InformationWeek has learned that Mercedes-Benz may be forced to cancel or delay the launch of the ML450 hybrid. Cobasys, a joint venture between Chevron and Energy Conversion Devices, was contracted to supply Mercedes with nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, a $6 million contract, might be closing shop due to the lack of funding from its partners (Chevron & ECD). The battery supplier lost almost $76 million in 2007, and may lose a similar amount this year.
If Cobasys is unable to supply the batteries, Mercedes will be forced to delay/cancel the launch of the ML4 50 Hybrid, until it finds a suitable supplier, or they might even force Cobasys to manufacture the batteries via litigation.
(2 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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August 5th, 2008 at 11:19 am
I love the car. Beautifully designed car with the designs and features I’ve only dreamed about.
January 5th, 2009 at 6:03 am
I think I have seen the ML 450 in Kigali- Rwanda which is very fantastic of course. Am I wrong? Is not it a ML 450 one I have seen?
Regards