Initially, the partners will target a specialised $400m segment of the $30bn global market for industrial AC induction motors, drives and generators, but may expand beyond this segment. The initial aim is to use the technology to cut the parasitic loads encountered in geothermal power plants – another technology being developed by Raser. Other applications, such as industrial refrigeration and HVAC equipment, will also be targeted.

Raser claims that its Symetron technology (applied in the prototype motor shown above) can raise the operating efficiencies of motors and drive systems with little or no increase in their manufacturing cost.

"We are excited to be working with HHI," says Tom Kaporch, Raser’s senior vice-president for business development, who was previously president of Yaskawa’s US operation. "We look forward to demonstrating our energy-saving Symetron technology in a variety of industrial applications together with HHI, and expanding our business collaboration with HHI in the future."

º  Raser recently signed agreements with an unnamed "global automotive OEM" and FEV Engine Technology to develop a "plug-in" hybrid electric demonstration vehicle, based on the Symetron motor and drive technology, which could achieve a fuel consumption of better than 100mpg (2.35l/100km). The vehicle, which will be recharged from a standard 220V or 110V mains supply, could have a range of around 640km using the stored power and an onboard generator.