Fallbrook Technologies and TRW Automotive Sign Memorandum of Understanding

SAN DIEGO, Jan. 31, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Fallbrook Technologies Inc. (Fallbrook), a technology company dedicated to improving the performance and flexibility of transmissions for vehicles and equipment, announced today that it entered a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with TRW Automotive U.S. LLC, a subsidiary of TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. (TRW), a worldwide leader in advanced automotive systems with significant market penetration in steering and driveline components.

Under terms of the MOU, Fallbrook and TRW will explore the development of a number of possible applications for Fallbrook's continuously variable accessory drive (CVAD) technology for commercial vehicles. The specific applications covered by the MOU were not disclosed but are designed to improve both system performance and efficiency, which would directly increase vehicle fuel efficiency.

Under the MOU the companies will continue to investigate development of these applications with the possibility of entering a definitive joint development agreement.  Both companies expect negotiation of a joint development agreement to conclude in 2011.

"This is yet another example of how our NuVinci technology has the potential to reduce the carbon footprint from vehicle use," said William G. Klehm III, chairman and CEO of Fallbrook. "Together with partners like TRW, we're creating affordable, advanced cleantech products that can help make a difference in the near term."

Based on its research and testing, Fallbrook believes that CVADs have significant potential as a "clean" technology, because improved accessory performance can result in improved fuel economy. A vehicle's accessories, such as the air conditioner, power steering pump, water pump, or alternator, draw power from the engine and impact the vehicle's fuel efficiency when they are running at speeds that are above or below their optimum rpm.

The NuVinci technology uses a set of rotating and tilting balls positioned between the input and output components of a transmission. Tilting the balls changes their contact diameters and varies the speed ratio. The NuVinci platform can be used in a wide variety of transmission-based vehicles or devices.

About CVAD

A CVAD is a device that is designed to optimize the performance of engine-driven accessories on a vehicle (alternator, air conditioner, water pump, power steering). Under existing practices, these accessories are connected to the engine and therefore dependent on the speed of the engine for their power, as the engine speed goes up or down the accessories' speed goes up and down. A CVAD, which operates between the engine and these accessories, is designed to allow accessory speed to vary according to performance needs independent of the engine speed.

About TRW

With 2009 sales of $11.6 billion, TRW Automotive ranks among the world's leading automotive suppliers. Headquartered in Livonia, Michigan, USA, the Company, through its subsidiaries, operates in 26 countries and employs over 60,000 people worldwide.  TRW Automotive products include integrated vehicle control and driver assist systems, braking systems, steering systems, suspension systems, occupant safety systems (seat belts and airbags), electronics, engine components, fastening systems and aftermarket replacement parts and services.  All references to "TRW Automotive", "TRW" or the "Company" in this press release refer to TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise indicated.  TRW Automotive news is available on the internet at www.trw.com.

About Fallbrook Technologies Inc.

Fallbrook Technologies Inc. is a technology company dedicated to improving the performance and flexibility of transmissions for vehicles and equipment.  Fallbrook's NuVinci® continuously variable planetary (CVP) technology is applicable to machines that use a transmission such as bicycles, light electric vehicles, automobiles, agricultural equipment, and wind turbines, among others.  NuVinci technology offers companies the flexibility to design and produce next-generation products that are better tailored to their unique business, market and competitive requirements.  Fallbrook has built an extensive portfolio of over 375 patents and patent applications worldwide.   To learn more about Fallbrook and its NuVinci technology, please visit www.fallbrooktech.com.

© 2011 by Fallbrook Technologies Inc.  All rights reserved

SOURCE Fallbrook Technologies Inc.