Komatsu acquires battery company in drive toward electric equipment and reduction of carbon emissions

battery company

Sustainable Solutions

Komatsu acquires battery company in drive toward electric equipment and reduction of carbon emissions

As construction and mining equipment industries transition to a more electric future, battery technology has become increasingly important. To support this transition, Komatsu recently acquired American Battery Solutions Inc. (ABS), a battery manufacturer headquartered in Detroit, Mich.

The acquisition will enable Komatsu to develop and produce its own battery-powered construction and mining equipment by integrating ABS’ battery technology with Komatsu’s knowledge and network. The first equipment produced with ABS’ battery technology will be used to power mining equipment in North and South America, where there is increasing demand for electrification. In the future, Komatsu will aim to expand the use of batteries in construction equipment and to establish a global supply system.

Komatsu will be positioned to accelerate the development of battery-powered electric vehicles by utilizing ABS’ battery-related technology to further contribute to the electrification of construction and mining equipment in support of pursuing a decarbonized society. Along with other initiatives Komatsu is pursuing with its partners, these efforts will contribute to Komatsu’s management target of a 50% reduction of CO2 emissions from the use of its products by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels), as well as the company’s challenge target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Leading provider

ABS develops and manufactures a wide variety of heavy-duty and industrial battery packs, using lithium-ion batteries for commercial vehicles, transit buses, and on- and off-road vehicles. The company provides both standard and custom battery systems engineered to be optimized to each customer’s needs. ABS’ technology, combined with advanced product development knowledge and expertise, enables the company to develop and manufacture battery packs designed to deliver superior performance and product life, as well as promote enhanced safety.

Komatsu PC210E excavator places dirt in a HM400 haul truck
The acquisition of ABS will help contribute to Komatsu’s management target of a 50% reduction of CO2 emissions from the use of its products by 2030 (compared to 2010 levels), as well as the company’s challenge target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

ABS will operate as a stand-alone business entity within Komatsu and will continue its growth plans by executing on its current and prospective customer programs in the commercial vehicle segments. The mining and construction opportunities provided through Komatsu will enable ABS to position itself as one of the world’s leading providers of battery systems in both on-highway and off-highway markets. Post acquisition, Komatsu will continue to support ABS’ battery business to further develop the electrification business.