SK Energy Li-Ion Batteries for Mitsubishi Fuso

South Korea-based company SK Energy announced yesterday that it will supply lithium-ion batteries to Mitsubishi Fuso, a project of Daimler and Mitsubishi in which the former owns 85 percent. The batteries are to be used in a hybrid electric vehicle project that will enter a two-year test, the company said in a report according to Reuters. However, the South Korean battery maker says the deal would allow a closer collaboration with Daimler but hasn't provided more details on future projects.

Earlier this month, Mitsubishi Fuso announced a further expansion into international markets with hybrid trucks.

“Building on the success of the Canter Eco Hybrid in Japan, we at Mitsubishi Fuso are clearly pursuing opportunities worldwide,” said Dr. Albert Kirchmann, Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC) President and CEO. “As the Global Hybrid Center of Daimler Trucks, Mitsubishi Fuso is committed to developing and implementing clean hybrid commercial vehicles.”

One of the first models to be launched in overseas markets is the Canter Eco Hybrid, a truck that has been offered to Japanese buyers since July 2006. After several tests in European markets, the company has already received orders for a total of 20 units: 10 units for Ireland and 10 for Australia.

“Mitsubishi Fuso is proud to bring to global markets a vehicle with the low emissions, fuel efficiency and reliability of the Canter Eco Hybrid,” said Mr. Kai-Uwe Seidenfuss, MFTBC Vice President of Sales & Service International. “This is an important first step in our efforts to strengthen hybrid truck sales, and in 2010 we will further expand commercial sales of hybrid trucks into targeted markets outside Japan.”