Gibbs Quadski represents “entirely new form of transportation”
TAMPA, FL – March 7, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The world’s first personal sports amphibian, the Gibbs Quadski, will be on display at this year’s Tampa Bay Boat Show (March 8-10).
Developed and built in the U.S., the High Speed Amphibian has a durable, but light-weight composite hull; utilizes patented water-jet technology, and is powered by a BMW Motorrad engine and transmission.
The Quadski transitions from land to water in less than five seconds and reaches planing speeds in seconds. The all-new HSA weighs 1,300 pounds, is equipped with a 15-gallon fuel tank and retails for about $40,000.
Currently available in five colors – red, yellow, blue, silver and black – the Gibbs Quadski is already on sale in Florida and will soon be available at marine, automotive, and powersports dealerships in Michigan, New York, Texas and elsewhere in the Midwest and southeastern United States.
Cycle Springs Powersports in Clearwater, the area’s largest family-owned powersports dealer, is one of the Florida dealerships authorized to sell and service the Quadski. The unique High Speed Amphibian will be on display at Cycle Springs’ exhibit (Booth # 126) at the Tampa Bay show (held at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg).
The dream of two visionary entrepreneurs — Alan Gibbs and Neil Jenkins — the Quadski is the product of millions of research dollars and years of development work in the U.S., the U.K. and New Zealand. It is assembled at a 54,000-square-foot assembly plant in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
“Quadski represents an entirely new form of transportation,” notes Alan Gibbs , the Co-founder of Gibbs Technologies and Gibbs Sports Amphibians. “It is the only sports amphibian in the world capable of reaching speeds of 45 miles per hour on both land and water and can transition between both in less than five seconds.”
Gibbs points out that the companies have more than 300 patents and patents pending on High Speed Amphibian technology representing an investment of more than $200-million and two-million man hours of work.
“Bringing Quadski to market has been a long uphill battle, but clearly worth the effort,” adds Gibbs Chairman Neil Jenkins . “Quadski has made its first public appearances at major marine, automotive, and powersports shows in the United States this year and will pave the way for a host of other Gibbs amphibians designed for consumers, sports enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies and first responders in years to come.”
Gibbs’ unique High Speed Amphibian attracted crowds at January’s North American International Auto Show (Jan.19-27) in Detroit and also drew media attention in February at the Miami International Boat Show (Feb.14-18) and the Detroit Boat Show (Feb.16-24).
Quadski has a unique retractable suspension system that provides superb ride-and handling on land and then can retract in seconds after entering water. The new High Speed Amphibian’s BMW four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest powerplant in its segment and features electronic fuel injection, a double-overhead camshaft and dry-sump lubrication.
Designed to meet applicable state and federal safety regulations, the Quadski is 10.5 feet in overall length; 5.2 feet in width, and 4.3 feet in height with a wheelbase of 5.8 feet.
About Gibbs Sports Amphibians
Gibbs Sports Amphibians Inc. has developed its High Speed Amphibian technology to create Quadski, the world’s first sports amphibian to operate at high speeds on both land and water.
The privately held company, founded by Alan Gibbs with Neil Jenkins in 2007, consists of two divisions – Gibbs Sports Amphibians Inc., which designs and manufactures consumer sports amphibians such as the Quadski, and Gibbs Amphitrucks Inc., which designs and manufactures commercial amphibians for first responder and military applications. Based in Auburn Hills, Mich., Gibbs currently has more than 120 employees.
More information about Gibbs and its High Speed Amphibian technology can be found at www.gibbssports.com.
GIBBS Quadski represents “entirely new form of transportation”
DETROIT, MI – February 6, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The world’s first sports amphibian, the GIBBS Quadski, will make its marine-show debut at this year’s Detroit Boat Show (Feb.16-24) at Detroit’s Cobo Center.
Developed and built in the U.S., the high speed amphibian (HSA) has a durable, but light-weight composite hull; utilizes proprietary water-jet technology and is powered by a K1300 BMW Motorrad engine and transmission.
The Quadski transitions from land to water in less than five seconds and reaches planing speeds in seconds. The new sports amphibian weighs 1,300 pounds, is equipped with a 15-gallon fuel tank and retails for about $40,000.
Currently available in five colors – red, yellow, blue, silver and black – the GIBBS Quadski already is on sale at two dealerships in Florida and soon will be available at dealership locations in Michigan, New York, Texas and elsewhere in the Midwest and southeastern United States.
Quadski has a unique retractable suspension system that provides superb ride-and handling on land and retracts in seconds after entering water. The new HSA’s four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest powerplant in its segment and features electronic fuel injection, a double-overhead camshaft and dry-sump lubrication.
Designed to meet applicable state and federal safety regulations, the Quadski is 10.5 feet in overall length; 5.2 feet in width, and 4.3 feet in height with a wheelbase of 5.8 feet.
The dream of two visionary entrepreneurs — Alan Gibbs and Neil Jenkins — the Quadski is the product of millions of research dollars and years of development work in the U.S., New Zealand and the UK. It is being assembled at a 54,000-square-foot assembly plant in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
“Quadski represents an entirely new form of transportation,” notes Alan Gibbs , the founder of Gibbs Technologies and Gibbs Sports Amphibians. “It is the only sports amphibian in the world capable of reaching speeds of 45 miles per hour on both land and water and can transition between both in less than five seconds.”
Gibbs points out that the companies have more than 300 patents and patents pending on Gibbs High Speed Amphibian technology representing an investment of more $200-million and two-million man hours of work.
“Bringing Quadski to market has been a long uphill battle, but clearly worth the effort,” adds Gibbs Chairman Neil Jenkins . “Quadski is making its public debut at major marine and powersports shows in the United States this year and will pave the way for a host of other Gibbs amphibians designed for consumers, sports enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies and first responders in years to come.”
“Boaters and powersports enthusiasts will like the Quadski’s versatility and Gibbs’ innovative high-speed-amphibian technology,” said Boat Show Manager Nicki Polan . “It will definitely be something show-goers will want to check out and we’re especially proud of the fact that it’s manufactured in Michigan.”
Gibbs Sports Amphibians will feature the new HSA at its boat show exhibit (Booth 265). This year’s show will occupy two halls featuring hundreds of boats for fishing, skiing and cruising at the newly renovated Cobo Center. A variety of boating accessories and services, including water toys, ski gear, electronics, nautical gifts and artwork also will be on display at the show.
Quadski attracted crowds last month at the North American International Auto Show (Jan.19-27) in Detroit and also will be an attraction at this month’s 2013 Miami International Boat Show and the 2013 Miami Yacht and Brokerage Show (both held Feb. 14-18).
About Gibbs Sports Amphibians
Gibbs Sports Amphibians, Inc. (GIBBS) has pioneered in the development of its High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology to create the world’s first sports amphibian to operate at high speeds on both land and water.
The privately held company, founded by Alan Gibbs with Neil Jenkins in 2012, consists of two divisions – Gibbs Sports Amphibians, Inc., which designs and manufactures consumer sports amphibians such as the Quadski, and Gibbs Amphitrucks Inc., which builds commercial amphibians for first responder and military applications. Based in Auburn Hills, Mich., GIBBS currently has more than 100 employees.
More information about GIBBS and its HSA technology can be found at www.gibbssports.com.
GIBBS Quadski represents “entirely new form of transportation”
MIAMI, FL – January 30, 2013 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – The world’s first high-speed sports amphibian, the GIBBS Quadski, will make its Miami public debut at this year’s Miami International Boat Show (Feb. 14-18).
Developed and built in the U.S., the high-speed amphibian (HSA) has a durable, but light-weight composite hull; utilizes patented water-jet technology, and is powered by a BMW Motorrad engine and transmission.
The Quadski transitions from land to water in less than five seconds and reaches planing speeds in seconds. The new HSA weighs 1,300 pounds, is equipped with a 15-gallon fuel tank and retails for about $40,000.
Currently available in five colors – red, yellow, blue, silver and black – the GIBBS Quadski is now on sale at dealerships in Florida, Michigan, New York, Texas and elsewhere in the Midwest and southeastern United States.
Two Florida dealers – RIVA Motorsports and Cycle Springs of Clearwater will be among the first to sell and service the Quadski in the United States. The world’s largest personal watercraft dealer, RIVA has newly expanded facilities in Pompano Beach, Cutler Bay and Key Largo. Cycle Springs Powersports is the Tampa Bay area’s largest family-owned powersports dealer.
Quadski will be on display at the National Marine Super Yacht Toy Store during the Miami Boat Show. More than 2,000 companies are expected to showcase nearly 3,000 boats in addition to a wide range of marine engines, gear and accessories at the show which will occupy exhibit space at the Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Miamarina at Bayside. The five-day show attracts more than 100,000 visitors annually.
The dream of two visionary entrepreneurs — Alan Gibbs and Neil Jenkins — the Quadski is the product of millions of research dollars and years of development work in the U.S., New Zealand and the UK. It is being assembled at a 54,000-square-foot assembly plant in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
“Quadski represents an entirely new form of transportation,” notes Alan Gibbs , the founder of Gibbs Technologies and Gibbs Sports Amphibians. “It is the only sports amphibian in the world capable of reaching speeds of 45 miles per hour on both land and water and can transition between both in less than five seconds.”
Gibbs points out that the companies have more than 300 patents and patents pending on Gibbs HSA technology representing an investment of more than $200-million and two-million man hours of work.
“Bringing Quadski to market has been a long uphill battle, but clearly worth the effort, ” adds Gibbs Chairman Neil Jenkins . “Quadski is making its public debut at major marine and powersports shows in the United States this year and will pave the way for a host of other Gibbs amphibians designed for consumers, sports enthusiasts, law enforcement agencies and first responders in years to come.”
Gibbs’ unique high-speed amphibian attracted crowds last month at the North American International Auto Show (Jan.19-27) in Detroit and also will be on display in February at the Detroit Boat Show (Feb. 16-24).
Quadski has a unique retractable suspension system that provides superb ride-and handling on land and retracts in seconds after entering water. The new HSA’s four-cylinder, water-cooled engine is considered the lightest powerplant in its segment and features electronic fuel injection, a double-overhead camshaft and dry-sump lubrication.
Designed to meet applicable state and federal safety regulations, the Quadski is 10.5 feet in overall length; 5.2 feet in width, and 4.3 feet in height with a wheelbase of 5.8 feet.
About Gibbs Sports Amphibians
Gibbs Sports Amphibians, Inc. (GIBBS) has pioneered in the development of its High Speed Amphibian (HSA) technology to create the world’s first sports amphibian to operate at high speeds on both land and water.
The privately held company, founded by Alan Gibbs with Neil Jenkins in 2012, consists of two divisions – Gibbs Sports Amphibians, Inc., which designs and manufactures consumer sports amphibians such as the Quadski, and Gibbs Amphitrucks Inc., which builds commercial amphibians for first responder and military applications. Based in Auburn Hills, Mich., GIBBS currently has more than 100 employees.
More information about GIBBS and its HSA technology can be found at www.gibbssports.com.
World’s First “Adventure” Snowmobile Headlines a Product-Packed Unveiling
MINNEAPOLIS, MN – March 03, 2011 – (Motor Sports Newswire) – Nearly 60 years of exploring new ideas established Polaris Industries as a respected leader in the snowmobiling industry. That tradition of innovation leadership continues with the 2012 Polaris snowmobile lineup. The company is introducing nine all-new models and diversifying its sled offerings with Polaris’ exclusive PRO-RIDE Chassis, the first true progressive-rate rear suspension in the snowmobiling space. These sleds were introduced during Polaris’ dealer meeting at Paris Las Vegas Hotel in Las Vegas, Nev.
“Polaris continues to deliver on our promise to develop products with industry leading performance, quality, functionality, style and value,” said Bennett Morgan, president and COO, Polaris Industries Inc. “We expect our new lineup of snowmobiles to build on our recent, strong performances across all market segments and continue to grow our company as a global powersports leader.”
In addition to a versatile 2012 snowmobile line covering six market segments, Polaris also is presenting the opportunity to customize their snowmobiles through Polaris Snow Check Select. The program welcomes riders to specify the performance, comfort, convenience and graphics of their new sled, individualizing the ride for each customer. These options are only available through Snow Check, which ends on April 19, 2011.
“With a strong focus on new technology, top engineering and quality, we have some of the most outstanding products available today and season-to-date the top four selling snowmobiles in the market are all Polaris,” said Scott Swenson, vice president of snowmobile and PG&A, Polaris Industries Inc. “Our reputation is built on continuing to explore opportunities for innovation and that’s something we continued in model year 2012, with nine new models and a brand new snowmobile category.”
2012 MODEL SEGMENTS
CROSSOVER: THE PINNACLE OF VERSATILITY
The 2012 Crossover lineup features more than twice as many models as last year. Designed to handle any conditions, five new models provide a smoother ride and more predictable handling. A new independent front suspension (IFS) comes standard on many models. The all-new 600 Switchback Adventure(TM) introduces the world to the “adventure snowmobile.” Incredibly versatile, it delivers performance through a 600 Cleanfire engine, the PRO-RIDE platform and IFS, as well as convenience features, including the new Adventure Cargo System, a rear cargo rack with saddle bags that can be installed in seconds – without tools – using Polaris Lock & Ride® technology. All 600 models are powered by the ultra-efficient 600 Cleanfire engine, while all 800 Switchback models offer the proven 800 Cleanfire, including the legendary 800 Switchback Assault, the preferred sled among riders demanding impeccable deep snow and trail performance.
TRAIL PERFORMANCE: THE SMOOTHEST TRAIL RIDING EXPERIENCE
The 2012 collection of RUSH and IQ® sleds provide options that blend performance and value. The five 2012 RUSH models all ride on the revolutionary PRO-RIDE Chassis, the industry’s finest platform, which this year is complemented by IFS. Available exclusively through Snow Check, the new 800 RUSH Pro-R LE combines unparalleled performance with limited-edition special features. Four other RUSH models blend the PRO-RIDE platform with class-leading 600 and 800 Cleanfire engines. The turbo-charged, 750cc TURBO IQ, and great value models like the 550 IQ and 600 IQ, provides riders with choices in engines, shocks, and suspension to cater to specific riding needs.
DEEP SNOW: TAMING THE WILDEST RIDES WITH UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE
As the season-to-date number one leader, Polaris understands deep snow riders require sleds that are powerful and lightweight, a challenge met again in 2012 with a robust offering of RMK sleds. Three new 600 RMK models, developed to minimize weight and maximize performance, boast the reliable 600 Cleanfire engine and the durable, lightweight PRO-RIDE RMK Chassis, the premier deep snow chassis. At just 431 pounds, the 600 Pro-RMK 155 is an overachiever and embodies a lineup of sleds that are lighter and stronger. Complementing the 600 RMKs, four 800 RMK models sit on the same PRO-RIDE RMK Chassis, powered by the 800 Cleanfire engine. The 800 RMK Assault 155 headlines a collection of 800s that will dominate the deep powder.
TRAIL LUXURY: A PERFECT BLEND OF COMFORT AND PERFORMANCE
For an exceptionally comfortable riding experience, Polaris offers outstanding comfort and convenience features, including electric start, protective tall windshields, mirrors and reverse, which come standard on all Trail Luxury models. Blending these with a 4-stroke, turbo-charged engine or the 600 Cleanfire, which deliver exhilarating acceleration and power, riders get the unique combination of comfort and performance. Additional features on the 600 LXT and TURBO LXT provide unmatched passenger comfort for 2-up riders, including plush passenger seats equipped with adjustable backrest, footrest and hand warmers. Both models, along with the Turbo LX, utilize long-travel IQ 136″ Comfort Rear Suspension, delivering a smooth ride on the roughest terrain.
UTILITY: MAKING IT EASIER TO WORK HARDER
Polaris’ 2012 Utility models take the hardest working sleds available and transform them into ideal machines for both work and play. These sleds – the FS IQ WideTrak, 600 IQ WideTrak and WideTrak LX (available in international markets) – thrive on tackling the toughest jobs. Reliable, powerful engines, large-capacity fuel tanks and heavy duty cargo racks make all three models invaluable assets. Equipped with wide ski stance, responsive handling from IQ Front Suspension and utility-tipped rear suspension, each sled is sure-footed in any terrain. With protective 20″-high windshields, adjustable passenger backrests and heated handgrips, these snowmobiles also deliver more comfort for riders, whether on the job or on a break.
YOUTH: TRUE SLEDS FOR YOUNG RIDERS
The next generation of snowmobilers is ready to ride, but these young people need a sled accommodating their unique requirements. Polaris designed the 120 Pro-R with the needs of young riders, and concerns of parents, in mind. Highlighting the machine’s specialized safety equipment is a safety tether that attaches to a rider’s jacket and stops the engine immediately when unplugged. Equipped with a dependable, 120 four-stroke engine and true Independent Front Suspension for a smoother ride, the 120 Pro-R provides an authentic snowmobile ride. Its durable construction and reliable engine make it the ideal first sled, capable withstanding the challenges of many riders and riding seasons.
PURE POLARIS PRODUCTS & ACCESSORIES
Pure Polaris apparel seamlessly combines style and function. The all-new PURE-DRY(TM) riding gear uses Cocona® Xcelerator fabric technology, providing premium waterproofing while facilitating rapid evaporation of moisture from body heat. That combination makes the PURE-DRY Polaris Jacket, Bibs and Gloves extraordinarily waterproof and breathable for riders to keep dry and keep riding. Ongoing partnerships with FXR®, ToBe® and Oakley® strengthen the technology and look of Polaris jackets, bibs, pants and eyewear as well. For more comfortable rides, Polaris offers Wind Deflectors, Wide-Clyde Windshields and Side Deflectors, all geared toward redirecting wind and snow. The Wide-Clyde Windshield is nearly 50% wider than a standard windshield, providing the fullest wind protection available. For additional storage, all components of the new Lock & Ride® Adventure Cargo System are available, providing riders with a cargo-carrying solution for any sled. New products for better sled protection, from skid plates to canvas covers, round out Polaris’ 2012 offerings, all geared at creating a more fulfilling riding experience.
About Polaris
With annual 2010 sales of $1.99 billion, Polaris designs, engineers, manufactures and markets off-road vehicles (ORVs), including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), the Polaris RANGER® Side x Sides, snowmobiles and Victory motorcycles for recreational and utility use and has recently introduced a new on-road electric powered neighborhood vehicle.
Polaris is a recognized leader in the snowmobile industry; and one of the largest manufacturers of ORVs in the world. Victory motorcycles established in 1998 and representing the first all-new American-made motorcycle from a major company in nearly 60 years, are rapidly making impressive in-roads into the cruiser and touring motorcycle marketplace. Polaris also enhances the riding experience with a complete line of Pure Polaris apparel, accessories and parts, available at Polaris dealerships.
Polaris Industries Inc. trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PII,” and the Company is included in the S&P MidCap 400 stock price index.
Information about the complete line of Polaris products, apparel and vehicle accessories are available from authorized Polaris dealers or anytime from the Polaris homepage at www.polarisindustries.com.
Lightning Motorcycle, Equipped With Balqon Corporation’s Drive Technology, Dominates the World’s First Zero Carbon, Clean Emissions Grand Prix
HARBOR CITY, CA – September 1, 2010 (Motor Sports Newswire) – Balqon Corporation (OTCBB: BLQN), a developer and manufacturer of zero emissions, heavy-duty electric vehicles and drive systems, announced that Lightning Motorcycle’s Balqon-equipped superbike won the 2010 TTXGP North America electric motorcycle racing championship held at the VIRginia International Raceway in Southern Virginia.
Thanks in part to the unique performance capabilities of Balqon’s electric power technology, Lightning Motorcycle team rider Michael Barnes dominated the TTXGP North American circuit, taking wins in three out of five races this season. One of Barnes’ wins came in the final race of the season, during which he accelerated to speeds of up to 134 miles per hour on the straights.
The result of years of development by Lightning Motorcycle’s founder Richard Hatfield and a crew of collaborators, the winning superbike was powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, a high-power AC motor and a Balqon electric drive system that featured Balqon’s flux vector motor controller.
Balqon’s flux vector motor controller regulates the flow of power between the lithium-ion battery and the AC motor during acceleration and regenerative deceleration. Balqon’s proprietary software used in its flux vector controller emulates a gas engine’s response and compression, making it easier for a rider to adapt to the unique performance characteristic of a high-power AC motor.
The TTXGP circuit has provided a unique testing ground for Balqon, which is more widely known for developing zero-emissions heavy-duty electric vehicles.
“This win at the world’s first zero-carbon, clean-emissions superbike grand prix represents one of the most powerful demonstrations of the unique capability of our drive technology, as well as its potential broader applications,” said Balwinder Samra, President and CEO of Balqon Corporation. “This racing experience has helped us further test and validate the design, reliability and performance of our drive systems under extreme duty cycles, while also promoting our newest technologies.”
About the Lightning Electric Motorcycle Company Lightning Motorcycles is the brainchild of Richard Hatfield and a small group of dedicated associates in the Silicon Valley of Northern California. Alongside its Lightning Electric Super Bike, the company has prototypes of a smaller, less powerful motorcycle, a motor scooter, an ATV/UTV and other sport and utility vehicles in its pre-production development program. To request more information about the company, visit www.lightningmotorcycle.com.
About TTXGP TTXGP is the world’s first zero carbon, clean emissions grand prix providing a high profile platform for the development of electric motorcycles, enabling the futuristic technology behind them to be tested in an exciting and challenging way. The company aims to drive low carbon technological innovation forward to demonstrate that clean emissions transport technologies have matured and can be fun, fast and exciting. TTXGP is developing a global program of low-carbon motorsport events working with the ACU, FMI and UEM sanctioning bodies to provide a platform for competition to drive technology and innovation into the next generation of motorsports.
About Balqon Corporation Headquartered in Harbor City, California, Balqon Corporation (OTCBB: BLQN) is a leading developer of heavy-duty electric trucks, tractors and electric drive systems. The company uses its proprietary flux vector control technology to design propulsion systems for 10 to 50 ton capacity vehicles and material handling equipment. Balqon Corporation’s product line of tow tractors built on Autocar LLC chassis are designed to transport containers at ports, marine terminals, rail yards, warehouses, intermodal facilities, military bases and mail facilities. For more information about Balqon Corporation, visit www.balqon.com.
Safe Harbor Statement Under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 With the exception of historical information, the matters discussed in this press release, including without limitation, Balqon Corporation’s ability to sell products; the commercial viability of Balqon Corporation’s products; and the continued use of Balqon’s products in motorcycles including Lightning Motorcycles are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. The actual future results of Balqon Corporation could differ from those statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, unforeseen technical issues; Balqon Corporation’s ability to attract sufficient capital to manufacture its products; the ability of Balqon Corporation to attract and retain talented individuals; adverse economic and market conditions; the projected future demand for Balqon Corporation’s products; changes in technology and governmental regulations and policies; and other events, factors and risks previously and from time to time disclosed in Balqon Corporation’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, specifically, those factors set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of Balqon Corporation’s most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Company Contact: Balwinder Samra
Chairman, President & CEO
Balqon Corporation
Tel 310-326-3056
Investor Relations: Scott Liolios or Cody Slach
Liolios Group, Inc.
Tel 949-574-3860
