Azure Dynamics Selects Maxwell Technologies' Ultracapacitor Module for Clean, Energy-Efficient Hybrid Shuttle Bus Powertrains

Ultracapacitors Provide High-Efficiency, Low-Maintenance, Energy Storage Solution for Hybrid Vehicles

SAN DIEGO, June 21 -- Maxwell Technologies Inc. announced today that Azure Dynamics Corporation, a leading developer of hybrid-electric and electric powertrains for commercial vehicles, has selected Maxwell's BOOSTCAP(R) 390-volt heavy transportation ultracapacitor module (HTM) as the energy storage and power delivery component of its latest hybrid shuttle bus powertrain.

Scott Harrison, Azure's Chief Executive Officer, said, "Ultracapacitors' rapid charge/discharge capabilities and low resistance makes them more efficient in recapturing regenerative braking energy, than battery-based systems. In certain applications, the combination of ultracapacitors' long life and their regen efficiency translates into better lifecycle costs. The high annual mileage associated with shuttle bus service is one of those applications and we are pleased to be working with Maxwell to take advantage of this technology."

"Working with leading transportation OEMs such as Azure has enabled us to develop modules tailored to the demanding specifications for regenerative braking systems in hybrid and electric buses, trucks, electric rail and other heavy vehicles," said Dr. Richard Balanson, Maxwell's President and Chief Executive Officer. "The HTM 390 meets transportation industry requirements for watt-hours of energy storage and watts of power delivery per kilogram, and is designed to perform reliably through one million or more deep discharge cycles, or about 15 years of operational life for most vehicles."

The HTM 390 incorporates integrated balancing and monitoring capabilities and highly efficient internal cooling to enable it to sustain continuous current of 200 amps with minimal temperature increase in high-temperature environments that are typical with heavy transportation applications. The standard module is encased in a rugged, splash- and dust-proof, IP 65- compliant, aluminum chassis. Up to three modules may be linked in series to deliver a total of up to 1,170 volts. The complete data sheet is available at Maxwell's website: http://www.maxwell.com/ultracapacitors/products/modules/bmod0018-390v.asp.