A123Systems to Supply Batteries to Cessna

A123Systems of Watertown, Massachusetts, will supply Cessna Aircraft Co. with Li-ion batteries to start up engines and provide emergency backup power to the Cessna Citation fleet of business jets.

A123Systems’ battery technology is applicable to commercial and very light jets. With a significant weight reduction over existing aircraft batteries, the company’s nanophosphate Li-ion technology will replace currently used lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries. These drop-in replacements are based on existing aircraft battery designs.

The battery packs have a central monitoring system for in-cockpit diagnostic reporting and integrated intelligent balancing circuitry. Additionally, the cells offer a wide range of operating temperatures to meet rigorous aviation requirements. Offering exceptional cycle and calendar life, Li-ion batteries require fewer maintenance cycles, thus lowering overall ownership costs.

A123Systems is scheduled to deliver its aviation packs to Cessna in late April or early summer 2008.