Honda forms hybrid battery JV

Japanese companies GS Yuasa and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that they will form a joint venture (JV) to make high-performance lithium-ion batteries primarily for hybrid vehicles. The companies said, “GS Yuasa and Honda determined that development of smaller and lighter lithium-ion batteries with further improved performance should be achieved by combining the technological strengths and know-how of the two companies in the area of manufacturing, sales, and R&D of lithium-ion batteries.” GS Yuasa will control 51% of the JV, while Honda will own 49%. The JV will be based in Minami-ku, Kyoto, with a factory on a GS Yuasa Osadano property in Fukuchiyama, Kyoto. (December 19, 2008)