Magna International announced a vehicle-development partnership with Ford Motor Company to introduce a zero-emission lithium-ion battery electric vehicle (BEV) to be delivered to market in 2011.
Ford announced the electric vehicle at the N.A. International Auto Show in Detroit as a key vehicle in their electrification strategy. It seemingly will be a small car with an expected range of up to 100 miles without using a drop of gas. Ford’s BEV will operate similar to a conventional vehicle, but with smoother acceleration, less noise and zero emission.
"This vehicle adds an important piece to Ford's product lineup with a zero-emission vehicle that will be both affordable and meets customers' needs," said Don Walker, co-CEO of Magna International. "In addition, the joint partnership demonstrates valuable OEM/supplier collaboration by sharing in the expertise and investment that the auto industry now requires for new advancements in energy independence and reduced CO2 emissions."
Magna will be responsible for providing critical components that make-up the powertrain and battery modules in the vehicle, and play a key role in the engineering required to integrate the electric propulsion system and other new systems into the vehicle architecture. (SB)
www.magna.com • www.ford.com
