Universal Power Group, Shorai develop battery
Universal Power Group, a Texas-based distributor and supplier of batteries and related accessories, announced the launch of its Adventure Power Phantom line of lithium-iron batteries for motorcycles and other powersports vehicles.
In announcing the new line, UPG also shared news that it has formed a strategic alliance with California-based Shorai Inc., a manufacturer of lithium iron-based powersports batteries. Shorai will provide technological expertise to develop and produce the new line. Under the agreement, UPG will market the Phantom line of batteries, which will use Shorai’s exclusive eXtreme-Rate LiFeP04 cell technology. Shorai’s eXtreme-Rate LiFeP04 was named one of Powersports Business’ Nifty 50 products for 2012.
The Phantom batteries will feature advanced LFP cell technology, less than 1.5 pounds of weight, a carbon composite case designed to military specifications, the capacity to hold a charge for up to one year without maintenance in most vehicles without a parasitic draw, quicker starting, fast cranking power, fast recharging and environmentally conscious attributes.
“We are pleased to announce the growth of UPG’s Adventure Power series of motorcycle and powersports batteries and our alliance with Shorai, which creates an exciting opportunity to expand the breadth of our offerings,” UPG president and CEO Ian Edmonds said. “This collaboration allows UPG to market new and innovative products to our customers, meeting their unique demands for lightweight and high-performance solutions. Working with Shorai also fits well with our long-term strategy of engaging with partners that have complementary technologies and strengths that we can leverage in our core markets.”
David Radford, president of Shorai Inc., added, “We are pleased to work with UPG on expanding the reach and acceptance of our leading-edge battery technology beyond our core distribution channel of motorcycle dealers, and to access UPG’s broad distribution base of e-tailers, retailers and battery specialists. We see many opportunities to market our advanced battery chemistry and features to meet the needs of motorcycle and powersports enthusiasts around the world, and this agreement will bring us closer to realizing that goal.”
UPG will be introducing the Phantom line’s capabilities at Booth 4348 at Dealer Expo. The battery line is expected to be available to retailers in the second quarter of this year.
