TOKYO, Sept. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Corporation will initiate a global
replacement program for certain battery packs that utilize
Sony-manufactured lithium ion cells used by notebook computer manufacturers
in order to address concern related to recent over-heating incidents. Sony
always strives to deliver the highest level of satisfaction to its
customers and all consumers. We believe that this program is in the best
interest of both our customers and all consumers.
Sony is discussing this plan with the US Consumer Product Safety
Commission and will coordinate with other government authorities as
required. We will announce details of the program in the near future.
Sony has been supporting the recall of battery packs for Dell and
Apple. As we have previously explained, on rare occasions, microscopic
metal particles in the recalled battery cells may come into contact with
other parts of the battery cell, leading to a possibility of short circuit
within the cell. Typically, a battery pack will simply power off when a
cell short circuit occurs. However, under certain rare conditions an
internal short circuit may lead to cell overheating and potentially flames.
The potential for this to occur can be affected by variations in the system
configurations found in different notebook computers. Sony believes that
this engineering analysis remains valid.
Sony will consult with its OEM customers that utilize these battery
cells and work with those that choose to participate regarding quantity and
the scheduling of replacement battery packs
