Hitachi to supply motors, Li-ion batteries to Eaton

Hitachi Ltd and Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd, which manufactures Li-ion batteries for hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), have secured an order from Eaton Corp. to supply motors, inverters, Li-ion batteries and other components for Eaton's hybrid power systems to be delivered through 2011. Plans call for commercial vehicles using Eaton's hybrid system to be rolled out in markets in North America, Europe and Asia.

Owing to stricter environmental regulations and rising concern about fuel economy worldwide, Hitachi expects the global market for commercial vehicle and passenger car HEVs to continue expanding from the 690,000 unit level recorded in 2007 to 1.5 million units in 2010. Eaton hybrid commercial vehicles deployed in fleet operations are today achieving between 30 percent and 60 percent savings in fuel costs, dependent on driving route and operating conditions, along with similar percentage decreases in NOx and other harmful emissions.

"We're pleased to have Hitachi as a supplier and collaborator in the introduction of hybrid electric power to the world's commercial vehicle fleets," said Kevin Beaty, business unit manager for Eaton's hybrid power business.

Meanwhile, Yasuhiko Honda, VP and executive officer, president and CEO, automotive systems group of Hitachi, said, "We're delighted to receive this order from Eaton Corporation for motors, inverters, lithium-ion batteries and other components for their hybrid power systems."