NABC and Uniross Introduce Breakthrough Technology in New Battery: ''Hybrio'' Provides the ''Ready-to-Use'' Benefits of Standard Alkaline Batteries, and it is Rechargeable!

SAN DIEGO & WOBURN, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 7, 2006--

Hybrio "New Technology Battery" Will Change the Way Consumers View and Use Batteries by Offering More Convenience, Life and Cost Savings Than Ever Before

“This lets consumers use Hybrio batteries in virtually any battery application whenever power is needed -- from flashlights and remote controls to digital cameras.”

Uniross, a global leader in rechargeable batteries and chargers, and its newly acquired subsidiary North American Battery Company (NABC) today announced the release of the innovative Hybrio "new technology battery". The Hybrio is ready-to-use right out of the package, just like a disposable battery. It also retains its charge long-term -- even if not used for months -- and is rechargeable up to 500 times, combining for the first time the instant-power convenience of disposable batteries with the reuse and long life of rechargeables. In addition, the Hybrio offers consumers a number of benefits over standard disposable alkaline batteries while removing many of the stereotypes surrounding older rechargeable technologies.

"Now, instead of having to constantly replace batteries, Hybrio gives consumers access to a battery that is ready to use out of the package, lasts up to four times longer than standard alkalines on each charge, holds its charge for months, and can be reused over and over for three-plus years," said Craig Taylor, CEO of Uniross Batteries Corp. "This lets consumers use Hybrio batteries in virtually any battery application whenever power is needed -- from flashlights and remote controls to digital cameras."

The product will be marketed as "Hybrio by Ultralast," taking advantage of the existing distribution of NABC and Uniross products. Hybrio will be available starting in late October.

This breakthrough new product meets several key consumer needs by providing a perfect choice for both disposable battery users as well as rechargeable users. Five key benefits of the new Hybrio battery are:

-- Use Anywhere: The Hybrio can be used in any application where AA and AAA batteries are called for. They are ready to use out of the package and have long shelf life.

-- Convenience: The Hybrio comes charged and ready to use off-the-shelf, and can last up to four times longer on each charge than standard disposable batteries when used in high-drain devices like digital cameras, which means far fewer battery changes.

-- Long Life: The Hybrio features a three-year battery life limited warranty. It will last for 3+ years when recharged regularly as directed.

-- Savings: One Hybrio rechargeable is equivalent to up to 500 standard disposable batteries. The payback period on purchasing a charger and batteries occurs after using them just twice ... and the savings continue year after year.

-- Environmentally Sound: Billions of ordinary batteries are thrown away every year, many of which end up in landfills and contribute to the pollution of our lakes and streams, and introduce harmful contaminants into the environment. Because up to 500 fewer disposable batteries go to landfills for every Hybrio rechargeable battery used, consumers can feel good about their choice to "power responsibly."

For more information on how to be among the first to take advantage of the Hybrio, visit www.hybriousa.com.

About NABC and Uniross

Uniross is a global leader in rechargeable batteries and chargers, offering a complete range of long-life Nickel Metal Hydride batteries that last up to five times longer than alkaline batteries and can be recharged whenever desired or needed for at least three years. Uniross and NABC, under a portfolio of brands that includes Ultralast, Again and Again, and Uniross, offer a complete line of batteries for consumer and industrial applications, ranging from alkaline batteries to Nickel Metal Hydride and Lithium rechargeables. With more than 35 years of experience in the rechargeable battery marketplace, the company is currently the number one brand in Europe and has distribution in more than 70 countries. For more information please visit www.uniross.com or www.nabcorp.com.