Hitachi announced yesterday they developed a new technology that will extend the life of lithium ion (Li-Ion) batteries. The maximum life of a Li-Ion battery today is up to 5 years and Hitachi claims the new batteries will have double the lifespan of the current ones as up to 10 years. Since Hitachi have reduced the use of cobalt, which is a rare material, the new batteries will be less costly.

Expected to be used in various industrial applications where a long lifespan is crucial, such as storing energy from wind power or powering construction gear, no word on launch time.