Austin has operations by Freescale Semiconductor, which has a long track record with General Motors and ActaCell, started as a spinoff from U-T, which is developing the next generation of lithium-ion batteriesforelectricvehicles.
In very related news, GM has struck a deal with Massachusetts-based battery developer A123 Systems to produce flat lithium-ion batteriesfor use in upcoming plug-in electricvehicles, such as the Chevy Volt.
Another example: A123 Systems, a Massachusetts company that produces lithium-ion batteries, has created a large design and manufacturing center in Michigan to be near their automotive customers forelectric and hybrid vehicles.