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JULY 15th, 2005
An automobile’s weight is one of the critical factors in fuel
consumption. With new nanomaterials on the horizon, hopes are that super light weight materials with super strength and low
cost of manufacturing will enable cars with far less weight and dramatically reduced gas mileage ratings far beyond what we
see today – from 15 percent to 70 percent less with similar fuel economy improvements.
In an apparent effort to achieve that goal as well as improve battery
technology, a $195 million funding cooperative agreement has been announced. Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation
and DaimlerChrysler Corporation all signed a cooperative R&D agreement with the United States Department of Energy (DOE)
to further the development of lightweight materials as well as to advance battery technology. The three auto companies signed
the agreement as part of the United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR).
The majority of the funding from the DOE is expected to be distributed
through the U.S. Advanced Battery Consortium (USABC) and the U.S. Automotive Materials Partnership (USAMP). Suppliers and
research institutes are expected to be the primary beneficiaries.
The $125 million USABC agreement is planned for three years with
extension options. The USAMP agreement is a $70 million agreement that was originally announced in May.
JULY 13th, 2005
Zipcar plans to expand its west coast operations with a recent financing
round valued at $10 million. The company, which strategically manages the physical location of by-the-hour car rentals around
cities to meet the demands of on-the-fly customers, received funding from a West Coast venture capital company, Benchmark
Capital. The company plans to expand its operations from the current 7 states and 21 cities to include the major northern
west coast cities of Seattle, San Francisco and Portland.
Zipcar with the funding announcement reported that it has seen a
100 percent increase in the number of its members, now at 40,000 and increasing at a rate of 2,000 a month, and has attained
profitability.
The company teams with local governments that want to offer alternative
transportation options to its citizens. The two often work together to devices transportation strategies, determine car stop
locations (often at or around major public transportation hubs and universities) and promotional campaigns.
The relatively new service Zipcar offers, founded in 1999, may have
much more to offer the world of transportation as new technology emerges that further streamlines the individual transportation
needs of tens of thousands sharing just several hundred strategically placed cars. Zipcar now shares 700 vehicles with the
transportation needs of 40,000 members or a vehicle to member ratio of about 57 cars per member.
Car sharing rates were given as $8.50 an hour and does include gas,
insurance and parking. The company did not indicate if the rates applied to just drive time. However, the company
does state on its web site that the car must be returned to the same reserved parking spot.
Zipcar has a wide variety of cars to choose from – from sporty
BMWs for dot comers on the move or pick-up trucks for those needing to move. The company also offers its service to businesses
at special rates – offering a way for the company to team together to lower travel costs and use those car pool lanes.
JULY 8th, 2005
FemOne, Inc. (OTC:FEMO) (BULLETIN BOARD: FEMO) closed financing
of $1.5 million through the issue of 8% Callable Secured Convertible Notes. Ray W. Grimm, Jr., the CEO of FemOne, Inc., a
company that produces cell phone radiation protection chips and offers a clip-on chip to improve automotive fuel economy,
indicated that the funds will be used for the expansion of the BIOPRO Technology division, the division responsible for those
products. "The raising of equity financing gives us additional capital to focus on the continued growth of our business and
the global expansion of our BIOPRO Technology Division. There is a strong global interest in our products and we are dedicated
to taking advantage of these international opportunities in a focused and efficient manner. This is a very exciting time for
our company,"
The BioPro Technology division offers BIOPRO Econo Fuel Chips
and the BIOPRO Cell Chip. The Econo Fuel Chips have been shown to offer a 15 percent savings in automobile fuel consumption
and decrease the overall pollution of automobiles. The BIOPRO Cell Chip has been shown to eliminate potential health hazards
of cell phones. The company illustrates via a CAT scan that the use of regular cell phones result in a rise of temperature
of the human brain. The company's BIOPRO Cell Chip helps eliminate that problem for cell phone users.
JULY 1st, 2005
Soy-Based Gasoline Additive Improves Fuel Economy 5 Percent
Crystal Flash Energy of Grand Rapids, one of the major fuel producers in Michigan, reports
that it has already sold over 2 million gallons of its SoyDiesel XC product. The additive, which has only been available at
its own gas pump at its headquarters in Michigan, offers one more way to save on gasoline costs. According to the company,
SoyUltra works in all gasoline engines and improves fuel economy by up to five percent. According to Tom Fehsenfeld, President
of Crystal Flash Energy SoyUltra also helps to reduce maintenance problems, "In extensive product testing, we found that the
fuel helps increase engine performance and reduce maintenance problems."
SoyUltra is a friction modifier, which coats the combustion chamber
walls and valves, which results in 40 percent more lubricity than what ordinary gasoline has to offer.
JUNE 28th, 2005
Hy-Drive Technologies Ltd. (TSX-V: HGS) has completed $2.6 million
(Canadian) in financing as a result of the sale of about 4.0 million Units at 64 cents a unit. Hy-Drive plans to use the funding
to help accelerate the introduction of its G2 Hy-Drive System, which are currently being assembled according to Tom Brown,
President of Hy-Drive. "We are currently assembling the first 100 of our latest generation, commercial-ready units and with
the proceeds of this financing, will be investing in inventory as well as the tooling and equipment required to increase production
levels to meet expected future sales."
The Hy-Drive system is used to generate and inject hydrogen gas
into a standard combustion engine. The reported benefits of the technology include reduced emissions, increased horsepower,
fuel savings and extended engine life.
JUNE 27th, 2005
A round of funding valued at $24.5 million from the Government of
Canada and several other industry organizations is to be used for innovative automotive research projects. The funding,
to come through AUTO21, a network of research centers in Canada, is for 41 automobile research projects. The projects involve
almost every technology discipline from semiconductors, through fuel technology to nanotechnology and biomaterials. Older
drivers are also a focus of the projects. As the populations of the West ages, drivers to stay safely on the road could possibly
require everything from early warning collision systems to early warning driver medical alert systems. Such systems could
be mandated into law for medically challenged senior citizen.
Dr. Peter Frise, AUTO21 CEO. "This major investment is helping AUTO21
advance Canada's reputation as a leader in automotive research and development. The strong collaboration between government
and industry supporters and the Canadian research community is leading to new technologies and also a steady stream of highly
qualified student researchers who will lead the country's future automotive sector."
The 41 projects will involve over 230 researchers at 37 universities
throughout Canada. Specific projects mentioned include Safe Transportation for Seniors through Dr. M. Bedard, at Lakehead
University and Dr. J. Miller Polgar at the University of Western Ontario. Another entitled Enhanced Child Safety in Automobiles
will be through Dr. A. Howard, Hospital for Sick Children and Dr. A. Snowdon at the University of Windsor. Nanotechnology
projects, of which there are a number include new metal research for lighter and stronger automobiles and improved interior
design. Energy research extends across the spectrum of alternative fuels such as hydrogen and biodiesel as well as energy
generation through regenerative breaking. The Regenerative Braking Systems project is through Dr. S. Lambert, at the University
of Waterloo.
JUNE 9th, 2005
Honda Introduces Home Refuelable Natural Gas Powered Car
- To Cut Fuel Bill in Half
The new Honda Civic GX is arriving in the United States according to American Honda. The natural
gas powered car will be offered in California on a market evaluation basis. The car comes complete with a device called Phill.
This device enables the Civic to be filled with natural gas straight from the natural gas line in one's home - eliminating
the need for a trip to the gasoline station.
According to Gunnar Lindstrom, Senior Manager of Alternative Fuels
at American Honda, the car has an emissions level of nearly zero, "The car uses only natural gas that is the same fuel you
have in your home. The car is extremely clean, virtually zero emissions and it also uses natural gas which is a domestic fuel."
John White at the Center for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Technologies
also commented on the Civic and the home fueling device it comes with, "Honda with its Civic GX and Phill home fueling appliance
are staying on the cutting edge at a time of high gas prices and global warning concerns."
JUNE 7th, 2005
From down under, comes news that the Low Emissions Technology Demonstration
Fund is now accepting applications. According to Ian Macfarlane, Federal Industry Minister, "The Statement of Challenges
and Opportunities is an opportunity for industry stakeholders to have a say on the operation of the program before first round
applications are called later this year," He added that, "The fund is likely to drive total investment of more than
$1.5 billion in cleaner technologies ranging from renewable energies to more conventional fuel sources. It's an exciting opportunity
to usher in a new generation of low emission technology."
The organization, the Australian Greenhouse Office, Department of
the Environment and Heritage, has a comprehensive web site, which gives eligibility requirements and a wealth
of information related to energy and emissions independence technology and programs, such as the government’s solar
cities program.
MAY 31st, 2005
The Kansas City Star reports that the price of blended e85, which
consists of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent unleaded gasoline, could be purchased in the Midwest for $1.69 a gallon, significantly
below the $2 plus price tag throughout the rest of the United States. Although the price is right, e85 is not available at
most gas stations and only certain types of vehicles can use it.
Because ethanol is made from corn, soy and other agricultural products,
the fuel has gained popularity with politicians and farmers in the Midwest. For example, Governor Dave Heineman, R-Neb., recently
signed an executive order that that directs all state employees, who drive state flexible-fuel or diesel powered vehicle to
use E-85 ethanol and biodiesel fuel whenever reasonable possible. Because of the economic benefits to the Midwest, it may
be safe to predict that more e85 fuel pumps will be seen at Midwest gas stations in the future.
MAY 31st, 2005
At Engine Expo 2005, to be held in Stuttgart, expect Dana Corporation
(NYSE:DCN) to introduce its family of advanced Intelligent Cooling pumps. The family, which consists of three brushless direct-current
electric coolant pumps, have been designed for both today's automobile engines as well as to meet the cooling needs of hybrid
and fuel cell vehicles. With built-in precision temperature control, the pumps can be used for charge-air circuit cooling,
standard engine cooling, and hybrid-vehicle powertrain cooling.
In regards to the benefits of the technology, the company stated,
"Because the new pumps enable accurate temperature control, engines warm faster, which, among other benefits, reduces harmful
emissions during the critical cold-start cycle. Accurate thermal control can also improve fuel efficiency by up to 5 percent
and improve the comfort of vehicle occupants as a result of faster cabin warm-up."
In order to ensure the Intelligent Cooling products work with all
types of vehicles, both today's and tomorrow's. the pumps work with voltages from 9 volts to 440 volts.
MAY 27th, 2005
Modine to Provide Fuel Cell Technology to Volkswagen
Modine Manufacturing Company (NYSE:MOD), in order to commercialize Volkswagen’s fuel
cell hybrid vehicle, the Touran HyMotion, Modine is now supplying the company with its humidification and water management
components. According to Mark Baffa, Director of Modine's Fuel Cell Products Group, "This opportunity allows Modine and Volkswagen
to combine their years of expertise toward making fuel cell vehicle systems commercially viable." Modine also indicated that
the agreement was to extend over the next year to further optimize the components to be used in Volkswagen’s fuel systems.
MAY 27th, 2005
The United States Department of Energy announced that it would fund
over 70 hydrogen research projects at a cost of $64 million. These projects are to be focused on five distinct areas related
to the development of an affordable hydrogen fuel cell vehicle by the year 2020. Specific research project areas mentioned
were novel materials for hydrogen storage, membranes for separation, purification, and ion transport, catalyst design at the
nanoscale, solar hydrogen production, and bio-inspired materials and processes.
The energy department indicated that for the most part the projects
would be assigned to universities and government research laboratories. However, industrial partners have been included. Technology
developed through government research programs is however available to the public through government license programs.
MAY 24th, 2005
ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ), one of the leaders in the emission-free hybrid
auto market and Apollo Energy Systems have demonstrated a new method to power zero-emission hydrogen fuel cells. Apollo's
Alkaline Fuel cells, which have their roots in space exploration technology, are hydrogen fuel cells that are powered
from ammonia. Apollo's Ammonia Cracker fuel cell technology breaks down ammonia (NH3) into hydrogen, which as the company
explains is 75 percent hydrogen
With the fuel cell battery, a new inexpensive infrastructure,
according to Apollo, could be set up easily without the high cost of other proposed hydrogen fueling systems such as costly
hydrogen extractors. According to Mr. Robert Aronsson President of Apollo Energy Systems, "Ammonia fueling stations could
be set up at very little cost, as the infrastructure already exists throughout the country. By making weekly deliveries of
ammonia to gas stations in the 100 largest metropolitan areas of the U.S., ammonia distributors could reach 70 percent of
the population. Former plans, proposed by others, of equipping gas stations with mini-factories for producing hydrogen by
electrolysis at a cost of $1 million per gas station, could be replaced by this new, low-cost system. The new fueling system
would make it possible for thousands of ZAP Hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars to operate throughout the country, silently, and with
zero emissions."
ZAP signed an exclusive licensing and distribution contract with
Apollo in 2004 for the patented Alkaline Fuel Cell, Ammonia Cracker and Lead-Cobalt battery technologies. ZAP and Apollo have
plans to develop a prototype Smart Car, which will be powered by a 60 kW Apollo Fuel Cell and have a 8.7 gallon Ammonia fuel
tank. That prototype is expected to have a cruising range of 200 miles without refueling - or in other words over 20 miles
of zero emissions free travel per gallon.
MAY 20th, 2005
Raymor to Present at NanoBusiness 2005 in New York City
Raymor Industries Inc. (TSX-V: RAR), a company that has developed a new light-weight nanoalloy
of importance to the energy and transportation markets, will speak at NanoBusiness 2005. Raymor's presentation at the conference,
considered one of the most important related to nanotechnology, will include an overview of Raymor's carbon nanotube portfolio
and operations, and a chance to find more details about nanotube-based product development strategies.
Vincent Caprio, Event Director for NanoBusiness 2005, spoke highly
of Raymor's technology and production capabilities, "For us to have such an innovative company as Raymor Industries presenting
at our conference is the validation that NanoBusiness 2005 is truly a global event. The production capacity of carbon nanotubes
announced by Raymor will finally allow for large-scale commercialization of numerous applications in nanotechnology."
Adding to the optimism about Raymor's technology was J. Andrew Braswell,
Equity Analyst with Newbridge Securities, "In our discussions with nanotech-focused companies-including some of those in our
Newbridge Nanotechnology Index (NNIX)-we often hear that the high cost and low quality of available carbon nanotubes are inhibiting
the commercialization of more products incorporating these novel materials. The new production process being introduced by
Raymor attempts to address these critical issues."
The conference will be held May 22nd to May 25th, 2005 at the Marriott
Financial Center in New York City.
MAY 20th, 2005
A hybrid vehicle, billed as a concept plug-in hybrid vehicle or
PHEV, developed by EnergyCS and Valence Technology won first place position in the modified hybrid category for fuel efficiency
at the Tour de Sol's Monte Carlo-style Rally. The fuel efficiency award was based on its energy performance, which was measured
at 102 miles per gallon (MPG) and nine kilowatt-hours. Besides that award, the EnergyCS-Valence PHEV also won the Innovative
Technology award.
The award-winning hybrid vehicle is based on Valence Technology's
metal-free safe Saphion lithium-ion batteries. EnergyCS, an alternative consulting and prototype company, is associated with
Clean-Tech LLC through EDrive Systems. The two companies partnered to form EDrive Systems, LLC and plan to offer EnergyCS
PHEV conversion kits based on Valence's Saphion batteries in early 2006.
MAY 3rd, 2005
ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ), which has tripled purchase orders this year to
the $750 million dollar market, plans to triple the run time of its three and four wheeled vehicles through an agreement with
Advanced Battery Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:ABAT). Initial tests have shown that ABAT's Lithium Polymer batteries will increase
the run time of ZAP's autos by a factor of three times when compared to Lead-Acid batteries.
ZAP CEO Steve Schneider pointed to other benefits of the new type
of battery, "We look forward to the weight reduction and range extension we expect from the ABAT battery technology. Our research
has indicated that another vehicle company in Japan has already found success with their technology. On our recent trip tip
to China we road-tested several of their vehicles, ranging from scooters to a complete Lithium powered electric bus. We are
continuing to expand our electric transportation product line at all levels, from personal to public transportation. We are
also exploring the possibility of making an electric version of the Smart Car."
Zhiguo Fu, Chairman of ABAT, on the other hand, spoke about the
retrofit status phase of the agreement, "The first shipment of ZAP vehicles has already arrived, and our engineering team
is working to install and range-test the vehicles provided. We're very pleased to have ZAP as our strategic partner and we
believe that our new relationship will accelerate the introduction of our advanced lithium polymer batteries into the U.S.
electric vehicle market."
APRIL 29th, 2005
ZAP Enters Electronic Device Battery Market as Car Orders
Approach $1 Billion Dollar Mark
ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ), the Zero Air Pollution company, through its ZAP Energy division, has entered
into a distribution agreement with Target Corporation, one of the United States' largest retailers. As part of the agreement,
Target is to distribute ZAP's high energy density portable battery products. The battery products, now available on-line at
Targets web site, are reported to offer four times the power of typical portable batteries. The ZAP smart charge controller,
which determines and delivers the correct voltage level needed for a device, give ZAP's batteries the capability to power
a wide range of electronic devices -from cell phones to laptops.
ZAP CEO Steve Schneider discussed the importance of the agreement,
"The distribution agreement will enable us to leverage Target's superior brand value and its reputation for innovative design
and products to obtain wide exposure for ZAP's advanced Portable Energy products. Our battery products offer unique and significant
advantages over other products on the market. Target's powerful distribution capabilities will help us move more quickly into
the red-hot electronics market with our unique solutions. We are excited that our battery line is catching the interest of
mass retailers such as Target. ZAP Portable Energy helps keep disposable batteries from entering the waste stream and helps
the Company expand its efforts towards creating larger-format batteries for our advanced electric vehicle drive trains."
ZAP's success in the energy market has been underscored with record
orders growth. The company, which just a few weeks ago reported breaking the $200 million mark and then the $500 million purchase
order mark, now has indicated that orders have continued to rocket past the $750 million mark.
ZAP has also recently announced that the Smart Car Americanized
by ZAP has been cleared for sale in the United States. Mr. Schneider commented on the implications for the company, "ZAP is
thrilled to announce that with the receipt of an official letter of notification from the U.S. Department of Transportation,
the Smart Car has now received all federal approvals necessary for sale in the United States. This is the final step in ZAP's
initiative to create an advanced transportation distribution network to meet the growing demand by American consumers for
automobiles that will meet their transportation needs while cutting gas expenditures, and also helping to reduce polluting
emissions. Dealers have been clamoring for more energy-efficient vehicles options, and ZAP is preparing to supply them from
various manufacturers."
APRIL 27th, 2005
Asia Pulse Pte Limited reports that over $41 million (Australian)
has been granted to three major car makers, Ford, Holden and Toyota for the research and development of environmentally intelligent
vehicles - primarily fuel economy. According to the release, Ford obtained the vast majority of the funding, pegged at $A28
million, which is to be used for engine research for its Falcon and Territory. Holden's share is planned for use for fuel
economy and emissions as well as smart design and safety. Toyota has a software project it plans to use the money on.
APRIL 26th, 2005
Reports indicate that cities, specifically green cities - a primary
market of the green industry, are able to save the town 20 percent on gas consumption through the retiming of stoplights.
Besides fuel economy other benefits include cleaner air and less driver exposure time to the noxious air that surrounds intersections
and crowded city streets. Improved stoplight timing algorithms, which take in real time automobile traffic flow throughout
the entire city and the city's main feeders and exits, are expected to reduce fuel consumption even more as the technology
advances.
APRIL 19th, 2006
Debut of Skycar Marks Dawn of Flying Machine Market
The Skycar debut, on the famous 60 Minutes TV show, may mark the
dawn of the flying machine market. That vehicle, which is now offered on an preorder basis, permits one to lift-off from one’s
own driveway. Packed with the latest navigation and aerospace electronic control hardware and software, the Skycar is considered
the first space age car that permits one to fly a plane as easily and conveniently as driving a car.
Moller International, Inc. (Pink Sheets: MLER) has developed what
it calls the first and only feasible, personally affordable, personal vertical takeoff and landing vehicle. The M400 Skycar
offers a speed of over 350 miles per hour and 28 miles per gallon.
Dr. Paul Moller, President Moller commented before the airing of
the 60 minutes show, "This program should provide a great overview of the potential for personal air transportation alternatives
that are coming in the not-too-distant future. I think that many people are unaware of how close this technology is to being
realized, and this 60 Minutes program is going to be one that everyone who has ever been stuck in traffic is going to want
to watch."
The flying machine can be seen at the Museum of Science and Industry
in Chicago from May 12 to June 20 and at the WIRED NextFest exposition scheduled from June 24 to June 26, 2005 at Chicago's
Navy Pier.
Moller was founded in 1983 as a spin-off of Moller Corporation to
develop a vertical liftoff and descent vehicle.
APRIL 18th, 2005
ZAP Hits Half-Billion Mark for Advanced SmartCar Vehicle
The automobile, which has been around since the late 1800s, looks prepared to change
with the times, flying on the magic carpet of technology. ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ) now with record growth, looks positioned to become
a major leader in the market. Outfitted with the SMARTCAR, its purchase orders have passed the $500 million market, up from
the recent April 5th mark of $431 million.
Steve Schneider, CEO of ZAP commented on the new record, "Breaking through the half-billion-dollar
barrier further underscores just how eagerly American consumers want to save money on fuel expenses while driving a car that
is comfortable, easy to park, safe and exciting. While this country has enjoyed relatively low gasoline prices over the decades,
it is clear that continued rising fuel costs are profoundly affecting millions of Americans who are conscious of the need
to control their transportation budgets. In addition, many consumers are motivated by a sense of environmental responsibility
that also pushes them toward the most fuel-efficient vehicles."
ZAP (Zero Air Pollution) obtained the licensing rights for the SMARTCAR from Smart-Automobile
LLC.
APRIL 13th, 2005
GE indicates that it has increased capacity for the production of
high technology silanes used for the fabrication of silica tires. The company began production in the third quarter of 2004
and has increased production apparently to meet demand. According to Dr. Ian R. Moore, General Manager at GE's silanes unit,
""Demand has been very strong for our new NXT silane that helps enable fast and easy dispersion of silica during rubber compounding
for silica tires. We are focusing resources on new products and processes, and this is another move in our long-term strategy
for growth in the silica tire segment. In fewer than 24 months of design and construction, we developed and deployed an innovative
process that delivers vastly increased capacity for silanes."
Wayne Hewett, president and CEO of GE Advanced Materials-Silicones
talked about NXT Silane, the patented GE molecule, "Last month we introduced NXT LowV(a) and NXT Ultra-LowV(a) silanes that
emit significantly less ethanol during processes that need silanes for coupling unlike materials. GE has widened the manufacturing
envelope for mixing silica tire compounds. Our talented scientists and engineers have created and executed a new process to
produce NXT silanes. Their innovative process has expanded the NXT silane family with a lower volatile organic compound (VOC)
version."
GE has indicated that tire manufacturers and consumers benefit from
the silane technology. The tire rolling resistance is estimated to be around 20 percent lower than non-silane tires,
helping to provide safer driver control in difficult weather conditions. Additionally improved fuel consumption levels
are reported at 5 percent. Work on the silane process technology is done at GE's Global Research
Center in Niskayuna, New York.
APRIL 12th, 2005
Novel Gasoline Chip Company Reports
600 Percent Gain in Revenue
FemOne, Inc. (OTC:FEMO) (BULLETIN BOARD: FEMO), a company with technology to reduce your automobile
gas bill and to keep you and the world healthy, has just reported a healthy growth rate. The company says that its consolidated
revenues for the quarter ended March 31, 2005 were $1,600,000. This is a 72 percent increase over the fourth quarter of 2004
and an estimated 600 percent increase in revenue over 2004.
Ray W. Grimm, CEO of FemOne, Incorporated, attributed the gain in
sales to its BioPro Technology division, "Our new BioPro Technology division and its bioenergetically enhanced products such
as the BIOPRO EMF-Harmonization Chip and the BIOPRO Qlink have really created a buzz domestically and internationally. Over
the last few months, we have had some very experienced and influential industry-leaders join our sales force."
The BioPro Technology division offers BIOPRO Econo Fuel Chips and
the BIOPRO Cell Chip. The Econo Fuel Chips have been shown to offer a 15 percent savings in automobile fuel consumption and
decrease the overall pollution of automobiles. The BIOPRO Cell Chip has been shown to eliminate potential health hazards of
cell phones. The company illustrates via a CAT scan, that the use of regular cell phones result in a rise of temperature of
the human brain. The company's BIOPRO Cell Chip helps eliminate that problem for cell phone users.
The company has indicated that it expects solid performance in the
second quarter of 2005.
APRIL 7th, 2005
Hybrid Fuel Systems, Inc. (OTCBB:HYFS) has received $1.2 million
for its operations, which center around its retrofit systems used to convert diesel engines to non-petroleum based fuels.
The funding was secured for the company by KMR Capital. Kevin Sellers, President of KMR Capital elaborated on the plans
for the funding, "Hybrid is a promising young company. The timing of this financing allows Hybrid to complete a number of
essential business components such as their emissions lab and building out their inventory. We are pleased to be a part of
this dynamic enterprise and we look forward to our continued involvement."
APRIL 7th, 2005
Keronite Ltd., a company based in Cambridge England, has recently
reported on a new process that could significantly reduce greenhouse gases and pollutants from the world's best friend and
worst enemy, the automobile. The company's strategy to solve the world's energy and pollution problems has been to develop
lighter metals to build automobiles and other types of vehicles. Keronite to prove its point sites U.S. Government
sources, which indicate for every 10 percent reduction in vehicle weight results in a 7 percent reduction in fuel
consumption and emissions. Keronite's surface treatment technology allows for steel to be replaced with magnesium and aluminum
alloys.
The new alloy process, besides weight reduction, offers an environmentally
safe method to make low-weight steel. The company reports that the process generates no hazardous waste.
The company also notes several other applications and benefits of
the Keronite ceramic process. One important benefit is that engine performance is improved. This is because the temperature
of aluminum pistons is reduced 30 degrees Centigrade. Keronite ceramic technology can also be used for mobile phone
cases, PDAs, laptops and aluminum frying pans. The technology is wear and corrosion resistant.
APRIL 6th, 2005
On the heels of Toshiba's one-minute rechargeable announcement,
comes news that Altair Nanotechnologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALTI) has entered into a battery agreement with Advanced Battery Technologies,
Inc. (OTC BB: ABAT). The agreement relates to the integration of Altair's battery electrode nanomaterials into ABAT's
polymer battery products. The resultant batteries are expected to be used in electric car and bus applications. Altair
Nanotechnologies CEO Dr. Alan J. Gotcher commented, "In our first of multiple market applications for Altair's nanotechnology-based
battery electrode materials, we are delighted to partner with a company such as ABAT for the electric vehicle market in China."
Altair's lithium ion battery electrode materials are noted for rapid recharge cycles.
APRIL 6th, 2005
Slow battery charge time, which has been an obstacle for consumer
acceptance of hybrid cars and portable electronic devices such as laptop computers, has apparently been overcome, Toshiba
Corp. at the end of March announced that its has developed a battery that can be recharged to the 80 percent level
within one minute, which is estimated to be about 60 times faster than most present day lithium batteries. The battery design
is largely attributed to nanomaterial technology.
Toshiba has indicated that the battery is expected to be first used
in hybrid vehicles, when Toshiba brings the product to market sometime in 2006. A prototype of the battery measures
3.8mm thick, 62mm high and 35mm deep and has a capacity of 600mAh.
APRIL 5th, 2005
Raser Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB:RSTG) has announced that it has entered
into a definitive agreement for a private placement of $20 million in convertible preferred stock. Raser Technologies, founded
just two years ago in 2003, holds patent and intellectual property technology that relate to the more efficient generation
of electrical energy from alternators, electric motors and generators.
MARCH 31st, 2005
Green is the color to describe environmentally safe technology.
Consumers, governments and business scrutinize for green tags on products that range from PCs to clothes. This trend towards
more environmental regulation and a healthier environment throughout the world has resulted in the most technically advanced
companies placing the environment on the top of their business plan list.
Raymor Industries Inc. (TSX VENTURE:RAR) has gone one step beyond
the realm of applying technology to minimize environmentally dangerous products and manufacturing processes. Raymor's process,
by contrast, consumes pollutants. In this case the process used to produce carbon nanotubes consumes methane, a greenhouse
gas, and then converts it to carbon nanotubes and hydrogen. Because the process uses methane, the company states that it helps
Canada meet its commitment to the Kyoto Protocol. As well, because the byproduct of the process is hydrogen, the potential
exists for a source of emission-free hydrogen fuel. Besides these added benefits, the company reports that the nanotube process
is 25 times more efficient, less dangerous and less costly than other existing nanotube technology process.
Raymor's side wall carbon nanotubes (C-SWNT), which are actually
based on methane gas as the raw material, are reported to be 100 times stronger than steel, but only one-sixth the
weight. The company lists numerous areas where innovative applications of the technology can be found. These include
automobile and spacecraft components, biomedical components, chemical sensors, fuel cells, textiles and X-Ray machines. The
technology, because of its light-weight, could also give rise to the age of self-propelled air flight. Stephane Robert, President
of Raymor hinted at the technologies' potential, "There is no question that single-walled carbon nanotubes will have enormous
impact on our lives. This new process makes it easier and safer to produce the high quality nanotubes needed for breakthrough
technologies. Manufacturers around the world are looking for sustainable and efficient ways to incorporate nanotechnology
into their products. We've brought them one step closer with this Raymor process."
Raymor's technology was obtained just recently through an exclusive
worldwide rights agreement with the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS).
MARCH 28th, 2005
Axion Power International, which has developed prototypes of a new
hybrid battery for UPS (uninterruptible power supply) systems, has obtained proceeds of $2.8 million in cash and $1 million
in debt settlements from the sale of its 8 % Convertible Senior Preferred Stock and common stock purchase warrants.
Charles Mazzacato, the company's chief executive officer said, "Since inception, we have been engaged in fabricating and testing
a series of evaluation prototypes that range from simple E3 Supercells to complex laboratory prototype power systems constructed
from multiple E3 Supercells. Over the last several months, we have conducted extensive in-house testing of our laboratory
prototype systems in cooperation with our joint development partners. We are very excited about the results.
Axion's supercapacitive hybrid electrical energy storage device
technology, called E3 Supercells, is based on two nanoporous carbon electrodes, which differs from lead-acid batteries, which
are based on two lead electrodes. Besides the fact that such a battery could offer a solution to the environmental problems
lead based products pose, the E3 Supercell technology is expected to result in batteries that will outperform and outlast
lead-acid based batteries. The E3 Supercell is planned to deliver a charge three to five times faster than a lead-acid
battery, have three to four times charge / deep discharge cycles, and maintain its performance level ever after repetitive
90 percent discharge cycles. Additionally, Axion indicates that the carbon electrode based battery will require minimum
maintenance.
The segments of the communications markets that Axion has
planned to address with its E3 products include the UPS and DC power systems. Axion also indicates that the second
target market is the energy storage and buffering systems market for alternative and conventional grid-connected electric
utilities. The third target market is high performance power systems for hybrid automobiles. Axion has also considered other
vehicle markets such as forklifts, wheelchairs and golf carts. The company hasn't indicated if the electric bicycle,
hybrid motorcycle or electric scooter and skateboard were potential markets for the E3 product.
MARCH 23rd, 2005
Encore Reveals Benchmarks of Novel Natural-Heat-To-Electricity Conversion Device
Encore Clean Energy, Inc. (OTCBB:ECLN) has announced test results of its HeatSeeker, a device that converts
natural heat into electricity. According to the company, the HeatSeeker in its debut test exceeded expectations. With carbon
dioxide as the working fluid, the Heat Seeker "generated 20 gallons per minute of hydraulic flow with 300 p.s.i. hydraulic
pressure from a heat source of only 90 degrees F water and a condensing temperature of 65 degrees F. " The device can operate
on heat differentials found in the ocean, on rooftops, or even in the engine compartments of automobiles - offering the potential
to give hybrid gas-electric vehicles more horsepower.
The inventor of the Encore HeatSeeker, Mr. Robert Hunt, stated,
"I believe we made history today by generating significant power output from such a low twenty-five degree temperature differential."
Dan Hunter, CEO of Encore Clean Energy, Inc, also commented on the results of test and the significance of the product. He
stated, "This demonstration shows that the HeatSeeker offers a fundamentally new way to generate energy from heat. It can
help the world reduce it's growing demand for imported foreign energy by retrofitting today's gas engines and power plants
to cost-effectively generate more power without burning additional fossil fuels."
MARCH 23rd, 2005
ZAP (OTCBB:ZAPZ), one of the first companies to seriously enter
the modern electric car and bicycle market, seems to thrive off high oil prices. The company has announced that its purchase
orders for its Smart Car high gas mileage vehicles has increased to $200 million. This is up from the $100 million in orders
it announced on March 9, 2005 for its Smarytcar Americanzied from U.S. auto dealers .
Still, though, the company has yet to deliver the cars and so has
arranged meetings with potential partners to solve the demand problem.
So far to date, ZAP has delivered more than 90,000 fuel-efficient
and pollution-free vehicles. These cars are powered by gasoline, electric, hydrogen and other fuels. Its latest models are
noted for their small size, and the ability to easily park almost anywhere. The company did not specifically give the cost
per mile of operation of any of its models, but the company did indicate that the price of oil appears to have an effect on
sales. "ZAP continues to work to tap into this incredible demand for fuel-efficient cars as gas prices continue to rise around
the country," said Mr. Schneider, the CEO of ZAP.
MARCH 22nd, 2005
The Florida Hydrogen Initiative has granted ENER1(OTC Bulletin Board:
ENEI) a contract worth $550,000 to develop a renewable energy source to power a rest stop on an interstate highway. Known
as the HyTech Rest Area, it will powered with ENER1's 10 Kilowatt fuel cell - which runs on methanol created from the Florida's
two largest industries - oranges and theme parks. Orange peels will be converted to methanol along with the left-overs from
theme parks like DisneyWorld. The fuel will then power the center, which will be used to further spread the message of self-sustainable
and ecosystem balanced, energy economies. The facility is expected to open in 18 months. If oil prices don't drop, the facility
may receive more than just a welcome response - but may give Floridians ideas about how to turn their oranges into orange
gold.
MARCH 21st, 2005
Out of England arrives the first fuel cell motorbike. Intelligent
Energy Holdings, Plc., a London based energy company introduced the ENV, billed as the first fuel-cell motorbike. According
to the CEO of Intelligent Energy Holdings, Dr. Harry Bradbury, "People soon will be able to use a bike like ENV, leaving work
in the city, then driving to the countryside, detaching the CORE and re-attaching it to another vehicle, such as a motorboat,
before using it to power a log cabin. The very same fuel cell then could be re-charged from a mini hydrogen creator, the size
of a shoebox. The launch of ENV breaks new ground and opens an entire new field of opportunities for low- and high-power fuel
cell motorbikes."
The motorbike, which is said to exceed the performance of any other
electric bikes, has a top speed of 50 mph. To those who don't want to disturb the peace and quiet of the countryside, while
zooming down an off-road trail at over 50 mph, the motorbike is for all practical purposes, silent. It has a noise emissions
rating of your typical home computer. One can also travel up to four hours before refueling.
MARCH 17th, 2005
More Funding for Starfire
Lightweight
Technology offers Fuel Savings and Micromachine Applications
Starfire Systems, Inc.,
through an option exercised by Harris & Harris Group, has secured another $500,000 in funding. So far to date, Harris
& Harris, a well-known investor in micromachine technology, has invested $750,000 in the company. Starfire Systems offers
silicon carbide (SiC) forming polymers for the manufacturer of advanced ceramic materials. These materials have applications
in automotive, transportation and microelectronics. Starfire demonstrated last year that its technology can improve the fuel
economy of an SUV significantly. An SUV equipped with brakes based on its ceramic material, had a fuel economy rating that
was rated at 8 percent per axel. The improved fuel economy was attributed to the lower weight of the brake rotors –
which only weigh 25 percent of traditional rotors. Micromachines are another
area that is expected to benefit from Starfire’s technology. The silicon carbide material, because of its anti-wear
resistance, high temperature capability and sturdiness, may allow a new breed of high powered microengines and micro steam
engines to be built. These engines are used to power toy planes and cars.
MARCH 16th, 2005
Encore Turns Wasted Heat into Energy - Will Solar Cell Sun Roofs be the Next
Automobile Option?
Encore Clean Energy, Inc.
(OTCBB:ECLN) has said it plans to debut its new proto-type power source called the Encore HeatSeeker. A public summit to be
held in mid-April, after the test, is expected to be attended by almost every sector of industry, finance and the government.
Encore lists seven heat
areas where its HeatSeeker product can be applied. These include wasted heat generated from coal, natural gas and nuclear
power plants and rooftop solar thermal heat-to-electricity conversion. As well, the company indicates the tailpipe exhaust
heat and engine exhaust heat recovery are two other applications for its products. The company does not indicate if heat recovery
is from just building and home rooftops or can also be applied to automobile, bus and truck rooftops.
MARCH 16th, 2005
Nanotechnology Battery Company Secures $14.2 Million
Ener1, Inc. (OTC:ENEI)
(BULLETIN BOARD: ENEI), a company that has developed nanomaterial based batteries for the hybrid electric automotive market,
has secured $14,225,000 as a result of agreements for the private placement of convertible debentures and warrants. Satellite
Strategic Finance Associates LLC and Satellite Strategic Finance Partners Ltd. were among the investors.
Ener1, Inc. addresses the
clean, efficient energy source market. The company has three subsidiaries. These include its joint venture with Delphi Corp.,
EnerDel, Incorporated, which focuses on lithium batteries and battery packs; EnerFuel Inc. a company focused on fuel cell
components and testing services; and NanoEner, Inc., which is focused on nanomaterials and nanotechnology process based developments.
MARCH 14th, 2005
U.S.
House of Representatives Approves $65 Million for Fuel Cell Research for Bus Technology
WestStart-CALSTART, an advanced
transportation technologies consortium, won a major political victory as the House voted to approve $65 million in funding
for research and development of technologies used to make fuel cell based buses more economically viable. The funding is included
in the TEA-LU bill as funding for the National Fuel Cell Bus Technology Initiative (NFCBTI)
WestStart-CALSTART's President and CEO, John Boesel thanked several members of Congress for their support. These included
Congressman James Oberstar (D-MN); Congresswoman Rob Simmons (R-CT); Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher (D-CA); and Congresswoman
Mary Bono (R-CA).
Industry Organizations that supported the NFCBTI initiative included AC Transit, Air Products and Chemicals, Ballard,
Boeing, CEO Coalition to Advance Sustainable Technologies, Cobasys, Donaldson, Ebus, Inc., ECD Ovonics, Enova Systems, Environmental & Energy Study Institute, Hydrogenics, H2Gen,
Idatech, ISE Research, Millenium Cell, National Hydrogen Association, North American Bus Industries, Northeast Advanced Vehicle Consortium, Nuvera Fuel Cells, Pi Technology, Quantum Technologies, Solectria
Corporation, SunLine Transit, Thor Industries, Tri-Metropolitan Transportation District of Oregon (TriMet), U.S. Fuel Cell
Council, U.S. Hybrid Corporation, UTC Fuel Cells and WestStart-CALSTART.
The cost for the total transportation
measure, which includes the $65 million for fuel cell bus funding, is $284-billion. The senate is now required to vote on
the funding initiative. For more information on the NFCBTI program, one can visits
CALSTART's NFCBTI information page at http://www.calstart.org/programs/FuelCell/NFCBTI_backgrounder.pdf.
FEBRUARY 24th, 2005
Ultracapacitors Energize Maxwell’s Revenue Growth
Maxwell Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: MXWL) has projected that its fourth quarter, 2004 revenue will reach $8.5 million,
up more than 25 percent sequentially. The company foresees continued growth in its first quarter of 2005. Maxwell says that revenue growth is across all products lines, but specifically pointed to its Ulltracapacitor
sales, which increased 20 percent sequentially. Maxwell says that demand for
its large cell Ultracapacitors is a couple of quarters ahead of its plans to increase production capacity. The Ultracapacitors
are used in hybrid bus drive trains and wind energy applications.
FEBRUARY 23rd, 2005
Flywheel
Based Hybrid Engine Offers 250 Miles to the Gallon, Soon!
Readers of the Semiconductor
Evening News may have noticed that flywheel based energy sources can be used to solve voltage regulation and as safe batteryless
energy sources. Active Power, Inc. and Beacon Power Corporation are two companies that are in the
flywheel market and in this search page. Now there is a third, which may solve
the world’s energy problems and perhaps traumatize the oil industry – ironically as oil barrels past a record
$50.00.
AFS Trinity Power’s Extreme Hybrid drive train, which was announced today, is expected to significantly reduce
driving costs, cut emissions, and reduce the world’s dependence on oil. According
to the company’s projections, tomorrow’s driver will see 250 miles per gallon in a standard sedan and 200 miles
per gallon in a SUV (no mention was made about motorcycles). AFS Trinity says that the technology it uses obtains more than
2 to 3 times more energy from braking than standard hybrids on the market. In fact, the company says the technology recaptures
over 80 percent of the energy used in braking. Another major difference is that
cars built on the company’s technology don’t require any gasoline in the first 40 miles of travel in a day. The car is able to run on the flywheel energy and regenerative brake power for the
first 40 miles.
Another technology, of many, the company refers to as part of its technology
is ultracapacitor technology. CAP-XX Inc. is one company that has commercialized ultracapacitors or SuperCapacitors, as CAP-XX puts it.
The announcement was made at the Girvan Institute of Technology. The Girvan Institute is a non-profit organization,
which promotes the commercialization of technology developed at government labs and agencies. AFS
Trinity has received over $45 million in funding over the last ten years. The company is currently under contract with NASA,
the United States Department of Transportation and the United States Navy.
So when will your new car be ready? Or perhaps a better question would
be, how long should you wait to buy a new car? AFS Trinity reports that the drive train is expected to begin development
this year, demonstrated in a prototype vehicle in two years and should be available for license in three years.
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