Hitachi has formed a new company in-house as it attempts to strength its grip on the rapidly expanding lithium-ion battery market.
Known as the Battery Systems Company, it will incorporate Hitachi Maxwell Ltd and Hitachi Vehicle Energy, both of which were set up to develop, manufacture and market rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for hybrid electric vehicles and other applications. In fact, in January this year, the Hitachi Vehicle Energy Company introduced new cells specifically targeted at plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
Now Hitachi is expected to promote the Battery Solution Business, including maintaining optimum control of battery recharging and discharging in large-scale industrial appliances, as well as in smart grids and other future applications. It hopes to establish revenues in the region of US$2.7billion in fiscal 2014.
The lithium-ion battery market will be its focus due to the expansion of smart grids and other fields. The Battery Systems Company will promote the rollout of the Battery Solution business as well as maintenance and other related services.
Hitachi is also expected to collaborate with Shin-Kobe Electric Machinery Company Ltd, which is involved in the lead rechargeable battery and lithium-ion battery businesses.
