XL Hybrids signs supply agreement with Johnson Controls

XL Hybrids, Inc., developer of a low-cost hybrid electric powertrain designed specifically for class 1 to 3 commercial fleet use, signed a supply agreement with Johnson Controls, Inc. (NYSE: JCI), the global leader in advanced batteries for start-stop, hybrid and electric vehicles. Johnson Controls will provide complete advanced Lithium-Ion battery packs constructed of high-power, spiral wound Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) cells to power light duty commercial vehicles, including the Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans.

"XL Hybrids has a compelling business model which provides a high value and commercially viable solution for commercial fleet operators," said David DeGraaf, vice president and general manager of the Americas' original equipment business at Johnson Controls Power Solutions. "Further, this supports Johnson Controls' commitment to the domestic supply of advanced battery technologies."

The battery pack has 1.8 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy storage, a peak discharge power rating of 50 kW and a nominal voltage of 260V. It will be fully developed and launched from Johnson Controls' state-of-the-art Lithium-Ion manufacturing facility in Holland, Mich. in early 2013.

"Our agreement with Johnson Controls, one of the largest automotive suppliers in the world, gives our team and customers confidence in the performance and quality of such a critical component as the energy storage system," said Clay Siegert, co-founder and vice president of supply chain at XL Hybrids. "Purchasing a battery pack manufactured in the USA was an additional bonus as we are committed to supporting domestic production."

XL Hybrids has already sold hybrid Chevrolet Express vans to some of the biggest fleets in the U.S. for fleet pilot testing. The company's hybrid electric powertrain integrates seamlessly with the original equipment manufacturer's engine and transmission. By integrating Johnson Controls' Lithium-Ion battery packs, the system is capable of reducing fuel consumption by up to 21 percent on urban routes, helping fleet managers reduce fuel costs without added infrastructure or changes to operations.

The hybrid Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans featuring the 1.8 kWh battery pack from Johnson Controls will go on sale in 2013.

XL Hybrids will extend its offering to include a full lineup of hybrid makes and models including the most popular pickup trucks and vans.