European deal for Wellington Drive

By Phil Boeyen, ShareChat Business News Editor

Thursday 13th December 2001

Engineering innovator Wellington Drive Technologies (NZSE: WDT) has put some runs on the board in Europe.

The Auckland-based firm reports it has signed a European development agreement for its brushless electric motors to be used in premium air extractors.

The company has not revealed the size of the deal and says it cannot name the client for commercial reasons.

WDT motors are made from specialised plastics, permanent magnets and electronics, and offer lower noise and longer life than conventional motors. They also use less power and offer increased design flexibility.

Managing director, Ross Green, says the new deal confirms the company is on the right track.

"WDT's unique ability to build motors that are virtually silent, while also energy efficient and vibration free was pivotal to us winning this deal.

"Initially we are designing the motor to drop straight into the product, but later we anticipate fully integrating the motor into the product to further save costs."

Dr Green says the unnamed client is also planning to use the company's motors in two further products.

"The order will see all units manufactured in Auckland initially. Exports to Europe begin early next year in time for the customer's product launch planned for July.

"We have designed the motors so they can be assembled virtually anywhere without large investments in special equipment. This, combined with the favourable exchange rate, means we can supply Europe cost-effectively from Auckland."

Mr Green says the company currently produces around 4,000 units a month, and but may increase the capacity if it is warranted.

Earlier this year the company exhibited its two motors, the RF 66 and the RF 200, at a trade fair in Germany and it is planning to exhibit again at the Hometech exhibition in Berlin in February. The newly announced deal will use the company's RF 66 motor.

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