A123 Systems  has a new contract with Via Motors, a company that specializes in converting standard vehicles to hybrids.  A123 Systems will provide lithium-ion batteries for the world’s first extended range electric/hybrid trucks, available for consumers in 2013.  The trucks, which are estimated to travel 30-40 miles per charge with another 360 miles on gasoline, are currently featured on Via’s website and include standard, extended, and crew cab versions.  Says Kraig Higginson, CEO of Via Motors, “We selected A123’s nanophosphate lithium ion battery systems because they are able to package higher power into a compact space in the vehicle.“  To see the trucks in person, visit the North American International Auto Show going on now through January 22 in Detroit.