UQM receives additional order for fuel cell motors

UQM Technologies (AMEX: UQM) announced today that it has received a follow-on order from Eaton Corporation, a Tier I supplier to automobile manufacturers worldwide, for additional UQM compressor drive motors for use as part of Eaton's fuel cell air management product line.

While the basic operation of fuel cells is straightforward, combining hydrogen fuel with oxygen from air to create electricity without combustion, they require auxiliary systems that manage the flow of gases into the fuel cell.

Because auxiliary systems, such as the air handling system inside the fuel cell, consume a portion of the electricity produced by the fuel cell, improvements in the efficiency of auxiliary systems enhances the energy efficiency of the fuel cell and automobiles powered by them. UQM's lightweight and compact motor operates at 24,000 revolutions per minute and is highly efficient, the company says.

"As a globally recognized expert in developing advanced engine air management technologies for the transportation industry, Eaton has developed innovative products that meet the air handling requirements of fuel cell developers and we are pleased that our highly efficient drive motors are part of these exciting products", said William G. Rankin, President and Chief Executive Officer of UQM Technologies, Inc.

UQM Technologies is a developer and manufacturer of power dense, high efficiency electric motors, generators and power electronic controllers for the automotive, aerospace, medical, military and industrial markets.

The company is now putting what it calls a "major emphasis" on developing products for the alternative energy technologies sector.

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