Lotus Engineering and IMPCO Agree to Co-Develop Advanced Technologies

CERRITOS, Calif., March 14 IMPCO Technologies, Inc. the world's leading source of advanced alternative fuel systems technology for internal combustion engines in the industrial, power generation and transportation markets, announced today that IMPCO and Lotus Engineering (a division of Group Lotus PLC) have agreed to a teaming agreement to co-develop engine and fueling technologies aimed at the rapid advancement in the use of clean-burning gaseous fuels.

The teaming agreement is being formed to accelerate the development of advanced engine technology designs and products that connect the use of clean- burning gaseous fuels such as natural gas [CNG] and propane [LPG] in vehicles and equipment to enhance performance and significantly reduce emissions.

The cooperation will operate synchronously in the United Kingdom and America.

Lotus Engineering is one of the most prestigious engine designers and innovators of new engine technology in addition to producing some of the industry's most exotic sports cars, in the world today.

Mr. Robert Stemmler, CEO and chairman of IMPCO Technologies, Inc., said, ``IMPCO is extremely proud to be associated with Lotus Engineering. This new working relationship has the power to propel new technologies at a rapid pace while moving concepts to commercialization by better preparing the internal combustion engine and vehicle to take advantage of alternative fuels. The cooperation between Lotus Engineering and IMPCO is an unmatched synergy in our industry, and one that will take engine advancements such as variable valve timing, active valve train, direct injection and cylinder deactivation to the forefront of gaseous fuel applications.''

``The combination of Lotus Engineering's exceptional reputation for engine and vehicle technology with IMPCO's gaseous metering products and technology will enable development of highly efficient integrated engine and fueling systems utilizing the latest advancements in engine technologies to meet and exceed impending European and American emission legislation. The relationship will focus on designing and developing commercializeable fuel and engine products and systems for use in light and heavy duty gaseous fueled engines. Application of new technologies and products in the large truck, bus, automotive, industrial and power generation markets are planned,'' noted Mr. Stemmler.

Lotus Engineering brings over 900 engineering professionals with a long history of engine, suspension and vehicle integration ingenuity to IMPCO's 44 years of global leadership in gaseous fueling technology, products and services.

Lotus Engineering is one of the most comprehensive and well balanced automotive consultancies in the world. It can take a new car project from initial concept, through every stage of design, development and testing, and even manufacture the finished product. Lotus Engineering is so well respected that nearly every major car manufacturer in the world has commissioned work from the company -- this year alone 10% of all new cars made in Europe will be powered by a Lotus Engineering-developed engine. www.lotuseng.com

Furthermore, Lotus Engineering has recently demonstrated its capability in CNG-powered vehicles by producing a CNG variant of the popular Lotus Elise. Details of this project can be found at www.lotuseng.com >> Research >> New technologies >> CNG Elise

IMPCO is the leading source of advanced alternative fuel systems technology for internal combustions engines in the industrial, power generation and transportation markets. Headquarters in Cerritos, California, IMPCO has offices in Australia, Europe, India, Japan, Mexico and North America. More about IMPCO and its products can be found at www.impco.ws .