Azure Dynamics' Hybrid Shuttle Bus Successfully Completes Altoona Testing

OAK PARK, Michigan, November 29 -- Azure Dynamics Corporation, a leading developer of hybrid electric and electric powertrains for commercial vehicles, today announced it has successfully completed the durability testing at the U.S. Government's bus certification test facility in Altoona, Pennsylvania. The successful completion of this test qualifies Azure's gasoline hybrid drive system for federally-supported hybrid bus purchases by public transit agencies across the United States.

Scott Harrison, Azure's Chief Executive Officer said, "This test demonstrates, on an accelerated time frame, the ability of Azure's hybrid system to withstand the rigors of operating in a demanding urban transit bus environment for seven years." Mr. Harrison went on to say, "With this federal funded program now in place, U.S. shuttle bus operators can cost effectively adopt an environmentally cleaner hybrid shuttle bus solution."

Azure Dynamics series hybrid electric shuttle bus uses an electric motor as the only means of driving the wheels. The motor obtains electricity from one of two sources, a battery pack or an on-board generator powered by the engine. The batteries in a hybrid electric vehicle are recharged by the engine/generator (genset) as well as regenerative energy which is captured during braking. Dependant on drive cycle, Azure's hybrid electric shuttle bus reduces fuel consumption by up to 40%, reduces maintenance costs by 25% and is anti-idle compliant.

About Altoona Bus Testing Program

The FTA New Model Bus Testing Program is designed to promote the production of better transit vehicles and components and to ensure that transit customers purchase safe vehicles able to withstand the rigors of transit service. The program was established in response to legislation included in the 1987 Surface Transportation and Uniform Relocation Assistance Act. This legislation required all new and modified bus models to be tested before being purchased with federal funds. The Altoona Bus Testing and Research Center was established in 1989. The Pennsylvania Transportation Institute ("PTI") operates and maintains the facility on behalf of FTA. PTI provides all management, administrative, technical and support staff, facilities, instrumentation, equipment, and materials necessary to test new bus models for maintainability, reliability, safety, performance, structural integrity, fuel economy, emissions, noise, and related technical support.

About Azure Dynamics

Azure Dynamics Corporation is a world leader in the development and production of hybrid electric and electric components and powertrain systems for commercial vehicles. Azure is strategically targeting the commercial delivery vehicle and shuttle bus markets and is currently working internationally with various partners and customers. The Company is committed to providing customers and partners with innovative, cost-efficient, and environmentally-friendly energy management solutions.

For more information please visit http://www.azuredynamics.com.