AUBURN HILLS, Michigan — In an important step toward getting its first electric vehicle into the hands of consumers by 2010, Chrysler on Monday announced a strategic alliance with A123Systems, a U.S.-based battery supplier.

The two will work together on developing lithium-ion battery cells, battery modules and battery packs for Chrysler’s range-extended electric vehicle and battery-only electric vehicle production programs, the automaker said in a statement.

Chrysler again underscored its intent to bring the “company’s first production electric vehicle to market in 2010.” However, it did not specify which one would be the first.

Chrysler showed off several electric-drive vehicles at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January, including the Chrysler 200C EV concept, the Chrysler Town & Country EV, the Dodge Circuit EV, the Jeep Patriot EV and the Jeep Wrangler EV.

Chrysler has said it eventually wants to offer all-electric and range-extended technology across its entire line of vehicles.

A123Systems said it is planning to set up a Michigan facility to build products for Chrysler.

“Chrysler has successfully worked with A123Systems, both directly and through USCAR, for more than three years to improve the technology for automotive applications,” said Lou Rhodes, president of Chrysler’s ENVI, the automaker’s electric vehicle arm. “We have confidence that by partnering with A123Systems, our near-term and long-term electrification goals will be met.”

Inside Line says: There is still a lot of mystery surrounding Chrysler’s EV program. A larger question looms: Will Chrysler survive long enough to put an EV on the road? — Anita Lienert, Correspondent

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