MHI Provides Rechargeable Lithium-ion Batteries for EV Racing Car Competing in Grueling U.S. "Race to the Clouds"
-- Second Year as Co-sponsor of Team APEV --

The PPIHC, which is celebrating its 91st anniversary this year, is the second-oldest motor-sport race in the United States and a historic tradition in the Colorado Springs/Pikes Peak area. The "Race to the Clouds" is a time trial run over a 12.42 mile (approx. 20 kilometers) course with 156 turns that begins at an altitude of 9,390 feet (approx. 2,860 meters) and ends at the summit, 14,110 feet (4,300 meters) above sea level, making it one of the world's most grueling auto races.

MHI is a co-sponsor of "Team APEV with Monster Sport" organized by the Association for the Promotion of Electric Vehicles (APEV), which participates in the PPIHC as part of its activities to promote awareness of global environmental protection. MHI developed and has supplied the high-output lithium-ion batteries for the team's EV racing car to provide the power needed for this demanding high-altitude uphill race. Team APEV is aiming to finish the race in 9 minutes and 30 seconds, 16 seconds faster than the all-time record established by last year's winner – a gasoline engine racing car.

MHI has a substantial track record in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with its "MLiX," which delivers high performance and long service life. The MLiX's applications to date include installations in cargo-container type energy storage systems, hybrid forklift trucks, electric buses and small-size portable power supply systems.

By applying the results to be gained from participation in the PPIHC race to the development of future batteries, MHI will add further momentum to its ongoing efforts to contribute to the creation of an energy-saving and low-carbon society.