Cummins acquires Johnson Matthey’s automotive battery business

Cummins and Johnson Matthey’s automotive battery systems business have signed an agreement to collaborate on high energy battery materials.

Johnson Matthey’s UK automotive battery systems business is a subsidiary of Johnson Matthey, a UK-based chemical company, that specializes in high-voltage automotive grade battery systems for electric and hybrid vehicles. As part of the acquisition, that was signed on January 31 this year, Cummins and Johnson Matthey also agreed to collaborate on the development of high energy battery materials for commercial heavy duty applications.  Both the parties are looking forward to the development of new products with enhanced performance characteristics for commercial applications.

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

Tom Linebarger, chairman and CEO, Cummins, said, “By combining our electrification capabilities, a portfolio of diverse power solutions, and global network, Cummins is uniquely positioned to lead in electrification."

Robert MacLeod, Chief Executive, Johnson Matthey said, “In divesting our automotive battery systems business to Cummins, we can focus on our strategy of expanding our eLNO platform and developing commercial battery materials for the full range of transport applications.”

In October 2017, Cummins had announced the acquisition of Brammo, which is known for designing and developing low-voltage battery packs for mobile and stationary applications. With the addition of Johnson Matthey battery system's high-voltage battery expertise, Cummins now claims capabilities across the entire range of energy storage options.

Also read: 

Julie Furber: Putting up a small team in India to develop products for electrification.