Matsushita to Increase Production of BR2777A and BR2450A Batteries

Japanese newspapers report that Matsushita Battery Industrial Co. (Japan) plans to increase production of specialized lithium batteries used in devices that keep a constant check on vehicles' tire air pressure, even while the vehicle is running. The firm plans to invest 300.0 million yen by spring 2002 to boost its output capacity at its main factory in Osaka Prefecture to three or four times its current capacity.

The batteries, which are especially resistant to leaks and high temperatures, come in two types. The BR2777A, which measures 27.4mm x 7.7mm and weighs 8g, is already in mass production. The BR2450A measures 24.5mm x 5mm and weighs 5g. Sample shipments of the BR2450A will begin later in July 2001, with mass production starting in October 2001.