Johnson Controls' Li-ion batteries to power award-winning electric boat motor

MILWAUKEE, Feb. 28, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Johnson Controls, Inc., the world's leading supplier of automotive batteries, is slated to begin production this spring of Li-ion battery packs out of its advanced battery plant in Holland, Mich., for Torqeedo's all-electric boat motors.

Torqeedo, a German-based manufacturer, will use Johnson Controls' Li-ion automotive battery packs to power its award-winning 80-Horsepower electric boat motor called DEEP BLUE.

"With our leading battery expertise, we helped our customer combine two distinct technologies – the large outboard engine and electric motor -- making the Torqeedo DEEP BLUE system a real game-changer," said Holger Jetses, vice president and general manager for Johnson Controls Power Solutions' Original Equipment group, EMEA. "In bringing this innovative product to the marine market we are helping to provide a cleaner, quieter and more economical boating experience for users."

Johnson Controls modified its Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) battery, making the product waterproof and resistant to salt water, for Torqeedo's marine application.

"The collaboration between Johnson Controls and Torqeedo gave birth to a new battery solution. It's the first time ever used in the marine industry," said Dr. Christoph Ballin, Torqeedo's CEO. "By integrating the high performance automotive batteries for use in boats and ships, Torqeedo is pleased to bring this truly unique product to market."

DEEP BLUE has taken the boating industry's top awards for innovation. Earlier this month, it received the 2013 Innovation Award at the National Marine Manufacturers Association conference in Miami.

Torqeedo's DEEP BLUE was also the Overall Winner of the prestigious 2012 DAME Award at the world's largest marine equipment show, METS, in Amsterdam this past November. The jury praised Torqeedo's groundbreaking research and development, saying, "In bringing this truly original product to the marine market, DEEP BLUE's designers have achieved a first-class package that offers convenience, price worthiness and performance." 

DEEP BLUE was selected from 115 innovations of the marine industry from 25 countries as the overall winner.

"Johnson Controls maintains our long-term commitment to build an industry that allows for continuing growth, new jobs and global leadership in the development and manufacture of innovative advanced energy storage technologies," said Jetses.

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About Johnson Controls
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in more than 150 countries. Our 170,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful. In 2011, Corporate Responsibility Magazine recognized Johnson Controls as the #1 company in its annual "100 Best Corporate Citizens" list. For additional information, please visit http://www.johnsoncontrols.com.

About Johnson Controls Power Solutions
Johnson Controls Power Solutions is the global leader in lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for Start-Stop, hybrid and electric vehicles.  Our 50 manufacturing, recycling and distribution centers supply more than one-third of the world's lead-acid batteries to major automakers and aftermarket retailers.  Through our innovations we are building the advanced battery industry for hybrid and electric vehicles.  We were the first company in the world to produce lithium-ion batteries for mass-production hybrid vehicles.  Our commitment to sustainability is evidenced by our world-class technology, manufacturing and recycling capabilities.   

About Torqeedo
Founded in 2005 in Starnberg, Germany, Torqeedo is the market leader in the fast growing electric outboard motor industry. Torqeedo's range of high-tech outboards combine lithium batteries with leading-edge motor technology and propeller design to offer unrivalled strength and efficiency for superior range. All Torqeedo systems offer ultra-light designs and intelligent information systems. With a broad product range of outboards ranging from 1 to 80 horse-power, as well as innovative accessories, including solar powered chargers and high-powered lithium batteries, Torqeedo's products are environmentally-sound and truly pioneering, reflected in the numerous awards the products have won globally. Torqeedo products are currently available in over 40 countries world-wide. For further information, please visit www.torqeedo.com

SOURCE Johnson Controls, Inc.