New Battery Technology

HOUSTON – Energy company Exxon Mobil said Wednesday it will present technology next month aimed at improving the efficiency and affordability of electronic and hybrid automobiles.The company said it has co developed new film technology with Japanese affiliate Tonen Chemical that could allow lithium-ion batteries to be used in vehicles.Lithium-ion batteries are currently used in cell phones, laptop computers and other consumer electronics, however, several auto makers are working to adapt them to vehicles. The most widely sold gas-electric hybrid car, Toyota Motor Corp. (nyse: TM – news – people )’s Prius, uses a nickel-metal hydride battery.Exxon said it is working with battery manufacturers to adapt the technology for use vehicles. The company is scheduled to present the technology at the Electric Vehicle Symposium and Exposition in Anaheim, Calif. in the first week of December.Shares of Exxon Mobil (nyse: XOM – news – people ) rose 81 cents to $87.19 in morning trading. News source: Forbes