle units.
There are several key benefits of the Li-Ion battery. At only 110 lbs, the Li-Ion battery
weighs 63 percent less than the traditional battery option. In addition, the Li-Ion battery
provides 16 percent more power, has 20 percent less volume, and boasts an estimated
lifespan of six to eight years.
As a battery-powered, no-idling system, the CARB-approved NITE units are able to
generate high BTU cooling capacity without sending damaging emissions into the
environment. This helps drivers reduce emissions, comply with increasingly stringent
anti-idling laws, and save money on fuel. With its reduced weight and longer run times,
the Li-Ion battery will make the NITE units even more sustainable.
“As anti-idling restrictions continue to evolve, demand on batteries keeps growing,” said
Bill Gordon, director of global marketing and national director of aftermarket for
Bergstrom. “This advanced battery technology offers fleets and owner-operators who
live on the road a highly efficient, reliable and green no-idle solution. It’s truly the next
generation of batteries for the NITE system.”
Lithium is the technology of choice for use in batteries because it has the highest
electrochemical potential. Its light weight and high energy power densities make it ideal
for the commercial vehicle industry, where size and run times are critical factors in
successful no-idle systems.
“Johnson Controls-Saft is excited to leverage our proven lithium-ion battery expertise into a new application in the mature commercial truck market,” said Ray Shemanski, who leads the Johnson Controls-Saft joint venture and is Vice President and General Manager of Hybrid Systems for Johnson Controls. “Furthermore, this solution supports our efforts to reduce fuel consumption and green house gas emissions, providing a reliable, energy-efficient solution for the trucking industry.”
The Li-Ion battery module will be available in late 2010 as an option for all NITE no-idle systems. It will carry a five-year warranty.
About Bergstrom Inc.
Bergstrom (www.Bergstrominc.com) is the leading designer and manufacturer of cab climate systems for heavy duty commercial trucks, off-highway machines and specialty vehicles. By combining progressive engineering talent, lean manufacturing principals and a global footprint, Bergstrom offers a unique blend of commercial vehicle marketplace focus and customer value. For more information, please visit www.Bergstrominc.com.
About Johnson Controls-Saft
Johnson Controls-Saft is a joint venture that has brought together Johnson Controls -- the world's leading supplier of automotive batteries and a company deeply experienced in integrated automotive systems solutions -- with Saft, a world leader in advanced technology batteries for industry with extensive Li-ion battery expertise.
About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls (NYSE: JCI) is the global leader that brings ingenuity to the places where people live, work and travel. By integrating technologies, products and services, we create smart environments that redefine the relationships between people and their surroundings. Our team of 130,000 employees creates a more comfortable, safe and sustainable world through our products and services for more than 200 million vehicles, 12 million homes and one million commercial buildings. Our commitment to sustainability drives our environmental stewardship, good corporate citizenship in our workplaces and communities, and the products and services we provide to customers. For additional information, please visit www.johnsoncontrols.com.
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