EX-99.2 3 bldp093018-ex992mda.htm EXHIBIT 99.2 Exhibit



BALLARD POWER SYSTEMS INC.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
THIRD QUARTER 2018
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CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This document contains forward-looking statements about expected events and the financial and operating performance of Ballard Power Systems Inc. (“Ballard”, “the Company”, “the Corporation”, “we”, “us” or “our”). Forward-looking statements include any statements that do not refer to historical facts. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management and reflect our current expectations as contemplated under the safe harbor provisions of Section 21E of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to our objectives, goals, liquidity, sources of capital and our outlook including our estimated revenue and gross margins, cash flow from operations, Cash Operating Costs, EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA (see Non-GAAP Measures), order backlog, order book of expected deliveries over the subsequent 12-months, as well as statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. Words such as "estimate", "project", "believe", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may", "should", "will", the negatives of these words or other variations thereof and comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict.
In particular, these forward-looking statements are based on certain factors and assumptions relating to our expectations with respect to the generation of new sales, producing, delivering and selling the expected product and service volumes at the expected prices and controlling our costs. They are also based on a variety of general factors and assumptions including, but not limited to, our expectations regarding technology and product development efforts, manufacturing capacity, product and service pricing, market demand, and the availability and prices of raw materials, labour and supplies. These assumptions have been derived from information available to the Company including information obtained by the Company from third parties. These assumptions may prove to be incorrect in whole or in part. In addition, actual results may differ materially from those expressed, implied, or forecasted in such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause our actual results or outcomes to differ materially from the results expressed, implied or forecasted in such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: the condition of the global economy; the rate of mass adoption of our products or related ecosystem, including the availability of cost-effective hydrogen; changes in product or service pricing; changes in our customers' requirements, the competitive environment and/or related market conditions; the relative strength in the value proposition that we offer our customers with our products or services; changes in competitive technologies, including battery technologies; product safety, liability or warranty issues; challenges or delays in our technology and product development activities; changes in the availability or price of raw materials, labour and supplies; our ability to attract and retain business partners, suppliers, employees and customers; changing government or environmental regulations including subsidies or incentives associated with the adoption of clean energy products, including hydrogen and fuel cells; our access to funding and our ability to provide the capital required for product development, operations and marketing efforts, and working capital requirements; our ability to protect our intellectual property; currency fluctuations, including the magnitude of the rate of change of the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar; and the general assumption that none of the risks identified in the Risks and Uncertainties section of this report or in our most recent Annual Information Form will materialize. Readers should not place undue reliance on Ballard's forward-looking statements.
The forward-looking statements contained in this document speak only as of the date of this Management Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”). Except as required by applicable legislation, Ballard does not undertake any obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this MD&A including the occurrence of unanticipated events.




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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS
October 31, 2018
Section
Description
1. Introduction
1.1 Preparation of the MD&A
1.2 Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
1.3 Risks and Uncertainties
2. Core Strategy and Business
2.1 Core Business
2.2 Strategic Imperatives
3. 2018 Business Outlook
3.1 2018 Business Outlook
4. Recent Developments (Including Contractual Updates)

4.1 Corporate
4.2 China
4.3 Europe
4.4 North America
4.5 Other
5. Results of Operations

5.1 Operating Segments
5.2 Summary of Key Financial Metrics –
Three months ended September 30, 2018
5.3 Summary of Key Financial Metrics –
Nine months ended September 30, 2018
5.4 Operating Expenses and Other Items –
Three and nine months ended September 30, 2018
5.5 Summary of Quarterly Results
6. Cash Flow, Liquidity and Capital Resources
6.1 Summary of Cash Flows
6.2 Cash Provided by (Used by) Operating Activities
6.3 Cash Provided by (Used by) Investing Activities
6.4 Cash Provided by (Used by) Financing Activities
6.5 Liquidity and Capital Resources
7. Other Financial Matters
7.1 Off Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations
7.2 Related Party Transactions
7.3 Outstanding Share and Equity Information
8. Accounting Matters
8.1 Overview
8.2 Critical Judgements in Applying Accounting Policies
8.3 Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty
8.4 Recently Adopted Accounting Policy Changes
8.5 Future Accounting Policy Changes
9. Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures and
Reconciliations
9.1 Overview
9.2 Cash Operating Costs
9.3 EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
9.4 Adjusted Net Loss 


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1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Preparation of the MD&A
This discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations of Ballard Power Systems Inc. (“Ballard”, “the Company”, “we”, “us” or “our”) is prepared as at October 31, 2018 and should be read in conjunction with our unaudited condensed consolidated interim financial statements and accompanying notes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and with our audited consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes for the year ended December 31, 2017. The results reported herein are presented in U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated and have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Additional information relating to the Company, including our Annual Information Form, is filed with Canadian (www.sedar.com) and U.S. securities regulatory authorities (www.sec.gov) and is also available on our website at www.ballard.com.
1.2 Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that relevant information is gathered and reported to senior management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, on a timely basis so that appropriate decisions can be made regarding public disclosures. We have also designed internal controls over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, there were no changes in internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting. Our design of disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls over financial reporting includes controls, policies and procedures covering all of our subsidiaries including Protonex Technology Corporation, Ballard Power Systems Europe A/S, and Guangzhou Ballard Power Systems Co., Ltd.
1.3 Risks and Uncertainties
An investment in our common shares involves risk. Investors should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties described below and in our Annual Information Form which remain substantively unchanged. The risks and uncertainties described in our Annual Information Form are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that we do not know about now or that we currently deem immaterial, may also adversely affect our business. For a more complete discussion of the risks and uncertainties which apply to our business and our operating results, please see our Annual Information Form and other filings with Canadian (www.sedar.com) and U.S. securities regulatory authorities (www.sec.gov).
2.
CORE BUSINESS AND STRATEGY
2.1 Core Business
At Ballard, we are building a clean energy growth company. We are recognized as a world leader in proton exchange membrane (“PEM”) fuel cell power system development and commercialization. Our principal business is the design, development, manufacture, sale and service of PEM fuel cell products for a variety of applications, focusing on our power product markets of Heavy-Duty Motive (consisting of bus, truck, rail and marine applications), Portable Power, Material Handling and Backup Power, as well as the delivery of Technology Solutions, including engineering services, technology transfer, and the license and sale of our extensive intellectual property portfolio and fundamental knowledge for a variety of fuel cell applications.
A fuel cell is an environmentally clean electrochemical device that combines hydrogen fuel with oxygen (from the air) to produce electricity. The hydrogen fuel can be obtained from natural gas, kerosene, methanol or other hydrocarbon fuels, or from water through electrolysis. Ballard’s clean-energy fuel cell products feature high fuel efficiency, relatively low operating temperature, low noise and vibration, compact size, quick response to changes in electrical demand, and modular design. Embedded in each Ballard fuel cell product lies a stack of unit cells designed with our proprietary

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PEM technology which draws on intellectual property from our patent portfolio together with our extensive experience and know-how in key areas of fuel cell stack design, operation, production processes and systems integration.
We are based in Canada, with head office, research and development, testing, manufacturing and service facilities in Burnaby, British Columbia. We also have a sales, manufacturing, research and development facility in Southborough, Massachusetts, and have a sales, assembly, service and research and development facility in Hobro, Denmark. We also have an office in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong Province, China. This office serves as the Company’s initial operations center in China, with China management, sales and business development, technical, quality, supply chain, after-sales and administrative support personnel. We also have a service center based in Yunfu, China.

2.2
Strategic Imperatives
We plan to build value for our shareholders by developing, manufacturing, selling and servicing industry-leading PEM fuel cell products to meet the needs of our customers in select target markets.
We are pursuing a corporate strategy and business model that mitigates risk by diversifying our business across a portfolio of market opportunities that are enabled by substantially the same core competencies, technology, products and intellectual property. Our business model is designed to include two growth platforms (power products and technology solutions), multiple markets within each of these platforms, geographic diversification and customer diversification.
We are also pursuing a strategy that supports commercialization, revenue and profitability, while also enabling future value based on longer-term market opportunities for our technology, products and intellectual property, such as the global automotive fuel cell market and the unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) or drone market.
Our two-pronged approach is to build shareholder value through the sale and service of power products and the delivery of technology solutions. In power product sales, our focus is on meeting the power needs of our customers by delivering high value, high reliability, high quality and innovative clean energy power products that reduce customer costs and risks. Through technology solutions, our focus is on enabling our customers to solve their technical and business challenges and accelerate their fuel cell programs by delivering customized, high value, bundled technology solutions, including specialized engineering services, access to our deep intellectual property portfolio and know-how through licensing or sale, and providing technology component supply.
Starting in 2015, we increased our efforts on growing our business in China. China represents a potentially unique opportunity for clean energy solutions, given the convergence of macro trends that include:
continued urbanization of China’s population;
continued infrastructure development and build-out of mass urban transportation;
the large size and continued growth of the Chinese vehicle market;
rapid adoption of electric vehicles in China;
serious air quality challenges in a number of Chinese cities;
a Chinese government mandate to address climate change; and
strong national and local government commitment supporting the adoption and commercialization of fuel cells in transportation applications, including the implementation of supporting subsidy programs.
We have been pursuing a strategy that includes the development of a local fuel cell supply chain and related ecosystem to address the new-energy bus and commercial vehicle markets in China. We believe this strategy aligns with expected local content requirements for government subsidies supporting the adoption of fuel cell electric vehicles (“FCEV”). Key elements of our strategy include adopting a business model in which we seek to mitigate market adoption risk and capital investment by engaging partnerships with local companies that market our products and invest in manufacturing operations and supply chain localization.
As part of our strategy, we are pursuing technology transfer and licensing opportunities with Chinese partners in order to localize the manufacture of Ballard-designed fuel cell modules and stacks for heavy-duty motive applications in China, including bus, commercial vehicles and light-rail train applications. We typically seek to structure our

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arrangements in a way that provide us with payments from our partners of significant value for technology transfer early in the transfer process, requirements for ongoing purchases by our partners of components from us, and requirements for our partners to comply with certain performance conditions and reporting requirements, including quality, branding, intellectual property and minimum payments. We believe these typical deal structures provide for near-, mid- and long-term revenue and cash flow streams by building in program phases, technology transfer payments, license payments, required supply purchases, and recurring royalty structures. We also typically structure our commercial deals in China to restrict sales to that country and to position Ballard as the exclusive purchaser of modules or stacks manufactured by our partners in China for sale outside of China. We believe this structure provides us with additional flexibility in satisfying global market demand for our modules and stacks by supplementing or mitigating our mid- and long-term manufacturing strategy.
We also structure our business model in China to protect our core intellectual property. For example, we currently do not provide technology transfer and licensing relating to the manufacture of our proprietary membrane electrode assemblies (“MEAs”), a key high value technology component in our fuel cell stacks. We currently plan to continue to manufacture our MEAs in our head office facilities in Burnaby, Canada. Also, we typically restrict technology transfer and licenses to current generation technology and products. We continue to make significant investment in next generation products and technology, including modules and systems integration, stacks, and MEAs. We strive to reserve flexibility on how we introduce these next generation products to the markets, including to China.
3.
2018 BUSINESS OUTLOOK
Given the early stage of the hydrogen fuel cell market development and adoption rate, and consistent with our approach in 2017, we did not provide specific financial performance guidance for 2018 during the first three quarters of 2018. We did however outline our qualitative outlook expectations for 2018 which are detailed in the 2018 Outlook section of our 2017 year-end MD&A. In summary and given the relatively early stage of development in some of our markets, the length and uncertainty of timing in contract award and program deliveries in 2018, together with the significant one-time contributions from key projects in 2017, we had expected revenue to be relatively flat in 2018, as compared to 2017 (with revenue of $121.3 million), coincident with a strengthening of the underlying business mix for long-term growth prospects.
Ballard’s revenue in the third quarter of 2018 was lower than expected due primarily to slower growth in market demand in China which resulted in significantly reduced MEA sales to Synergy Ballard JVCo under “take or pay” MEA supply agreement. This decline in the third quarter of 2018, and in our outlook, has been primarily the result of the relatively slow pace of hydrogen fueling station roll-out, along with evolving government subsidy rules and delays in FCEV certifications. During the third quarter of 2018, however, we also announced (i) a strategic collaboration with Weichai Power, (ii) the divestiture of our Power Manager business, and (iii) unveiled our next-generation fuel cell stack. We continue to position Ballard as the leading fuel cell technology provider in the FCEV market for Heavy Duty Motive applications.
Given the uncertainties regarding Synergy Ballard JVCo’s ability to meet its “take or pay” commitments under the MEA supply agreement, combined with the recent sale of the Power Manager business (which closed in October 2018) and the associated absence of Power Manager-related revenue in the fourth quarter of 2018, we now expect revenue of approximately $90 million to $95 million in 2018. We have also removed the remaining value of the “take or pay” MEA supply agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo from the Order Backlog and 12-month Order Book. With this adjustment, the Order Backlog and 12-month Order Book at the end of the third quarter of 2018 were approximately $123 million and $60 million, respectively.
However, longer term, our strategic collaboration with Weichai Power, which we anticipate closing by year-end, is expected to be a positive long-term catalyst for our business. Weichai Power is a leading Chinese automotive and equipment manufacturer with a strategic focus on China’s new energy business segment. This strategic collaboration is a validation of the FCEV value proposition in Heavy-Duty Motive applications and Ballard’s technology leadership position in the PEM fuel cell industry. When closed, this transaction will strengthen our balance sheet through equity investments of approximately $183 million, including a further investment of approximately $20 million from Broad-

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Ocean. Over the next 3-years, we also expect to deliver against a $90 million Technology Solutions program related to the next-generation technology transfer to the planned Weichai Power-Ballard joint venture.
Our revised 2018 revenue outlook is supported by our 12-month Order Book of approximately $60 million which is derived from our Order Backlog of approximately $123 million as of September 30, 2018. Our Order Backlog represents the estimated aggregate value of orders at a given time for which customers have made contractual commitments and our 12-month Order Book represents the aggregate expected value of that portion of the Order Backlog that the Company expects to deliver in the subsequent 12-month period. 
Our revised outlook for 2018 is based on our internal forecast which reflects an assessment of overall business conditions and takes into account actual sales and financial results in the first three quarters of 2018; sales orders received for units and services expected to be delivered in the remainder of 2018; an estimate with respect to the generation of new sales and the timing of deliveries in each of our markets for the balance of 2018; and assumes an average U.S. dollar exchange rate in the mid $0.70’s in relation to the Canadian dollar for the remainder of 2018.
The primary risk factors to our revised business outlook expectations for 2018 are customer or production delays in delivering against existing orders and delays from forecast in terms of closing and delivering expected sales primarily in our Heavy-Duty Motive market; adverse macro-economic conditions, changes in government subsidy and incentive programs; inadequate investment in hydrogen infrastructure and / or excessive hydrogen fuel costs, all of which could negatively impact our customers’ access to capital and the success of their program plans which could adversely impact our Heavy-Duty market; disruptions in our Heavy-Duty market due to delays of supply of key materials and components from third party suppliers; disruptions in our Technology Solutions market as a result of our significant reliance on a limited number of customers in this growth platform and our largest customer’s internal commercialization plans and budget requirements; disruptions in the Material Handling market as a result of our reliance on a single customer in this market and that customer’s internal stack development and commercialization plans; and fluctuations in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar, as a significant portion of our Technology Solutions revenues (including the technology development and engineering services agreement with Volkswagen) are priced in Canadian dollars.
Our Order Backlog and our 12-month Order Book are currently comprised of a relatively limited number of contracts and a relatively limited number of customers. Given the relative immaturity of our industry and customer deployment programs, our Order Backlog and 12-month Order Book are potentially vulnerable to risk of cancellation, deferral or non-performance by our customers for a variety of reasons including: risks related to customer liquidity; credit risks; risks related to changes, reductions or eliminations in government policies, subsidies and incentives; risks related to slower market adoption; risks related to vehicle integration challenges; risks related to the development of effective hydrogen refueling infrastructure; risks related to the ability of our products to meet evolving market requirements; and supplier-related risks. 
Furthermore, potential fluctuations in our financial results make financial forecasting difficult. The Company's revenues, cash flows and other operating results can vary significantly from quarter to quarter. Sales and margins may be lower than anticipated due to general economic conditions, market-related factors, operating factors and competitive factors. Cash receipts may also vary from quarter to quarter due to the timing of cash collections from customers. As a result, quarter-to-quarter comparisons of revenues, cash flows and other operating results may not be meaningful; instead, we believe our operating performance should be assessed over a number of quarters and years. In addition, due to the early stage of development of the market for hydrogen fuel cell products, it is difficult to accurately predict future revenues, cash flows or results of operations on a quarterly basis. It is likely that in one or more future quarters, financial results will fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors. If this occurs, the trading price of the Company's shares may be materially and adversely affected.
4.
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS (Including Contractual Updates)
4.1 Corporate
Development of Next Generation Zero-Emission Fuel Cell Stack for Heavy-Duty Motive applications
On September 18, 2018, we unveiled our next-generation high performance liquid-cooled fuel cell stack, the FCgen®-LCS, at the IAA Commercial Vehicles Trade Fair and Convention in Hannover, Germany. The FCgen®-LCS features

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important design and performance enhancements, while also offering an impressive reduction in total-cost-of-ownership. This stack will be a core technology component of Ballard’s 8th-generation power module portfolio for use in Heavy-Duty Motive applications – including buses, commercial trucks and trains – planned for initial launch in 2019, and other applications such as forklifts.
Benefits of the FCgen®-LCS, compared to the current generation liquid-cooled fuel cell stack that it will replace, are expected to include lower cost, ultra-long durability, high power density, freeze start capability, higher tolerance to operating conditions, simplified systems integration, and sustainability.
Ballard will continue to support the Company’s existing customers where current generation FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stack technology is used.
Acquisition of assets of Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation Corporation
On July 3, 2018, we announced that the acquisition of certain strategic assets of Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation Corporation (“AFCC”), a private company owned by Daimler AG (“Daimler”) and Ford Motor Company (“Ford”). As part of a planned wind-down of AFCC’s operations in Vancouver, which are co-located with Ballard at our headquarters, Daimler and Ford have in-housed and relocated their fuel cell stack development activities to Germany and the U.S., respectively. As a result, Daimler and Ford agreed to sell AFCC assets to Ballard for approximately Canadian $6 million.
This acquisition supports and accelerates our growth plans in two key respects. First, it immediately provides needed expansion of our product and material testing capabilities that will be used to support new and existing programs, products, as well as customers. In addition, we have acquired key production equipment that provides much of the incremental capacity needed to meet forecasted growth over the next five years. With these assets already in place and functioning within Ballard’s existing facilities, this transaction accelerates the expansion of our fuel cell testing, production and lab capacity at a lower cost, compared to acquiring new equipment. The acquired assets include testing equipment, prototype production equipment, and lab and quality inspection equipment.
Filing of Base Shelf Prospectus ahead of expiry of existing Shelf Prospectus
Ballard had a shelf prospectus on file with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States, expiring on July 16, 2018.  Prior to expiry of that shelf prospectus, we filed a final short form base shelf prospectus (“Prospectus”), which provides us continued flexibility to make offerings of securities during the effective period of the Prospectus, until July 2020. The Prospectus was filed in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, except Quebec, and a corresponding shelf registration statement on Form F-10 (Registration Statement) was also filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These filings enable offerings of securities up to an aggregate initial offering price of US$150 million at any time during the 25-month period that the Prospectus remains effective. If any securities are offered under the Prospectus and/or Registration Statement, the terms of any such securities and the intended use of the net proceeds resulting from such offering would be established at the time of any offering and would be described in a Prospectus supplement filed with applicable Canadian securities regulators and/or the SEC, respectively, at the time of such an offering.  
4.2 China
Weichai Power Co., Ltd.
On August 29, 2018, we announced that we have entered into a strategic collaboration with Weichai Power Co., Ltd. (“Weichai Power”), which includes (i) a substantial equity investment by Weichai Power in Ballard of approximately $163 million, representing a 19.9% interest in the company and reflecting a price based on a 15% premium to the 30-day VWAP, (ii) establishment of a joint venture (“JV”) to support China’s FCEV market, (iii) a $90 million technology transfer program to the JV related to Ballard’s next-generation LCS fuel cell stack and power modules for bus, commercial truck and forklift applications in China, and (iv) a commitment by Weichai Power to build and supply at least 2,000 fuel cell modules for commercial vehicles in China, as announced by Weichai Power on August 29, 2018.
In addition, Broad-Ocean has agreed to invest a further approximately $20 million at the same 15% premium to maintain its 9.9% ownership position in Ballard. As a result, the Weichai Power and Broad-Ocean equity investments in Ballard will total approximately $183 million.

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Established in 2002 and with listings on the Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges, Weichai Power Co., Ltd. is a leading automotive and equipment manufacturer specializing in the production of powertrains, automobiles, intelligent logistics, automotive parts and components.
All the foregoing transactions are expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2018, subject to completion of definitive agreements, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. Subject to closing, the strategic collaboration includes these key elements:
Strategic Equity Investments – Weichai Power will purchase a sufficient number of Ballard shares so as to hold a 19.9% ownership position following the transaction (including completion of Broad-Ocean’s share purchase), becoming Ballard’s largest shareholder. This equity investment will generate approximately $163 million of gross proceeds to Ballard through the subscription and purchase of shares issued from treasury at a price per share of $3.54 based on a 15% premium to the 30-day VWAP (volume weighted average price) of $3.08.
Weichai Power’s investment will be subject to 2-year “standstill” and resale restrictions (subject to customary exceptions). For so long as Weichai Power holds at least 15% of Ballard’s outstanding shares, it will have the right to nominate two directors to Ballard’s board of directors, and Ballard will expand its board from the current seven directors to nine directors after closing. Weichai Power has also agreed that, in the event of a third-party offer to buy Ballard, Weichai Power will have the right to make a superior proposal or otherwise must vote its shares in accordance with the Ballard board recommendation.
In addition, Broad-Ocean has agreed to purchase a sufficient number of Ballard shares so as to maintain its 9.9% ownership position (after completion of Weichai Power’s purchase). This equity investment will be made at the same price per share as paid by Weichai Power and will generate approximately $20 million of gross proceeds to Ballard through the subscription and purchase of additional shares issued from treasury.
Use of net proceeds are expected to include investment in Ballard’s core fuel cell business including in research and product development activities; and equity contributions in the JV to finance Ballard’s ownership position in the JV’s operations. Use of proceeds may also be used to support potential M&A transactions.
Technology Transfer and China Joint Venture – Weichai Power and Ballard have agreed to form a joint venture company in Shandong Province, China, with Weichai Power and Ballard initially owning 51% and 49%, respectively. The JV will pay $90 million to Ballard under a technology transfer program for the exclusive rights to manufacture Ballard’s next generation LCS fuel cell stack and certain LCS-based modules for the bus, commercial truck and forklift markets in China. The JV will exclusively purchase MEAs, a critical technology component of each fuel cell, from Ballard under a long-term supply agreement. Weichai Power and Ballard will fund pro rata shares of the JV based on a business plan that is currently under discussion. Weichai Power will hold three of five JV board seats and Ballard will hold two, with Ballard having certain shareholder protection provisions. Ballard will also retain an exclusive right to the transferred technologies outside China subject to certain restrictions.
Broad-Ocean has also expressed an interest in acquiring a 10% ownership position in the JV, which would correspondingly reduce Ballard’s ownership position. Discussions regarding this investment are currently underway between the parties.
Fuel Cell Sales – Weichai Power separately announced that it has agreed to supply a minimum of 2,000 fuel cell modules for commercial vehicles in China by 2021. Specific terms related to the supply of fuel cell power modules for commercial vehicles, including scope, product mix, pricing and timing of shipments, are under discussion between Weichai Power and Ballard.
The new JV will offer a framework through which our next-generation LCS fuel cell stack and power modules will be integrated into buses, commercial trucks and forklifts for the China market. Ballard is in ongoing discussions with existing partners in China to ensure continued support for products using current generation technology, and to facilitate a smooth future transition to products based on next-generation technology.
Zhongshan Broad-Ocean Motor Co., Ltd.
On December 6, 2017, we announced that a subsidiary of strategic partner Broad-Ocean called Shanghai Edrive Co. Ltd. ("Shanghai Edrive") has commissioned its fuel cell engine manufacturing facility located in the City of Shanghai,

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China. Shanghai Edrive plans to primarily assemble Ballard FCveloCity® 30-kilowatt (kW) fuel cell engines at the facility under a technology transfer, licensing and supply arrangement between Ballard and Broad-Ocean that closed earlier in 2017. Broad-Ocean also plans to assemble Ballard-designed engines at locations in Hubei and Shandong Provinces, both of which are under development.
On June 5, 2017, we announced the closing of an approximate $18 million supply contract with Broad-Ocean to support the expected deployment of 400 FCveloCity® fuel cell engines integrated into clean energy buses and trucks in key Chinese cities. This announcement, together with an approximate $11 million transaction announced on April 6, 2017 for the planned deployment of 200 FCveloCity® fuel cell engines, means that Ballard is supporting Broad-Ocean through the expected deployment of 600 fuel cell engines having a total value of approximately $29 million. All 600 fuel cell engines and related components were delivered by Ballard in 2017. Revenue earned from these agreements (nil million in the first three quarters of 2018; ($7.3 million in the third quarter of 2017; $8.1 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $28.7 million in fiscal 2017), which are complete, is recorded as Heavy-Duty Motive revenues.
On April 6, 2017, we also announced the closing of a transaction (the “Broad-Ocean Program”) previously announced on February 16, 2017, relating to technology transfer, licensing and supply arrangements with Broad-Ocean for the assembly and sale of FCveloCity® 30-kilowatt (kW) and 85kW fuel cell engines in China and received an initial payment of $3.6 million. Under the Broad-Ocean Program, Broad-Ocean can manufacture fuel cell modules in three strategic regions in China, including Shanghai. The Broad-Ocean Program and future amounts payable to Ballard are dependent on the attainment of certain commissioning milestones by Broad-Ocean. If fully met, the Broad-Ocean Program has an estimated value of up to approximately $25 million in revenue to Ballard over the initial 5-year term, including approximately $12 million in Technology Solutions revenue plus future royalties and the supply of test equipment. In each of the three assembly operation locations, Broad-Ocean will also need to engage with local governments as well as with bus and commercial vehicle OEMs for deployment of fuel cell buses and commercial vehicles incorporating Ballard-designed modules manufactured by Broad-Ocean. Ballard will have the exclusive right to purchase fuel cell engines from any of the Broad-Ocean manufacturing operations for sale outside China. Each Ballard-designed fuel cell engine assembled by Broad-Ocean is required to utilize FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks. Stack supply is expected to be transferred to Synergy Ballard JVCo and Ballard will be the exclusive supplier of MEAs for stacks manufactured by Synergy Ballard JVCo. Revenue earned from these Broad-Ocean technology transfer agreements ($3.0 million in the third quarter of 2018; $3.4 million in the first three quarters of 2018; $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2017; $1.5 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $2.0 million in fiscal 2017) is recorded as Technology Solutions revenues.
On August 18, 2016, Broad-Ocean became Ballard’s largest shareholder following an investment made through a subscription and purchase of 17.25 million Ballard common shares issued from treasury for total proceeds to Ballard of $28.3 million. The investment represented approximately 9.9% of Ballard’s outstanding common shares following the transaction. Broad-Ocean and Ballard also entered into an Investor Rights Agreement under which Broad-Ocean agreed to a two-year hold period (expired on August 18, 2018) on the 17.25 million Ballard common shares that it has purchased in the financing; has provided Ballard with a right of first refusal to sell to Broad-Ocean additional treasury shares if Broad-Ocean wishes to increase its ownership position up to 20%; and agreed to certain "standstill" provisions effective for a two-year period under which Broad-Ocean will not purchase more than 19.9% of Ballard's outstanding common shares without receiving Ballard board approval. Ballard granted Broad-Ocean certain anti-dilution rights to maintain its 9.9% ownership interest. Broad-Ocean has no special right to appoint nominees to Ballard's board of directors.
Guangdong Synergy Ballard Hydrogen Power Co., Ltd.
During 2017, the FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stack joint venture operation in the city of Yunfu in China’s Guangdong Province commenced operations. Ballard has a 10% interest in the joint venture, called Synergy Ballard JVCo, together with our partner Guangdong Nation Synergy Hydrogen Power Technology Co. Ltd. (a member of the “Synergy Group”) who has a 90% interest. The fuel cell stacks manufactured by Synergy Ballard JVCo are expected to be used primarily in fuel cell engines assembled in China to provide propulsion power for zero-emission fuel cell electric buses and commercial vehicles in China. The Synergy Ballard JVCo operation is designed to achieve an annualized production capacity of approximately 20,000 fuel cell stacks, based on 3 shifts running 5-days per week.

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The joint venture transaction and related sales agreements, which closed on October 25, 2016 and originally announced on July 18, 2016, have a contemplated minimum sales value to Ballard of approximately $170 million over 5-years (of which approximately $52 million has been recognized as of September 30, 2018). The transaction includes these key elements:
Ballard provided approximately $20 million for technology transfer services, test equipment, production equipment specification and procurement services, training and commissioning support in relation to the establishment of a production line in Yunfu for the manufacture and assembly of FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks. Revenue earned from these technology transfer agreements (nil million in the first three quarters of 2018; $3.6 million in the third quarter of 2017; $13.7 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $16.0 million in fiscal 2017; $4.4 million in fiscal 2016), which are effectively complete, is recorded as Technology Solutions revenues; and
Ballard’s exclusive supply of membrane electrode assemblies (“MEA”s), a key component of every fuel cell, for each fuel cell stack manufactured by Synergy Ballard JVCo, with minimum annual MEA volume commitments with a contemplated minimum sales value on a “take or pay” basis to Ballard of at least $150 million over the initial 5-year term from 2017 to 2021. Revenue earned from the MEA supply agreement ($1.0 million in the third quarter of 2018; $16.6 million in the first three quarters of 2018; $5.8 million in the third quarter of 2017; $10.2 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $14.9 million in fiscal 2017; nil million in fiscal 2016) is recorded as Heavy-Duty Motive revenues.
During the third quarter of 2018, Synergy Ballard JVCo did not meet its “take or pay” purchase commitments under the MEA supply agreement nor did they make the contractual pre-payments required to enable fourth quarter of 2018 MEA shipments. As noted above, our Order Backlog and our 12-month Order Book, which had previously included certain contractual commitments under the MEA supply agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo, are subject to risk including risks related to market demand for Synergy Ballard JVCo’s products, and risks related to the ability of Synergy Ballard to finance its operations including fulfilling its purchase commitments to us under the MEA supply agreement. As a result, there is no reasonable assurance that Synergy Ballard JVCo will be able to meet the “take or pay” purchase commitment going forward. Accordingly, we have removed all remaining purchase commitments in the MEA supply agreement from the Order Backlog and 12-month Order Book.
Synergy Ballard JVCo has an exclusive right to manufacture and sell FCvelocity®-9SSL stacks in China. Exclusivity is subject to Synergy Ballard JVCo achieving certain performance criteria, including compliance with: a code of ethics; Ballard’s quality policies and branding practices; payment terms; and certain intellectual property covenants; as well as achievement of the minimum annual contemplated “take or pay” MEA volume commitments. Ballard has the exclusive right to purchase FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks and sub-components from Synergy Ballard JVCo for sale outside China. Ballard contributed approximately $1.0 million for its 10% interest in Synergy Ballard JVCo in 2017. We have no obligation to provide future funding to Synergy Ballard JVCo.
China - Other
On September 28, 2015, we announced the signing of a joint development agreement and a supply agreement to develop and commercialize a fuel cell engine specifically designed for integration into low floor trams manufactured by CRRC Qingdao Sifang Company, Ltd. (“CRRC Sifang”), a Chinese rolling stock manufacturer. The agreements include delivery of ten customized FCvelocity® modules and have an initial expected value of approximately $6 million. Ballard has developed a new prototype configuration of its FCvelocity® fuel cell module to deliver 200 kilowatts of net power for use in powering trams in urban deployments. An initial deployment of eight fuel cell-powered trams is planned by CRRC Sifang and the City of Foshan on the Gaoming Line. With delays in the construction of the Gaoming Line, deployment of these trams by CRRC Sifang is now expected to occur starting in 2019. As of June 30, 2018, we have now delivered all ten FCveloCity®-HD7 200-kilowatt fuel cell modules in support of this program. Revenue earned from these agreements (nil million in the third quarter of 2018; $2.3 million in the first three quarters of 2018; nil million in the third quarter of 2017; $3.0 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $3.1 million fiscal 2017; $0.9 million in fiscal 2016), which are effectively complete, is recorded as either Heavy-Duty Motive or Technology Solutions revenues depending on the nature of work performed.



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4.3 Europe
Volkswagen AG
On June 11, 2018, we announced the signing of a 3.5 year extension to our current technology solutions contract with AUDI AG, part of the Volkswagen Group (“Volkswagen AG”), extending the HyMotion program to August 2022. The aggregate value of the contract extension is expected to be Canadian $80 to $130 million ($62 to $100 million). The program, through a series of technical milestone awards, will support Audi through its small series production launch. The HyMotion program encompasses automotive fuel cell stack development as well as system design support activities. Ballard is focused on the design and manufacture of world-leading, next-generation fuel cell stacks for use in Audi’s demonstration car program. Ballard engineers are leading critical areas of fuel cell product design – including the MEA, plate and stack components – along with certain testing and integration work.
Ballard signed an initial 4 year contract with Volkswagen AG in March 2013, followed by a 2 year extension in February 2015. AUDI AG assumed leadership of the program in 2016. Revenue earned from this and related agreements ($5.3 million in the third quarter of 2018; $17.8 million in the first three quarters of 2018; $4.3 million in the third quarter of 2017; $13.0 million in the first three quarters of 2017; $18.0 million in fiscal 2017; $13.9 million in fiscal 2016) are recorded as Technology Solutions revenues.
ABB Marine & Ports
On June 27, 2018, we announced signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with ABB to undertake collaboration activities toward the development of megawatt (MW) scale PEM fuel cell power systems for the marine market, with an initial focus on the cruise ship segment. The multi-year collaboration between Ballard and ABB will include joint market development activities, systems design and development work, as well as systems testing and validation activities. The goal will be development of commercial ready MW-scale containerized PEM fuel cell power systems for the marine market, with an initial focus on the cruise ship segment. These systems could be used in a variety of ways, including provision of power for hotel operations while cruise ships are docked at port as well as the provision of primary propulsion power when ships are at sea. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million to date) will be recorded as Technology Solutions revenues.
Van Hool NV
On May 1, 2018, we announced the receipt of a purchase order from Van Hool NV (“Van Hool”), a bus OEM in Belgium, for 40 FCveloCity®-HD fuel cell modules to power buses under the Joint Initiative for Hydrogen Vehicles across Europe (“JIVE”) funding programs. The purchase order is further to Ballard’s announcement of a Letter of Intent, which was issued on February 28, 2018. Ballard expects to make initial shipments of the FCveloCity®-HD 85 kilowatt modules in 2018, with initial deliveries of buses expected in 2019. Van Hool plans to deploy 30 buses with the Regionalverkehr Köln GmbH transit agency in Cologne, Germany, and the remaining 10 buses with WSW mobil GmbH transit agency in Wuppertal, Germany. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million in the third quarter of 2018; $0.4 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date) is recorded as Heavy-Duty Motive revenues.
On September 13, 2017, we announced the acceptance of a Letter of Intent to provide FCveloCity®-HD 100-kilowatt fuel cell engines to power 8 ExquiCity tram-buses to be built by Van Hool for delivery in Pau, France to the SMTU-PPP (Syndicat Mixte de Transports urbains – Pau Portes des Pyrénées) and the STAP (Société de Transport de l’Agglomération Paloise). These will be the first hydrogen bus routes in France and the world’s first hydrogen tram-buses for a full BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system. During the second quarter of 2018, we finalized contracting for this order and expect to deliver the 8 fuel cell engines to Van Hool in 2018. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million in the third quarter of 2018; $0.7 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date) is recorded as Heavy-Duty Motive revenues.
Siemens AG
On November 14, 2017, we announced the signing of a Development Agreement with Siemens AG (“Siemens”) for the development of a zero-emission fuel cell engine to power Siemens’ Mireo light rail train. The Development Agreement has a contemplated value of approximately $9.0 million to Ballard. Under the terms of the Development Agreement, Ballard will develop a 200 kilowatt fuel cell engine for integration into Siemens’ new Mireo train platform.

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Initial deployments of the fuel cell-powered Mireo train are planned for 2021. Revenue earned from this agreement ($0.6 million in the third quarter of 2018; $1.6 million in the first three quarters of 2018; nil million in the third quarter and first three quarters of 2017; $0.7 million in fiscal 2017) is recorded as Technology Solutions revenue.
4.4 North America
Hyster-Yale Group, Inc.
On April 30, 2018, we announced the signing of a Master Supply Agreement (“MSA”) with Hyster-Yale Group, Inc. (“Hyster-Yale”) encompassing the supply of minimum annual volumes of Ballard FCgen®-1020 air-cooled fuel cell stacks for use in powering Class 3 lift trucks and support on the design of a fuel cell electric propulsion system to power these lift trucks. The MSA runs until 2022. Hyster-Yale is a leading global lift truck OEM In 2014, Hyster-Yale’s acquisition of Nuvera activated a strategy to design purpose-built, optimized fuel cell-powered lift trucks, and put in place significant expertise and capabilities for fuel cells. The collaboration with Ballard, Nuvera, and Hyster-Yale will focus on air-cooled stacks for low power applications, complementing the existing Nuvera fuel cell solutions. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million to date) will be recorded as Material Handling revenues.
Protonex Technology Corporation
On October 5, 2018, we successfully closed the previously announced transaction (on August 31, 2018) to divest certain non-core assets of the Company’s subsidiary, Protonex Technology Corporation (“Protonex”), related to the Power Manager business to Revision Military Ltd. (“Revision”), a private U.S.-based company. At closing, Ballard received initial consideration of approximately $4.1 million, paid in cash and note, and may receive up to a further $11.25 million, based on achievement of specific sales objectives during a 12-month earn-out period. Ballard has retained certain Protonex assets related to fuel cell propulsion systems for unmanned vehicles, under the Ballard brand. We decided to divest assets of the Protonex Power Manager assets as they were considered to be no longer aligned with Ballard’s strategic fuel cell focus, while retaining Protonex assets related to the unmanned vehicle market. The divestiture reduces complexity while adding resources for us to invest in our core fuel cell business. In 2015, Ballard paid approximately $17.5 million in shares and cash to acquire Protonex, which included the Power Manager business, a Solid Oxide Fuel Cells business which was divested in January 2018, and the unmanned vehicle business.
On June 25, 2018, we announced that Protonex had received a $1.0 million order for the supply of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits to support U.S. Army brigades deploying overseas. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million to date) is recorded as Portable Power revenues.
On March 26, 2018, we announced that Protonex had received a $1.9 million follow-on purchase order for the supply of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits to support U.S. Army Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFAB). Revenue earned from this agreement ($1.0 million in the third quarter of 2018; $1.9 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date) which is complete, is recorded as Portable Power revenues.
On January 30, 2018, we announced that Protonex received a $1.6 million purchase order for the supply of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits for end customer U.S. Special Operations Command. The purchase order was the first issued by the Program Executive Office (PEO) – Soldier, as part of the newly approved program of record, with Milestone C approval having been received in 2017. Revenue earned from this agreement (nil million in the third quarter of 2018; $1.6 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date), which is complete, is recorded as Portable Power revenues.
On January 3, 2018, we announced that as a result of our strategic review in 2017 of our Protonex subsidiary, we implemented certain changes at Protonex including the divestiture of certain non-core assets. This action is in addition to steps taken in August 2017 to reduce and align the Protonex cost base. In the fourth quarter of 2017, it was determined that certain of Protonex’ Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (“SOFC”) assets were not core to Ballard’s PEM fuel cell business, and the Company decided to divest these non-core assets. As a result, certain SOFC assets were transferred to a private, start-up company, Upstart Power Inc. (“Upstart”), effective December 31, 2017, for nominal consideration. Initially, 10 Protonex employees have moved to Upstart, with an additional 6 employees transferred in the third quarter of 2018 on completion of certain Technology Solutions contracts. This action has enabled Ballard to significantly reduce the

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cost structure at Protonex. No restructuring expense was incurred as a result of this transaction. During the fourth quarter of 2017, we recorded a loss on sale of assets of ($0.5) million related primarily to the sale of SOFC inventory to Upstart. We also recorded impairment losses of ($1.5) million in the fourth quarter of 2017 related to a write-down of certain SOFC intangible assets and property, plant and equipment.
New Flyer Industries Inc.
On February 13, 2017, we announced the Company's membership in the "Fuel Cell Electric Bus Commercialization Consortium" (FCEBCC), a large-scale project for which funding has now been committed to support deployment of 20 zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell electric buses at two California transit agencies. Ten buses are to be deployed with Alameda Contra-Costa Transit District (AC Transit) and 10 buses are to be deployed with the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA). Ballard will be providing 20 of its FCveloCity®-HD 85-kilowatt fuel cell engines to New Flyer of America Inc., a subsidiary of New Flyer Industries Inc. ("New Flyer"), the largest transit bus and motor coach manufacturer and parts distributor in North America. Ballard's engines will power New Flyer 40-foot Xcelsior XHE40 fuel cell buses, which are planned to be delivered and in-service with AC Transit and OCTA starting in late 2018. The buses are to be supported by advanced hydrogen fueling infrastructure provided by The Linde Group. Revenue earned from this agreement ($2.2 million in the third quarter of 2018; $3.4 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date) is recorded as Heavy-Duty Motive revenues.
4.5 Other
Nisshinbo Holdings
On February 21, 2018, we announced the receipt of a follow-on purchase order from Nisshinbo Holdings (“Nisshinbo”) to progress a Technology Solutions program to the next stage that was initially announced on September 17, 2017. On September 17, 2017, we received a purchase order from Nisshinbo to engage in a multi-year Technology Solutions program to assess the potential development of fuel cell stacks using a Non Precious Metal Catalyst (“NPMC”) for use in commercial material handling applications. With successful completion of this initial assessment, this next stage will focus on certain performance and power density enhancements to support development of low cost NPMC-based fuel cell stacks again for material handling applications. Revenue earned from this and related agreements ($0.4 million in the third quarter of 2018; $0.9 million in the first three quarters of 2018; $1.6 million fiscal 2017) is recorded as Technology Solutions revenues.
This follows an announcement that Nisshinbo and Ballard had successfully collaborated on development of the world’s first NPMC-based PEM fuel cell product – the FCgen®-1040 – which is a new 30-watt air-cooled fuel cell stack incorporating NPMC with possible uses in ultralight-weight applications such as laptop and cell phone chargers, and military soldier power devices. The NPMC is an innovative technology enabling a reduction in product cost through the use of significantly lower amounts of platinum.
Nisshinbo has been a strategic supplier of compression molded bipolar flow field carbon plates to Ballard for over 20 years. In November 2015, Nisshinbo also became a strategic equity investor in Ballard.
Other
On February 14, 2018, we announced that the signing of a Technology Solutions program with an unnamed strategic customer to develop a next generation air-cooled fuel cell stack. The multi-year program has an initial value to Ballard of approximately $4.2 million. A key objective of the Technology Solutions program is to design and validate an ultra-high durability, high performance air-cooled fuel cell stack for uses in a number of target market applications, including certain material handling applications, with a target operating lifetime of 20,000 hours. A key market opportunity will be the integration of the next generation stacks into fuel cell systems for class 3 lift trucks, such as pallet jacks, deployed in high throughput distribution centers and warehouse operations. Other potential applications include systems for stationary continuous and backup power. Revenue earned from this agreement ($0.7 million in the third quarter of 2018; $1.0 million in the first three quarters of 2018 and to date) is recorded as Technology Solutions revenues.

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5.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
5.1 Operating Segments
We report our results in the single operating segment of Fuel Cell Products and Services. Our Fuel Cell Products and Services segment consists of the sale and service of PEM fuel cell products for our power product markets of Heavy-Duty Motive (consisting of bus, truck, rail and marine applications), Portable Power, Material Handling and Backup Power, as well as the delivery of Technology Solutions, including engineering services, technology transfer and the license and sale of our extensive intellectual property portfolio and fundamental knowledge for a variety of fuel cell applications.
5.2 Summary of Key Financial Metrics – Three Months Ended September 30, 2018
Revenue and gross margin
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
 
Three months ended September 30,
Fuel Cell Products and Services
2018
2017
$ Change

% Change

Heavy-Duty Motive
$
6,237
 
$
17,759

$
(11,522
)
(65
)%
Portable Power
1,939
 
865

1,074

124
 %
Material Handling
2,660
 
2,035

625

31
 %
Backup Power
339
 
566

(227
)
(40
)%
Technology Solutions
10,399
 
10,629

(230
)
(2
)%
  Revenues
21,574
 
31,854

(10,280
)
(32
)%
Cost of goods sold
15,126
 
21,664

(6,538
)
(30
)%
Gross Margin
$
6,448
 
$
10,190

$
(3,742
)
(37
)%
Gross Margin %
30%
 
32%

      n/a

   (2 pts)

Fuel Cell Products and Services Revenues of $21.6 million for the third quarter of 2018 declined (32%), or ($10.3) million, compared to the third quarter of 2017. The (32%) decline was driven by significantly lower Heavy-Duty Motive revenues. Increases in Portable Power and Material Handling revenues were partially offset by minor declines in Technology Solutions and Backup Power revenues.
Heavy-Duty Motive revenues of $6.2 million decreased ($11.5) million, or (65%), due primarily to lower shipments of a variety of fuel cell bus products to customers, principally in China. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues on a quarter to quarter basis are also impacted by product mix due to varying customer requirements and various fuel cell products, including power configurations required by our customers (and the resulting impact on selling price) of our FCveloCity®-HD7 200-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-HD6 150-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-HD7 85&100-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks, MEA’s, and related component and parts kits. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues in the third quarter of 2018 of $6.2 million include $1.0 million for shipments of MEA’s under the MEA Supply Agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo for use in their manufacture and assembly of FCveloCity® fuel cell stacks in China; $2.4 million for shipments of FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell products primarily to customers in China; and $2.2 million for shipments of FCveloCity®-HD7 85&100-kilowatt fuel cell modules to New Flyer. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues in the third quarter of 2017 of $17.8 million include $5.8 million for shipments of MEA’s under the MEA Supply Agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo; $7.3 million of shipments of FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell products to Broad-Ocean; and $2.1 million of shipments of FCveloCity®-HD6 150-kilowatt fuel cell modules primarily to customers in North America.
Technology Solutions revenues of $10.4 million decreased slightly by ($0.2) million, or (2%), due primarily to lower amounts earned from technology transfer and related agreements with Synergy Ballard JVCo, offset by increases in amounts earned on other programs. Amounts earned in the third quarter of 2018 of $10.4 million were from a variety of customer programs including amounts earned from the Volkswagen program of $5.3 million, the Broad-Ocean technology transfer program of $3.0 million, the Siemens development program of $0.6 million, the Nisshinbo program of $0.4 million, and $0.7 million from the program with the unnamed strategic customer. Amounts earned in the third quarter of 2017 of $10.6 million were also from a variety of customer programs including amounts earned from Synergy Ballard JVCo of $3.6 million on the completed in 2017 FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stack production line in Yunfu, China, Volkswagen program revenues of $4.3 million, the Broad-Ocean technology transfer program of $1.1 million,

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and amounts earned on a variety of other programs including the HDF distributed generation project, the TRC and CRRC Sifang tram development projects, and the project to enable Synergy Group to exclusively manufacture and sell Ballard's direct hydrogen FCgen®-H2PM fuel cell backup power systems in China. Volkswagen service revenues were also negatively impacted by approximately ($0.2) million in the third quarter of 2018, as compared to the third quarter of 2017, as a result of an approximate (4%) lower Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, as the Volkswagen Agreement is priced in Canadian dollars. The underlying costs to satisfy the Volkswagen Agreement are primarily denominated in Canadian dollars.
Material Handling revenues of $2.7 million increased $0.6 million, or 31%, primarily as a result of the impact of a higher average selling price due to product mix to Plug Power as overall stack shipments were relatively consistent.
Portable Power revenues of $1.9 million increased $1.1 million, or 124%, due to higher product revenues generated by Protonex partially offset by lower service revenues. Revenues from Protonex in the third quarter of 2018 include $1.0 million of product shipments of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits to complete a $1.9 million purchase order from U.S. Army Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFAB). The purchase order was issued by the Program Executive Office (PEO) – Soldier, as part of the recently approved program of record, with Milestone C approval having been received in 2017. Portable Power revenues are impacted by the demand and timing of end customers’ product deployments as well as the demand and timing of their engineering services projects.
Backup Power revenues of $0.3 million decreased ($0.2) million, or (40%), due primarily to a decrease in hydrogen-based backup power product and service revenues in Europe and Japan for backup power applications.
Fuel Cell Products and Services gross margins were $6.4 million, or 30% of revenues, for the third quarter of 2018, compared to $10.2 million, or 32% of revenues, for the third quarter of 2017. The decline in gross margin of ($3.7) million, or (37%), was driven primarily by the (32%) in total revenues, combined with a shift to a slightly lower overall margin product and service revenue mix resulting in a (2) percentage point decrease in gross margin as a percent of revenues.
Cash Operating Costs
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Research and Product
Development (cash operating cost)
$
5,941

$
4,843

$
1,098

23
%
General and Administrative
(cash operating cost)
2,802

2,691

111

4
%
Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost)
1,837

1,840

(3
)
     (-%)

Cash Operating Costs
$
10,580

$
9,374

$
1,206

13
%
Cash Operating Costs and its components of Research and Product Development (cash operating cost), General and Administrative (cash operating cost), and Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) are non-GAAP measures. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. See the reconciliation of Cash Operating Costs to GAAP in the Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures section and the reconciliation of Research and Product Development (cash operating cost), General and Administrative (cash operating cost), and Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) to GAAP in the Operating Expense section. Cash Operating Costs adjusts operating expenses for stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, impairment losses on trade receivables, restructuring charges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts, acquisition costs and financing charges.
Cash Operating Costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) for the third quarter of 2018 were $10.6 million, an increase of $1.2 million, or 13%, compared to the third quarter of 2017. The $1.2 million, or 13%, increase was driven primarily by an increase in research and product development cash operating costs of $1.1 million as general and administrative cash operating costs and sales and marketing cash operating costs were relatively flat period over period.
The 13% increase in cash operating costs in the third quarter of 2018 was driven primarily by higher program development and continuation engineering expenses related to research and product development and the ongoing improvement of all of our fuel cell products including the design and development of our next generation fuel cell products including our new high performance liquid-cooled fuel cell stack, the FCgen®-LCS, and by increased investment to support our commercial efforts in China. These cost increases were partially offset by the benefit of cost reductions as a result of the Company’s rationalization initiatives undertaken in the third and fourth quarters of 2017 at Protonex including the divestiture of certain non-core assets. In addition, operating expenses were positively impacted by lower labour costs in Canada as a result of an approximate (4%) lower Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, and the resulting positive impact on our Canadian operating cost base.
Adjusted EBITDA

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(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Adjusted EBITDA
$
(3,631
)
$
881

$
(4,512
)
(512
)%
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. See reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to GAAP in the Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures section. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA for stock-based compensation expense, transactional gains and losses, asset impairment charges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts, finance and other income, and acquisition costs.
Adjusted EBITDA (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) for the third quarter of 2018 was ($3.6) million, compared to $0.9 million for the third quarter of 2017. The ($4.5) million decline in Adjusted EBITDA was driven by the ($3.7) million decrease in gross margin as a result of the (32%) decline in overall revenues combined with the (2) point reduction in gross margin as a percent of revenues, and by the increase in Cash Operating Costs of ($1.2) million due primarily as a result of higher research and product development cash operating costs.
In addition and as noted above, operating costs in the third quarter of 2018 were impacted by the positive impact of a weaker Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, as compared to the third quarter of 2017. As a significant amount of our net operating costs (primarily labour) are denominated in Canadian dollars, gross margin, operating expenses and Adjusted EBITDA are impacted by changes in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar. As the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar was approximately (4%), or (5) basis points, lower in the third quarter of 2018 as compared to the third quarter of 2017, positive foreign exchange impacts on our Canadian operating cost base and Adjusted EBITDA were approximately $0.6 million. A $0.01 decrease in the Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, positively impacts annual Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $0.5 million.
Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(6,024
)
$
(1,027
)
$
(4,997
)
(486
)%
Net loss attributable to Ballard for the third quarter of 2018 was ($6.0) million, or ($0.03) per share, compared to a net loss of ($1.0) million, or ($0.01) per share, in the third quarter of 2017. The ($5.0) million increase in net loss in the third quarter of 2018 was driven primarily by the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($4.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expenses of ($0.8) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange gains (losses).
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
(7,732
)
$
(7,747
)
$
15

   -%
Cash used in operating activities in the third quarter of 2018 was ($7.7) million, consisting of cash operating losses of ($4.9) million combined with net working capital outflows of ($2.8) million. Cash used by operating activities in the third quarter of 2017 was ($7.7) million, consisting of cash operating income of $0.6 million offset by net working capital outflows of ($8.3) million. Cash used in operating activities in the third quarter of 2018, as compared to the third quarter of 2017, was consistent as the relative increase in cash operating losses of ($5.5) million was offset by the relative decrease in working capital requirements of $5.5 million. The relative ($5.5) million increase in cash operating losses in the third quarter of 2018 was due primarily to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($4.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expenses of ($0.8) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange gains (losses).
The total change in working capital of ($2.8) million in the third quarter of 2018 was driven by higher inventory of ($5.8) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the fourth quarter of 2018 and into 2019. This third quarter of 2018 outflow was partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $1.5 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, and by higher accrued warranty obligations of $1.3 million primarily on Heavy-Duty Motive product shipments.
This compares to a total change in working capital of ($8.3) million in the third quarter of 2017 which was driven by lower deferred revenue of ($11.0) million as we fulfilled contract deliverables on certain Heavy-Duty Motive and

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 17 of 39    




Technology Solutions contracts for which we received pre-payments in an earlier period, and by higher accounts receivable of ($3.3) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections. These third quarter of 2017 outflows were partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $4.1 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, by lower prepaid and other expenses of $1.1 million, and by higher accrued warranty obligations of $0.9 million due to increased product shipments.
5.3 Summary of Key Financial Metrics – Nine Months Ended September 30, 2018
Revenue and gross margin
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
 
 
Fuel Cell Products and Services
2018
 
2017

$ Change

% Change

Heavy-Duty Motive
$
28,834
 
$
37,135

$
(8,301
)
(22
)%
Portable Power
6,739
 
2,957

3,782

128
 %
Material Handling
4,809
 
6,228

(1,419
)
(23
)%
Backup Power
1,060
 
1,221

(161
)
(13
)%
Technology Solutions
26,667
 
33,491

(6,824
)
(20
)%
  Revenues
68,109
 
81,032

(12,923
)
(16
)%
Cost of goods sold
45,627
 
52,027

(6,400
)
(12
)%
Gross Margin
$
22,482
 
$
29,005

$
(6,523
)
(22
)%
Gross Margin %
33%
 
36%

      n/a

   (3 pts)

Fuel Cell Products and Services Revenues of $68.1 million for the first three quarters of 2018 decreased (16%), or ($12.9) million, compared to the first three quarters of 2017. The (16%) decline was driven primarily by lower Heavy-Duty Motive and Technology Solutions revenues. Increases in Portable Power revenues were partially offset by lower Material Handling and Backup Power revenues.
Heavy-Duty Motive revenues of $28.8 million decreased ($8.3) million, or (22%), due primarily to decreased shipments of a variety of fuel cell bus products to customers, principally in China. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues on a quarter to quarter basis are also impacted by product mix due to varying customer requirements and various fuel cell products, including power configurations required by our customers (and the resulting impact on selling price) of our FCveloCity®-HD7 200-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-HD6 150-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-HD7 85&100-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell modules, FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks, MEA’s, and related component and parts kits. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues in the first three quarters of 2018 of $28.8 million include $16.6 million for shipments of MEA’s under the MEA Supply Agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo for use in their manufacture and assembly of FCveloCity® fuel cell stacks in China; $3.1 million for shipments of FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell products primarily to customers in China; $2.3 million for shipments of FCveloCity®-HD7 200-kilowatt fuel cell modules to CRRC Sifang for their tram project; and $3.4 million to New Flyer and $1.3 million to Van Hool for shipments of FCveloCity®-HD7 85&100-kilowatt fuel cell modules for their respective bus programs. Heavy-Duty Motive revenues in the first three quarters of 2017 of $37.1 million include $10.2 million for shipments of MEA’s under the MEA Supply Agreement with Synergy Ballard JVCo; $8.7 million for shipments of FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stacks to Synergy Group for a variety of programs; $8.1 million of shipments of FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell products to Broad-Ocean; $2.9 million for the shipment of FCveloCity®-HD7 200-kilowatt fuel cell modules to CRRC Sifang for their tram program; and $2.2 million of shipments of FCveloCity®-HD6 150-kilowatt fuel cell modules primarily to customer in North America.
Technology Solutions revenues of $26.7 million decreased ($6.8) million, or (20%), due primarily to lower amounts earned in the first three quarters of 2018 from technology transfer and related agreements with Synergy Ballard JVCo, partially offset by increases in amounts earned on other programs. Amounts earned in the first three quarters of 2018 of $26.7 million were from a variety of customer programs including amounts earned from the Volkswagen program of $17.8 million, the Broad-Ocean technology transfer program of $3.4 million, the Siemens development program of $1.6 million, the Nisshinbo program of $0.9 million, and $1.0 million from the program with the unnamed strategic customer. Amounts earned in the first three quarters of 2017 of $33.5 million were also from a variety of customer programs including amounts earned from Synergy Ballard JVCo of $13.7 million on the FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stack production line in Yunfu, China which was completed in 2017, Volkswagen program revenues of $13.0 million,

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 18 of 39    




the Broad-Ocean technology transfer program of $1.5 million, and amounts earned on a variety of other programs including the HDF distributed generation project, the TRC and CRRC Sifang tram development projects, and the project to enable Synergy Group to exclusively manufacture and sell Ballard's direct hydrogen FCgen®-H2PM fuel cell backup power systems in China. Volkswagen service revenues were also positively impacted by approximately $0.3 million in the first three quarters of 2018, as compared to the first three quarters of 2017, as a result of an approximate 2% higher Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, as the Volkswagen Agreement is priced in Canadian dollars. The underlying costs to satisfy the Volkswagen Agreement are primarily denominated in Canadian dollars.
Portable Power revenues of $6.7 million increased $3.8 million, or 128%, due to higher product revenues generated by Protonex as service revenues were relatively consistent. Revenues from Protonex in the first three quarters of 2018 include $1.9 million of product shipments of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits to complete a $1.9 million purchase order from U.S. Army Security Force Assistance Brigades (SFAB), and $1.6 million of shipments of SPM-622 Squad Power Manager Kits to complete a purchase order for end customer U.S. Special Operations Command. These purchase orders were issued by the Program Executive Office (PEO) – Soldier, as part of the recently approved program of record, with Milestone C approval having been received in 2017. Portable Power revenues are impacted by the demand and timing of end customers’ product deployments as well as the demand and timing of their engineering services projects.
Material Handling revenues of $4.8 million decreased ($1.4) million, or (23%), primarily as a result of lower stack shipments to Plug Power combined with the impact of a lower average selling price due to product mix.
Backup Power revenues of $1.1 million decreased ($0.2) million, or (13%), due primarily to a decrease in hydrogen-based backup power product and service revenues in Europe and Japan for a variety of backup power applications.
Fuel Cell Products and Services gross margins were $22.5 million, or 33% of revenues, for the first three quarters of 2018, compared to 29.0 million, or 36% of revenues, for the first three quarters of 2017. The decline in gross margin of ($6.5) million, or (22%), was driven primarily by the (16%) decrease in total revenues, combined with a shift to slightly lower overall margin product and service revenue mix resulting in a (3) percentage point decline in gross margin as a percent of revenues. Gross margin in the first three quarters of 2017 particularly benefited from an increase in higher margin Technology Solutions revenues including amounts earned from Synergy Ballard JVCo related to the completed in 2017 FCvelocity®-9SSL fuel cell stack production operation in Yunfu, China.
Cash Operating Costs
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Research and Product
Development (cash operating cost)
$
18,037

$
14,602

$
3,435

24
%
General and Administrative
(cash operating cost)
8,191

7,704

487

6
%
Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost)
5,557

5,503

54

1
%
Cash Operating Costs
$
31,785

$
27,809

$
3,976

14
%
Cash Operating Costs and its components of Research and Product Development (cash operating cost), General and Administrative (cash operating cost), and Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) are non-GAAP measures. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. See the reconciliation of Cash Operating Costs to GAAP in the Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures section and the reconciliation of Research and Product Development (cash operating cost), General and Administrative (cash operating cost), and Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) to GAAP in the Operating Expense section. Cash Operating Costs adjusts operating expenses for stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, impairment losses on trade receivables, restructuring charges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts, acquisition costs and financing charges.
Cash Operating Costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) for the first three quarters of 2018 were $31.8 million, an increase of $4.0 million, or 14%, compared to the first three quarters of 2017. The $4.0 million, or 14%, increase was driven primarily by an increase in research and product development cash operating costs of $3.4 million, combined with increases in general and administrative cash operating costs of $0.5 million and increases in sales and marketing cash operating costs of $0.1 million.
The 14% increase in cash operating costs in the first half of 2018 was driven primarily by higher program development and continuation engineering expenses related to research and product development and the ongoing improvement of all of our fuel cell products including the design and development of our next generation fuel cell products including our new high performance liquid-cooled fuel cell stack, the FCgen®-LCS, and by increased investment to support our commercial efforts in China. In addition, operating expenses were negatively impacted by higher labour costs in Canada

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 19 of 39    




as a result of an approximate 2% higher Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, and the resulting negative impact on our Canadian operating cost base. These cost increases were partially offset by the benefit of cost reductions as a result of the Company’s rationalization initiatives undertaken in the third and fourth quarters of 2017 at Protonex including the divestiture of certain non-core assets.
Adjusted EBITDA
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Adjusted EBITDA
$
(8,271
)
$
1,239

$
(9,510
)
(768
)%
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP measures. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. See reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to GAAP in the Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures section. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA for stock-based compensation expense, transactional gains and losses, asset impairment charges, unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts, finance and other income, and acquisition costs.
Adjusted EBITDA (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) for the first three quarters of 2018 was ($8.3) million, compared to $1.2 million for the first three quarters of 2017. The ($9.5) million decline in Adjusted EBITDA was driven by the ($6.5) million decrease in gross margin as a result of the (16%) decline in overall revenues combined with the (3) point reduction in gross margin as a percent of revenues, and by the increase in Cash Operating Costs of ($4.0) million due primarily as a result of higher research and product development cash operating costs. These negative first three quarters of 2018 impacts were partially offset by lower other operating expenses of $0.8 million due primarily to lower restructuring expenses period over period. During the first three quarters of 2017, restructuring expenses of $0.9 million were incurred related primarily to a leadership change in sales and marketing combined with cost reduction initiatives in the general and administration function.
In addition and as noted above, operating costs in the first three quarters of 2018 were impacted by the negative impact of a stronger Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, as compared to the first three quarters of 2017. As a significant amount of our net operating costs (primarily labour) are denominated in Canadian dollars, gross margin, operating expenses and Adjusted EBITDA are impacted by changes in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar. As the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar was approximately 2%, or 2 basis points, higher in the first three quarters of 2018 as compared to the first three quarters of 2017, negative foreign exchange impacts on our Canadian operating cost base and Adjusted EBITDA were approximately ($0.75) million. A $0.01 increase in the Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, negatively impacts annual Cash Operating Costs and Adjusted EBITDA by approximately ($0.5) million.
Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(15,847
)
$
(5,162
)
$
(10,685
)
(207
)%
Net loss attributable to Ballard for the first three quarters of 2018 was ($15.8) million, or ($0.09) per share, compared to a net loss of ($5.2) million, or ($0.03) per share, in the first three quarters of 2017. The ($10.7) million increase in net loss in the first three quarters of 2018 was driven primarily by the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($9.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expense of ($2.6) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange losses. These net (loss) increases in 2018 were partially offset by lower income tax expense of $1.1 million related to withholding taxes on certain Chinese commercial contracts, and by lower loss on sale of assets of $0.8 million as we wrote-down the fair value of potential proceeds receivable on the CHEM transaction in the first three quarters of 2017.
As noted above, net loss attributable to Ballard in the first three quarters of 2017 was negatively impacted by a loss on sale of assets of ($0.8) million recognized as a result of the closing of the CHEM Transaction and the subsequent change in estimated fair value of potential proceeds receivable. Excluding the impact of asset impairment charges, transactional gains and losses on intangible assets and property, plant and equipment, and acquisition costs, Adjusted Net Loss (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) in the first three quarters of 2018 was ($15.9) million, or ($0.09) per share, compared to ($4.3) million, or ($0.02) per share, for the first three quarters of 2017.

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 20 of 39    




Cash provided by (used in) operating activities
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Cash provided by (used in) operating activities
$
(31,876
)
$
(9,040
)
$
(22,836
)
(253
)%
Cash used in operating activities in the first three quarters of 2018 was ($31.9) million, consisting of cash operating losses of ($9.4) million combined with net working capital outflows of ($22.5) million. Cash used in operating activities in the first three quarters of 2017 was ($9.0) million, consisting of cash operating income of $0.8 million offset by net working capital outflows of ($9.8) million. The ($22.8) million increase in cash used in operating activities in the first three quarters of 2018, as compared to the first three quarters of 2017, was driven by the relative increase in cash operating losses of ($10.2) million and by the relative increase in working capital requirements of ($12.6) million. The relative ($10.2) million increase in cash operating losses in the first three quarters of 2018 was due primarily to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($9.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expense of ($2.6) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange losses. These net (loss) increases in 2018 were partially offset by lower income tax expense of $1.1 million related to withholding taxes on certain Chinese commercial contracts.
The total change in working capital of ($22.5) million in the first three quarters of 2018 was driven by higher inventory of ($16.7) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the last quarter of 2018 and into 2019, by lower accounts payable and accrued liabilities of ($6.1) million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, and by higher accounts receivable of ($2.5) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections. These first three quarters of 2018 outflows were partially offset by higher accrued warranty obligations of $2.3 million primarily on Heavy-Duty Motive product shipments.
This compares to a total change in working capital of ($9.8) million in the first three quarters of 2017 which was driven by lower deferred revenue of ($11.1) million as we fulfilled contract deliverables on certain Heavy-Duty Motive and Technology Solutions contracts for which we received pre-payments in an earlier period, by higher accounts receivable of ($3.7) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections, and by higher inventory of ($2.6) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the last quarter of 2017. These first three quarter of 2017 working capital outflows were partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $4.8 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments, by higher accrued warranty obligations of $1.6 million due to increased product shipments, and by lower prepaid expenses of $1.0 million.
5.4 Operating Expenses and Other Items – Three and Nine Months ended September 30, 2018
Research and product development expenses
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Research and product development
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Research and product development expense
$
6,770

$
5,702

$
1,068

19
 %
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$
(464
)
$
(636
)
$
172

27
 %
Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(365
)
$
(223
)
$
(142
)
(64
)%
Research and Product Development (cash operating cost)
$
5,941

$
4,843

$
1,098

23
 %


(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

Nine months ended September 30,
Research and product development
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Research and product development expense
$
20,616

$
17,235

$
3,381

20
 %
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$
(1,668
)
$
(1,912
)
$
244

13
 %
Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(911
)
$
(721
)
$
(190
)
(26
)%
Research and Product Development (cash operating cost)
$
18,037

$
14,602

$
3,434

24
 %
Research and Product Development (cash operating cost) is a non-GAAP measure. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Research and Product Development (cash operating cost) adjusts Research and product development expense for depreciation and amortization expense and stock-based compensation expense. See the reconciliation of the adjustments to Research and product development expense in the Non-GAAP Measures section.
Research and product development expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2018 were $6.8 million, an increase of $1.1 million, or 19%, compared to the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding depreciation and amortization expense of ($0.5) million and ($0.6) million, respectively, in each of the periods, and excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($0.4) million and ($0.2) million, respectively, in each of the periods, research and product

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 21 of 39    




development cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $5.9 million in the third quarter of 2018, an increase of $1.1 million, or 23%, compared to the third quarter of 2017.
Research and product development expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 were $20.6 million, an increase of $3.4 million, or 20%, compared to the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding depreciation and amortization expense of ($1.7) million and ($1.9) million, respectively, in each of the periods, and excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($0.9) million and ($0.7) million, respectively, in each of the periods, research and product development cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $18.0 million in the first three quarters of 2018, an increase of $3.4 million, or 24%, compared to the first three quarters of 2017.
The respective $1.1 million, or 23%, and the $3.4 million, or 24%, increases in research and development cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) in the third quarter and first three quarters of 2018 were driven primarily by higher program development and continuation engineering expenses related to research and product development and the ongoing improvement of all of our fuel cell products including the design and development of our next generation fuel cell products including our new high performance liquid-cooled fuel cell stack, the FCgen®-LCS. Research and development cash operating costs were also impacted by higher labour costs in Canada as a result of an approximate 2% higher Canadian dollar in the year, relative to the U.S. dollar, and the resulting negative impact on our Canadian operating cost base. These cost increases were partially offset by lower costs at Protonex as a result of the Company’s rationalization initiatives undertaken in the third and fourth quarters of 2017.
Government funding recoveries were also lower in 2018 as compared to 2017 due primarily to a decline in government funding recoveries in Denmark by Ballard Power Systems Europe A/S. Government research funding, and development costs capitalized as fuel cell technology intangible assets, are reflected as cost offsets to research and product development expenses, whereas labour and material costs incurred on revenue producing engineering services projects are reallocated from research and product development expenses to cost of goods sold.
Depreciation and amortization expense included in research and product development expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.5 million and $1.7 million, respectively, compared to $0.6 million and $1.9 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Depreciation and amortization expense relates primarily to amortization expense on our intangible assets and depreciation expense on our research and product development equipment. Amortization expense on intangible assets is primarily due to the acquisition of Protonex on October 1, 2015 and the resulting amortization of acquired intangible assets over their estimated useful lives of 15 to 20 years.
Stock-based compensation expense included in research and product development expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.4 million and $0.9 million, respectively, compared to $0.2 million and $0.7 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017.
General and administrative expenses
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
General and administrative
2018

2017
      $ Change

      % Change

General and administrative expense
$
3,036

$
3,210

$
(174
)
(5
)%
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$
(317
)
$
(221
)
$
(96
)
(43
)%
Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(368
)
$
(298
)
$
(70
)
(23
)%
Add: Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange contracts
$
451

$

$
451

100
 %
General and Administrative (cash operating cost)
$
2,802

$
2,691

$
111

4
 %

(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
General and administrative
2018

2017
      $ Change

      % Change

General and administrative expense
$
10,281

$
9,379

$
902

10
 %
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$
(952
)
$
(667
)
$
(285
)
(43
)%
Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(1018
)
$
(1008
)
$
(10
)
(1
)%
Add: Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange contracts
$
(120
)
$

$
(120
)
(100
)%
General and Administrative (cash operating cost)
$
8,191

$
7,704

$
487

6
 %
General and Administrative (cash operating cost) is a non-GAAP measure. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. General and Administrative (cash operating cost) adjusts General and administrative expense for depreciation and amortization expense, stock-based compensation expense and unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange contracts. See the reconciliation of the adjustments to General and administrative expense in the Non-GAAP Measures section.

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 22 of 39    




General and administrative expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2018 were $3.0 million, a decrease of ($0.2) million, or (5%), compared to the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding depreciation and amortization expense of ($0.3) million and ($0.2) million, respectively, in each of the periods, excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($0.4) million and ($0.3) million, respectively, in each of the periods, and excluding unrealized gains on foreign exchange contracts of $0.5 million in the three months ended September 30, 2018, general and administrative cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $2.8 million in the third quarter of 2018, an increase of $0.1 million, or 4%, compared to the third quarter of 2017.
General and administrative expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 were $10.3 million, an increase of $0.9 million, or 10%, compared to the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding depreciation and amortization expense of ($1.0) million and ($0.7) million, respectively, in each of the periods, excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($1.0) million in each of the periods, and excluding unrealized losses on foreign exchange contracts of ($0.1) million in the nine months ended September 30, 2018, general and administrative cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $8.2 million in the first three quarters of 2018, an increase of $0.5 million, or 6%, compared to first three quarters of 2017.
The respective $0.1 million, or 4%, and the $0.5 million, or 6%, increase in general and administrative cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) in the third quarter and first three quarters of 2018 were driven primarily by higher legal and advisory costs due to the timing of transactional contracting and human resources costs, and by higher labour costs in Canada as a result of an approximate 2% higher Canadian dollar in the year, relative to the U.S. dollar, and the resulting negative impact on our Canadian operating cost base. These cost increases were partially offset by lower costs at Protonex as a result of the Company’s rationalization initiatives undertaken in the third and fourth quarters of 2017.
Depreciation and amortization expense included in general and administrative expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively, compared to $0.2 million and $0.7 million respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Depreciation and amortization expense relates primarily to our office and information technology intangible assets and has increased in 2018 as a result of our investment in a new ERP system.
Stock-based compensation expense included in general and administrative expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.4 million and $1.0 million, respectively, relatively consistent with the corresponding periods of 2017.
Unrealized gains (losses) on foreign exchange contracts included in general and administrative expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.5 million and ($0.1) million, respectively, compared to nil for the corresponding periods of 2017. We use forward foreign exchange contracts to manage our exposure to currency rate fluctuations. We record these contracts at their fair value as of the balance sheet date as either assets or liabilities with any changes in fair value in the period recorded in profit or loss (general and administrative expense) as these contracts are not designated or qualified under hedge accounting criteria. At September 30, 2018, we had outstanding foreign exchange currency contracts to purchase a total of Canadian $16.6 million at an average rate of 1.2857 Canadian per U.S. dollar, resulting in an unrealized loss of ($0.1) million at September 30, 2018.
Sales and marketing expenses

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 23 of 39    




(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Sales and marketing
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Sales and marketing expense
$
1,999

$
1,980

$
19

1
 %
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$

$

$

        -%

Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(162
)
$
(140
)
$
(22
)
(16
)%
Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost)
$
1,837

$
1,840

$
(3
)
      (-%)



(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

Nine months ended September 30,
Sales and marketing
2018

2017

      $ Change

      % Change

Sales and marketing expense
$
6,035

$
5,807

$
228

4
 %
Less: Depreciation and amortization expense
$

$
(1
)
$
1

      -%

Less: Stock-based compensation expense
$
(478
)
$
(303
)
$
(175
)
(58
)%
Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost)
$
5,557

$
5,503

$
54

1
 %
Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) is a non-GAAP measure. We use certain Non-GAAP measures to assist in assessing our financial performance. Non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. Sales and Marketing (cash operating cost) adjusts Sales and marketing expense for depreciation and amortization expense and stock-based compensation expense. See the reconciliation of the adjustments to Sales and marketing expense in the Non-GAAP Measures section.
Sales and marketing expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2018 were $2.0 million, consistent with the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($0.2) million and ($0.1) million, respectively, in each of the periods, sales and marketing cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $1.8 million in the third quarter of 2018, flat compared to the third quarter of 2017.
Sales and marketing expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2018 were $6.0 million, an increase of $0.2 million, or 4%, compared to the corresponding period of 2017. Excluding stock-based compensation expense of ($0.5) million and ($0.3) million, respectively, in each of the periods, sales and marketing cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) were $5.6 million in the first three quarters of 2018, an increase of $0.1 million, or 1%, compared to the first three quarters of 2017.
The nominal increase in sales and marketing cash operating costs (see Supplemental Non-GAAP Measures) in the first three quarters of 2018 was driven primarily by higher labour costs in Canada as a result of an approximate 2% higher Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, and the resulting negative impact on our Canadian operating cost base, combined with an increased investment to support our commercial sales and marketing efforts in China. These cost increases were partially offset by lower costs at Protonex as a result of the Company’s rationalization initiatives undertaken in the third and fourth quarters of 2017.
Stock-based compensation expense included in sales and marketing expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively, compared to $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017.
Other expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was nil million and $0.1 million, respectively, compared to $0.2 million and $0.9 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. The following table provides a breakdown of other expense for the reported periods:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Impairment loss (recovery) on trade receivables
$

$

$

   -

Restructuring expense (recovery)
3

218
(215
)
(99
)%
Acquisition charges



   -

Other expenses (recovery)
$
3

$
218

$
(215
)
(99
)%

(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Impairment loss (recovery) on trade receivables
$
30

$
2

$
28

1,401
 %
Restructuring expense (recovery)
69

870
(801
)
(92
)%
Acquisition charges



   -

Other expenses (recovery)
$
99

$
872

$
(773
)
(89
)%

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 24 of 39    




Restructuring expenses of $0.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 relate primarily to a leadership change in sales and marketing combined with cost reduction initiatives in the general and administration function undertaken in the first quarter of 2017, and by cost reduction initiatives at Protonex undertaken in the third quarter of 2017.
Net impairment loss (recovery) on trade receivables for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 were nominal. In the event that we are able to recover on an impaired trade receivable through legal or other means, the recovered amount is recognized in the period of recovery as a reversal of the impairment loss.
Finance income (loss) and other for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was ($0.2) million and ($0.4) million, respectively, compared to $0.6 million and $2.0 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. The following tables provide a breakdown of finance and other income (loss) for the reported periods:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Employee future benefit plan expense
$
(56
)
$
(60
)
$
4

7
 %
Pension administration expense
   -

(103
)
103

100
 %
Investment and other income (loss)
82

79

3

4
 %
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
(217
)
720

(937
)
(130
)%
Finance income (loss) and other
$
(191
)
$
636

$
(827
)
(130
)%

(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
 
2018

2017

$ Change

% Change

Employee future benefit plan expense
$
(168
)
$
(180
)
$
12

7
 %
Pension administration expense
(13
)
(118
)
105

89
 %
Investment and other income (loss)
354

289

65

23
 %
Foreign exchange gain (loss)
(609
)
2,013

(2,622
)
(130
)%
Finance income (loss) and other
$
(436
)
$
2,004

$
(2,440
)
(122
)%
Employee future benefit plan expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 were ($0.1) million, consistent with the corresponding periods of 2017. Employee future benefit plan expense primarily represents the excess of expected interest cost on plan obligations in excess of the expected return on plan assets related to a curtailed defined benefit pension plan for certain former United States employees. Nominal pension administration expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 represent administrative costs incurred in managing the plan.
Foreign exchange gains (losses) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 were ($0.2) million and ($0.6) million, respectively, compared to $0.7 million and $2.0 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Foreign exchange gains and losses are attributable primarily to the effect of the changes in the value of the Canadian dollar, relative to the U.S. dollar, on our Canadian dollar-denominated net monetary position. Foreign exchange gains and losses impacted by the conversion of Ballard Power Systems Europe A/S’ assets and liabilities from the Danish Kroner to the U.S. dollar at exchange rates in effect at each reporting date are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss).
Investment and other income for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 were $0.1 million and $0.4 million, respectively, compared to $0.1 million and $0.3 million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Amounts were earned primarily on our cash and cash equivalents.
Finance expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was ($0.1) million and ($0.4) million, respectively, compared to ($0.2) million and ($0.6) million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Finance expense relates primarily to the sale and leaseback of our head office building in Burnaby, British Columbia which was completed in 2010. Due to the long term nature of the lease, the leaseback of the building qualifies as a finance (or capital) lease.
Gain (Loss) on sale of assets for the nine months ended September 30, 2017 was ($0.9) million and was incurred on the CHEM Transaction. During the second quarter of 2016, we completed the sale of certain of our methanol Telecom Backup Power business assets to CHEM for a purchase price of up to $6.1 million, of which $3.0 million was paid on closing. The remaining potential purchase price of up to $3.1 million consisted of an earn-out arising from sales of

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 25 of 39    




methanol Telecom Backup Power systems by CHEM during the 18-month period to November 2017 derived from the sales pipeline transferred to CHEM on closing. The remaining potential purchase price of up to $3.1 million was recorded as proceeds receivable at its estimated fair value of $1.8 million on June 30, 2016. During the second quarter of 2017, we recorded an additional loss on sale of assets of ($0.8) million as the remaining potential purchase price was written down to its revised estimated fair value of $1.0 million from $1.8 million. On the closing of this transaction in the second quarter of 2016, CHEM received certain assets related to the methanol Telecom Backup Power line of our business including intellectual property rights, and physical assets such as inventory and related product brands.
Income tax expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 was ($0.3) million in each of the periods, compared to ($0.4) million and ($1.4) million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017. Income tax expense relates primarily to withholding taxes in China deducted from proceeds earned on certain Chinese commercial contracts.
Equity in income (loss) of investment for the three and nine months ended June 30, 2018 and 2017 was nominal. Equity in income of investment relates to the pickup of 10% of the net income (loss) of Synergy Ballard JVCo as a result of our 10% ownership position in the China joint venture which is accounted using the equity method of accounting.
5.5 Summary of Quarterly Results
The following table provides summary financial data for our last eight quarters:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per share amounts and weighted average shares outstanding which are expressed in thousands)
Quarter ended,
Sep 30,
 2018

Jun 30,
 2018

Mar 31,
 2018

Dec 31,
 2017

Revenues
$
21,574

$
26,445

$
20,090

$
40,257

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(6,024
)
$
(4,323
)
$
(5,500
)
$
(2,887
)
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Ballard, basic and diluted
$
(0.03
)
$
(0.02
)
$
(0.03
)
$
(0.02
)
Weighted average common shares outstanding
179,153

178,727

178,186

177,803

 
 
 
 
 
 
Sep 30,
 2017

June 30, 2017

Mar 31,
 2017

Dec 31,
 2016

Revenues
$
31,854

$
26,521

$
22,656

$
30,684

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(1,027
)
$
(1,201
)
$
(2,935
)
$
(1,121
)
Net income (loss) per share attributable to Ballard, basic and diluted
$
(0.01
)
$
(0.01
)
$
(0.02
)
$
(0.01
)
Weighted average common shares outstanding
176,438

175,953

174,853

174,722


Summary of Quarterly Results: There were no significant seasonal variations in our quarterly results. Variations in our net loss for the above periods were affected primarily by the following factors:
Revenues: Variations in fuel cell product and service revenues reflect the demand and timing of our customers’ fuel cell vehicle, bus and fuel cell product deployments as well as the demand and timing of their engineering services projects. Variations in fuel cell product and service revenues also reflect the timing of work performed and the achievements of milestones under long-term fixed price contracts. Revenues were positively impacted in the fourth quarter of 2017 as we fulfilled an $18 million supply contract (announced on June 5, 2017) for 400 FCveloCity® fuel cell engines and consisting primarily of shipments of FCveloCity®-MD 30-kilowatt fuel cell products and MEA’s.
Operating expenditures: Operating expenses were negatively impacted in the first quarter of 2017 by restructuring expenses of ($0.6) million related to a leadership change in sales and marketing and by cost reduction initiatives in the general and administration function. Operating expenses also include the impact of changes in the value of the Canadian dollar, versus the U.S. dollar, on our Canadian dollar denominated expenditures.
Net income (loss): Net income (loss) for the fourth quarter of 2017 was negatively impacted by a loss on sale of assets of ($0.5) million as we sold certain SOFC fuel cell inventory to Upstart for nominal proceeds. Net loss in the fourth quarter of 2017 was also negatively impacted by impairment charges of ($1.5) million consisting of a ($1.2) million impairment charge on intangible assets and a ($0.3) million impairment charge on property, plant and equipment as we wrote-down certain SOFC fuel cell assets to their estimated net realizable value of $0.05 million. Net income (loss) for the second quarter of 2017 was negatively impacted by a loss on sale of assets of

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 26 of 39    




($0.8) million as we recorded an impairment adjustment against the potential purchase price receivable from the CHEM Transaction by reducing the estimated fair value of the potential remaining earn-out to $1.0 million from $1.8 million.
6.
CASH FLOWS, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
6.1 Summary of Cash Flows
Cash and cash equivalents were $23.2 million at September 30, 2018, compared to $60.3 million at December 31, 2017. The ($37.1) million decrease in cash and cash equivalents in 2018 was driven by net losses (excluding non-cash items) of ($9.4) million, net working capital outflows of ($22.5) million, purchases of property, plant and equipment of ($8.3) million, and by finance lease repayments of ($0.5) million. These 2018 outflows were partially offset by net proceeds received from share purchase warrant exercises of $1.4 million, and by net proceeds received from share purchase option exercises of $1.5 million.
6.2 Cash Provided by (Used by) Operating Activities
For the three months ended September 30, 2018, cash used in operating activities was ($7.7) million, consisting of cash operating losses of ($4.9) million combined with net working capital outflows of ($2.8) million. For the three months ended September 30, 2017, cash used by operating activities was ($7.7) million, consisting of cash operating income of $0.6 million offset by net working capital outflows of ($8.3) million. Cash used in operating activities in the third quarter of 2018, as compared to the third quarter of 2017, was consistent as the relative increase in cash operating losses of ($5.5) million was offset by the relative decrease in working capital requirements of $5.5 million. The relative ($5.5) million increase in cash operating losses in the third quarter of 2018 was due primarily to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($4.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expenses of ($0.8) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange gains (losses).
In the third quarter of 2018, net working capital outflows of ($2.8) million were driven by higher inventory of ($5.8) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the fourth quarter of 2018 and into 2019. This third quarter of 2018 outflow was partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $1.5 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, and by higher accrued warranty obligations of $1.3 million primarily on Heavy-Duty Motive product shipments.
In the third quarter of 2017, net working capital outflows of ($8.3) million were driven by lower deferred revenue of ($11.0) million as we fulfilled contract deliverables on certain Heavy-Duty Motive and Technology Solutions contracts for which we received pre-payments in an earlier period, and by higher accounts receivable of ($3.3) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections. These third quarter of 2017 outflows were partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $4.1 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, by lower prepaid and other expenses of $1.1 million, and by higher accrued warranty obligations of $0.9 million due to increased product shipments.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2018, cash used in operating activities was ($31.9) million, consisting of cash operating losses of ($9.4) million combined with net working capital outflows of ($22.5) million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2017, cash used in operating activities was ($9.0) million, consisting of cash operating income of $0.8 million offset by net working capital outflows of ($9.8) million. The ($22.8) million increase in cash used in operating activities in the first three quarters of 2018, as compared to the first three quarters of 2017, was driven by the relative increase in cash operating losses of ($10.2) million and by the relative increase in working capital requirements of ($12.6) million. The relative ($10.2) million increase in cash operating losses in the first three quarters of 2018 was due primarily to the increase in Adjusted EBITDA loss of ($9.5) million, combined with higher finance and other expense of ($2.6) million in 2018 due primarily to higher foreign exchange losses. These net (loss) increases in 2018 were partially offset by lower income tax expense of $1.1 million related to withholding taxes on certain Chinese commercial contracts.
In the first three quarters of 2018, net working capital outflows of ($22.5) million were driven by higher inventory of ($16.7) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the last quarter of 2018 and into 2019,

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 27 of 39    




by lower accounts payable and accrued liabilities of ($6.1) million as a result of the timing of supplier payments and annual compensation awards, and by higher accounts receivable of ($2.5) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections. These first three quarters of 2018 outflows were partially offset by higher accrued warranty obligations of $2.3 million primarily on Heavy-Duty Motive product shipments.
This compares to a total change in working capital of ($9.8) million in the first three quarters of 2017 which was driven by lower deferred revenue of ($11.1) million as we fulfilled contract deliverables on certain Heavy-Duty Motive and Technology Solutions contracts for which we received pre-payments in an earlier period, by higher accounts receivable of ($3.7) million primarily as a result of the timing of revenues and the related customer collections, and by higher inventory of ($2.6) million primarily to support expected Heavy-Duty Motive shipments in the last quarter of 2017. These first three quarter of 2017 working capital outflows were partially offset by higher accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $4.8 million as a result of the timing of supplier payments, by higher accrued warranty obligations of $1.6 million due to increased product shipments, and by lower prepaid expenses of $1.0 million.
6.3 Cash Provided by (Used by) Investing Activities
Investing activities resulted in net cash outflows of ($6.2) million and ($8.2) million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to net cash outflows of ($1.6) million and ($5.9) million, respectively, for the corresponding periods of 2017.
Investing activities in the first three quarters of 2018 of ($8.2) million consist primarily of capital expenditures of ($8.3) million incurred primarily for production and test equipment and include the acquisition of certain strategic assets of AFCC in the third quarter of 2016 of approximately Canadian $6 million.
Investing activities in the first three quarters of 2017 of ($5.9) million consist primarily of capital expenditures of ($1.8) million, investments in other intangible assets of ($3.1) million related primarily to the ongoing implementation of a new Enterprise Resource Planning (“ERP”) management reporting software system, and investments in associated companies of ($1.0) million paid for our 10% investment in Synergy Ballard JVCo.
6.4 Cash Provided by (Used by) Financing Activities
Financing activities resulted in net cash inflows of $1.8 million and $2.5 million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, compared to net cash inflows of $1.5 million and $3.4 million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.
Financing activities in the first three quarters of 2018 of $2.5 million consist of proceeds from share purchase warrant exercises of $1.4 million, proceeds from share purchase option exercises of $1.5 million, partially offset by finance lease payments of ($0.5) million.
Financing activities in the first three quarters of 2017 of $3.4 million consist of proceeds from share purchase warrant exercises of $1.1 million, proceeds from share purchase option exercises of $2.7 million, partially offset by capital lease payments of ($0.5) million.
6.5 Liquidity and Capital Resources
At September 30, 2018, we had total liquidity of $23.2 million. We measure liquidity as our net cash position, consisting of the sum of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $23.2 million, net of amounts drawn on our $7 million Canadian demand revolving facility (“Operating Facility”) of nil. The Operating Facility is available to be used in helping to finance our short term working capital requirements and is secured by a hypothecation of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments.
We also have a $1.8 million Canadian capital leasing facility (“Leasing Facility”) which is available to be used to finance the acquisition and / or lease of operating equipment and is secured by a hypothecation of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments. As of September 30, 2018, nothing was outstanding on the Leasing Facility.
Our liquidity objective is to maintain cash balances sufficient to fund at least six quarters of forecasted cash used by operating activities at all times. Our strategy to attain this objective is to continue our drive to attain profitable operations that are sustainable by executing a business plan that continues to focus on Fuel Cell Products and Services revenue

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 28 of 39    




growth, improving overall gross margins, maintaining discipline over Cash Operating Costs, managing working capital requirements, and securing additional financing to fund our operations as needed until we do achieve profitable operations that are sustainable. We believe that we have adequate liquidity in cash, working capital, and planned financing activities (including the expected closing of the equity investments by Weichai Power and Broad-Ocean in Ballard of approximately $163 million and $20 million, respectively, in the fourth quarter of 2018) to meet this liquidity objective and to finance our operations. In the event that the closing of the planned financing by Weichai Power and Broad-Ocean is delayed or not completed, it may be necessary to pursue additional liquidity through the issuance of debt or equity in private or public market financings.
Failure to achieve or maintain this liquidity objective could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations including our ability to continue as a going concern. There are also various risks and uncertainties affecting our ability to achieve this liquidity objective including, but not limited to, the market acceptance and rate of commercialization of our products, the ability to successfully execute our business plan, and general global economic conditions, certain of which are beyond our control. While we continue to make significant investments in product development and market development activities necessary to commercialize our products, and make increased investments in working capital as we grow our business, our actual liquidity requirements will also vary and will be impacted by our relationships with our lead customers and strategic partners including their ability to successfully finance and fund their operations and programs and agreements with us, our success in developing new channels to market and relationships with customers, our success in generating revenue growth from near-term product, service and licensing opportunities, our success in managing our operating expense and working capital requirements, foreign exchange fluctuations, and the progress and results of our research, development and demonstration programs.
As noted above, we may also choose to pursue additional liquidity through the issuance of debt or equity in private or public market financings. To enable the timely issuance of equity securities in the public market, Ballard has a shelf prospectus on file with the securities regulators in Canada and the United States, expiring in July 2020. The Prospectus was filed in each of the provinces and territories of Canada, except Quebec, and a corresponding shelf registration statement on Form F-10 (Registration Statement) was also filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These filings enable offerings of securities up to an aggregate initial offering price of $150 million at any time during the 25-month period that the Prospectus remains effective.
No assurance can be given that any such additional liquidity will be available or that, if available, it can be obtained on terms favorable to the Company. If any securities are offered under the Prospectus and/or Registration Statement, the terms of any such securities and the intended use of the net proceeds resulting from such offering would be established at the time of any offering and would be described in a Prospectus supplement filed with applicable Canadian securities regulators and/or the SEC, respectively, at the time of such an offering.  

7.
OTHER FINANCIAL MATTERS
7.1 Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Contractual Obligations
Periodically, we use forward foreign exchange and forward platinum purchase contracts to manage our exposure to currency rate fluctuations and platinum price fluctuations. We record these contracts at their fair value as either assets or liabilities on our balance sheet. Any changes in fair value are either (i) recorded in other comprehensive income if formally designated and qualified under hedge accounting criteria; or (ii) recorded in profit or loss (general and administrative expense) if either not designated, or not qualified, under hedge accounting criteria. At September 30, 2018, we had outstanding foreign exchange currency contracts to purchase a total of Canadian $16.6 million at an average rate of 1.2857 Canadian per U.S dollar, resulting in an unrealized loss of Canadian ($0.2) million at September 30, 2018. The outstanding foreign exchange currency contracts are not qualified under hedge accounting.
At September 30, 2018, we did not have any other material obligations under guarantee contracts, retained or contingent interests in transferred assets, outstanding derivative instruments or non-consolidated variable interests.
At September 30, 2018, we had the following contractual obligations and commercial commitments:

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 29 of 39    




(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Payments due by period,
Contractual Obligations
Total
 
Less than one year

1-3 years

4-5 years

After 5 years

Operating leases
$
19,480
 
$
2,424

$
4,992

$
4,354

$
7,710

Capital leases
7,757
 
1,084

2,458

2,467

1,748

Asset retirement obligations
1,708
 
   -

   -

   -

1,708

Total contractual obligations
$
28,945
 
$
3,508

$
7,450

$
6,821

$
11,166

In addition, we have outstanding commitments of $4.1 million at September 30, 2018 related primarily to purchases of property, plant and equipment. Capital expenditures and expenditures on other intangible assets pertain to our regular operations and are expected to be funded through cash on hand.
In connection with the acquisition of intellectual property from UTC in 2014, we have a royalty obligation in certain circumstances to pay UTC a portion (up to 25%) of any future intellectual property sale and licensing income generated from our intellectual property portfolio for a period of 15-years expiring in April 2029.
As of December 31, 2017, we retain a previous funding obligation to pay royalties of 2% of revenues (to a maximum of Canadian $5.4 million) on sales of certain fuel cell products for commercial distributed utility applications. No royalties have been incurred to date as a result of this agreement. We also retain a previous funding obligation to pay royalties of 2% of revenues (to a maximum of Canadian $2.2 million) on sales of certain fuel cell products for commercial transit applications. No royalties have been incurred to date as a result of this agreement.
In the ordinary course of business or as required by certain acquisition or disposition agreements, we are periodically required to provide certain indemnities to other parties. At September 30, 2018, we have not accrued any amount owing, or receivable, as a result of any indemnity agreements undertaken in the ordinary course of business.
In January, February and April 2018, certain related class action complaints were filed in U.S. Federal Court alleging violations of U.S. federal securities laws. In April plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed all but one of their cases, Porwal v. Ballard Power Systems, Inc. et al (S.D. N.Y.). Under the current scheduling order in this action, Plaintiffs filed an amended complaint on June 22, 2018. Ballard will vigorously contest, and defend against, Plaintiffs’ claims and believes the claims are without merit.
7.2 Related Party Transactions
Related parties include our 10% owned equity accounted investee, Synergy Ballard JVCo. Transactions between us and our subsidiaries are eliminated on consolidation. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, related party transactions and balances with Synergy Ballard JVCo are as follows:

(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

   Three Months Ended September 30,
Transactions with related parties
2018

2017

Revenues
$
1,041

$
9,728

Cost of goods sold and operating expense
$

$



(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)

   Nine Months Ended September 30,
Transactions with related parties
2018

2017

Revenues
$
16,734

$
24,547

Cost of goods sold and operating expense
$

$



(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
As at September 30,

As at December 31,

Balances with related parties
2018

2017

Accounts receivable
$
3,018

$
1,415

Investments
$

$
676

Deferred revenue
$
(2,021
)
$
(2,973
)

mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 30 of 39    




We also provide key management personnel, being board directors and executive officers, certain benefits, in addition to their salaries. Key management personnel also participate in the Company’s share-based compensation plans. Key management personnel compensation is summarized in note 29 to our annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017.
7.3 Outstanding Share and Equity Information
 
 
As at October 31, 2018
 
 
Common share outstanding
 
179,981,150
Warrants outstanding
 
      -
Options outstanding
 
5,216,174
DSU’s outstanding
 
719,092
RSU’s and PSU’s outstanding (subject to vesting criteria)
 
1,754,497

8.
ACCOUNTING MATTERS
8.1 Overview
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with IFRS, which require us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from those estimates. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.
8.2 Critical Judgments in Applying Accounting Policies
Critical judgments that we have made in the process of applying our accounting policies and that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements is limited to our assessment of our ability to continue as a going concern (See Note 2 (e) to our condensed consolidated interim financial statements).
Our significant accounting policies are detailed in note 4 to our annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2017 except as described below. These changes in accounting policies are also expected to be reflected in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ending December 31, 2018.
Effective January 1, 2018, we have adopted IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The effect of initially applying these standards did not have a material impact on our financial statements. A number of other new standards are also effective from January 1, 2018 but they also did not have a material impact on our financial statements. Changes to significant accounting policies are detailed below and in note 3 to our condensed consolidated interim financial statements.
8.3 Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty
The following are key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty that have a significant risk of resulting in a material adjustment to the reported amount of assets, liabilities, income and expenses within the next financial year.
REVENUE RECOGNITION
Revenues are generated primarily from product sales, the license and sale of intellectual property and fundamental knowledge, and the provision of engineering services and technology transfer services. Product revenues are derived primarily from standard product sales contracts and from long-term fixed price contracts. Intellectual property and fundamental knowledge license and sale revenues are derived primarily from standard licensing and technology transfer agreements. Engineering service and technology transfer service revenues are derived primarily from cost-plus reimbursable contracts and from long-term fixed price contracts.
Revenue is recognized when a customer obtains control of the goods or services. Determining the timing of the transfer of control, at a point in time or over time, requires judgment.

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On standard product sales contracts, customers obtain control of the product when transfer of title and risks and rewards of ownership of goods have passed and when obligation to pay is considered certain. Invoices are generated and revenue is recognized at that point in time. Provisions are made at the time of sale for warranties. Revenue recognition for standard product sales contracts does not usually involve significant estimates.
On standard licensing and technology transfer agreements, revenues are recognized on the transfer of rights to a licensee, when it is determined to be distinct from other performance obligations, and if the customer can direct the use of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the license as it exists at the time of transfer. In other cases, the proceeds are considered to relate to the right to use the asset over the license period and the revenue is recognized over that period. If it is determined that the license is not distinct from other performance obligations, revenue is recognized over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefit. Revenue recognition for standard license and sale agreements does not usually involve significant estimates.
On cost-plus reimbursable contracts, revenues are recognized as costs are incurred, and include applicable fees earned as services are provided. Revenue recognition for cost-plus reimbursable contracts does not usually involve significant estimates.
On long-term fixed price contracts, the customer controls all of the work in progress as the services are being provided. This is because under those contracts, the deliverables are made to a customer’s specification and if a contract is terminated by the customer, then the Corporation is entitled to reimbursement of the costs incurred to date plus the applicable margin. Therefore, revenue from these contracts and the associated costs are recognized as the costs are incurred over time.
On long-term fixed price contracts, revenues are recognized over time typically on a percentage-of-completion basis, which consists of recognizing revenue for a performance obligation on a given contract proportionately with its percentage of completion at any given time. The percentage of completion is determined by dividing the cumulative costs incurred as at the balance sheet date by the sum of incurred and anticipated costs for completing a contract. The cumulative effect of changes to anticipated revenues and anticipated costs for completing a contract are recognized in the period in which the revisions are identified. If the anticipated costs exceed the anticipated revenues on a contract, such loss is recognized in its entirety in the period it becomes known.
The determination of anticipated costs for completing a contract is based on estimates that can be affected by a variety of factors such as variances in the timeline to completion, the cost of materials, the availability and cost of labour, as well as productivity.
The determination of potential revenues includes the contractually agreed amount and may be adjusted based on the estimate of our attainment on achieving certain defined contractual milestones. Management’s estimation is required in determining the amount of consideration for which the Corporation is expected to be entitled and in determining when a performance obligation has been met.
Estimates used to determine revenues and costs of long-term fixed price contracts involve uncertainties that ultimately depend on the outcome of future events and are periodically revised as projects progress. There is a risk that a customer may ultimately disagree with our assessment of the progress achieved against milestones, or that our estimates of the work required completing a contract may change.
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, there were no material adjustments to revenues relating to revenue recognized in a prior period.
ASSET IMPAIRMENT
The carrying amounts of our non-financial assets other than inventories are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. For goodwill and intangible assets that have indefinite useful lives, the recoverable amount is estimated at least annually.
The recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax

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discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. In assessing fair value less costs to sell, the price that would be received on the sale of an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date is estimated. For the purposes of impairment testing, assets that cannot be tested individually are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other groups of assets. The allocation of goodwill to cash-generating units reflects the lowest level at which goodwill is monitored for internal reporting purposes. Many of the factors used in assessing fair value are outside the control of management and it is reasonably likely that assumptions and estimates will change from period to period. These changes may result in future impairments. For example, our revenue growth rate could be lower than projected due to economic, industry or competitive factors, or the discount rate used in our value in use model could increase due to a change in market interest rates. In addition, future goodwill impairment charges may be necessary if our market capitalization decreased due to a decline in the trading price of our common stock, which could negatively impact the fair value of our business.
An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognized in net loss. Impairment losses recognized in respect of the cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the units, and then to reduce the carrying amounts of the other assets in the unit on a pro-rata basis.
An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other assets, impairment losses recognized in prior periods are assessed at each reporting date for any indications that the cumulative loss has decreased or no longer exists. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognized.
We perform the annual review of goodwill as at December 31 of each year, more often if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be impaired. Based on the impairment test performed as at December 31, 2017 and our assessment of current events and circumstances, we have concluded that no goodwill impairment test was required for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018.
In addition to the above goodwill impairment test, we perform a quarterly assessment of the carrying amounts of our non-financial assets (other than inventories) to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. During the year ended December 31, 2017, we recorded a loss on sale of assets of ($0.9) million as the remaining estimated potential purchase price owing from the 2016 CHEM Transaction was written down to its revised and final fair value of $0.9 million (which was collected in the fourth quarter of 2017) from its previous fair value estimate of $1.8 million as of December 31, 2016. During the fourth quarter of 2017, we also recognized a loss on sale of assets of ($0.5) million as we sold certain SOFC fuel cell inventory to Upstart for nominal proceeds, and recorded impairment charges of ($1.5) million consisting of a ($1.2) million impairment charge on intangible assets and a ($0.3) million impairment charge on property, plant and equipment as we wrote-down certain SOFC fuel cell assets to their estimated net realizable value of $0.05 million.
WARRANTY PROVISION
A provision for warranty costs is recorded on product sales at the time of shipment. In establishing the accrued warranty liabilities, we estimate the likelihood that products sold will experience warranty claims and the cost to resolve claims received.
In making such determinations, we use estimates based on the nature of the contract and past and projected experience with the products. Should these estimates prove to be incorrect, we may incur costs different from those provided for in our warranty provisions. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, we recorded provisions to accrued warranty liabilities of $0.8 million and $2.3 million, respectively, for new product sales, compared to $1.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.
We review our warranty assumptions and make adjustments to accrued warranty liabilities quarterly based on the latest information available and to reflect the expiry of contractual obligations. Adjustments to accrued warranty liabilities are recorded in cost of product and service revenues. As a result of these reviews and the resulting adjustments, our warranty provision and cost of revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 were adjusted upwards

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by ($0.6) million and ($0.9) million, respectively, in each of the periods, compared to a net nominal adjustment upwards for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2017.
INVENTORY PROVISION
In determining the lower of cost and net realizable value of our inventory and establishing the appropriate provision for inventory obsolescence, we estimate the likelihood that inventory carrying values will be affected by changes in market pricing or demand for our products and by changes in technology or design which could make inventory on hand obsolete or recoverable at less than cost. We perform regular reviews to assess the impact of changes in technology and design, sales trends and other changes on the carrying value of inventory. Where we determine that such changes have occurred and will have a negative impact on the value of inventory on hand, appropriate provisions are made. If there is a subsequent increase in the value of inventory on hand, reversals of previous write-downs to net realizable value are made. Unforeseen changes in these factors could result in additional inventory provisions, or reversals of previous provisions, being required. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018, inventory adjustments of nil million and ($0.3) million, respectively, were recorded as a recovery (charge) to cost of product and service revenues, compared to net inventory adjustments of ($0.1) million and $0.1 million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2017.
FINANCIAL ASSETS INCLUDING IMPAIRMENT OF TRADE RECEIVABLES
A financial asset is classified as measured at: amortized cost; fair value through other comprehensive income (“FVOCI”) or fair value through profit or loss (“FVTPL”). The classification of financial assets is generally based on the business model in which a financial asset is managed and its contractual cash flow characteristics. Derivatives embedded in contracts where the host is a financial asset in the scope of the standard are never separated. Instead, the hybrid financial instrument as a whole is assessed for classification. Trade and other receivables and cash and cash equivalents are classified at amortized cost.
An ‘expected credit loss’ (“ECL”) model applies to financial assets measured at amortized cost, contract assets and debt investments at FVOCI, but not to investments in equity instruments. Our financial assets that are measured at amortized cost and subject to the ECL model consist primarily of trade receivables and contract assets.
In applying the ECL model, loss allowances are measured on either of the following bases:
12-month ECLs: these are ECLs that result from possible default events within the 12 months after the reporting date; and
Lifetime ECLs: these are ECLs that result from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument.
We have elected to measure loss allowances for trade receivables and contract assets at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs.
When determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition and when estimating ECLs, we consider reasonable and supportable information that is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative information and analysis, based on our historical experience and informed credit assessment and including forward-looking information.
ECLs are a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses. Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that we expect to receive). ECLs are discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial asset. At each reporting date, we assess whether financial assets carried at amortized cost are credit-impaired. A financial asset is ‘credit-impaired’ when one or more events that have a detrimental impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset have occurred. Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortized cost are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the assets. Impairment (losses) recoveries related to trade receivables and contract assets are presented separately in the statement of profit or loss. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017, nominal net impairment (charges) on trade receivables and contract assets were recorded in other operating income.

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EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS
The present value of our defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related pension liability. Determination of benefit expense requires assumptions such as the discount rate to measure obligations, expected plan investment performance, expected healthcare cost trend rate, and retirement ages of employees. Actual results will differ from the recorded amounts based on these estimates and assumptions.
INCOME TAXES    
We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Under this method, deferred income taxes are recognized for the deferred income tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying values of assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases (temporary differences) and for loss carry-forwards. The resulting changes in the net deferred tax asset or liability are included in income.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted, or substantively enacted, tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred income tax assets and liabilities, of a change in tax rates, is included in income in the period that includes the substantive enactment date. Deferred income tax assets are reviewed at each reporting period and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realized. As of September 30, 2018 and 2017, we have not recorded any deferred income tax assets on our consolidated statement of financial position.
8.4 Recently Adopted Accounting Policy Changes
Effective January 1, 2018, we have initially adopted IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The effect of initially applying these standards did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial statements. A number of other new standards are also effective from January 1, 2018 but they also did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial statements.
IFRS 15 – REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers establishes a comprehensive framework for determining whether, how much and when revenue is recognized. It replaced IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and related interpretations. The Corporation has adopted IFRS 15 using the cumulative effect method (without practical expedients; with the effect of initially applying this standard recognized at the date of initial application (i.e. January 1, 2018). Accordingly, the information presented for 2017 has not been restated – i.e. it is presented, as previously reported, under IAS 18, IAS 11 and related interpretations.
IFRS 15 contains a single model that applies to contracts with customers and two approaches to recognizing revenue: at a point in time or over time. The model features a contract-based five-step analysis of transactions to determine whether, how much, and when revenue is recognized. New estimates and judgmental thresholds have been introduced, which may affect the amount and/or timing of revenue recognized. The new standard applies to contracts with customers. It does not apply to insurance contracts, financial instruments or lease contracts, which fall in the scope of other IFRSs. The clarifications to IFRS 15 provide additional guidance with respect to the five-step analysis, transition, and the application of the Standard to licenses of intellectual property.
The adoption of IFRS 15 did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial statements.
IFRS 9 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments sets out requirements for recognizing and measuring financial assets, financial liabilities and some contracts to buy or sell non-financial items. This standard replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. There was no material impact to the Corporation’s financial statements as a result of transitioning to IFRS 9.
Under IFRS 9, financial assets are classified and measured based on the business model in which they are held and the characteristics of their contractual cash flows. The standard introduces additional changes relating to financial liabilities. It also amends the impairment model by introducing a new ‘expected credit loss’ model for calculating impairment.

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IFRS 9 also includes a new general hedge accounting standard which aligns hedge accounting more closely with risk management. This new standard does not fundamentally change the types of hedging relationships or the requirement to measure and recognize ineffectiveness; however it will provide more hedging strategies that are used for risk management to qualify for hedge accounting and introduce more judgment to assess the effectiveness of a hedging relationship. Special transitional requirements have been set for the application of the new general hedging model.
The adoption of IFRS 9 did not have a material impact on the Corporation’s financial statements.
8.5 Future Accounting Policy Changes
The following is an overview of accounting standard changes that we will be required to adopt in future years. We do not expect to adopt any of these standards before their effective dates and we continue to evaluate the impact of these standards on our consolidated financial statements.
IFRS 16 – LEASES
On January 13, 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 Leases. IFRS 16 introduces a single lessee accounting model and requires a lessee to recognize assets and liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 months, unless the underlying asset is of low value. A lessee is required to recognize a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset and a lease liability representing its obligation to make lease payments.
This standard substantially carries forward the lessor accounting requirements of IAS 17, while requiring enhanced disclosures to be provided by lessors. Other areas of the lease accounting model have been impacted, including the definition of a lease. Transitional provisions have been provided.
The new standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for entities that apply IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers as at or before the date of initial adoption of IFRS 16. IFRS 16 will replace IAS 17 Leases and the related interpretations. The Corporation intends to adopt IFRS 16 in its financial statements for the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2019. The extent of the impact of adoption of the standard has not yet been determined.
IFRIC 23 – UNCERTAINTY OVER INCOME TAX TREATMENTS
On June 7, 2017, the IASB issued IFRIC Interpretation 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatments. The Interpretation provides guidance on the accounting for current and deferred tax liabilities and assets in circumstances in which there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. The Interpretation requires an entity to:
contemplate whether uncertain tax treatments should be considered separately, or together as a group, based on which approach provides better predictions of the resolution;
reflect an uncertainty in the amount of income tax payable (recoverable) if it is probable that it will pay (or recover) an amount for the uncertainty; and
measure a tax uncertainty based on the most likely amount of expected value depending on whichever method better predicts the amount payable (recoverable).
The Interpretation is applicable for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019. Early application is permitted. The Corporation intends to adopt the Interpretation in its financial statements for the fiscal year beginning on January 1, 2019. The extent of the impact of adoption of the Interpretation has not yet been determined.
AMENDMENTS TO REFERENCES TO THE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK IN IFRS STANDARDS
On March 29, 2018 the IASB issued a revised version of its Conceptual Framework for Financial Reporting (“the Framework”), that underpins IFRS Standards. The IASB also issued Amendments to References to the Conceptual Framework in IFRS Standards (“the Amendments”) to update references in IFRS Standards to previous versions of the Conceptual Framework.
Some Standards include references to the 1989 and 2010 versions of the Framework. The IASB has published a separate document which contains consequential amendments to affected Standards so that they refer to the new Framework, with the exception of IFRS 3 Business Combinations which continues to refer to both the 1989 and 2010 Frameworks.

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Both documents are effective from January 1, 2020 with earlier application permitted. The Company does not intend to adopt the Amendments in its financial statements before the annual period beginning on January 1, 2020. The extent of the impact of the change has not yet been determined.
9.
SUPPLEMENTAL NON-GAAP MEASURES AND RECONCILIATIONS
9.1 Overview
In addition to providing measures prepared in accordance with GAAP, we present certain supplemental non-GAAP measures. These measures are Cash Operating Costs (including its components of research and product development (operating cost), general and administrative (operating cost) and sales and marketing (operating cost)), EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, and Adjusted Net Loss. These non-GAAP measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and therefore are unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other companies. We believe these measures are useful in evaluating the operating performance of the Company’s ongoing business. These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, net income, cash flows and other measures of financial performance and liquidity reported in accordance with GAAP.
9.2 Cash Operating Costs
This supplemental non-GAAP measure is provided to assist readers in determining our operating costs on an ongoing cash basis. We believe this measure is useful in assessing performance and highlighting trends on an overall basis.
We also believe Cash Operating Costs is frequently used by securities analysts and investors when comparing our results with those of other companies. Cash Operating Costs differs from the most comparable GAAP measure, operating expenses, primarily because it does not include stock-based compensation expense, depreciation and amortization, impairment losses or recoveries on trade receivables, restructuring charges, acquisition costs, unrealized gains and losses on foreign exchange contracts, and financing charges. The following tables show a reconciliation of operating expenses to Cash Operating Costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Cash Operating Costs
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total Operating Expenses
$
11,808

$
11,110

$
698

 
Stock-based compensation expense
(895
)
(661
)
(234
)
 
Impairment recovery (losses) on trade receivables
   -

   -

      -

 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

   -

      -

 
Restructuring (charges) recovery
(3
)
(218
)
215

 
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange contracts
451

   -

451

 
Financing charges
   -

   -

      -

 
Depreciation and amortization
(781
)
(857
)
76

 
Cash Operating Costs
$
10,580

$
9,374

$
1,206




(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
Cash Operating Costs
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total Operating Expenses
$
37,031

$
33,293

$
3,738

 
Stock-based compensation expense
(2,407
)
(2,032
)
(375
)
 
Impairment recovery (losses) on trade receivables
(30
)
(2
)
(28
)
 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

   -

      -

 
Restructuring (charges) recovery
(69
)
(870
)
801

 
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign exchange contracts
(120
)
   -

(120
)
 
Financing charges
   -

   -

      -

 
Depreciation and amortization
(2,620
)
(2,580
)
(40
)
 
Cash Operating Costs
$
31,785

$
27,809

$
3,976

The components of Cash Operating Costs of research and product development (cash operating cost), general and administrative (cash operating cost), and sales and marketing (cash operating cost) differ from their respective most comparable GAAP measure of research and product development expense, general and administrative expense, and sales and marketing expense, primarily because they do not include stock-based compensation expense and depreciation

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and amortization expense. A reconciliation of these respective operating expenses to the respective components of Cash Operating Costs for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 is included in Operating Expense and Other Items.
A breakdown of total stock-based compensation expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Stock-based compensation expense
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total stock-based compensation expense recorded as follows:
 
 
 
 
Cost of goods sold
$

$

$

 
Research and product development expense
365

223

142

 
General and administrative expense
368

298

70

 
Sales and marketing expense (recovery)
161

140

21

 
Stock-based compensation expense
$
894

$
661

$
233


(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
Stock-based compensation expense
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total stock-based compensation expense recorded as follows:
 
 
 
 
Cost of goods sold
$

$

$

 
Research and product development expense
911

721

190

 
General and administrative expense
1,018

1,008

10

 
Sales and marketing expense (recovery)
477

303

174

 
Stock-based compensation expense
$
2406

$
2032

$
374

A breakdown of total depreciation and amortization expense for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017 are as follows:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Depreciation and amortization expense
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total depreciation and amortization expense recorded as follows:
 
 
 
 
Cost of goods sold
$
460

$
329

$
131

 
Research and product development expense
464

636

(172
)
 
General and administrative expense
317

221

96

 
Sales and marketing expense
   -

   -

      -

 
Depreciation and amortization expense
$
1241

$
1186

$
55


(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
Depreciation and amortization expense
2018

2017

      $ Change

Total depreciation and amortization expense recorded as follows:
 
 
 
 
Cost of goods sold
$
1,217

$
1,003

$
214

 
Research and product development expense
1,668

1,912

(244
)
 
General and administrative expense
952

667

285

 
Sales and marketing expense
   -

1

(1
)
 
Depreciation and amortization expense
$
3837

$
3583

$
254

9.3 EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
These supplemental non-GAAP measures are provided to assist readers in determining our operating performance. We believe this measure is useful in assessing performance and highlighting trends on an overall basis. We also believe EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are frequently used by securities analysts and investors when comparing our results with those of other companies. EBITDA differs from the most comparable GAAP measure, net loss attributable to Ballard, primarily because it does not include finance expense, income taxes, and depreciation of property, plant and equipment, and amortization of intangible assets. Adjusted EBITDA adjusts EBITDA for stock-based compensation expense, transactional gains and losses, asset impairment charges, finance and other income, unrealized gains and losses on foreign exchange contracts, and acquisition costs. The following tables show a reconciliation of net loss attributable to Ballard to EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017:


mdaq318finalimage2.gifPage 38 of 39    




(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
2018

2017

      $ Change

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(6,024
)
$
(1,027
)
$
(4,997
)
Depreciation and amortization
1,241

1,186

55

Finance expense
123

219

(96
)
Income taxes
301

437

(136
)
EBITDA attributable to Ballard
$
(4,359
)
$
815

$
(5,174
)
 
Stock-based compensation expense
894

661

233

 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

   -

      -

 
Finance and other (income) loss
191

(636
)
827

 
Impairment charges on intangible assets and
property, plant and equipment
   -

   -

      -

 
Loss (gain) on sale of assets
94

41

53

 
Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign exchange contracts
(451
)
   -

(451
)
 
Adjusted EBITDA
$
(3,631
)
$
881

$
(4,512
)
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
2018

2017

      $ Change

Net income (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(15,847
)
$
(5,162
)
$
(10,685
)
Depreciation and amortization
3,837

3,583

254

Finance expense
382

564

(182
)
Income taxes
302

1,361

(1,059
)
EBITDA attributable to Ballard
$
(11,326
)
$
346

$
(11,672
)
 
Stock-based compensation expense
2,406

2,032

374

 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

   -

      -

 
Finance and other (income) loss
435

(2,004
)
2,439

 
Impairment charges on intangible assets and
property, plant and equipment
   -

   -

      -

 
Loss (gain) on sale of assets
94

865

(771
)
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on foreign exchange contracts
120

   -

120

 
Adjusted EBITDA
$
(8,271
)
$
1,239

$
(9,510
)

9.4 Adjusted Net Loss
This supplemental non-GAAP measure is provided to assist readers in determining our financial performance. We believe this measure is useful in assessing our actual performance by adjusting our results from continuing operations for transactional gains and losses and impairment losses. Adjusted Net Loss differs from the most comparable GAAP measure, net loss attributable to Ballard, primarily because it does not include transactional gains and losses, asset impairment charges, and acquisition costs. The following table shows a reconciliation of net loss attributable to Ballard to Adjusted Net Loss for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2018 and 2017:
(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Three months ended September 30,
Adjusted Net Loss
2018

2017

      $ Change

Net (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(6,024
)
$
(1,027
)
$
(4,997
)
 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

      -

      -

 
Impairment charges (recovery) on intangible assets and property, plant and equipment
   -

      -

      -

 
Loss on sale of assets
   -

41

(41
)
 
Adjusted Net Loss
$
(6,024
)
$
(986
)
$
(5,038
)
 
Adjusted Net Loss per share
$
(0.03
)
$
(0.01
)
$
(0.02
)

(Expressed in thousands of U.S. dollars)
Nine months ended September 30,
Adjusted Net Loss
2018

2017

      $ Change

Net (loss) attributable to Ballard
$
(15,847
)
$
(5,162
)
$
(10,685
)
 
Acquisition and integration costs
   -

      -

      -

 
Impairment charges (recovery) on intangible assets and property, plant and equipment
   -

      -

      -

 
Loss on sale of assets
   -

874

(874
)
 
Adjusted Net Loss
$
(15,847
)
$
(4,288
)
$
(11,558
)
 
Adjusted Net Loss per share
$
(0.09
)
$
(0.02
)
$
(0.07
)


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