Balqon Corporation Installs AeroVironment's PosiCharge Fast Charge System at Port of Los Angeles to Power Electric Trucks

MONROVIA, Calif. December 18, 2008:AeroVironment, Inc. (AV) today announced that Balqon Corporation (OTC:BLQN), a developer of heavy duty electric trucks, tractors and electric drive systems, has purchased a new high voltage version of AV’s PosiCharge™ fast charge systems as part of a program to replace internal combustion yard tractors with electric propulsion vehicles at the Port of Los Angeles.

Yard tractors, or “hostlers”, are used by the Port of L.A. and other ports around the world to move containers from docks to on-site storage yards where the containers await transportation to their ultimate destinations. The high-volume flow of containers through ports often requires that hostlers operate with only limited breaks. PosiCharge™ fast charge systems support electric material handling vehicles used in high velocity factories, distribution centers and airports to support mission-critical operations. The PosiCharge™ fast charge system developed for heavy-duty electric yard tractors can charge up to four heavy-duty Balqon electric trucks at a time and provide enough energy during short periods of time to enable the productive flow of containers through the port while eliminating emissions.

“Studies show that sea ports are significant contributors of emissions and carbon into the atmosphere,” said Mike Bissonette, senior vice president and general manager, AV Efficient Energy Systems. “The Port of L.A. is at the forefront of a movement to reduce these emissions. Our fast charge systems are used around the world and can help ports, like L.A., clean the air and reduce operating costs. It’s a winning combination for all.”

The fast charge system operating at the Port of L.A. is based on AeroVironment’s PosiCharge™ industrial fast charge systems, which power thousands of electric material handling vehicles in airports, factories, and distribution centers throughout North America. AV’s PosiCharge fast charge systems serve eight of the top automotive manufacturers, seven of food and beverage’s largest companies, nine of 10 leading airlines, and 15 of Fortune and Global 500’s top 100 companies.