Chrysler Partners With US-Based Battery Supplier

Automaker rolls out its first production electric cars in 2010

Chrysler Electric Vehicles

Today Chrysler announced a partnership with A123Systems, a Michigan-based supplier for advanced battery products. The supplier’s nanophosphate lithium-ion battery cells will power extended range and pure electric cars. Chrysler plans to roll out its first production electric cars in 2010.

“The most significant challenge to electric vehicles is battery technology,” said Frank Klegon, executive vice president for Chrysler product development. Chrysler execs hope the advanced battery systems will give them a competitive edge in the emerging electric vehicle market.

Chrysler displayed five electric-drive vehicles at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit: the Dodge Circuit EV, Jeep Wrangler, EV, Patriot EV, Town & Country EV, and Chrysler 200C EV concept.

The so-called ENVI vehicles are part of an ongoing effort to reduce toxic emissions and America’s dependence on foreign oil. The name is the first four letters of environment.

A123System’s scalable battery module has the flexibility to work in a variety of applications. High-volume component sharing reduces manufacturing costs and helps Chrysler bring its products to market faster.

“Chrysler has successfully worked with A123Systems… for more than three years to improve the technology for automotive applications,” said Lou Rhodes, vice president of advanced vehicle engineering and president of ENVI. “We have confidence that by partnering with A123 Systems our near-term and long-term electrification goals will be met.”

Suzuki Concepts Boost SX4’s Power

Zuk and SXForce to debut at the New York International Auto Show

Suzuki SX4 Crossover

This week, Suzuki ups the ante on its economical SX4 Crossover and Sport with concepts that promise to deliver on the track. Zuk and SXForce, debuting at this week’s New York Auto Show, have turbocharged engines that add a dose of fun to the driving experience.

Both the SX4 Crossover and Sport fit within our ALV super-value category, with pricing that starts at $16,000 or less. Suzuki has led the way in creating affordable products with features active buyers look for, including standard all-wheel drive and navigation.

While the naturally-aspirated engines have enough power for the average driver’s needs, the cars aren’t exactly barn burners. Turbocharging, which uses exhaust-driven turbines to push more air through the engine, gives the crossover and sedan concept 300 and 250 horsepower respectively. That’s club racing material.

Road Race Motorsports produced the turbo kit for both concept cars. Zuk, the five-door concept, has 19-inch alloy wheels, with grounds effects, mirrors and exhausts inspired by Suzuki’s Hayabusa and GSX-R sportbikes.

The SXForce sedan sports white pearl and orange metallic paint, with sportbike-inspired mirrors and dual exhausts. Suzuki won’t release photos until after the unveiling, but this writer expects a buzz around the podium.