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ECD Announces Ovonic Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries Power Chevrolet to Pike's Peak Win

7 July 1997

ECD Announces Ovonic Nickel Metal Hydride Batteries Power Chevrolet to Pike's Peak Win

    TROY, Mich., July 7 -- Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.
("ECD") announced today that a 1997 Chevrolet S-10 electric
truck set a record for electric vehicles in winning the July 4, 1997 Pike's
Peak International Hill Climb in 15 minutes and 32 seconds.  The S-10 electric
truck was powered by Ovonic nickel metal hydride ("NiMH") batteries that
performed perfectly.  Basically, a production S-10 EV was modified for the
race by adding a roll cage and special tires.  The standard production 85KW AC
induction electric motor was used for the race.
    ECD and Ovonic Battery congratulate the Chevrolet Motor Sports Team and
winning driver Larry Ragland on their record-setting win.  The 12.42 mile
course with 156 turns to the summit, elevation 14,110 feet, requires the use
of maximum motor power virtually for the entire distance.  The Ovonic NiMH
batteries reached the summit with more than 30% of charge remaining,
demonstrating the high power, robust design of the Ovonic NiMH battery.
    ECD is a leader in the synthesis of new materials and the development of
advanced production technology and innovative products.  ECD has pioneered the
development of products and production technology based on amorphous,
disordered and related materials, with an emphasis on alternative energy and
 advanced information technologies.  ECD's web site is http://ovonic.com.

SOURCE  Energy Conversion Devices, Inc.