Toyota and BMW Move Forward Developing Lithium-Ion Batteries

Toyota and BMW today announced that they have begun developing next-generation lithium-ion batteries for use in hybrid-electric and full-electric vehicles. The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding back in December—essentially an agreement that they'd work on a formal contract—and now have entered into that formal agreement. In addition to working together on battery development, BMW will supply Toyota with 1.6- and 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engines for use in Europe starting in 2014. It won't be any earlier than that time before we see any fruit on the lithium-ion front, either. Toyota also has partnered with Tesla in building the RAV4 EV, and BMW began a joint venture last year with PSA Peugeot-Citroën to develop components for hybrid and electric vehicles. We don't think either collaboration will be affected by today's news. from Car and Driver Blog http://blog.caranddriver.com

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