ExxonMobil claims to have new hybrid battery technology

by PegNews wire

The company aims to make lithium-ion batteries more efficient.

IRVING — Irving-based oil giant ExxonMobil claims its chemical subsidiary has developed new film technologies for lithium-ion batteries that the company says has the potential to improve the energy efficiency as well as cost of next-generation hybrid and electric vehicles.

ExxonMobil said the technologies could significantly enhance the power, safety and reliability of lithium-ion batteries. Separator film is an integral part of the battery system design and critical to overall performance, according to the oil company statement. The Exxon technology reportedly combines advanced polymer to tailor products to battery manufacturer requirements.

The Toyota Motor Co. recently postponed use of lithium-ion batteries in the third generation of the Prius hybrid.The Japanese automaker said the technology still raises safety concerns and requires additional research.

General Motors Corp. is also developing lithium-ion technologies for use in a future plug-in hybrid.

Source: Consumer Affairs, ExxonMobil