ALLENTOWN, Pa – May 25,  2010 – International Battery, (www.internationalbattery.com) a U.S. manufacturer and developer of large-format lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, today announced that the  West Philly Hybrid X Team that it is partially sponsoring, remains on track in the $10 million Progressive Insurance Automotive X PRIZE. In the latest qualifying round, competitor vehicles were tested in various efficiency, safety, and performance evaluations conducted by competition judges, including automotive engineers from Consumer Reports magazine. Tests included rigorous technical inspections and on-track safety tests. The remaining teams will return for the pivotal Knockout Stage, where their vehicles must meet or beat a 67 MPGe (miles per gallon or its energy equivalent) fuel efficiency target. That event will be held June 20-.28 at Michigan International Speedway.

“Conquering the First Stage was an impressive technical achievement for this bright, dedicated high-school team,” said Dr. Ake Almgren, International Battery president and CEO. “We are proud to work with them in this exciting competition.”

In January, International Battery provided two lithium ion battery packs for West Philly’s two hybrid electric cars, aimed at exceeding 100 miles per gallon. A key competitive advantage to using International Battery’s large-format energy storage systems is the company’s unique Battery Management System (BMS). The BMS monitors the temperature and voltage of each cell and provides continuous balancing of the system, maintaining all cells within a narrow voltage range.

“Providing accurate monitoring of each individual cell makes the battery pack inherently more reliable and more efficient than traditional battery designs based on a large number of small cylindrical cells,” explained Tony Reis, International Battery’s chief technology officer. “Large-format prismatic cells result in a less complex system with fewer thermal management issues. Coupled with active cell balancing, it also enables optimal usage of the battery.”

The first West Philly vehicle, a modified Factory Five GTM Supercar, with acceleration of 0 to 60 in under five seconds, is competing in the Alternative category. This vehicle is powered in part by International Battery’s innovative large-format lithium ion battery cells. The battery design incorporates 50 Ah lithium-nickel cobalt manganese cells and contains a total of 9 kWh. A modular design conveniently distributed throughout the car allows a nominal operating voltage of 180 volts. The second vehicle, a Ford Focus, contains a 15 kWh battery based on similar 50 Ah cells and is competing in the Mainstream class of the contest.

Team Director Simon Hauger began challenging his West Philly students 12 years ago with his innovative automotive program.  “While many may believe it unrealistic for a team of inner city high school students to win this competition, we know we can succeed,” said Hauger. In working with International Battery, Ann Cohen, the team’s volunteer manager said, “International Battery’s engineers are just terrific with their technical help. They are always willing to troubleshoot any challenge that we may encounter.”

Headquartered in Allentown, Pa., International Battery (www.internationalbattery)  is a U.S. manufacturer, designer, and developer of large-format lithium-ion rechargeable cells and batteries for use in a wide range of transportation, industrial, electric utility, smart grid and military applications, employing a uniquely environmentally friendly manufacturing process.