IMPCO's Eclipse Achieves 2007 EURO 5 Emission Levels

    CERRITOS, Calif.--June 12, 2002--IMPCO Technologies, Inc. today announced that IMPCO's natural gas heavy-duty truck system, the Eclipse, has passed conformity of production tests and achieved EURO 5 emission levels at the Millbrook proving grounds in the United Kingdom.
    Working with Scania UK, IMPCO developed the Eclipse natural gas system for heavy-duty trucks, which provides drivability and power output that matches diesel engine versions. The Eclipse system provides reduced emission levels and a fuel savings of over 40% to operators in the UK. Eighty-four trucks have been built to date with the Eclipse system and operate in major fleets within the UK such as Safeway groceries and BOC. Additional vehicles are on order and are being built.
    The British government offers economic incentives to fleet owners who wish to purchase environmentally friendly vehicles under the country's Powershift program. The incentives allow for a 75% grant on incremental pricing for the trucks and helps to offset the initial cost of purchase.
    During the initial testing of the Eclipse system, starting in 1997, a fleet of trucks operated by Safeway and BOC reached over 5 million miles with excellent durability and reliability accompanied with significant fuel savings. The exceptionally low emission and noise levels from these gas trucks allow fleet-owners to operate in urban areas currently closed to conventional diesels trucks.
    IMPCO designs, manufacturers and markets advanced alternative fuel products and systems. Headquartered in Cerritos, California, IMPCO has offices throughout Asia, Europe, South and North America. www.impco.ws