Torotrak PLC Regulatory News (TRK)

9 May 2008 09:37

Torotrak PLC09 May 2008 9 May 2008 Torotrak PLC ("Torotrak" or "the Company") Torotrak Confirmed as Consortium Member in Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform Torotrak is pleased to confirm its participation in a collaborative projectbeing funded by the Technology Strategy Board (TSB) and the Department ofTransport through the Low Carbon Vehicles Innovation Platform (LCVIP). The LCVIP is investing in sixteen new research, development and demonstrationprogrammes with the dual objectives of accelerating market introduction of lowcarbon road transport vehicles and of maximising the benefit to UK business ofthat accelerated market penetration. Torotrak will be a member of a consortium being led by Jaguar Cars Limited,undertaking the design and development of a mechanical hybrid kinetic energyrecovery system for use in a premium segment passenger car. The mechanicalhybrid system, comprising a flywheel energy storage device and a traction-drivevariable transmission unit connecting the flywheel to vehicle's drivetrain, isviewed as a cost competitive alternative to other hybrid systems. Otherconsortium members, who have all been closely collaborating together to generatethe proposal and development programme, are Flybrid Systems LLP, Ford MotorCompany Limited, Prodrive, Ricardo UK Ltd and Xtrac Ltd. Torotrak's involvement in the project will include granting the other consortiummembers access to the Company's intellectual property and know-how for thepurpose of carrying out the project. In addition, Torotrak will support theproject with analysis and design expertise relating to its variable drivetechnology which is central to the function and performance of the proposedsystem. Commenting on the project, Dick Elsy, Torotrak's Chief Executive said "Supportby the TSB for this project will provide an excellent platform for demonstratingthe applicability, benefits and commercial value of mechanical hybrid technologyin mainstream vehicles. Our membership of this consortium provides furthervalidation of the application of our technology to kinetic energy recoverysystems." -ends- About Torotrak Torotrak is the world leader in full-toroidal traction-drive transmissiontechnology, focused on the development of IVT (Infinitely Variable Transmission)and TCVT (Toroidal Continuously Variable Transmission) systems which deliveroutstanding levels of performance, functionality and commercial advantage inautomotive, truck, bus, outdoor power equipment, agricultural and off-highwayapplications. For further information, please visit www.torotrak.com or contact: Dick Elsy Simon Hudson/Lulu BridgesChief Executive, Torotrak Tavistock CommunicationsTel: +44 1772 900938 Tel: +44 20 7920 3150 This information is provided by RNS The company news service from the London Stock Exchange