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

USA: 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, VP and GM 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.