AVL California Technology Center Drives Energy Management in North America's Environmental Epicenter

LAKE FOREST, Calif., April 14 -- AVL is introducing a new energy management and systems integration facility, the AVL California Technology Center (CTC), to support the market's advanced technology initiatives. Located in the epicenter of "green" initiatives -- southern California -- the facility showcases ample capabilities not currently consolidated in any other North American facility.

With global warming concerns accelerating the need to reduce greenhouse gases, every industry sector that contributes to the generation of CO2 emissions will be affected by both public and governmental mandates. The AVL CTC offers a dynamic array of leading-edge technologies. Utilizing AVL's latest modeling and simulation tools in combination with sophisticated powertrain test systems, the CTC provides comprehensive solutions for OEMs, Tier One suppliers, fuel providers, government agencies and more.

A newly assembled team of core engineering experts are leading these developments of alternative fuel and hybrid powertrains, advanced simulation and innovative test systems for the transportation industry. Focused on energy storage and management, AVL's specialized team is conducive to the region's "think tank" reputation, providing in-state access to technologies and capabilities that have been previously outsourced to other regions and countries. With these close-to-home services, California's leading environmental companies will benefit from additional cost-savings and strengthened technology relationships.

"We're dedicated to providing a full suite of advanced technological services to this rapidly growing market," said Bruce Falls, Director, AVL CTC. "California is one of the key market areas for advanced transportation initiatives and a logical expansion of AVL globally."

  The AVL CTC capabilities include:
  -- System level modeling and simulation;
  -- Advanced technology assessment;
  -- Mechanical and electrical integration;
  -- System controls and calibration;
  -- Sophisticated laboratory testing to verify and optimize energy flow;
     and,
  -- Concept vehicle demonstration.

Strategically located in Lake Forest, AVL CTC will be able to help advance California's transportation initiatives by partnering with government agencies and the transportation industry.

AVL is the world's largest privately owned and independent company for the development of gasoline, diesel and alternative fuel powertrain systems, as well as fuel cell and hybrid technologies. The company offers combined solutions of powertrain engineering, simulation software and testing and instrumentation systems. AVL's North American Headquarters is located in the Detroit suburb of Plymouth, Michigan. For more information, AVL can be found at www.avl.com .