After announcing its intention to produce a plug-in hybrid version of the Saturn Vue last December, this week GM announced a contract with Cobasys and other suppliers to develop and test lithium-ion batteries for the new plug-in system. Specifically, GM stated that Cobasys and the others are challenged with proving the durability, reliability and potential cost of the technology.

Currrently, IUE-CWA members at Cobasys' Springboro, Ohio plant produce batteries for GM's Saturn Vue "Green Line" and Saturn Aura "Green Line" vehicles. These mild hybrid vehicles utilize Cobasys' nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery, which is part of GM's Belt-Alternator-Starter (BAS) system. The system turns the engine off during idle and coasting and helps the vehicles achieve more than a 20% increase in fuel economy over their conventional counterparts.

Also see:

• Cobasys News Release: Cobasys Awarded General Motors Contract to Develop Lithium-Ion Battery System for Plug-In Hybrid
• GM News Release: Green Line Delivers Great Fuel Economy, Lower-Cost Hybrid System
• See Business Week Story: Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid SUV
• GM News Release: GM Announces Intention to Produce Plug-in Hybrid SUV

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