When Motor Excellence, an innovative clean technology company in Flagstaff designing high efficiency electric motors, received a $962,000 grant from the 21st Century Grant Program coordinated by the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) in 2009, it hired five new workers the next day. The grant program is designed to utilize federal stimulus funds to invest in and promote energy efficient and renewable energy products manufactured in Arizona.
Motor Excellence planned to leverage the grant funding to grow from its then 5,000-square-foot facility into an additional 13,000-square-foot manufacturing facility by 2011, and from 19 to 70 total employees by the end of 2013. This month, the Company’s headcount is already 40 with plans to reach 70 total employees by year-end 2011, two full years ahead of schedule.
Motor Excellence’s leading technology, the 5-inch motor, is moving from research and design to production – far exceeding previous growth projections. Production for the high efficiency motor is taking place in a new 13,000- square-foot facility, which opens today.
On hand to participate in the ceremonial ribbon cutting and to recognize the Company’s significant progress are U.S. Representative Paul Gosar, R-Arizona District 1 and Flagstaff Mayor Sara Presler.
“I applaud Motor Excellence for the launch of their new manufacturing facility,” said Congressman Paul Gosar. “In these hard economic times, it is always encouraging to see an Arizona company create new jobs and work to help the local community. Motor Excellence is helping to pave the way in emerging technologies and bringingmore economic development to Arizona.”
Electric-powered bicycles, or e-bikes, represent the first commercial application for the 5-inch motor. The e-bike division will occupy the 13,000-square-foot manufacturing facility and expects to take over the Company’s adjacent 5,000-square-foot building by year-end. Motor Excellence’s corporate and administrative functions will grow into another new facility later this year.
“The 21st Century Grant allowed Motor Excellence to purchase the manufacturing equipment and hire the team needed to turn their designs into real products,” said Arizona Commerce Authority Chair Don Cardon in a prepared statement for the event. “This provides an outstanding return on Arizona’s investment.”
Motor Excellence Executive Chairman and Flagstaff resident, Michael Manson is committed to creating jobs for Arizona and revolutionizing motor technology.
“We’re on a quest to make a dent in the universe,” said Manson. “Our team focuses on bringing this revolutionary technology to market and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Currently, a broad range of industry leaders is evaluating how to incorporate our motors in their specific applications. Opening this new facility empowers us to grow our business and significantly advance our business plan.”
“Motor Excellence is a strong community partner for Flagstaff,” said Presler. “They create well paying jobs attractive to our local workforce which also results in people relocating to the area. Company executives also contribute to our community through charitable events and volunteering, and by providing internships and apprenticeship programs to our talented youth.”
With 14 patents issued and more than 25 pending, and $50 million in committed private investment, Motor Excellence shines as an example of how Northern Arizona continues to advance its position within the 21st century economy.
About Motor Excellence
Motor Excellence is an innovative clean technology company based in Flagstaff, Arizona. Founded in 2007, ME designs a new class of high-efficiency, cost effective and low-environmental impact electric motors for use in a wide range of applications. Its electric bicycle motors enter commercial production this year. For more information, visit www.motorexcellence.com
