Ford Britain Chairman Joe Greenwell says the institute will accelerate research and development in new manufacturing systems, complementing work the auto maker already is doing.
The auto maker last year awarded the plant exclusive manufacturing contracts for the three EV parts that eventually will generate about A$160 million in export revenue.
The researchers say overheating must be avoided if EV batteries are to have a long service life; a drive in midday summer heat can push a battery's temperature well beyond its "comfort zone."
The industry is maintaining its full-year sales forecast of a record 615,000 units, saying it expects new-model launches and promotional campaigns will boost second-half sales.
Proton is funding cash flow for Lotus and provided the guarantees for previous bank loans made to the U.K. sports-car builder. If Lotus fails, so will owner DRB-Hicom, a top official says.