Johnson Controls launched an lithium-ion battery development laboratory in Milwaukee, to create power-storage solutions for hybrid-electric vehicles. The laboratory facility and development equipment were installed at a cost of approximately $4 million. The company The company believes lithium ion technology is likely to replace nickel-metal-hydride as the battery technology of choice in hybrid-electric and electric vehicles in the future. Lithium-ion batteries have significant potential for near-future HEV applications, because they have the capability of offering major advantages in power-generation, size, weight, cycle life and cost.