Press Releases > Freeplay Delivers Lifeline to the Electricity-Starved

2003-09-23
2003-09-23

Freeplay Delivers Lifeline to the Electricity-Starved
U.K.-Based Tech Company Offers Radios and Flashlights That Operate Anywhere, Anytime

LONDON, Whether you're in New York City during a large-scale blackout or live in the most remote region of Rwanda with no access to electricity, Freeplay offers a lifeline to those who find themselves cut off from the outside world.

Freeplay products are powered by innovative, self-sufficient energy technology, offering wind-up and solar-power options for its line of radios and flashlights. The products are designed to demanding specifications that meet the needs of outdoor and sporting enthusiasts, as well as those who require performance in emergency situations. Product failure rate is almost nil, even after going unused for months in a drawer or closet.

Each unit is designed for maximum user flexibility, even under extreme conditions, and each features a built-in winder handle for use when electrical outlets are unavailable or in case of emergency. Through the non-profit Freeplay Foundation, the company provides thousands of wind-up and solar-powered radios to children living on their own in rural and war-torn areas worldwide. Academy Award-winning actor Tom Hanks recently signed on as the organization's American ambassador.

Freeplay products provide failsafe power at all times," said Rory Stear, chairman and CEO of Freeplay. "These are not 'gee whiz' novelties, these are high-end, reliable tools that provide the essentials -- light and communication -- even under the most extreme conditions."

Products include:
Ranger Radio (a.k.a. Coleman Outrider)
The Ranger Self-Sufficient AM/FM Radio offers a choice between wind-up, solar and rechargeable power and incorporates Freeplay's latest self-sufficient technology for unparalleled sound quality, playtime performance, dependability, and durability. The Ranger will play for approximately 35 minutes per 30-second wind, and can be rewound at any time for as much playtime as necessary. In direct sunlight the Ranger will charge itself and play continuously without winding. The internal NiMH battery can be fully charged from the solar panel or the AC/DC adapter. The Freeplay Ranger will give 25 hours playtime, depending on volume, when fully charged. The Ranger is also sold under the Coleman Outrider brand. Suggested list price: $50.

Freeplay Summit Radio
The Freeplay Summit multi-band radio also offers wind-up, solar and rechargeable power. In a compact and stylish design, the Summit offers four wave bands (FM/MW/SW/LW), digital tuning and 30 station presets. Suggested list price: $100.

Sherpa Flashlight (a.k.a. Coleman Sentinel)
The Freeplay Sherpa Self-Sufficient Flashlight is two flashlights in one. The wind-up system offers maximum dependability for those times when you can't afford to be left in the dark by dead batteries. A quick wind (about 30 seconds) provides approximately 5-8 minutes of light, and you can rewind at any time for as much shine-time as you want. The recharge system offers 30 minutes of ultra bright light, and 5 hours of regular light, using a high-efficiency, xenon-filled, dual-filament bulb. The Sherpa is also sold under the Coleman Sentinel brand. Suggested list price: $40.

About Freeplay:
Freeplay Energy Group (FEG) was founded in 1994 and is headquartered in London. The world's leading developer of self-sufficient energy technology, FEG is dedicated to creating real products that benefit people worldwide and empowering people by giving them reliable access to needed energy. Freeplay is focused on the continuous development of commercially feasible applications for its self-sufficient technology, which incorporates multiple energy sources, including solar panels, rechargeable batteries and patented wind-up capabilities. The company is working with several manufacturers, including Motorola, Inc. and The Coleman Company, Inc., to develop and distribute products worldwide powered by Freeplay's self-sufficient energy technology. For more information, visit www.freeplay.net.

MediaContact:
Andrea Lang or Linda De Vito, The Graubard Group (212) 966-9000

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