International Truck Picks Delphi Batteries

FLINT, Mich.--Delphi Automotive Systems has reached a five-year agreement to supply original equipment heavy-duty batteries as well as service batteries to International Truck and Engine Corp. and its extensive national service network consisting of nearly 1,000 dealer locations.

Delphi's Energy & Chassis division will supply batteries under International and Dynavolt brand names. The batteries are being made at Delphi’s Olathe, Kan. and Anaheim, Calif. facilities. The first shipment occurred in mid-December 2000.

The International branded heavy-duty batteries are maintenance free and OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) approved to to withstand the punishment of commercial applications. Some additional new features include work-hardened calcium grids, steam treated high-density positive plates, flex rib cases and non-accessible venting systems.

Delphi is also manufacturing the Dynavolt series of maintenance free batteries to aid International in competing in price sensitive market segments requiring mid-range performance and durability.

Select battery features were re-evaluated and performances competitively repositioned, resulting in a less costly maintenance free product.

“We’re pleased to be the supplier of choice for International,” said Guy Hachey, president at Delphi Energy & Chassis Systems. “We have a proven track record of quality in our battery portfolio and look forward to providing solutions to International for years to come,” he added.

“Our expertise and experience in developing and supplying batteries has translated into producing applications for multiple industries, including heavy duty truck, automotive, marine, electric/hybrid vehicles, and standby battery energy storage systems,” said Hachey. “We will continue to strive to be the world leader in technology, performance, quality and durability as we look to meet the demands of the future.”

Delphi can be found on the internet at www.delphiauto.com.