Press Releases > Patent Approval for the FreeCharge Weza

2006-03-24
2006-03-24
Press Release - Weber Shandwick, Financial Communications:

Patent Approval for the FreeCharge Weza
Freeplay Energy plc (AIM: FRE), the sustainable energy company that captures, stores and delivers electric power to self-powered devices such as radios, torches and mobile phone chargers, is pleased to announce that it has received notice from the UK Patent Office that a patent has been granted for the FreeCharge portable energy source, Weza.

Rory Stear, Chairman and Chief Executive, said:
"We are delighted to have received patent approval for the first sustainable foot powered generator which, just through step action, generates significantly more power than a hand powered device."

"The grant of the patent is an important step for Freeplay, as it helps to open up additional opportunities for the Company, particularly in the developing world. A key feature of the Weza is that it can be used to power electronic equipment via its 12V DC cigarette lighter output socket and so enables those with little means or infrastructure to charge, for example, multiple mobile phones simultaneously at any one time."

"The Weza is the perfect complement to the existing Freeplay Energy product range and incorporates a great deal of our very best technology in one appliance. The grant of this patent will help to ensure that Freeplay remains at the forefront of technical developments and innovation in this area."

-Ends-

For further information, please contact:
Freeplay Energy plc†020 7851 2630
Rory Stear, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Weber Shandwick Square Mile†020 7067 0700
Louise Robson

Notes to Editors: The FreeCharge Weza, the portable energy source, is a versatile, robust energy source providing totally dependable power for emergency situations and everyday use in remote locations. The FreeCharge features an internal rechargeable lead acid battery capable of jump starting a range of vehicle and outboard engines, as well as powering a range of other devices. The FreeCharge can be recharged from either an AC or DC source eg wall, solar, wind (solar and wind options not supplied) and, in emergency situations, using the step treadle. The FreeCharge will accept up to 110V to 240 AC and DC inputs from 10.7V to 21V.

The FreeCharge has an output rating of 400 amps and can jump-start a wide range of automotive and marine engines. FreeCharge can also be used to power electronic equipment, including navigation devices via its 12V DC cigarette lighter output socket. The FreeCharge has foldable stabilizer arms, making it easily portable and able to be stowed neatly, making it ideal for boats, motor homes and campers.

Freeplay Energy's core technology revolves around the efficient conversion and storage of applied human energy, and the delivery of this energy on demand as electricity to create self-powered electronic devices. Initial applications include radios (both consumer and humanitarian), torches, mobile phone chargers and standalone foot chargers and the Company has a new product development plan which anticipates broadening the application of its technology into new product categories. Freeplay believes it was first to market and commercialise self-powered technology and that it is recognised as a leading brand in this market for such products.

Established in 1994, the Company today has offices in both London and Cape Town and floated on AIM (AIM: FRE), a market operated by the London Stock Exchange plc in March 2005. Further information about Freeplay Energy and its products can be found at www.freeplayenergy.com.

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