Astris uses no costly platinum catalyst in their fuel cells. Platinum is a very effective although expensive catalyst and was eliminated by the Astris team primarily for economic reasons. The initial sacrifice in performance was partially regained during the past decade by deliberate engineering evolution. The present fuel cell generators and golf car engines are rated for a 2000 hour operational life (For comparison, 2000 operating hours in a passenger automobile represents driving 100,000 miles at an average speed of 50 mph).

While many small applications such as lawnmowers or portable generators can be satisfied with a shorter operational life, Astris believes that extended product life will open the doors to many new markets.

"These results confirm that we continue down the right path, to longer life and higher performance of our fuel cells," said Jiri Nor, CEO and President. "There is nearly a year of testing behind results like this, a lot of hard work. The credit goes to members of our team in both the Czech Republic and Canada."

About Astris Energi Inc.

Astris is committed to becoming a leading provider of affordable stationary and motive power fuel cells and components. Additional information is also available at the company's website at www.astris.ca.