Magna Steyr To Launch Serial Production Of Battery Systems For Volvo Group

Magna Steyr, an operating unit of Magna International Inc., announced that it will produce lithium-ion battery systems for Volvo Group. The battery systems will be integrated into Volvo’s city buses, heavy-duty distribution vehicles and refuse trucks. Production of these battery systems will begin in August 2009 at Magna Steyr’s facility in Graz, Austria.

According to the company, these vehicles, which are equipped with parallel hybrid systems, will make an important contribution to the environment. The regenerative braking energy which is lost in conventional bus and truck applications will be used to load the battery system via a generator. It is stated that this will result in substantial fuel savings, fewer emissions and a quieter drive compared with buses and trucks with conventional powertrains – making them well suited for city driving.

"For years Magna Steyr has been active in the research and development of alternative propulsion systems, especially of electrical energy storage systems," said Dr. Burkhard Göschel, Chief Technical Officer, Magna Vehicles and Powertrain. "This contract is proof that Magna Steyr is a leader in developing and delivering advanced technologies to our customers."