Factors Affecting U.S. Production Decisions: Why are There No Volume Lithium-Ion Battery Manufacturers in the United States?

Prepared for
Economic Assessment Office
Advanced Technology Program
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899-4710
By
Ralph J. Brodd
Broddarp of Nevada, Inc.
Under Contract: SB 1341-02-W-1446

June 2005

View Adobe PDF version of working paper.

Table of Contents

Abstract

A Message About the Study

About the Author

Acknowledgments

Executive Summary

• Background
• Why are there no volume Li-ion manufacturers in the United States?
• Factors Affecting U.S. Production Decision
• Conclusion

I. Introduction

• Study Objectives
• Methodology
  

II. Rationale for Li-ion Case

• U.S. Activity in Li-ion R&D
• U.S. Manufacturing of Li-ion Batteries
  

III. The Innovation Process for Battery Technologies

IV. Structural Factors Affecting Production Decisions

• Manufacturing and Marketing Infrastructure
• Supply Chain Structures
• R&D Planning Horizon and Return on Investment
• Project and Employment Security
• Replacement Market
• Logistics
• Venture Capital
• Company Loyalty
• Labor Costs
• Capital Costs of New Facilities
• R&D Costs
• Interest Rates
• Intellectual Property
• Litigation Exposure
• Government Policies
• Human Resources
  

V. Conclusion: Why Are There No Volume Li-ion

• Manufacturers in the United States?

VI. Implications for Other Technologies

• Fuel cells
• Displays and chip fabrication
• Further Work Needed
  

Bibliography

Appendix 1. Interview Questions and Discussion

• Topics

Appendix 2. List of Organizations Represented in Interviews

Appendix 3. Li-ion Batteries: Market Trends

Appendix 4. Comparison of Battery Technologies

Appendix 5. Li-ion Batteries: Market Participants

Date created: July 21, 2005
Last updated: August 4, 2005

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