Cummins acquires Johnson Matthey’s automotive battery systems business

31 January 2018

Cummins Inc. announced the acquisition of Johnson Matthey’s UK automotive battery systems business, a subsidiary of Johnson Matthey that specializes in high-voltage automotive grade battery systems for electric and hybrid vehicles. As part of the acquisition, Cummins and Johnson Matthey also agreed to collaborate on the development of high energy battery materials for commercial heavy duty applications. The financial terms were not disclosed.

The acquisition of the automotive battery systems business allows Cummins to expand its electrification and energy storage capabilities in its efforts to be a global leader in electrified power, said the company. Johnson Matthey will focus on developing high energy battery materials, including its lithium nickel oxide (eLNO) product, for transport applications within its overall technology portfolio.

“The addition of Johnson Matthey Battery Systems’ technical expertise and customer base in markets that are more rapidly adopting electrification further positions us as a global energy storage supplier,” said Tom Linebarger, Chairman and CEO, Cummins Inc. “By combining our electrification capabilities, portfolio of diverse power solutions, and global network, Cummins is uniquely positioned to lead in electrification. What differentiates us is our ability to help customers succeed with high quality products across the spectrum of power solutions they use, whether it’s electric, diesel, natural gas or other energy solutions.”

As one of Europe’s largest lithium-ion battery system suppliers, this business has 50 employees and is based in Milton Keynes, United Kingdom.

In October 2017, Cummins announced the acquisition of Brammo, which develops low-voltage battery packs for mobile and stationary applications. With the addition of Johnson Matthey Battery Systems high-voltage battery expertise, Cummins now has capability across the entire range of energy storage options, said the company.

Cummins expects to offer electrified powertrains to customers in 2019.

Source: Cummins