Auto Industry Authority, MaryAnn Wright Joins Fallbrook Technologies' Board of Directors

- To provide advice and assistance with commercialization of NuVinci technology -

SAN DIEGO--Nov. 12, 2012: Fallbrook Technologies Inc. (Fallbrook), a pioneering technology company dedicated to improving the performance and flexibility of transmissions for engine and human-powered devices, announced today that MaryAnn Wright has joined its board of directors.

Ms. Wright is Vice President, Global Technology and Innovation for Johnson Controls Power Solutions and is an industry authority in technology, auto, finance, and operations. At Johnson Controls Power Solutions, she currently leads the Research and Development organization responsible for establishing Power Solutions technology and innovation roadmap, value chain strategies. She began her career at Ford Motor Company in 1988, holding a variety of positions in finance, product and business planning, and engineering and subsequently served as Director, Sustainable Mobility Technologies and Hybrid Vehicle Programs where she was responsible for all hybrid, fuel cell and alternative fuel technology development. Ms. Wright also served as Chief Engineer of the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, the industry's first full hybrid SUV. In 2005, she led the launch of Ford's first hydrogen-powered fuel cell fleet program.

"The recent strategic transactions with Allison Transmission and Dana Corp demonstrate the impact of Fallbrook's NuVinci technology as a potential 'game changer' in the world of transmissions. This technology has the potential to be very beneficial in a wide variety of other power management applications," said Wright. "I'm looking forward to helping the Fallbrook team sort out their plans and priorities in pursuit of future NuVinci business."

Instead of the traditional gear and clutch mechanisms found in conventional transmissions, a NuVinci transmission utilizes a set of rotating spheres that are arranged around a central "sun" that transfers torque between two "rings." Tilting the spheres changes their contact diameters on the rings, permitting an infinite progression of speed ratios. The result is a smooth, seamless and continuous transition to any ratio within its range, maximizing overall powertrain efficiency and ride quality.

"MaryAnn Wright knows the automotive industry inside and out, and understands the challenges OEMs are facing," said William G. Klehm, III, Fallbrook's Chairman and CEO. "She has the broad technical experience, market knowledge and personal commitment to excellence we need to expand and accelerate our success."