Rechargeable Batteries, Li-ion To Spark Sanyo

Sanyo Electric Co. has positioned Li-ion and other rechargeable batteries to power its growth over the next three years under its latest business plan, which is starting in fiscal 2008, The Nikkei reports. The plan is the first by company President Seiichiro Sano, who took the helm last April.

Sanyo, which dominates the global market for Li- ion batteries, will spend ¥100 billion over three years, ramping up output of products for notebook computers and cell phones. It will also start producing next-generation lithium batteries to be used in hybrid cars. Sales of rechargeable batteries are targeted to climb 50% over fiscal 2007 estimates to more than ¥450 billion.