By: Scott Way
Brunswick Corporation is once again on the move towards new power sources as the company just announced the acquisition of RELiON Battery LLC, a global provider of lithium batteries. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Brunswick has been openly aggressive throughout 2021 while trying to meet record demand. This recent move to acquire RELiON is likely part and parcel with their continued push into marine electronics, which includes the recent $1 billion acquisition of Navico in June, as well as their May announcement that subsidiary Mercury Marine will introduce electric outboards by 2023.
The sequence of moves is part of Brunswick's 'Next Wave' strategy to extend its position in electrical systems innovation, and the RELiON deal will include a new Electrification Technology Centre being built in Michigan focused on high voltage battery development. Brunswick Corporation is headquartered in nearby Mettawa, Illinois, just outside Chicago.
“Brunswick’s Advanced Systems Group continues to drive widespread adoption of lithium-ion battery and power management systems in both marine and mobile markets. The addition of RELiON to our portfolio reinforces our position as a leading supplier of lithium batteries for RV and recreational boating,” said Dave Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation CEO. “In addition, the formation of our new technology center will meaningfully advance our high-voltage electrical systems capabilities.”
RELiON batteries are already commonplace in the marine, RV, solar, and industrial industries and boast one of the largest lines of 12V, 24V, 36V, and 48V lithium battery systems on the market.
According to Brett Dibkey, Advanced Systems Group president at Brunswick, “The RELiON acquisition perfectly complements our existing portfolio of industry-leading advanced battery and power management brands, like Mastervolt, ProMariner, and Blue Sea Systems... As the need for higher performing and greener energy grows, now with RELiON, ASG will be at the forefront of delivering innovative technology to our global customers.”
RELiON is currently headquartered in Rock Hill, South Carolina, but also has offices in Seattle. Their Seattle Technology Center will provide Brunswick the resources needed to develop the next generation of lithium batteries for the marine market.
“Our vision to be the most sought after and admired lithium battery company in the world has now been exponentially bolstered by joining Brunswick Corporation’s Advanced Systems Group,” said Paul Hecimovich, RELiON Battery, LLC CEO. “We feel it is our duty to do better as a business, making our batteries as sustainable as possible for our customers who enjoy being outdoors.”
RELiON batteries have already made headway in the marine industry, especially in the fishing market among competitive anglers. You can see some of RELiON's marine battery products in the video below:
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