POS AM 1 dposam.htm POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO FORM S-1 FOR IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-1 for IMPCO Technologies, Inc.
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As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 29, 2004

Registration No. 333-111988


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to

Form S-1

REGISTRATION STATEMENT

UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933

 


 

IMPCO Technologies, Inc.

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Delaware   3714   91-1039211

(State of Other Jurisdiction of

Incorporation or Organization)

 

(Primary Standard Industrial

Classification Code Number)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

 

16804 Gridley Place

Cerritos, California 90703

(562) 860-6666

(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of Registrant’s principal executive offices)

 


 

Robert M. Stemmler

President and Chief Executive Officer

16804 Gridley Place

Cerritos, California 90703

(562) 860-6666

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code, of agent for service)

 


 

with a copy to:

Marcus J. Williams

Davis Wright Tremaine LLP

2600 Century Square

1501 Fourth Avenue

Seattle, Washington 98101-1688

(206) 622-3150

 


 

Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public: From time to time after this registration statement becomes effective, as determined by market conditions.

If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box. x

If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨

If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. ¨

If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434, check the following box. ¨

 


 

CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

 


Title of Each Class of Securities to be Registered    Amount to be
Registered (1)
   Proposed
Maximum
Offering Per Price
Share (2)
   Proposed
Maximum
Aggregate
Offering Price
   Amount of
Registration
Fee (2)

Common Stock, Par Value $0.001

   1,500,000    $8.44    $12,660,000    $1,024


(1)   In the event of a stock split, stock dividend and similar transactions involving our common stock, the shares registered hereby shall automatically be increased or decreased pursuant to Rule 416 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
(2)   Pursuant to Rule 457(c) of the Securities Act, the registration fee for the securities registered hereunder is calculated based on the average of the high and low price of the common stock on The Nasdaq National Market on January 14, 2004. The registration fee has previously been paid.

 


 

IMPCO hereby amends this registration statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until IMPCO shall file a further amendment which specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933 or until the Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8 (a), may determine.

 

The purpose of this post-effective amendment is to update certain information regarding the registrant.

 



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The information contained in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. The selling stockholders may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities, and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

 

 

SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED MARCH 29, 2004

 

PROSPECTUS

 

1,500,000 Shares

 

 

LOGO

 

COMMON STOCK

 

The selling stockholders listed in this prospectus are offering and selling from time to time up to 1,500,000 shares of common stock of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. We will receive none of the proceeds from the sale.

 

The selling stockholders may sell the securities from time to time on any stock exchange or automated interdealer quotation system on which the securities are listed, in the over-the-counter market, in privately negotiated transactions or otherwise, at fixed prices that may be changed, at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to the prevailing market prices or at prices otherwise negotiated.

 

Our common stock is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “IMCO”. On March 26, 2004, the last reported sale price of our common stock on the Nasdaq National Market was $4.85.

 

Our business and an investment in our common stock involve significant risks. See “ Risk Factors” beginning on page 4.

 

Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

 

 

 

The date of this Prospectus is                     , 2004


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

     Page

Prospectus Summary

   1

Risk Factors

   4

Forward-Looking Statements

   12

Use of Proceeds

   13

Dividend Policy

   13

Price Range of Common Stock

   13

Selected Consolidated Financial Data

   14

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

   15

Business

   31

Management

   43

Principal Stockholders

   50

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

   52

Selling Stockholders

   54

Plan of Distribution

   57

Description of Our Capital Stock

   59

Shares Eligible for Future Sale

   61

Legal Matters

   62

Experts

   62

Where you can find more information

   62

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

   F-1

 


 

You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus. We have not authorized anyone to provide you with different information. Neither we nor the selling stockholders are making an offer of these securities in any state where the offer is not permitted. You should not assume that the information contained in this prospectus is accurate as of any date other than the date on the front of this prospectus. In this prospectus, the “Company,” “IMPCO,” “we,” “us” and “our” refer to IMPCO Technologies, Inc.


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PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

 

This summary highlights the information contained elsewhere in this prospectus. This summary may not contain all of the information that you should consider before investing in our common stock. You should read the entire prospectus carefully, including the section entitled “Risk Factors” and the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes, before making an investment decision.

 

Our Company

 

We design, manufacture and supply advanced systems that store gaseous fuels and monitor and control the pressure and flow of those fuels for use in internal combustion engines. Our components and systems enable internal combustion engines to operate on natural gas or propane. Our products improve efficiency, enhance power output, and reduce emissions by electronically sensing and regulating the proper proportion of fuel and air required by the internal combustion engine. Additionally, we have extensive engineering, design and systems integration experience with our customers’ requirements for product performance, durability and physical configuration. Based on over 45 years of technology development and expertise in producing cost-effective, safe and durable fuel technology systems, we believe we are positioned to provide enabling products and technologies in the rapidly expanding alternative fuel industry.

 

Our customers use our components and systems on engines ranging from one to 4,000 horsepower. We provide gaseous fuel components and systems to the transportation market and the industrial market, which includes the material handling and stationary and portable power generation markets.

 

A number of original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs, in the automotive, industrial and power generation industries, who are our customers, are developing alternative clean power systems using clean burning gaseous fuels, which decrease fuel costs, lessen dependence on crude oil and reduce harmful emissions of internal combustion engines. We offer the following products, kits and systems to these customers:

 

    systems integration—services to integrate the gaseous fuel storage, fuel delivery and/or electronic control components and sub-systems to meet OEM and aftermarket requirements.

 

    fuel delivery—pressure regulators, fuel injectors, flow control valves, and other components and systems designed to control the pressure, flow and/or metering of gaseous fuels;

 

    electronic controls—solid-state components and proprietary software that monitor and optimize fuel pressure and flow to meet manufacturers’ engine requirements; and

 

    gaseous fueled internal combustion engines—engines manufactured by OEMs that are integrated with our fuel delivery and electronic control system.

 

We have been producing and selling gaseous fuel systems and components for over 45 years. We sell these systems and components directly to end users, OEMs and the aftermarket through more than 400 distributors and dealers worldwide.

 

We are incorporated in Delaware and our common stock is traded on The Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “IMCO.” Our executive offices are located at 16804 Gridley Place, Cerritos, California 90703. Our telephone number is (562) 860-6666. Our website is www.impco.ws. The information on our website does not constitute part of this prospectus.

 

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The Offering

 

Common Stock to be offered by the selling stockholders

1,500,000 Shares

 

Common Stock outstanding prior to this offering (1)

18,591,021 Shares

 

Use of Proceeds

We will receive no proceeds from the sale of the securities described in this prospectus. The shares of common stock offered hereby are being offered for sale by the selling stockholders.

 

Nasdaq National Market Symbol

IMCO


(1)   As of March 18, 2004

 

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Summary Consolidated Financial Data

 

The following table sets forth our summary consolidated financial data for the year ended December 31, 2003 and each of the four fiscal years ended April 30, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999 and for the eight-month transition period ended December 31, 2002, as well as a comparative eight-month period ended December 31, 2001. With the exception of the financial data for the comparative eight-month period ended December 31, 2001, which has been derived from our unaudited financial data, this data has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and other financial information included herein. The financial results of our Quantum division, are shown below as a loss on discontinued operation, net of tax.

 

     Fiscal Year Ended April 30,

   

Eight Months Ended

December 31,


   

Fiscal Year
Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     1998

    1999

    2000

    2001

    2002

    2001

    2002

   

Statement of Operations:

                                                                

Revenue

   $ 58,755     $ 62,358     $ 90,475     $ 80,539     $ 67,676     $ 45,707     $ 46,421     $ 74,740  

Costs and expenses:

                                                                

Cost of revenue

     33,363       36,832       54,718       49,499       44,542       29,185       33,071       51,780  

Research and development expense

     1,173       2,710       2,620       5,869       5,856       3,712       2,635       3,803  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     10,290       12,420       17,849       18,561       19,676       13,075       11,922       19,683  

Operating income (loss)

     13,929       10,396       15,289       6,610       (2,398 )     (266 )     (1,207 )     (481 )

Equity share in losses of unconsolidated affiliates

                                                

Interest expense, net

     935       1,170       1,442       (221 )     929       821       883       4,039  

Gain on sale of subsidiary (1)

           2,169                                      

Income (loss) from continuing operations (net of tax) (4)

     10,677       9,161       10,033       3,675       (2,220 )     (908 )     (25,279 )     (6,900 )

Loss on discontinued operation (net of tax)

     (5,812 )     (2,830 )     (6,968 )     (16,777 )     (25,016 )     (17,908 )     (3,115 )      

Net income (loss)

     4,865       6,311       3,065       (13,102 )     (27,236 )     (18,816 )     (28,394 )     (6,900 )

Dividends on preferred stock

     595       531                                      

Net income (loss) applicable to common stock

   $ 4,270     $ 5,800     $ 3,065     $ (13,102 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (18,816 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )

Net income (loss) per share (1)(2):

                                                                

Basic:

                                                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 1.69     $ 1.26     $ 1.18     $ 0.37     $ (0.20 )   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )

Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (0.92 )   $ (0.39 )   $ (0.82 )   $ (1.69 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (1.71 )   $ (0.22 )   $  

Net income (loss)

   $ 0.67     $ 0.80     $ 0.36     $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Diluted:

                                                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 1.31     $ 1.03     $ 1.09     $ 0.33     $ (0.20 )   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )

Loss from discontinued operations

   $ (0.71 )   $ (0.32 )   $ (0.76 )   $ (1.52 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (1.71 )   $ (0.22 )   $  

Net income (loss)

   $ 0.60     $ 0.71     $ 0.33     $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Number of shares used in per share computation (2)(3):

                                                                

Basic

     6,334       7,293       8,489       9,935       11,098       10,445       14,376       16,643  

Diluted

     8,155       8,976       9,232       11,049       11,098       10,445       14,376       16,643  

Balance Sheet Data:

                                                                

Total current assets

   $ 38,817     $ 52,120     $ 73,385     $ 79,637     $ 61,825     $ 60,439     $ 35,243     $ 44,129  

Total assets

     58,178       73,562       95,016       120,763       123,449       117,270       75,978       101,136  

Total current liabilities

     11,417       16,892       23,756       28,089       33,110       20,332       24,038       21,990  

Long-term obligations, less current portion

     11,387       13,894       23,344       7,999       5,393       25,236       101       19,195  

Stockholders’ equity

     34,305       41,449       45,379       82,631       82,678       69,401       49,622       57,129  

(1)   Represents gain on sale of 49% interest in IMPCO BV by BERU Aktiengesellschaft during fiscal 1999. We recorded a pre-tax gain of $2.2 million and an after-tax gain of $1.8 million or $0.20 per share.
(2)   During fiscal year 1998, shares assumed to be issued upon conversion of our preferred stock were included in the calculation of shares outstanding since the conversion resulted in reportable dilution. During fiscal year 1999, all of our preferred stock was converted to common stock and the diluted earnings per share was calculated as though the conversion occurred at the beginning of fiscal year 1999.
(3)   See note 9 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for an explanation of the method used to determine the number of shares used to compute the net income per share.
(4)   Includes in the eight months ended December 31, 2002 a $24.0 million valuation allowance to establish a reserve for the deferred tax assets that are unlikely to be realized in the next three years (See “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” beginning at p. 17 below)

 

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RISK FACTORS

 

Our business, results of operations and financial condition may be adversely affected by any one or more of the risks set forth below. You should carefully consider these risks before making an investment decision. Additional risks and uncertainties, including those that are not yet identified or that we currently think are immaterial, may also adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition. The market price of our common stock could decline due to any of these risks, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

 

We have substantial debt that we may be unable to service.

 

We are highly leveraged and have significant debt service obligations. As of December 31, 2003, we had aggregate outstanding indebtedness of $35.2 million and total stockholders’ equity of $57.1 million. In July 2003, we completed a financing that included the establishment of a new $12.0 million revolving credit facility and the issuance of a senior subordinated secured note in the amount of $20.0 million.

 

Our substantial debt could have important consequences, including the following:

 

    we will be required to use a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to pay interest on our debt, thereby reducing our ability to fund working capital, capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, investments and alliances and other general corporate requirements;

 

    our substantial leverage may increase our vulnerability to general economic downturns and adverse competitive and industry conditions and may place us at a competitive disadvantage compared to those of our competitors that are less leveraged;

 

    our debt service obligations may limit our flexibility to plan for, or react to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate;

 

    our level of debt may make it difficult for us to raise additional financing on satisfactory terms; and

 

    if we were unable to comply with the financial and other restrictive covenants in our debt instruments, any such failure could, if not cured or waived, have a material adverse effect on our ability to fulfill our obligations and on our business or prospects generally, including the possibility that our lenders might foreclose on our assets.

 

    We currently are operating under waivers of financial covenants in both the Bison and LaSalle agreements relating to our EBITDA Covenant, Leverage Ratio Covenant and Fixed Change Covenant. These waivers relate to non-compliance as of December 31, 2003 and, in Bison’s case, continuing through December 31, 2004. The events of default under these loans will cause our applicable interest rates to increase as long as the circumstances continue unless we are successful in negotiating amendments to these covenants. The LaSalle loan increases the interest rate to prime plus 2%, which will increase our interest expense and our cash outflows by $25,000 per quarter. Under the Bison loan, the applicable interest rate increases by 0.5% per month up to a maximum of 3% or six months. We expect that the increase in the Bison interest rate will increase our interest expense by $150,000 during the first quarter of 2004, although in certain circumstances we are permitted to capitalize those interest payments by adding them to the principal balance outstanding under the Bison loan. We also are seeking to revise our financial covenants in both loans to reflect more current estimates of future financial performance. However, we cannot assure readers that the lenders will agree to amend our financial covenants or grant further or continuing waivers in the future. If we cannot obtain the necessary waivers or amendments, or return to compliance with these and all other loan covenants, our lenders may accelerate our debt, foreclose on our assets, or take other legal actions against us which, alone or in the aggregate, may have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

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The terms of our debt may severely limit our ability to plan for or respond to changes in our business.

 

Our debt agreements contain a number of restrictive covenants that impose significant operating and financial restrictions on the company. Among other things, these restrictions limit our ability to:

 

    incur liens or make negative pledges on our assets;

 

    merge, consolidate or sell our assets;

 

    incur additional debt;

 

    pay dividends or redeem capital stock and prepay other debt;

 

    make investments and acquisitions;

 

    make capital expenditures; or

 

    amend our debt instruments and certain other material agreements.

 

Our debt also requires us to maintain specified financial ratios and meet specific financial tests. Our failure to comply with these covenants would result in events of default that, if not cured or waived, could result in us being required to repay these borrowings before their due date. If we were unable to make a required repayment or refinance these borrowings, our lenders could foreclose on our assets. If we were unable to refinance these borrowings on favorable terms, our business could be adversely impacted.

 

The Nasdaq Stock Market may take the position that we should have obtained shareholder approval for certain issuances of our outstanding securities, and if they were to take and prevail in that position, we could be subject to sanctions or delisting by The Nasdaq Stock Market.

 

Under applicable Nasdaq rules, a company with securities listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market must obtain shareholder approval before issuing securities if such issuance is not a public offering and involves the sale of 20% or more of the issuer’s outstanding common stock at a price less than the greater of book or market value. Since January 2002, we have issued shares of our common stock or securities convertible into or exercisable for our common stock in six separate transactions representing a total of 8,614,470 shares (excluding shares issued in connection with employee stock option plans, employee benefit plans and similar arrangements). Some of these shares were issued or are issuable at a price that represents a discount to the market price of our common stock on the date of issuance. If the sale of common stock to the selling stockholders were aggregated or integrated with one or more other transactions, or if two or more other transactions were to be integrated with one another, some of these combinations exceeded 20% of our outstanding common stock and thus would have required shareholder approval. Although not free from doubt, we believe that the sale of common stock to the selling stockholders should not be aggregated or integrated with any other transaction, and we believe that no series of other transactions would be integrated in a manner that would result in our being required to have obtained shareholder approval. We have not obtained any formal guidance from Nasdaq as to this matter. If Nasdaq were to determine that one or more of these transactions required shareholder approval, Nasdaq could halt trading of our common stock and initiate delisting of our common stock from The Nasdaq National Market. A delisting from Nasdaq, if it were to occur, could materially impair the liquidity of our securities and could adversely affect the trading price of our common stock.

 

We recently have experienced, and in the near term we will continue to experience, significant cash outflows that may limit our ability to grow and may materially and adversely impact our prospective revenues and liquidity.

 

We have experienced operating losses and net cash outflows. At December 31, 2003, our cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $9.5 million and our working capital was $22.1 million. We have experienced significant cash outflows in connection with our purchase of an equity interest in BRC, S.r.l. and, due to our higher levels of debt, will have higher interest expense in the future. Our current cash position and upcoming cash obligations, especially if combined with stagnant or declining revenues, may force us to take steps such as

 

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personnel reductions or curtailment of growth as a means to manage our liquidity. Such measures could have an adverse impact on research and development activities, our production capacity or other aspects of our business that might have a material adverse impact on results of operations. In some instances, these impacts may last beyond the term of the immediate cash shortfall.

 

Prevailing economic conditions and international dissension may disproportionately affect our business.

 

Because we depend heavily on sales to developing nations and because our business is based on fossil fuel markets, the effects of the Iraq conflict and continuing instability in the Middle East, as well as weaknesses in the U.S. and global economies, may cause our customers to delay orders, may result in interruptions in shipments to some customers or from some suppliers, or may have other effects that may decrease our revenues or increase our costs. These situations, whether alone or in combination with one or more risk factors discussed in this prospectus, may affect our business materially and adversely.

 

Our spin-off of our Quantum subsidiary is subject to tax risks for us and our stockholders, including restrictions on our or Quantum’s issuance of equity securities in order to maintain the tax-free status of the spin-off.

 

At the time of our spin-off of Quantum on July 23, 2002, we received an opinion of Morrison & Foerster LLP to the effect that the spin-off was tax-free to our stockholders for federal income tax purposes. The opinion of Morrison & Foerster LLP is not binding on the Internal Revenue Service and we can offer no assurance that the Internal Revenue Service or the courts will agree with their opinion. The opinion was also subject to specific assumptions and the accuracy and completeness of specific factual representations and statements made by us and Quantum, and we are subject to certain limitations on changes in our capital structure following the Quantum transaction. If these assumptions, representations or statements are incorrect or incomplete in any material respect, the conclusions set forth in the opinion may not be correct. Similarly, we can provide no assurances that our issuance of stock to BRC’s stockholders or in various post-spin-off equity issuances will not adversely impact the tax-free character of the Quantum spin-off.

 

Even if the spin-off is tax-free to our stockholders, it will be taxable to us if Section 355(e) of the Internal Revenue Code applies to the spin-off. Section 355(e) of the Internal Revenue Code will apply if 50% or more of our stock or Quantum stock, by vote or value, is acquired by one or more persons, other than our historic stockholders who receive Quantum common stock in the spin-off, acting pursuant to a plan or a series of related transactions that includes the spin-off. We cannot provide you any assurance that Section 355(e) of the Internal Revenue Code will not apply to the spin-off. Risk of the applicability of Section 355(e) of the Internal Revenue Code may also discourage, delay or prevent a merger, change of control, or other strategic or capital raising transactions involving our outstanding equity or issuance of new equity.

 

The growth of the alternative fuel market will have a significant impact on our business.

 

Our future success depends on the continued expansion of the alternative fuel industry, which has not yet expanded broadly. In the United States and certain of our other target markets, alternative fuel such as natural gas currently cannot be readily obtained by consumers for motor vehicle use and only a small percentage of motor vehicles manufactured in 2003 were equipped to use alternative fuels. We do not expect this trend to improve in the United States in the foreseeable future. We cannot assure you that the market for gaseous alternative fuel engines will expand broadly or, if it does, that it will result in increased sales of our advanced fuel system products. In addition, we have designed many of our products for alternative fuel vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, but not for alternative power sources, such as electricity or alternate forms of power. If the major growth in the alternative fuel market relates solely to those power sources, our revenues may not increase and may decline.

 

Users of gaseous fuel vehicles may not be able to obtain fuel conveniently and affordably, which may adversely affect the demand for our products.

 

Vehicles and equipment powered by gaseous alternative fuels currently run primarily on natural gas or propane. The construction of a distribution system to deliver natural gas and propane will require significant

 

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investment by third parties. An adequate fuel distribution infrastructure may not be built. We are relying on third parties, most of which are committed to the existing gasoline infrastructure, to build this infrastructure. If these parties build a fuel distribution infrastructure, the fuel delivered through it, both due to the cost of the delivery system and the cost of the fuel itself, may have a higher price than users are willing to pay. If users cannot obtain fuel conveniently or affordably, a mass market for vehicles and equipment powered by gaseous alternative fuels is unlikely to develop.

 

Our ability to attract customers and sell products successfully in the alternative fuel industry also depends significantly on the current price differential between liquid fuels, such as petroleum and gasoline, and gaseous fuels, such as propane and natural gas. This price differential may not always exist. Should this differential narrow or disappear, it could adversely affect the demand of our products. The demand for our products could also be affected by the imposition of an excise tax on the production, sale, or distribution of gaseous fuels, which would be expected to reduce the economic advantage of alternative fuels.

 

We currently face and will continue to face significant competition, which could result in a decrease in our revenue.

 

We currently compete with companies that manufacture products to convert liquid-fueled internal combustion engines to gaseous fuels. Increases in the market for alternative fuel vehicles may cause automobile or engine manufacturers to develop and produce their own fuel conversion or fuel management equipment rather than purchasing the equipment from suppliers such as us. In addition, greater acceptance of alternative fuel engines may result in new competitors. Should any of these events occur, the total potential demand for our products could be adversely affected and cause us to lose existing business.

 

We face risks associated with marketing, distributing and servicing our products internationally.

 

We currently operate in Australia, Central America, China, Europe, Egypt, India, Japan, Mexico and South America and market our products and technologies in other international markets, including both industrialized and developing countries. Our international operations are subject to various risks common to international activities, such as the following:

 

    exposure to currency fluctuations;

 

    potential difficulties in enforcing contractual obligations and intellectual property rights;

 

    complying with a wide variety of laws and regulations, including product certification, environmental and import and export laws;

 

    political instability; and

 

    difficulties collecting international accounts receivable.

 

Our business may be subject to product liability claims, which could be expensive and could divert management’s attention.

 

As a supplier, we face an inherent exposure to product liability claims if our products (or the equipment into which our products are incorporated) malfunction in a way that results or is alleged to have resulted in personal injury or death. We may be named in product liability actions even if there is no evidence that our systems or components caused a loss. Product liability claims could result in significant losses from defense costs or damages awards. The sale of systems and components for the transportation industry entails a high risk of these claims. In addition, we may be required to participate in a recall involving these systems if any of our systems prove to be defective, or we may voluntarily initiate a recall or make payments related to such claims as a result of various industry or business practices or the need to maintain good customer relationships. Each of these actions would likely harm our reputation and lead to substantial expense. We cannot assure you that our product liability insurance will be sufficient to cover all product liability claims, that such claims will not exceed our insurance coverage limits or that such insurance will continue to be available on commercially reasonable terms, if at all. Any product liability claim brought against us could have a material adverse effect on our reputation and business.

 

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Our products may become subject to future certification requirements or other regulations, which may impair our ability to market our products.

 

We must obtain product certification from governmental agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resources Board, to sell certain of our products in the United States. A significant portion of our future sales will depend upon sales of fuel management products that are certified to meet existing and future air quality and energy standards. We cannot assure you that our products will continue to meet these standards. The failure to comply with these certification requirements could result in the recall of our products, civil penalties or criminal penalties.

 

Any new government regulation that affects our advanced fuel technologies, whether at the foreign, federal, state or local level, including any regulations relating to installation and servicing of these systems, may increase our costs and the price of our systems. As a result, these regulations may have a negative impact on our revenues and profitability and thereby harm our business, prospects, results of operations or financial condition.

 

New technologies could render our existing products obsolete.

 

New developments in technology may negatively affect the development or sale of some or all of our products or make our products obsolete. Our inability to enhance existing products in a timely manner or to develop and introduce new products that incorporate new technologies, conform to increasingly stringent emission standards and performance requirements, and achieve market acceptance in a timely manner could negatively impact our competitive position. New product development or modification is costly; involves significant research, development, time and expense; and may not necessarily result in the successful commercialization of any new products.

 

We depend on our intellectual property, and our failure to protect that intellectual property could adversely affect our future growth and success.

 

We rely on patent, trademark and copyright law, trade secret protection, and confidentiality and other agreements with our employees, customers, partners and others to protect our intellectual property. However, some of our intellectual property is not covered by any patent or patent application and, despite our precautions, it may be possible for third parties to obtain and use our intellectual property without authorization.

 

We do not know whether any patents will be issued from our patent applications, whether the reissue examination will be in our favor, or whether the scope of our issued patents is sufficiently broad to protect our technologies or processes. Moreover, patent applications and issued patents may be challenged or invalidated. We could incur substantial costs in prosecuting or defending patent infringement suits. Furthermore, the laws of some foreign countries may not protect intellectual property rights to the same extent as do the laws of the United States. For instance, it may be difficult for us to enforce certain of our intellectual property rights against third parties who may have inappropriately acquired interests in our intellectual property rights by filing unauthorized trademark applications in foreign countries to register the marks that we use because of their familiarity with our worldwide operations.

 

As part of our confidentiality procedures, we generally have entered into non-disclosure agreements with our employees, consultants and corporate partners and have attempted to control access to and distribution of our technologies, documentation and other proprietary information. We plan to continue these procedures. Despite these procedures, third parties could copy or otherwise obtain and make unauthorized use of our technologies or independently develop similar technologies. The steps we have taken and that we may take in the future may not prevent misappropriation of our solutions or technologies, particularly in foreign countries where laws or law enforcement practices may not protect our proprietary rights as fully as in the United States.

 

We cannot assure you that we will be successful in protecting our proprietary rights. Any infringement on any of our intellectual rights, could have an adverse effect on our ability to develop and sell successfully commercially competitive systems and components.

 

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If third parties claim that our products infringe upon their intellectual property rights, we may be forced to expend significant financial resources and management time and our operating results would suffer.

 

Third parties may claim that our products and systems infringe upon third-party patents and other intellectual property rights. Identifying third-party patent rights can be particularly difficult, especially since patent applications are not published until 18 months after their filing dates. In the event a competitor were to challenge our patents, or assert that our products or processes infringe its patent or other intellectual property rights, we could incur substantial litigation costs, be forced to make expensive product modifications, pay substantial damages, or even be forced to cease our operations. Third-party infringement claims, regardless of their outcome, would not only drain our financial resources but also divert the time and effort of our management and could result in our customers or potential customers deferring or limiting their purchase or use of the affected products or services until resolution of the litigation.

 

We depend on third-party suppliers for the supply of key materials and components for our products.

 

We have established relationships with third-party suppliers that provide materials and components for our products. A supplier’s failure to supply materials or components in a timely manner or to supply materials and components that meet our quality, quantity or cost requirements, combined with a delay in our ability to obtain substitute sources for these materials and components in a timely manner or on terms acceptable to us, would harm our ability to manufacture our products or would significantly increase our production costs, either of which would negatively impact our results of operations and business. Adverse currency fluctuations may hinder our ability to economically procure key materials and services from overseas vendors and suppliers.

 

Potential fluctuations in our financial results could cause our stock price to decline.

 

Our revenue and operating results are subject to annual and quarterly fluctuations as a result of a variety of factors, including the following:

 

    budget cycles and funding arrangements of governmental agencies;

 

    purchasing cycles of fleet operators and other customers;

 

    the uncertainty of timing of deliveries of vehicles and other equipment on which our products are installed;

 

    the timing of implementation of government regulations promoting the use of our products; and

 

    general economic factors.

 

It is possible that our operating results in one or more future quarters may fall below the expectations of securities analysts and investors. If this occurs, the trading price of our common stock might be materially and adversely affected.

 

We could lose or fail to attract the personnel necessary to run our business.

 

Our success depends in large part on our ability to attract and retain key management, engineering, scientific, manufacturing and operating personnel. We lost some of our executive management in the Quantum spin-off, and it will take time for us to hire or train replacement personnel. Recruiting personnel for the industries in which we operate is highly competitive, and the failure to attract or retain qualified personnel could have a material adverse effect on our business.

 

Our business could be harmed if we fail to meet OEM specifications.

 

We offer integrated alternative fuel systems, which include tanks, brackets, electronics, software and other components required to allow these products to operate in alternative fuel applications. Customers for these systems require that these products meet strict OEM standards. Our compliance with these requirements has resulted in increased development, manufacturing, warranty and administrative costs. A significant increase in these costs could adversely affect our profitability. If we fail to meet OEM specifications on a timely basis, our relationships with OEMs may be harmed.

 

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We may be subject to increased warranty claims.

 

In response to consumer demand, OEM, vehicle and industrial equipment manufacturers have been providing, and may continue to provide, increasingly longer warranty periods for their products, thus requiring their suppliers, such as us, to provide correspondingly longer product warranties. Due to the longer warranty periods, we could incur substantially greater warranty claims in the future.

 

We may experience unionized labor disputes at OEM facilities.

 

As we become more dependent on vehicle conversion programs with OEMs, we will become increasingly dependent on OEM production and the associated labor forces at OEM sites. Labor unions represent most of the labor forces at OEM facilities. In the past, labor disputes have occurred at OEM facilities, which adversely impacted our direct OEM product sales. Such labor disputes are likely to occur in the future and, if so, will negatively impact our product sales and profitability.

 

Changes in environmental policies could hurt the market for our products.

 

The market for alternative fuel vehicles and equipment, and the demand for our products are driven, to a significant degree, by local, state and federal regulations in the United States that relate to air quality and require the purchase of motor vehicles and equipment operating on alternative fuels. Similarly, foreign governmental regulations also affect our international business. These laws and regulations may change, which could result in transportation or equipment manufacturers abandoning their interest in alternative fueled powered vehicles. In addition, a failure by authorities to enforce current domestic and foreign laws or to adopt additional environmental laws could reduce the demand for our products.

 

Although many governments have identified as a significant priority the development of alternative energy sources, we cannot assure you that governments will not change their priorities or that any change they make would not materially adversely affect our revenue or the development of our products.

 

We may be subject to litigation if our stock price is volatile.

 

Our common stock has experienced and may experience in the future, price and volume fluctuations. Many factors may cause the market price for our common stock to decline, perhaps substantially, including the following:

 

    the effect of events of default occurring under our credit arrangements, particularly when combined with the increase in our outstanding loan commitments;

 

    failure to meet our product development and commercialization milestones;

 

    decreased demand for our common stock;

 

    failure of our revenue and operating results to meet the expectations of securities analysts or investors in any quarter;

 

    downward revisions in securities analysts’ estimates or changes in general market conditions;

 

    technological innovations by competitors or in competing technologies;

 

    investor perception of our industry or our prospects; or

 

    general technology or economic or regulatory trends.

 

In the past, companies that have experienced declines in the market price of their stock have been the subject of securities class action litigation. We may become involved in a securities class action litigation in the future. Litigation of this type often results in substantial costs and a diversion of management’s attention and resources, which could harm our business, prospects, results of operations or financial condition.

 

Provisions of Delaware law and of our charter and bylaws may it more difficult to take over our company, a fact that may reduce our stock price.

 

Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws and in the Delaware corporation law may make it difficult and expensive for a third party to pursue a tender offer, change in control or takeover attempt that our

 

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management and Board of Directors oppose. Public stockholders that might desire to participate in one of these transactions may not have an opportunity to do so. We also have a staggered Board of Directors, which makes it difficult for stockholders to change the composition of the Board of Directors in any one year. These anti-takeover provisions could substantially impede the ability of public stockholders to benefit from a change in control or to change our management and Board of Directors.

 

We have a stockholder protection rights agreement that provides for a dividend of one right for each outstanding share of our common stock. Upon the occurrence of some events, including a person or entity’s acquisition of 15% or more of our common stock, each right will entitle the holder to purchase, at an exercise price of $45 per right, common stock with a market value equal to twice the exercise price, which could cause substantial dilution. The rights agreement may have the effect of deterring, delaying or preventing a change in control that might otherwise be in the best interests of our stockholders.

 

Future sales of our common stock could adversely affect our stock price.

 

Substantial sales of our common stock, including shares issued upon exercise of our outstanding options and warrants, in the public market or the perception by the market that these sales could occur, could lower our stock price or make it difficult for us to raise additional equity. As of March 18, 2004, we had 18,591,021 shares of common stock outstanding. Of these shares, 16,928,203 shares are currently freely tradable and 1,662,818 shares, which otherwise are freely tradable, are subject to a lockup agreement that restricts their resale until certain dates beginning in 2004. The following table presents the relevant expiration dates and the number of shares as to which the lockup agreement expires:

 

Date


  

Number of Shares

Available for Sale


August 1, 2004

   277,691

February 1, 2005

   460,601

August 1, 2005

   460,601

February 1, 2006

   463,925

 

As of March 18, 2004 up to 795,000 shares were issuable upon the exercise of warrants outstanding as of that date, all of which will be freely tradable upon exercise thereof. Furthermore, as of March 18, 2004, up to 2,748,533 shares are issuable upon the exercise of options of which 764,004 are vested. Subject to applicable vesting and registration requirements, upon exercise of these options the underlying shares may be resold into the public market. In the case of outstanding options and warrants that have exercise prices less than the market price of our common stock from time to time, investors would experience dilution. We cannot predict if future sales of our common stock, or the availability of our common stock for sale, will harm the market price of our common stock or our ability to raise capital by offering equity securities.

 

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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This prospectus contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are not historical facts but rather are plans and predictions based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, our beliefs and assumptions. We use words such as “anticipate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “seek,” “estimate” and variations of these words and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, some of which are beyond our control, are difficult to predict and could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or forecasted in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include those described in the section above entitled “Risk Factors.” You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which reflect our view only as of the date of this prospectus.

 

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USE OF PROCEEDS

 

We will receive no proceeds from the sale of the securities described in this prospectus. The shares of common stock offered hereby are being offered for sale by the selling stockholders.

 

DIVIDEND POLICY

 

We have never paid dividends on our common stock. We previously paid cumulative cash dividends to the holders of our 1993 Series 1 Preferred Stock. On March 31, 1999, each share of preferred stock was converted into shares of our common stock. As a result, after March 31, 1999, we have no shares of preferred stock outstanding and have no obligation to pay any further dividends on those shares.

 

We currently intend to retain any earnings for use in developing and growing our business and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on our common stock in the foreseeable future. Any determination to pay dividends in the future will be at the discretion of our board of directors and will be dependent on our results of operations, financial condition, contractual restrictions, restrictions imposed by applicable law and other factors deemed relevant by the board of directors.

 

PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK

 

Our common stock is quoted on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “IMCO”. The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the closing high and low sales prices of our common stock as reported on the Nasdaq National Market. Closing high and low sale prices for fiscal year 2002 and the eight month transition period ended December 31, 2002 have been adjusted for the Quantum spin-off on July 23, 2002.

 

     High

   Low

Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2002

             

First Quarter

   $ 22.40    $ 13.33

Second Quarter

   $ 16.48    $ 6.14

Third Quarter

   $ 9.84    $ 6.10

Fourth Quarter

   $ 9.43    $ 5.59

Eight-month Fiscal Period Ended December 31, 2002 (1)

             

May 1, 2002 – June 30, 2002

   $ 7.95    $ 4.50

July 1, 2002 – September 30, 2002

   $ 5.51    $ 2.48

October 1, 2002 – December 31, 2002

   $ 4.95    $ 3.88

Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2003

             

First Quarter

   $ 4.65    $ 2.01

Second Quarter

   $ 6.15    $ 1.85

Third Quarter

   $ 8.33    $ 5.20

Fourth Quarter

   $ 8.82    $ 6.19

(1) On November 14, 2002, we changed our fiscal year end to December 31.

 

On March 25, 2004 the closing sale price of our common stock on The Nasdaq National Market was $4.85 per share. As of January 9, 2004 there were approximately 517 holders of record of our common stock.

 

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SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

 

The following table sets forth our selected consolidated financial data for the year ended December 31, 2003 and each of the four fiscal years ended April 30, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999 and for the eight-month transition period ended December 31, 2002, as well as a comparative eight-month period ended December 31, 2001. With the exception of the financial data for the comparative eight-month period ended December 31, 2001, which has been derived from our unaudited financial data, this data has been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements, related notes and other financial information included herein. The financial results of Quantum are shown below as a loss on discontinued operation, net of tax.

 

    Fiscal Year Ended April 30,

   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,


    Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,


 
    1999

    2000

    2001

    2002

    2001

    2002

    2003

 

Statement of Operations:

                                                       

Revenue

  $ 62,358     $ 90,475     $ 80,539     $ 67,676     $ 45,707     $ 46,421     $ 74,740  

Cost and expenses:

                                                       

Cost of sales

    36,832       54,718       49,499       44,542       29,185       33,071       51,780  

Research and development expense

    2,710       2,620       5,870       5,856       3,712       2,635       3,803  

Selling, general and administrative

    12,420       17,849       18,562       19,676       13,075       11,922       19,638  

Operating income (loss)

    10,396       15,289       6,610       (2,399 )     (266 )     (1,207 )     (481 )

Interest expense

    1,213       1,524       1,088       1,164       933       995       4,039  

Interest income

    43       82       1,309       236       112       112       —    

Gain on sale of subsidiary (1)

    2,169       —         —         —         —         —         —    

Income (loss) from continuing operations (net of tax) (4)

    9,161       10,033       3,674       (2,220 )     (908 )     (25,279 )     (6,900 )

Loss on discontinued operation (net of tax)

    (2,830 )     (6,968 )     (16,777 )     (25,016 )     (17,908 )     (3,115 )     —    

Net income (loss)

    6,311       3,065       (13,103 )     (27,237 )     (18,816 )     (28,394 )     (6,900 )

Dividends on preferred stock

    531       —         —         —         —         —         —    

Net income (loss) applicable to common stock

  $ 5,800     $ 3,065     $ (13,103 )   $ (27,237 )   $ (18,816 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )

Net income (loss) per share (1)(2):

                                                       

Basic:

                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 1.26     $ 1.18     $ 0.37     $ (0.20 )   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )

Loss from discontinued operation

  $ (0.39 )   $ (0.82 )   $ (1.69 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (1.71 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    

Net income (loss)

  $ 0.80     $ 0.36     $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Diluted:

                                                       

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  $ 1.03     $ 1.09     $ 0.33     $ (0.20 )   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )

Loss from discontinued operations

  $ (0.32 )   $ (0.76 )   $ (1.52 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (1.71 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    

Net income (loss)

  $ 0.71     $ 0.33     $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Number of shares used in per share computation (2)(3):

                                                       

Basic

    7,293       8,489       9,935       11,098       10,445       14,376       16,643  

Diluted

    8,976       9,232       11,049       11,098       10,445       14,376       16,643  

Balance Sheet Data:

                                                       

Total current assets

  $ 52,120     $ 73,385     $ 79,636     $ 61,825     $ 60,439     $ 35,243     $ 44,129  

Total assets

    73,562       95,016       120,763       123,449       117,270       75,978       101,136  

Total current liabilities

    16,892       23,756       28,089       33,110       20,332       24,038       21,990  

Long-term obligations, less current portion

    13,894       23,344       7,998       5,393       25,236       101       19,195  

Stockholders’ equity

    41,449       45,379       82,631       82,678       69,401       49,622       57,129  

(1) Represents gain on sale of 49% interest in IMPCO BV by BERU Aktiengesellschaft during fiscal 1999. We recorded a pre-tax gain of $2.2 million and an after-tax gain of $1.8 million or $0.20 per share.
(2) During fiscal year 1999, all of our preferred stock was converted to common stock and the diluted earnings per share was calculated as though the conversion occurred at the beginning of fiscal year 1999.
(3) See note 1 of the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus for an explanation of the method used to determine the number of shares used to compute the net income per share.
(4) Includes in the eight months ended December 31, 2002 a $24.0 million valuation allowance to establish a reserve for the deferred tax assets that are unlikely to be realized in the next three years (See “Critical Accounting Policies” beginning at p. 17 below)

 

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MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION

AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Overview

 

We design, manufacture and supply components that store gaseous fuels and monitor and control the pressure and flow of those fuels for use in internal combustion engines. Historically, most of our revenues have been derived from the sale of the products that enable traditional internal combustion engines to run on clean burning alternative fuels such as propane and natural gas instead of gasoline. Based on over 45 years of technology development and expertise in producing cost-effective, safe, and durable fuel technology systems for engines, we believe that we are positioned to provide enabling products and technologies in the rapidly expanding alternative fuel industry.

 

Our U.S. Operations division sells products, including parts and conversion systems, for applications in the transportation and industrial markets, which include the material handling, stationary and portable power generator and general industrial markets. Our International Operations division provides distribution for our products in Asia, Australia, Europe, India, Japan and Mexico, predominantly from our U.S. Operations division and some product assembly. We classify the results of the Quantum division, which was spun-off in July 2002, as a discontinued operation on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Recent Developments

 

Quantum Spin-off.

 

On July 23, 2002, we completed the distribution and spin-off of our Quantum division by distributing one share of Quantum common stock for every share of IMPCO common stock held on the record date, which was July 5, 2002. Since we completed the Quantum spin-off in July 2002 we no longer are engaged in fuel cell technology research, although we do have a continuing collaboration arrangement for certain research and development activities. We believe that the spin-off enables IMPCO to optimize its growth strategies as a separate, stand-alone entity, based on its prospective capitalization and financing requirements, acquisition strategies, working capital requirements, projected cash flows from operations and desired credit ratings.

 

We have included a discussion on the Quantum reporting segment since the financial results of Quantum were included in the transition period ended December 31, 2002 and our fiscal years ended April 30, 2001 and 2002 consolidated results of operations. As a result of the spin-off of Quantum, we have reported Quantum as a discontinued operation. Readers should note that financial data that includes periods before the Quantum spin-off may not present a meaningful comparison with later periods because of the effect of the discontinued operation. Management expects the Quantum spin-off to have a favorable effect on our results of operations and cash flows from operations.

 

Capital Transactions.

 

On December 19, 2003 we concluded the issuance and sale of 1,500,000 shares of common stock to certain institutional investors at $6.40 per share, yielding net proceeds of approximately $9.0 million after discounts and commissions. The offering was conducted as a private placement under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder. The proceeds of this offering were used to retire short-term debt and for working capital.

 

On July 22, 2003 we refinanced our debt to retire our $11.3 million debt to Bank of America, to finance the $7.0 million deferred payment to complete the 50% acquisition of B.R.C. Societá Responsabilitá Limitata (“BRC”), and to provide working capital. The debt restructuring consisted of two new loans. First, we entered into a senior subordinated secured promissory note and a related securities purchase agreement with Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC (“Bison”) for an aggregate borrowing of $20.0 million, with net

 

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proceeds of approximately $17.3 million, and we issued to an affiliate of Bison warrants to purchase up to 500,000 shares of our common stock. The Bison loan has a nominal interest rate of 11.25%, subject to certain adjustments, and matures on July 22, 2007. Interest on the Bison loan is payable monthly in arrears. During periods in which an event of default exists under the Bison loan agreement, the interest rate increases at a rate of 0.50% per month up to a maximum of 6 months or 3%, and in certain circumstances, interest payments during an event of default can be capitalized, or added to the principal amount outstanding. Additionally, we entered into a revolving loan and security agreement and a related secured promissory note with LaSalle Business Credit, LLC (“LaSalle”). The LaSalle loan has a maximum borrowing limit of $12.0 million, with availability based upon a percentage of eligible inventory and eligible accounts receivable, and has an adjustable interest rate of 1% above LaSalle’s prime rate as announced from time to time and matures on July 22, 2006. Interest on the LaSalle loan is payable monthly in arrears. During periods in which an event of default exists under the LaSalle loan agreement, the interest rate increases to 2% above LaSalle’s prime rate. The Bison and LaSalle loans contain cross-default provisions such that an event of default existing under one loan generally constitutes an event of default under the other. At December 31, 2003 the amount borrowed under the LaSalle facility was $5.2 million with $1.8 million of availability. See also “Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

On October 3, 2002, we entered into an option agreement with the equity holders of BRC. Under the option agreement, we obtained the right to purchase from those equity holders 50% of the outstanding equity interest of BRC for approximately $23.8 million, which included the issuance of approximately 2.3 million shares of Company common stock (which the parties acknowledged and agreed were valued at $10.0 million). We announced on May 8, 2003 that we had exercised the option and that the purchase of 50% of BRC was completed pending a $7.0 million payment that represented a deferred portion of the purchase price due on September 30, 2003. On July 22, 2003, immediately after the refinancing of our debt as discussed above, we paid the deferred payment of $7.0 million to the equity holders of BRC completing the acquisition of the 50% equity interest in BRC. As of December 31, 2003, we had incurred acquisition costs of approximately $24.6 million, which are shown on the consolidated balance sheet as part of investment in affiliates. The corresponding costs incurred as of December 31, 2002 totaled $12.5 million. We use the equity method of accounting to recognize the investment in and the results of BRC in our consolidated financial results.

 

In accordance with the sale and purchase agreement executed in connection with the BRC investment, and subject to certain specified conditions, we have the option to acquire from the BRC equity holders at least 90% ownership in BRC after the 2006 calendar year based upon a price determined by a multiple of Earnings Before Interest and Taxes adjusted by Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) and other quantitative factors. We believe the acquisition of 50% of BRC affords us a valuable strategic opportunity to expand in markets that are complementary to the traditional IMPCO markets for industrial applications. M.T.M. S.r.l., a subsidiary of BRC, has been developing, manufacturing and marketing alternative gaseous fuel products and systems for automobiles for more than twenty years. We believe BRC is a leader in the transportation sector of the gaseous fuels products market. BRC conducts business in all fifteen European Union nations, as well as ten Eastern European countries and a number of developing nations including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Australia, India, China, Thailand and South Korea. We believe this relationship with BRC will enable us to expand our position in end-user markets across a vast portion of the world. In addition, we anticipate that the manufacturing strengths of BRC, coupled with the additional product volume we hope to derive from the relationship, should result in significant productivity improvements. Furthermore, we believe that this agreement places us in the position to exploit our combined technology and product strengths through a strong global representation in the emerging alternative fuels industry.

 

Change of Fiscal Year

 

Our fiscal year had traditionally ended on April 30, and our fiscal quarters on July 31, October 31 and January 31. On November 14, 2002 we changed our fiscal year so that effective January 1, 2003 our fiscal year will be the calendar year. Accordingly, we filed a transition report for the eight-month period ended December 31, 2002 and this Annual Report for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 on Form 10-K, respectively.

 

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Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to bad debts, goodwill, taxes, inventories, warranty obligations, long-term service contracts, and contingencies and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

We believe the following critical accounting policies affect the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements:

 

We recognize revenue for product sales when title is transferred, ordinarily when products are shipped, and when management is reasonably assured of collectibility. We provide for returns and allowances as circumstances and facts require.

 

We provide for the estimated cost of product warranties at the time revenue is recognized. While we engage in product quality programs and processes, including actively monitoring and evaluating the quality of our component suppliers, our warranty obligation is affected by product failure rates, material usage and service delivery costs incurred in correcting a product failure. Should actual product failure rates, material usage or service delivery costs differ from our estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required.

 

We write down our inventory for estimated obsolescence and unmarketable inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required.

 

We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of our customers to make required payments. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances would be required.

 

We annually evaluate the carrying value of goodwill and other intangible assets using the impairment method. If the carrying value of the net assets and liabilities underlying the goodwill recorded on the financial statements exceeds the fair value of the net assets and liabilities based on discounted cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized against goodwill following a restatement of the tangible assets and liabilities at fair values.

 

We operate wholly owned and majority owned subsidiaries. We recorded goodwill at the time of purchase for the amount of the purchase price over the fair value of the assets and liabilities acquired. Future adverse changes in market conditions or poor operating results of underlying investments could result in losses or an inability to recover the carrying value of the goodwill, thereby possibly requiring an impairment charge in the future.

 

We record a deferred tax asset and assess the adequacy of a valuation allowance for the purpose of carrying a net deferred tax asset at an amount that we believe will be recovered in the next three years. During the transition period ended December 31, 2002 and during the year ended December 31, 2003, we recorded $24.0 million and $2.5 million, respectively, for valuation allowances for that portion of deferred tax assets that we believe is less likely than not to be realized in the next three years. We consider our recent operating results, future taxable income and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in determining the amount of the valuation allowance required for the portion of the deferred tax asset that is not likely to be realized in the next

 

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three years, notwithstanding that a significant portion of our deferred tax assets may have a longer life under applicable tax laws. On a quarterly basis, we continue to analyze the deferred tax asset and the reserve required for the portion of the asset that is unlikely to be realized in the next three years. Future adverse changes in market conditions, poor operating results or a decline in our projections about future profitability may affect our assessment of the adequacy of the reserve. In the event that we determine that it is more likely than not that we would be unable to realize an additional portion of our net deferred tax asset, an additional adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.

 

Results of Operations

 

Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2003 and Twelve-Month Period ended December 31, 2002

 

In November 2002, we changed our fiscal year-end from April 30 to December 31. The basis of comparison for the discussion that follows for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 consists of the eight months ended December 31, 2002, the three months ended April 30, 2002 and the month ended January 31, 2002. We have provided (in thousands of dollars) summary of the consolidated statement of operations for 2002:

 

    

Month Ended

January 31,
2002


   

Three Months

Ended

April 30,

2002


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,
2002


   

Year Ended

December 31,
2002


 

Revenues

   $ 5,236     $ 16,733     $ 46,421     $ 68,390  

Costs and expenses:

                                

Cost of revenue

     3,783       11,648       33,071       48,502  

Operating expenses

     1,888       6,156       14,557       22,601  
    


 


 


 


Total costs and expenses

     5,671       17,804       47,628       71,103  

Operating loss

     (435 )     (1,071 )     (1,207 )     (2,713 )

Interest expense, net

     75       33       883       991  

Loss from continuing operations, net of tax

     (153 )     (899 )     (25,279 )     (26,331 )

Loss on discontinued operation

     (2,380 )     (4,757 )     (3,115 )     (10,252 )
    


 


 


 


Net income (loss)

   $ (2,533 )   $ (5,656 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (36,583 )
    


 


 


 


 

Net revenue increased $6.3 million, or 9.3%, to $74.7 million in the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 from $68.4 million for the twelve months ended December 31, 2002. Unless otherwise noted, comparisons for fiscal 2003 are to the unaudited 12 month period ended December 31, 2002. Revenue in the three months ended December 31, 2003 was $18.2 million or 21.3% higher than revenues of $15.0 million during the corresponding period of 2002. The annual revenue increase was due to a $7.6 million increase in net sales to the industrial market partially offset by a $1.3 million decline in net sales to the transportation market. The increase in the industrial market was due primarily to the continued economic recovery affecting the industrial markets in the United States and in Europe since the downturn that followed the events of September 11, 2001. The quarterly increase in revenues is attributable to the launch of our new Spectrum product line. During the fourth quarter of 2003, we began shipping the Spectrum product line including certified engine packages and fuel systems in response to the new federal regulations, effective January 1, 2004, requiring that certain “off-road” vehicles and industrial applications meet more stringent exhaust standards. Additionally, we expect that revenues will increase during the first part of 2004 as compared to the same period of 2003 in response to increased deliveries of Spectrum and improved economic conditions in the markets we serve.

 

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Net revenues and operating income for our reporting segments for the fiscal year 2003 as compared to 2002 are as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

     Revenues

    Operating
Income/(Loss)


 
     Twelve Months Ended
December 31,


    Twelve Months
Ended December 31,


 
     2002

    2003

    2002

    2003

 

U.S. Operations

   $ 49,339     $ 51,951     $ 2,210     $ 4,549  

International Operations

     35,855       36,107       220       1,589  

Corporate Expenses (1)

     —         —         (4,603 )     (6,992 )

Intersegment Elimination

     (16,804 )     (13,318 )     (540 )     373  
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 68,390     $ 74,740     $ (2,713 )   $ (481 )
    


 


 


 



(1)   Represents corporate expenses not allocated to any operating segments

 

The following table sets forth our product revenues by application across all reporting segments for 2003 and the corresponding period of 2002:

 

     Revenues

     Twelve Months
Ended December 31,


     2002

   2003

Industrial

   $ 37,365    $ 45,217

Transportation

     31,025      29,523
    

  

Total

   $ 68,390    $ 74,740
    

  

 

During the twelve month periods ended December 31, 2003 and 2002, our revenue was generated in the following geographic regions by percent proportions:

 

    

Twelve Months

Ended
December 31,


 
     2002

    2003

 

United States and Canada

   43.3 %   42.9 %

Asia & Pacific Rim

   10.0 %   12.3 %

Europe

   23.7 %   29.1 %

Latin America

   23.0 %   15.7 %

 

Operating loss improved by $2.2 million, or 82%, from a loss of $2.7 million in 2002 to a loss of $0.5 million in 2003. This decrease in operating loss is the result of increased revenues of approximately $6.3 million, which contributed $1.8 million in additional operating income; higher gross margin percentage of 2% (compared to 29% in 2002), which contributed $1.2 million; partially offset by increased operating expenses of approximately $0.8 million.

 

U.S. Operations.    Net revenues from U.S. Operations increased $2.6 million, or 5.3%, to $52.0 million in the twelve months ended December 31, 2003 from net revenues of $49.3 million in the same period in 2002. The increase in sales during 2003 is due primarily to a $5.5 million increase in gross revenue for the industrial market offset by a $2.9 million decline in revenues for the transportation market. We believe that U.S. Operations will benefit beginning in the fourth quarter of 2003 and 2004 from an anticipated increase in revenues attributed to the new federal regulations affecting certain “off-road” vehicles and industrial applications requiring more stringent exhaust standards.

 

Gross profit in this segment increased by $0.1 million in 2003 due to $0.6 million in higher margin contribution from the $2.6 million in higher revenues offset by approximately $0.5 million due to reduced gross profit percentages resulting from unfavorable changes in product mix.

 

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For 2003, operating income increased by $2.3 million, or 105.8%, as compared to the same period in 2002. The increase in operating income was due to an increase in gross profit of $0.1 million and a decrease in operating expenses of $2.2 million. Significant cost reductions occurred in sales and marketing and the research functions since the third quarter of 2002 following the Quantum spin-off.

 

International Operations.    For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, net revenue increased by approximately $0.2 million to $36.1 million, compared to $35.9 million reported for the same period in the prior calendar year. The growth in revenue was due primarily to a 30% increase in revenues from our European and Asian subsidiaries offset by a reduction of 32% in revenues from our Mexican subsidiary. By market segment, the increase in sales during 2003 as compared to 2002 was caused primarily by a $2.9 million increase in gross revenue from the industrial market offset by a $2.7 million decline in revenues from the transportation market. Foreign currency fluctuations had the effect of increasing revenue in U.S. dollars by approximately $2.2 million.

 

Gross profit for 2003 increased by approximately $2.6 million, or 32.8%, as compared to the same period in 2002. The increase in gross margin was attributed primarily to changes in product mix that contributed positively to gross margin.

 

During 2003, operating income from international operations increased by approximately $1.4 million, or 622%, as compared to 2002. The increase in operating profit was due to the increase in gross profit of $2.6 million offset by increases in operating expenses of $1.2 million. The increase in operating expenses was associated partly with amounts recognized as bad debt expense in our Mexican subsidiary for $0.5 million and higher expenses in our European subsidiaries related to the weakening of the dollar against the euro throughout 2003. During 2003, we recognized $0.5 million in higher bad debt expense in Mexico primarily due to the write-off of another receivable of $0.4 million which we believe to be substantially uncollectible.

 

Corporate Expenses.    Corporate expenses consists of general and administrative expenses at the corporate level to support our operating segments in areas such as executive management, finance, human resources, management information systems, legal services and investor relations. Corporate expenses for 2003 were approximately $2.4 million more than the corresponding period of 2002 and are attributable to higher insurance premiums, higher depreciation expense for installation of new information systems, higher legal, investment banking and accounting expenses associated with LaSalle credit facility and the Bison notes to refinance the Bank of America debt, higher consulting fees and outside services, and reduced recoveries of corporate overhead in 2003 to Quantum and the foreign affiliates.

 

Interest Expense.    Net interest expense for 2003 was approximately $4.0 million compared to $1.0 million for 2002 due primarily to the carrying value of our debt increasing from $14.3 million at December 31, 2002 to $23.7 million at December 31, 2003. In July 2003, we entered into lending agreements with Bison and LaSalle for $20.0 million and $12.0 million, respectively, for the primary purposes of repaying the Bank of America debt and financing the deferred portion of the BRC 50% acquisition of $7.0 million. The interest rates for Bison and LaSalle were an effective interest rate of 15.9% and a variable interest rate equal to LaSalle Bank’s prime plus 1%, respectively. As of December 31, 2003, the amount borrowed under the LaSalle line was approximately $5.2 million and the interest expense recognized in the statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2003 was $0.2 million, which included $77,000 in amortization expense related to debt issuance costs of approximately $0.3 million. Under the Bison loan agreement interest expense was approximately $1.8 million of which $0.8 million was attributed to the amortization of $2.2 million in deferred debt issuance costs, $2.6 million associated with the fair value of 500,000 warrants issued in connection with the notes, and the $2.7 million loan discount associated with the difference between the $20.0 million loan amount and the actual net proceeds of $17.3 million. During 2003, we also incurred interest expense in connection with several bridge loans totaling approximately $4.1 million that were repaid completely by December 2003. Interest expense for the bridge loans included cash payments of approximately $0.5 million and amortization expense of $0.7 million associated with warrants issued to the holders of the bridge loans. Interest expense in the amount of approximately $0.7 million was recognized during 2003 for the Bank of American terms loans and lines of credit, all of which were repaid in July 2003.

 

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Provision For Income Taxes.    During 2002, we established a $24.0 million valuation allowance for deferred tax assets on the basis that we believed that it is more likely than not that a portion of our deferred tax asset will not be realized and established a valuation allowance for those assets that are not likely to be utilized in the next three years, notwithstanding that some of these may have longer lives under applicable tax laws. During 2003, we increased by approximately $2.5 million the valuation allowance to $26.5 million on the basis that the increase in deferred tax asset and related net operating losses from the domestic pre-tax loss in 2003 of $6.1 million would more likely than not be unrecoverable over the next three years. The effect of the increase in the valuation allowance was that no income tax benefit was recognized for domestic tax purposes during 2003. Federal net operating loss carryforwards of $72.0 million will begin to expire in 2021. We have federal and state research and development credit carryforwards aggregating approximately $9.7 million. Federal research and development credits totaling $5.1 million will begin to expire in 2009. State research and development credits of $4.6 million have no expiration. As of December 31, 2003, the deferred tax asset, net of the $26.5 million reserve, was $9.8 million. The income tax expense of $0.7 million during 2003 was attributed to our international operations, which had a pre-tax income of approximately $1.6 million. We believe that, based on our history of prior operating earnings and our expectations for the future, our operating income will more likely than not be sufficient to recognize fully the net deferred tax assets within the next three years. Future adverse changes in market conditions, poor operating results or a decline in our projections about future profitability may affect our assessment of the adequacy of the reserve. In the event that we determine that it is more likely than not that we would be unable to realize an additional portion of our net deferred tax asset, an additional adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.

 

Equity Share of Income (Loss) of Unconsolidated Affiliates.    We recognized a $1.1 million expense before tax corresponding to our share in the losses of unconsolidated affiliates primarily due to our 50% ownership in BRC of Italy for the period of July 22, 2003 to December 31, 2003. Our share of the BRC loss was approximately $0.5 million. The BRC loss was attributed to reduced revenues of €2.6 million ($3.0 million) and reduced operating income of €2.1 million ($2.4 million) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2003 compared to the corresponding period of 2002. Foreign exchange transaction loss totaled €0.3 million ($0.3 million) during the fourth quarter of 2003 due to the continued strengthening of the euro relative to other currencies in which BRC settled transactions. In accordance with the equity method of accounting for business combinations, we recognized amortization expense of $0.3 million for the difference between the book value and the fair value of our share of the net assets acquired. This amortization expense will continue to be recognized until 2008 at an annual rate of approximately $0.7 million.

 

Discontinued Operation.    We completed the spin-off of Quantum on July 23, 2002. We did not recognize any activity during 2003 related to the discontinued operation. The loss from discontinued operation during the twelve months ended December 31, 2002 was $10.3 million.

 

Eight-Month Periods Ended December 31, 2002 and 2001

 

Net revenues and operating income for our reporting segments for the eight-month period ended December 31, 2002 (“2002”) or “transition period” and the corresponding period of 2001 are as follows:

 

     Revenues

    Operating
Income/(Loss)


 
     Eight Months Ended
December 31,


    Eight Months Ended
December 31,


 
     2001

    2002

    2001

    2002

 

U.S. Operations

   $ 35,868     $ 33,151     $ 2,962     $ 1,751  

International Operations

     22,222       25,304       1,016       637  

Corporate Expenses (1)

                     (4,443 )     (3,460 )

Intersegment Elimination

     (12,383 )     (12,034 )     199       (135 )
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 45,707     $ 46,421     $ (266 )   $ (1,207 )
    


 


 


 



(1)   Represents corporate expenses not allocated to any operating segments

 

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The following table sets forth our product revenues by application across all reporting segments for the transition period and the corresponding period of 2001:

 

     Revenues

     Eight Months Ended
December 31,


     2001

   2002

Industrial

   $ 28,455    $ 23,468

Transportation

     17,252      22,953
    

  

Total

   $ 45,707    $ 46,421
    

  

 

During the transition period and the corresponding period of 2001, our revenue was generated in the following geographic regions by percent proportions:

 

     Eight Months
Ended
December 31,


 
     2001

    2002

 

United States and Canada

   42.7 %   40.5 %

Asia & Pacific Rim

   10.9 %   10.7 %

Europe

   30.3 %   23.0 %

Latin America

   16.1 %   25.8 %

 

Net revenue increased $0.7 million, or 1.6%, to $46.4 million in the transition period from $45.7 million in 2001. The revenue increase was primarily due to a $5.7 million increase in net sales of our products to the transportation market partially offset by a $5.0 million decline in net sales of our products to the industrial market. The decline in the industrial market was due primarily to the continued economic slowdown affecting the industrial markets in the United States, particularly following the events of September 11, 2001. We believe our sales into the transportation market have continued to grow, particularly in Mexico, due to a favorable price differential between conventional and alternative fuels.

 

Our operating loss increased by approximately $0.9 million, or 352.5% from a $0.3 million loss in 2001 to a $1.2 million operating loss in 2002. The increase in operating loss in 2002 is due primarily to reduced gross profit on product shipments from both the U.S. and International operations partially offset by reduced expenses for research and development and selling, general and administrative expenses.

 

U.S. Operations.    Net revenues from U.S. Operations decreased $2.7 million, or 7.6%, to $33.2 million in the eight-month transition period ended December 31, 2002 from net revenues of $35.9 million in the same period in 2001. The decrease in sales during the current period is due primarily to a $9.0 million decline in gross revenue for the industrial market offset by a $6.3 million increase in revenues for the transportation market.

 

Gross profit in this segment decreased $2.5 million, or 24.7%, to $7.6 million in the transition period of 2002 from $10.0 million in 2001. Approximately $0.8 million of the decline in gross profit was due to a decline in revenue and approximately $1.7 million of the decline was due to comparably lower margins in the transportation market than the industrial market.

 

For the transition period ended 2002, operating income decreased by $1.2 million, or 41%, as compared to the same period in 2001. The reduction in operating profit was due to a reduction in gross profit of $2.5 million offset by a reduction in operating expenses of $1.3 million. Approximately $1.0 million of the reduction in operating expenses was due to lower research and development expenses.

 

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International Operations.    For the eight months ended December 31, 2002, net revenue increased by approximately $3.1 million to $25.3 million, compared to $22.2 million reported for the same period in the prior calendar year. The growth in revenue was due primarily to a 97% increase in revenues from our Mexican subsidiary offset by a reduction of 24% in revenues from our European subsidiary. By market segment, the increase in sales during 2002 was caused primarily by a $5.0 million increase in gross revenue from the transportation market offset by a $1.9 million decline in revenues from the industrial market.

 

Gross profit for the transition period of 2002 decreased approximately $0.4 million, or 5.9%, as compared to the same period in 2001. Approximately $1.2 million of the decline in gross profit was due to changes in product mix offset by approximately $0.8 million attributable to the increase in revenue.

 

During the transition period of 2002, operating income decreased by approximately $0.4 million, or 37.3%, as compared to the same periods in the prior calendar year. The reduction in operating profit was due to a reduction in gross profit of $0.4 million.

 

Corporate Expenses.    Corporate expenses consists of general and administrative expenses at the corporate level to support our operating segments in areas such as executive management, finance, human resources, management information systems, legal services and investor relations. As of May 1, 2002, the amortization of goodwill and other intangible assets is no longer recorded as a corporate expense due to the implementation of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets”. During 2001, approximately $0.5 million of amortization of goodwill and other intangibles was charged to corporate expense. Corporate expenses for 2002 were approximately $1.0 million less than the corresponding period of calendar year 2001 and are attributable to legal and consulting expenses totaling approximately $1.2 million that were incurred during 2001 in connection with Quantum spin-off costs and an S-3 registration statement filing that was withdrawn on September 20, 2001 offset by higher one-time expenses for severance, accelerated accruals for audit fees and investor relations expenses due to the change in the fiscal year and not recognized in the eight months ended December 31, 2001, and other non-recurring expenses related to employee training expenses, insurance and administrative costs.

 

Interest Expense.    Net interest expense for 2002 was $0.7 million compared to $0.8 million for the corresponding period of 2001. As of December 31, 2002 and April 30, 2002, total amounts due for bank lines of credit and term loans were $14.2 million and $19.4 million, respectively.

 

Provision For Income Taxes.    During 2002 we established a $24.0 million valuation allowance for deferred tax assets, which affected our estimated effective annual tax rate of 1,111.7% for the transition period ended December 31, 2002. We believe it is more likely than not that a portion of our deferred tax asset will not be realized and established a reserve for those assets that are not likely to be utilized in the next three years, notwithstanding that some of these may have longer lives under applicable tax laws. Federal net operating loss carryforwards of $66.5 million, as of December 31, 2002, begin to expire in 2021. We have federal and state research and development credit carryforwards aggregating approximately $9.3 million. Federal research and development credits totaling $4.9 million as of December 31, 2002 begin to expire in 2009. State research and development credits of $4.4 million have no expiration. As of December 31, 2002, the deferred tax asset, net of the $24.0 million reserve, was $9.4 million. We believe that, based on our history of prior operating earnings, our completed spin-off of Quantum and our expectations for the future, our operating income will more likely than not be sufficient to recognize fully the net deferred tax assets within the next three years.

 

Discontinued Operation.    We completed the spin-off of Quantum on July 23, 2002. The loss from discontinued operation during the transition period ended December 31, 2002 was $5.2 million or $3.1 million, net of a $2.1 million tax benefit. For the same period ended December 31, 2001, the loss from discontinued operation was approximately $28.7 million or $17.2 million, net of a $11.5 million tax benefit.

 

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Years Ended April 30, 2002 and 2001

 

Net revenues and operating income for our reporting segments for the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001 and 2002 are as follows (in thousands):

 

     Revenues

    Operating
Income/(Loss)


 
     Fiscal Year Ended
April 30,


    Fiscal Year Ended
April 30,


 
     2001

    2002

    2001

    2002

 

U.S. Operations

   $ 66,925     $ 52,055     $ 11,138     $ 3,416  

International Operations

     31,132       32,773       1,387       599  

Corporate Expenses (1)

                     (5,862 )     (6,807 )

Intersegment Elimination

     (17,518 )     (17,152 )     (53 )     393  
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 80,539     $ 67,676     $ 6,610     $ (2,399 )
    


 


 


 



(1)   Represents corporate expenses not allocated to any operating segments

 

Net revenue decreased $12.8 million, or 15.9%, to $67.7 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $80.5 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. This decrease was primarily due to the decline in sales of conversion kits and components to the material handling market, which were attributable to unfavorable economic conditions.

 

The following table sets forth our product revenues by application across all reporting segments:

 

     Revenues

     Fiscal Year Ended
April 30,


     2001

   2002

Industrial

   $ 54,114    $ 43,081

Transportation

     26,425      24,595
    

  

Total

   $ 80,539    $ 67,676
    

  

 

During fiscal years 2001 and 2002, our revenue was generated in the following geographic regions in the following percent proportions:

 

     2001

    2002

 

United States and Canada

   55.0 %   44.1 %

Asia & Pacific Rim

   13.0 %   9.9 %

Europe

   20.2 %   27.8 %

Latin America

   11.8 %   18.2 %

 

U.S. Operations.    Net revenues in this segment decreased $14.9 million, or 22.2%, to $52.1 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $66.9 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. Revenues were lower primarily due to the decline in sales of our products to the material handling market. We believe this decline in sales was caused by the current economic slowdown. The increase in our large stationary engine market was largely offset by the decline in our small industrial engine market.

 

Gross profit in this segment decreased $8.0 million, or 35.9%, to $14.3 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $22.3 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. The decline in revenues negatively impacted gross profit by $5.0 million. The remaining $3.0 million decline in gross profit was due to product mix consisting of a higher percentage of lower margin complete engine systems sales and lower margin sales to our foreign subsidiaries.

 

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Operating income in this segment decreased $7.7 million, or 69.4%, to $3.4 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $11.1 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. This decrease was due to lower gross profits offset by a net $0.3 million reduction in operating expenses.

 

International Operations.    Net revenues in this segment increased by $1.7 million, or 5.5%, to $32.8 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $31.1 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. In the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002, net revenues increased $4.1 million at our Mexico subsidiary, $0.7 million in Asia, and $0.4 million at our European subsidiary. These increases were partially offset by decreases of $2.5 million at our Australian subsidiary and $1.0 million at our Japan subsidiary. In the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002, revenues for our International Operations segment would have increased an additional $0.4 million if not for the strengthening of the U.S. Dollar. A strong U.S. Dollar has a negative effect on the conversion of foreign currency denominated sales.

 

Gross profit in this segment decreased $0.6 million, or 6.2%, to $8.3 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $8.9 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. Gross profit declined $1.1 million due to lower margins due to differences in product mix, which was partially offset by a $0.5 million increase in gross profit due to higher revenues.

 

Operating income for this segment decreased $0.8 million, or 57.1%, to $0.6 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $1.4 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001 as all foreign subsidiaries except Mexico experienced lower operating income. This was primarily a result of lower gross margins due to the higher cost of U.S. goods purchased with their weakening local currencies. Additionally, we added marketing and technical personnel to support new and expanding markets in Asia, which resulted in increased operating expenses in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 as compared to the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001.

 

Corporate Expenses.    Corporate expenses consists of general and administrative expenses at the corporate level to support our operating segments in areas such as executive management, finance, human resources, management information systems, legal services and investor relations. Additionally, amortization of goodwill and other intangible assets was recorded as a corporate expense. Corporate expenses increased $0.9 million, or 15.3%, to $6.8 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $5.9 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. During the twelve month period ended April 30, 2002, the increase in corporate expenses were attributable to $1.2 million in legal fees and consulting services primarily related to Quantum spin-off costs and our From S-3 filing in connection with a follow-on equity offering, which was withdrawn on September 20, 2001.

 

Interest Expense (Net).    Net interest expense increased by $0.8 million, to $0.9 million, in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 from $0.1 million in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. The increase was primarily due to a higher outstanding balance from our line of credit with Bank of America, as compared to the interest income generated from the proceeds of the July 2000 equity offering in the first quarter of the prior fiscal year.

 

Provision for Income Taxes.    The estimated effective annual tax benefit rate of 40% for the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002 was less than the tax benefit rate of 41% in the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2001. The effective tax benefit rate represents the federal statutory income tax rate, state income taxes and foreign income taxes increased by research and development credits. For the twelve-month period ended April 30, 2002, including the effects of the discontinued operation, we have incurred a $45.5 million loss before income taxes and minority interest. Also, we had federal and state research and development credit carryforwards aggregating approximately $9.2 million. Federal research and development credits totaling $5.0 million begin to expire in 2009. State research and development credits of $4.2 million have no expiration date. As of April 30, 2002, the net deferred tax asset was $31.9 million.

 

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Discontinued Operation.    Prior to the completed spin-off of Quantum on July 23, 2002, the loss from discontinued operation during the fiscal year ended April 31, 2002 was $41.7 million, or $25.0 million net of a $16.7 million tax benefit. For the same period ended April 30, 2001, the loss from discontinued operation was approximately $28.6 million, or $16.8 million net of a $11.8 million tax benefit.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Our ongoing operations are funded by cash generated from operations, debt financings and sales of our equity securities. In addition, these sources of cash provide for capital expenditures and research and development, as well as to invest in and operate our existing operations and prospective new lines of business.

 

As of December 31, 2003, our cash and cash equivalents totaled $9.5 million, compared to cash and cash equivalents of $2.0 million at December 31, 2002. On July 22, 2003 we refinanced our debt to retire our $11.3 million debt to Bank of America, to finance the $7.0 million deferred payment to complete the 50% acquisition of B.R.C. Societá Responsabilitá Limitata (“BRC”), and to provide working capital. The debt restructuring consisted of two new loans. First, we entered into a senior subordinated secured promissory note and a related securities purchase agreement with Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC (“Bison”) for an aggregate borrowing of $20.0 million, with net proceeds of $17.3 million, and we issued to an affiliate of Bison warrants to purchase up to 500,000 shares of our common stock. The Bison loan has a nominal interest rate of 11.25%, subject to certain adjustments, and matures on July 22, 2007. Interest on the Bison loan is payable monthly in arrears. During periods in which an event of default exists under the Bison loan agreement, the interest rate increases at a rate of 0.50% per month up to a maximum of 6 months or 3%, and in certain circumstances, interest payments during an event of default can be capitalized, or added to the principal amount outstanding. At the same time, we entered into a revolving loan and security agreement and a related secured promissory note with LaSalle Business Credit, LLC (“LaSalle”). The LaSalle loan has a maximum borrowing limit of $12.0 million, with availability based upon a percentage of eligible inventory and eligible accounts receivable, and has an adjustable interest rate of 1% above LaSalle’s prime rate as announced from time to time and matures on July 22, 2006. Interest on the LaSalle loan is payable monthly in arrears. During periods in which an event of default exists under the LaSalle loan agreement, the interest rate increases to 2% above LaSalle’s prime rate. The Bison and LaSalle loans contain cross-default provisions such that an event of default existing under one loan generally constitutes an event of default under the other. As of December 31, 2003, our borrowing under the line of credit was approximately $5.2 million with approximately $1.6 million unused and available under the line. On March 12, 2004, we received an amendment to the LaSalle loan agreement to expand the eligible accounts receivable, resulting in an additional $2.6 million of available additional borrowing under this loan. On December 19, 2003 we sold 1,500,000 shares of common stock to certain institutional investors at $6.40 per share, yielding net proceeds of approximately $9.0 million after discounts and commissions. The offering was conducted as a private placement under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act and Rule 506 promulgated thereunder. The proceeds of this offering were used to retire short-term debt and for working capital.

 

Our subsidiary in Japan has a ¥64 million (US$0.6 million at December 31, 2003) short-term loan facility with the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd., Osaka Branch. At December 31, 2003, a balance of $0.6 million was outstanding. Our subsidiary in the Netherlands has a secured €2.3 million ($2.9 million) revocable credit facility with Fortis Bank. At December 31, 2003 there were no borrowings on this facility.

 

On October 3, 2002, we entered into an option agreement with the equity holders of BRC. Under the option agreement, we obtained the right to purchase from those equity holders 50% of the outstanding equity interest of BRC for approximately $23.8 million, which included the issuance of approximately 2.3 million shares of Company common stock (which the parties acknowledged and agreed were valued at $10.0 million). We announced on May 8, 2003 that we had exercised the option and that the purchase of 50% of BRC was completed pending a $7.0 million payment that represented a deferred portion of the purchase price due on September 30, 2003. On July 22, 2003, immediately after the refinancing of our debt as discussed above, we paid the deferred payment of $7.0 million to the equity holders of BRC completing the acquisition of the 50% equity interest in

 

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BRC. As of December 31, 2003, we had incurred acquisition costs of approximately $24.8 million, which are shown on the consolidated balance sheet as part of investment in affiliates. The corresponding costs incurred as of December 31, 2002 totaled $12.6 million. We use the equity method of accounting to recognize the investment in and the results of BRC in our consolidated financial results.

 

As a result of the refinancing of the Bank of America debt and the acquisition of our 50% equity interest in BRC, we have assumed additional long-term debt, which has increased our financial leverage. Interest costs and related charges since July 2003 have been higher than in prior years and will continue to be a significant use of funds. The LaSalle and Bison notes have loan terms of three and four years, respectively. Under the Bison agreement, we are obligated to pay off the note in July 2007 in the amount of $20.0 million. Under the LaSalle agreement, which has a maturity date of July 2006, we are obligated to repay the balance owed at that time under the revolving line of credit, not to exceed $12.0 million. At December 31, 2003 the Company was in default under terms of the LaSalle agreement in failure to maintain minimum consolidated EBITDA of $4,000,000, to maintain a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio of not less than 0.25:1.00, and to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio not to exceed 8.45:1.00. LaSalle has waived these financial covenant non-compliance conditions at December 31, 2003. The Company was also in default under terms of the Bison agreement in failure to maintain minimum consolidated EBITDA of $3,500,000 and minimum consolidated leverage ratio not to exceed 8.50:1.00. Bison has waived these covenant non-compliance conditions at December 31, 2003. The events of default under these loans will cause our applicable interest rates to increase as long as the circumstances continue unless we are successful in negotiating amendments to these covenants. The LaSalle loan increases the interest rate to prime plus 2%, which will increase our interest expense and our cash outflows by approximately $25,000 per quarter. Under the Bison loan, the applicable interest rate increases by 0.5% per month up to a maximum of 3% or six months. We expect that the increase in the Bison interest rate will increase our interest expense by approximately $150,000 during the first quarter of 2004, although in certain circumstances we are permitted to capitalize those interest payments by adding them to the principal balance outstanding under the Bison loan. We also are seeking to revise our financial covenants in both loans to reflect more conservative estimates of future financial performance. However, we cannot be assured that the lenders will agree to amend our financial covenants or grant further or continuing waivers in the future. If we cannot obtain the necessary waivers or amendments, or return to compliance with these and all other loan covenants, our lenders may accelerate our debt, foreclose on our assets, or take other legal actions against us which, alone or in the aggregate, may have a material adverse effect on our business. During 2003, we received proceeds of approximately $4.1 million in bridge loans and $8.0 million in loan commitments. As of December 31, 2003, we had repaid all of the bridge loans and the loan commitment expired without us exercising our option to borrow under its terms.

 

Our ratio of current assets to current liabilities was 2.0:1.0 at December 31, 2003 as compared to 1.5:1.0 at December 31, 2002. During this same period our total working capital increased by $10.9 million from $11.2 million at December 31, 2002 to $22.1 million at December 31, 2003. Current assets increased by $8.9 million due primarily to the stock offering in December 2003 yielding net proceeds of $9.0 million and current liabilities decreased by $2.0 million due primarily to payment of the Bank of America debt that was classified as a current liability at December 31, 2002.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for fiscal 2003 was $0.8 million, compared to cash provided by operations for the eight months ended December 31, 2002 of $1.7 million. The decline in cash flow was attributed to the launch of the Spectrum product line during 2003, which required working capital investments in accounts receivable and inventory in the amounts of $2.4 million and $0.6 million, respectively. Increases in accounts payable and accrued expenses during 2003 resulted in a $6.2 million source of cash, which provided the necessary working capital to fund the Spectrum launch and to fund the loss from continuing operations of approximately $2.1 million after the effect of non-cash items totaling $4.8 million. In the eight months ended December 31, 2002, cash flow from operating activities benefited from reductions in inventory and accounts receivables totaling $2.8 million attributed primarily to the 19% decline in revenues during the three months ended December 31, 2002.

 

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Net cash used in investing activities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 was $15.4 million, an increase of $11.2 million from $4.2 million for the eight months ended December 31, 2002. This increase is due primarily to costs related to the 50% acquisition of BRC.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 was $20.7 million or an increase of $9.2 million from $11.5 million for the eight months ended December 31, 2002. During December 2003, we raised approximately $9.0 million in net proceeds from the issuance of 1.5 million shares of common stock to institutional investors.

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, cash provided by continuing operations totaled $6.1 million or a decrease of $2.9 million from the eight months ended December 31, 2002.

 

At December 31, 2003 the Company had received waivers from its two lenders, LaSalle and Bison, for covenant non-compliance conditions at December 31, 2003. In addition: a) Bison granted the Company a modified EBITDA calculation for 2004 and a further waiver in maintaining its Term Loan status as a long term liability throughout 2004; b) LaSalle granted the Company a favorable amendment on March 12, 2004 which resulted in additional borrowing line capacity of $2.6 million; and c) we believe that LaSalle will work with the Company to amend its credit arrangement for the remainder of its term. Accordingly, we believe that the Company has sufficient resources to meet its current financial obligations and finance its operations over the next twelve months.

 

Should we be unable to obtain waivers or amendments, the Company believes that its current cash balances, available cash drawn from its subsidiaries, other financing alternatives, our history of being able to raise equity, and our ability to obtain bridge loans will result in adequate liquidity to continue operations through December 31, 2004.

 

Derivative Financial Instruments

 

We have used derivative financial instruments for the purpose of reducing our exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates. While these hedging instruments are subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations are generally offset by the value of the underlying exposures being hedged. We are not a party to leveraged derivatives and do not hold or issue financial instruments for speculative purposes. As of December 31, 2003, we did not utilize any derivative financial instruments.

 

Foreign Currency Management.    The results and financial condition of our international operations are affected by changes in exchange rates between certain foreign currencies and the U.S. Dollar. Our exposure to fluctuations in currency exchange rates has increased as a result of the growth of our international subsidiaries. The functional currency for all of our international subsidiaries is the local currency of the subsidiary. An increase in the value of the U.S. Dollar increases the costs incurred by our subsidiaries because most of our international subsidiaries’ inventory purchases are U.S. Dollar denominated. We monitor this risk and attempt to minimize the exposure through forward currency contracts and the management of cash disbursements in local currencies. At December 31, 2003, we have a single foreign exchange forward contract of approximately $0.5 million in which gains and losses are recognized in the statement of operations as the fair value of the contracts fluctuates. We seek to manage our foreign currency economic risk by minimizing our U.S. Dollar investment in foreign operations using foreign currency term-loans to finance the operations of our foreign subsidiaries.

 

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Debt Obligations.    The following table summarizes our debt obligations at December 31, 2003. The interest rates represent weighted average rates, with the period end rate used for the variable rate debt obligations. The fair value of the debt obligations approximated the recorded value as of December 31, 2003 (in thousands of dollars).

 

    2004

    2005

    2006

    2007

    Thereafter

    Total

  Fair value
at 12/31/03


 

Debt Denominated in U.S. Dollars:

                                       

Line of credit

  —       —       5,238     —       —       5,238   5,238  

Interest rate

  —   %   —   %   5.0 %   —   %   —   %       5.0 %

Term loans including current portion

  —       —       —       20,000     —       20,000   17,483  

Interest rate

  —   %   —   %   —   %   15.9 %   —   %       15.9 %

Capital leases

  11     —       —       —       —       11   11  

Interest rate

  6.1 %   —   %   —   %   —   %   —   %       6.1 %

Other finance loans

  72     —       —       —       —       72   72  

Interest rate

  5.8 %   —   %   —   %   —   %   —   %       5.8 %

Weighted average interest rate (US)

                                    13.4 %

Debt Denominated in Foreign Currencies:

                                       

Indian Rupees, term loan

  —       134     —       —       —       134   134  

Interest rate

  —   %   14.0 %   —   %   —   %   —   %       14.0 %

Japanese Yen, term loan

  598     —       —       —       —       598   598  

Interest rate

  1.7 %   —   %   —   %   —   %   —   %       1.7 %

Australian Dollar, capital leases

  32     34     29     —       —       95   127  

Interest rate

  8.2 %   8.4 %   8.1 %   —   %   —   %       8.2 %

Weighted average interest rate (foreign)

                                    4.6 %

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, (“FIN 46”). FIN 46 introduces a new consolidation model, the variable interests model, which determines control (and consolidation) based on potential variability in gains and losses of the entity being evaluated for consolidation. The requirements for FIN 46, including its disclosures, apply immediately.

 

FIN 46 provides guidance for determining whether an entity qualifies as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) by considering, among other considerations, whether the entity lacks sufficient equity or its equity holders lack adequate decision-making ability. If the entity does not qualify as a VIE, then the consolidation criteria is based on previously established accounting standards. Qualifying VIEs are covered by FIN 46 and are individually evaluated for consolidation based on their variable interests. FIN 46 requires consideration and estimates of a significant number of possible future outcomes of the VIE as well as the probability of each outcome occurring. Based on the allocation of possible outcomes, a calculation is performed to determine which party, if any, has a majority of potential negative outcomes (expected losses) or a majority of the potential positive outcomes (expected residual returns), with an emphasis on negative outcomes. That party, if any, is the primary beneficiary and is required to consolidate the VIE. We have evaluated the potential impact of FIN 46 as of December 31, 2003 and have concluded that there was no impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

We adopted the new rules on accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets beginning with the transition period ended December 31, 2002. Application of the nonamortization provisions of the Statement resulted in an increase in net income on an annual basis of approximately $0.4 million ($.03 per share). We performed the first of the required impairment tests of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets effective May 1, 2002 and determined that there was no impact on the Company’s financial position during the period ended July 31, 2002. We also conducted the goodwill impairment tests as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 and similarly determined that there were no impacts on our financial position.

 

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Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Information relating to Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk appears under the heading “Derivative Financial Instruments,” which is included above in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.”

 

Contractual Obligations

 

The following table contains supplemental information regarding total contractual obligations as of December 31, 2003. The capital lease obligations are undiscounted and represent total minimum lease payments. The Bison term loan is shown at its face value of $20.0 million, which differs from its carrying value of $17.5 million by the unamortized portion of the loan discount of $2.7 million.

 

     Payments Due by Period

Contractual Obligations


   Total

  

Less than

One Year


   2-3 Years

   4-5 Years

  

More Than

5 Years


Revolving lines of credit

   $ 5,836    $ 598    $ 5,238    $ —      $ —  

Term loans payable

     20,000      —        —        20,000      —  

Notes payable

     134      —        134      —        —  

Capital lease obligations

     153      47      73      33      —  

Operating lease obligations

     4,952      1,384      1,068      925      1,575

Other and miscellaneous

     273      273      —        —        —  
    

  

  

  

  

Totals

   $ 31,348    $ 2,302    $ 6,513    $ 20,958    $ 1,575
    

  

  

  

  

 

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BUSINESS

 

Overview

 

We design, manufacture and supply advanced systems that store gaseous fuels and monitor and control the pressure and flow of those fuels for use in internal combustion engines. Our components and systems enable internal combustion engines to operate on natural gas or propane. Our products improve efficiency, enhance power output, and reduce emissions by electronically sensing and regulating the proper proportion of fuel and air required by the internal combustion engine. Additionally, we have extensive engineering, design and systems integration experience with our customers’ requirements for product performance, durability and physical configuration. Based on over 45 years of technology development and expertise in producing cost-effective, safe and durable fuel technology systems, we believe we are positioned to provide enabling products and technologies in the rapidly expanding alternative fuel industry.

 

Our customers use our components and systems on engines ranging from one to 4,000 horsepower. We provide gaseous fuel components and systems to the transportation market and the industrial market, which includes the material handling and stationary and portable power generation markets.

 

A number of original equipment manufacturers, or OEMs, in the automotive, industrial and power generation industries, who are our customers, are developing alternative clean power systems using clean burning gaseous fuels, which decrease fuel costs, lessen dependence on crude oil and reduce harmful emissions of internal combustion engines. We offer the following products, kits and systems to these customers:

 

    systems integration—services to integrate the gaseous fuel storage, fuel delivery and/or electronic control components and sub-systems to meet OEM and aftermarket requirements.

 

    fuel delivery—pressure regulators, fuel injectors, flow control valves, and other components and systems designed to control the pressure, flow and/or metering of gaseous fuels;

 

  electronic controls—solid-state components and proprietary software that monitor and optimize fuel pressure and flow to meet manufacturers’ engine requirements; and

 

    gaseous fueled internal combustion engines—engines manufactured by OEMs that are integrated with our fuel delivery and electronic control system.

 

We have been producing and selling gaseous fuel systems and components for over 45 years. We sell these systems and components directly to end users, OEMs and the aftermarket through more than 400 distributors and dealers worldwide.

 

We were incorporated in Delaware in 1985 after having provided automotive and alternative fuel solutions in a variety of organizational structures since 1959.

 

Alternative Fuel Industry

 

Overview.

 

We focus on the alternative fuel industry. Three independent market factors—economics, energy independence and environmental concerns—are driving the development of alternative fuel industry technology and markets. We believe the historic price differential between propane or natural gas and gasoline drives the economics of the alternative fuel market. The price of clean fuels such as natural gas or propane are typically 40% to 60% that of traditional liquid fuels such as gasoline. By converting an internal combustion engine to run on propane or natural gas customers can capitalize on the fuel price differential and reduce harmful vehicle emissions emitted from liquid fueled engines.

 

End users typically can recoup the cost of the conversion within six to eighteen months, depending on the fuel cost disparity prevailing at the time. Transportation companies in various countries, including Australia, Mexico, India and China, are taking advantage of these economics.

 

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Among our most active customers are taxi companies, transit and shuttle bus companies, and companies with extensive delivery fleets such as Coca Cola, Frito-Lay, Pepsi Cola and United Parcel Service. Small and large industrial engine users in the power generation market capitalize on the cost benefits of using alternative fuels and their low-pollutant capabilities. For example, forklift users often operate equipment indoors where toxic emissions are a concern. In all these situations, it is relatively easy to establish centralized fueling stations. Because of the global price differential in favor of gaseous fuels compared to gasoline, their availability in third-world markets and their lower pollutants, the alternative fuel industry market potential is growing rapidly. Approximately 57% of our revenues are derived from sales outside the United States, of which Mexico accounted for 16% of sales and Europe accounted for 29% of sales for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003.

 

In addition to economics, energy independence is a significant driver for the alternative fuel market. Many countries have significant natural gas reserves and seek to use alternative fuels to reduce their dependence on imported oil and reduce their unfavorable balance of payments. Natural gas is generally consumed domestically since it is difficult to transport internationally in a gaseous state and liquefying natural gas tends to be costly. Implementing OEM alternative fuel vehicles that operate on natural gas or propane can lessen the demand for gasoline. For example, the Egyptian and Chinese governments realized that rather than relying solely on petroleum for its transportation needs, each could use natural gas in vehicles to free some of its oil production for export.

 

Governmental emission regulations, which support the use of clean burning alternative fuels, are also expanding the alternative fuel industry growth. The negative environmental impact associated with liquid fossil fuels further increases the demand for systems that use clean burning fuels. Internal combustion engines are a major source of air pollution, which has led to increased government regulation and oversight on vehicle and industrial engine emissions. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that conventional motor vehicles fueled with natural gas emit 80% less carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide than vehicles fueled by reformulated gasoline. Most major international cities are experiencing significant pollution from gasoline and diesel emissions. These cities also have the largest concentrations of fleet operators, and many of these cities are taking steps to reduce emissions, typically by implementing natural gas or propane-fueled vehicles. For example, in Mexico City, Milan and Rome, Italy the governments have taken steps such as prohibiting the use of certain vehicles on designated days of the week.

 

In the United States, legislative and administrative policies such as the Comprehensive National Energy Strategy, the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990; the Energy Policy Act of 1992; and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Environmental Committee’s Report on Environmentally Sustainable Transport provide goals for energy efficiency and coupled with the Environmental Protection Agency and the California Air Resource Board’s Large Spark Ignited Off-Highway Emission regulation for industrial equipment afford strict emission standards and promote the development and implementation of alternative fuels and related technologies. All states, including California, Massachusetts, New York and Texas, have also adopted legislation targeted at reducing harmful emissions from motor vehicles, industrial equipment, industry and consumer products. In addition, several countries, including Argentina, Canada, China, Colombia, Egypt, France, Germany, Greece, India, Italy, Mexico, Russia and the United Kingdom, have enacted air pollution regulations or programs favoring the use of alternative fuels, including gaseous fuels such as low-carbon content propane and natural gas.

 

Markets.

 

IMPCO is directly involved in three key-energy use market segments (transportation, industrial equipment and power generation equipment), which have seen growth in the use of clean-burning gaseous fuels in association with other lower-emission fuel-components.

 

Transportation.    According to the most recent statistics from the World LP Gas Association, the International Association for Natural Gas Vehicles (IANGV) and the European Natural Gas Association, there are over 5.7 million gaseous fuel vehicles in use worldwide: either for personal mobility, fleet conveyance or

 

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public transportation. As the world’s vehicle population increases from 800 million to over 1.3 billion by 2020, most growth will occur in developing countries within Asia, North Africa, and areas of the Middle East. These regions currently have the lowest ratio of vehicles per one thousand people, and are slated to grow rapidly over the next ten years as economic improvements stimulate personal vehicle ownership.

 

The Energy Information Administration of the U.S. Department of Energy, the World Bank, the Office of Economic and Community Development, the fifteen countries of the European Union (EU15) and the Asian Development Bank suggests that interest in expanding the use of alternative fuel vehicles is mounting in many parts of the developed and developing world. Growth projections, reported by the Energy Information Administration and the IANGV in comparison with current data available from the European Natural Gas Vehicle Association, indicate that over two million additional alternative fuel vehicles will be introduced worldwide by 2010. In Europe, alternative fuel vehicles have rapidly penetrated the transportation market. The European Union’s four largest natural gas-consuming members, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy, all have introduced incentives for gaseous-fueled vehicles. The European Union has established a target to replace 20% of their liquid fueled vehicles with gaseous fuels by 2020. The Mexican Regulatory Commission of Energy estimates that Mexico will be able to increase the use of natural gas vehicles from 2,000 in 2000 to 100,000 by 2008.

 

The Asia region is emerging as a significant growth market for alternative fuel vehicles. China, already the world’s second-largest energy consumer, will continue to grow in importance on world energy markets as many forecasts suggest that strong economic growth will drive up demand.

 

Industrial.    Equipment such as forklifts, aerial platforms, sweepers, turf equipment, light-duty construction equipment, mobile wood-processing equipment and other mobile industrial equipment have long been the workhorses of developed countries, and are a significant portion of IMPCO’s global activities. With developed countries such as the United States and the EU15 seeking a broader incorporation of emission sources in an attempt to further reduce air pollution, many countries have and will legislate emission standards for this type of equipment. In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency has enacted emission regulations for industrial off-highway equipment starting in 2004 that follows suit with California’s Large Spark Ignited mobile off-highway emission regulation initiated in 2001.

 

In North America alone there are more than 100,000 pieces of industrial off-highway equipment manufactured each year that use internal combustion engines. With new emission regulations being imposed, these OEMs will require advanced technologies that permit the use of gaseous fuels in order to satisfy not only the regulation, but also the customers’ requirements for durability, performance and reliability. IMPCO has developed and is currently supplying a series of advanced technology fuel systems to the industrial OEM market under the brand name Spectrum. IMPCO and its industrial brands focus on serving over 70% of the market with fuel systems, services and emission certified engine packages.

 

Power Generation.    The World Energy Outlook 2002 projects the global primary energy demand will increase by 1.7% per year from 2000 to 2030, reaching 15.3 billion tons of oil equivalent. Even though the earth’s energy resources are adequate to meet this demand, the amount of investment that will be needed for these resources to be exploited is significantly higher than has occurred in the past. For example, investment needs in the power sector are expected to be almost three times larger over the coming three decades than over the last three. Investment in the oil industry will also have to rise sharply, as demand rises and the surplus capacity in crude oil production and refining that has characterized the industry since the 1970s is used up. Gaseous fuels such as propane and natural gas have significant reserves available worldwide which are less costly to refine compared to crude oil and have historically been less expensive than liquid fuels. Countries like China, for example, are actively developing their infrastructure to utilize their natural gas reserves rather than import liquid fuels.

 

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Competitive Advantages

 

We believe we can extend our technological leadership position in the alternative fuel industry based on our history of success in the designing, manufacturing and commercializing advanced fuel delivery systems and components, our relationships with leading companies in transportation and industrial markets, our financial commitment to research and development and our proven ability to develop and commercialize new products. We believe our competitive strengths include:

 

Industry Leader.    We have derived a technology and product leadership position from the broad application and integration of our technologies and enabling systems into the established and expanding alternative fuel industry. Over the past nine years we have invested approximately $130 million in research and development. This investment, coupled with our history and experience in this industry, has provided us with a strong technology base for new product innovation for internal combustion engines, particularly in our industrial markets. Additionally, we believe our acquisition of 50% of BRC will expand our technology and product leadership position. BRC has been developing, manufacturing and marketing alternative gaseous fuel products and systems for automobiles for more than twenty years.

 

Proven Manufacturing Methods.    We have more than four decades of experience in the manufacture, development and integration of alternative fuel technologies and products. We currently maintain manufacturing and production facilities in the United States, Europe, Mexico and Australia, which produce a broad range of products and services, including components, systems and specialty vehicle assembly. Our U.S., Australian and European facilities have achieved ISO-9000 or QS-9000 certification. QS-9000 is the common supplier quality standard for Chrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company and General Motors. QS-9000 applies to suppliers of production materials, production and service parts, heat-treating, painting and plating and other finishing services. ISO-9000 is a set of three individual, but related, international standards on quality management and quality assurance. These standards were developed to document effectively the quality controls necessary to maintain efficient systems. Our 50% acquisition of BRC further expands our ability to manufacture and produce products in Europe and South America. Additionally, BRC provides a broader manufacturing capability such as machining centers and electronic circuit board production to enable us to more readily realize cost reductions as opposed to purchasing from outside vendors.

 

Strong OEM Customer Relationships.    We currently sell products to more than 100 OEM customers in domestic and international alternative fuel markets. To date, we have sold over four million fuel systems or sub-systems globally to our customers. We believe that the successful historic use of our products and our reputation as a leader in our industry provides a strong competitive position.

 

Established Systems Integration Expertise.    As more OEMs seek to reduce costs by outsourcing key tasks and reducing the number of suppliers, we have focused increasingly on capturing additional revenue opportunities by expanding our systems integration capabilities. In 1998, we established our Industrial Engine Systems business in Sterling Heights, Michigan, which provides systems integration of our low-emission products for engines that are subsequently sold to industrial OEMs. We believe that our systems integration expertise, together with our proprietary and patented technologies, give us a significant advantage in the alternative fuel markets.

 

Positioned for Global Growth.    With ten foreign facilities and over 400 distributors and dealers in more than 30 countries outside the United States, we believe that we are positioned to capitalize on global growth opportunities. We believe that the alternative fuel markets will grow dramatically internationally, particularly in China, India, Japan, Mexico and Southeast Asia, because of the existing urban pollution problems and economics that favor alternative fuels versus gasoline. Our acquisition of the BRC equity interest strengthens our global position by adding an additional 200 distributors and dealers in all 15 European nations, as well as ten Eastern European countries, and a number of developing countries including Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Australia, India, China, Thailand and South Korea.

 

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Business Strategy

 

We believe that the successful execution of the following strategic objectives will enable us to maintain and expand our leadership position in the advanced fuel technologies industry.

 

Capitalize on our Strong Technology Leadership Position.    We are a leading developer and manufacturer of fuel metering and electronic control systems for the alternative fuel industry. Management believes our position results from our current technology advantage and our investment in research and development. Our investment has permitted us to develop and supply new technology and products to our target markets, which are transitioning to gaseous-fueled internal combustion engines, and management believes these trends will continue to grow as liquid fossil fuels become increasingly scarce and expensive to develop. We also plan to develop new technologies and expand our product and system integration capabilities to an increasingly larger and more diversified customer base. Our 50% acquisition of BRC strengthens and broadens our leadership position.

 

Focus on Advanced Fuel Technologies and Products.    We intend to focus on advanced electronic and fuel metering technologies and products. We plan to continue our research and product development in fuel delivery and electronic control systems for alternative fuels. We actively seek to establish joint development programs and strategic alliances with the major engine designers, manufacturers and industry leaders in these markets.

 

Develop and Expand Key Industry Relationships.    We plan to utilize the successful technical and business relationships and reputation we have established worldwide with major industry leaders using alternative fuel products to enable us to establish and maintain strategic alliances, joint product development programs and joint ventures with these companies in our target markets. We will concentrate our efforts on broadening our OEM relationships in an effort to establish strong top-tier supplier positions based on our belief that OEMs will drive industry growth in the alternative fuel industry. The 50% purchase of BRC expands our OEM relations with countries, particularly in Latin America, Europe and Asia.

 

Expand and Broaden Systems Integration Expertise.    We expect to continue to broaden our capabilities to provide integration, testing, validation and manufacturing of our products and systems into the transportation, material handling, stationary and portable power generation and general industrial markets. As more OEMs seek to reduce costs and shorten time to market by outsourcing key tasks and reducing numbers of suppliers, we are focused increasingly on capturing additional revenue opportunities by expanding into value-added services, such as systems integration. For example, we have established an industrial systems unit in Michigan to integrate our products into engines that will be sold to industrial OEMs, who in turn will install these engines into end products.

 

Increase Bases of Business Operations and Distributor Network in High-Growth Global Regions.    We plan to expand our operating network in high-growth regions, such as Asia, Europe and Latin America, to take advantage of significant growth opportunities that we believe exist in those areas. We intend to capitalize on these growth opportunities through acquisitions and joint ventures, strengthening of our distributor network and developing key local business and governmental support and recognition. In addition, our recent joint venture agreements with Minda Industries Limited India and with CNGC, a subsidiary of China National Petroleum Co., expand our presence in the Indian and Chinese markets, respectively. Additionally, we are developing working relationships with several foreign governments. We believe that working with local governments and establishing joint ventures with local business leaders is essential to expanding into international markets. For example, our discussions with government officials have led to our involvement in developing regulations in Mexico. Management expects that our acquisition of BRC equity interest will further expand our presence in the global transportation market.

 

Expand our Global Manufacturing Operations.    We plan to expand our current QS-9000 manufacturing operations in the United States and Mexico by establishing manufacturing sites in low-cost locations with a continued focus on quality, timely delivery and operating efficiency. In addition, we anticipate that the manufacturing strengths of BRC, coupled with the additional product volume will result in productivity improvements.

 

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Customers and Strategic Relationships

 

Our customers include some of the world’s largest OEMs and engine manufacturers, including Ashok Leyland, Boss Manufacturing, Caterpillar, Clark, Cummins, Daewoo, Detroit Diesel, Ford Australia, GM Holden, Kohler, Komatsu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Onan, Still and Toyota.

 

We are working with a number of these customers to address their future product and application requirements as they integrate more advanced, certified gaseous fuel systems and engines into their business strategies. Additionally, we continually survey and evaluate the benefits of joint ventures, acquisitions and strategic alliances with our customers and other participants in the alternative fuel industry to strengthen our global business position.

 

We have focused our strategic alliances on our marketing strategy and/or on our development strategy. Our marketing strategy seeks to expand the distribution channels and OEM customer base for our gaseous fuel system technologies. Our development strategy is to advance the state of technology and its application.

 

Quantum Collaboration.    Our three-year agreement with Quantum provides that we will collaborate with Quantum to identify and conduct research and development programs of mutual interest. As part of those research and development activities, we may develop technology and products separately or jointly with Quantum. The agreement also allows us to acquire and sell into our alternative fuel markets Quantum’s advanced technology products, including CNG storage tanks, fuel injectors, in-tank regulators and other products, for use in automotive, bus and truck and industrial aftermarket applications and in the bus and truck and industrial OEM markets. For jointly developed products, we and Quantum will jointly own any patent or other intellectual property rights and will issue royalty-free cross licenses covering our respective markets. For separately developed products, each party will grant the other a right to sell the affected products in their respective markets. The developing party will retain sole intellectual property ownership.

 

We believe that the ongoing Quantum alliance will expedite the commercialization and integration of advanced gaseous storage and handling systems and products into our broader global alternative fuel markets, including automotive after-market, material handling, portable and stationary internal combustion engine-based power generation, and general industrial markets. In addition, we believe that the spin-off will enable IMPCO to optimize its growth strategies as a separate, stand-alone entity, based on its capitalization and financing requirements, acquisition strategies, working capital requirements, projected cash flows from operations and credit ratings.

 

Management plans to establish similar relationships with leading manufacturers by using our systems integration capabilities and our leading technology position in gaseous fuel products and systems.

 

Products and Services

 

Our products include gaseous fuel regulators, fuel metering, fuel shut-off valves, fuel delivery systems, complete engine systems, and electronic controls for use in internal combustion engines for the transportation, material handling, stationary and portable power generator and general industrial markets. In addition to these core products, which we manufacture, we also design, assemble and market ancillary components required for complete systems operation on alternative fuels.

 

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All of our products are designed, tested and validated in accordance with our own internal requirements, as well as tested and certified with major regulatory and safety agencies throughout the world, including Underwriters Laboratories (UL) in North America and TÜV in Europe. The following table describes the features of our products:

 

Products


      

Features


Fuel Metering

  •          Designed to operate on propane, natural gas or digester gas fuels
    •          Electronic control overlays allow integration with modern emissions monitoring systems for full emissions compliance capability
    •          Designed for high resistance to poor fuel quality

Fuel Regulation

  •          Reduces pressure of gaseous and liquid fuels
    •          Vaporizes liquid fuels
    •          Handles a wide range of inlet pressures

Fuel Shut-Off

  •          Mechanically or electronically shuts off fuel supply to the regulator and engine
    •          Available for low-pressure vapor natural gas and high-pressure liquid propane
    •          Designs also incorporate standard fuel filtration to ensure system reliability

Electronics & Controls

  •          Provides closed loop fuel control, allowing integration with existing sensors to ensure low emissions
    •          Integrates gaseous fuel systems with existing engine management functions

Engine Systems

  •          Turnkey kits for a variety of engine sizes and applications
    •          Customized applications interface per customer requirements

Full Systems

  •          Complete vehicle and equipment systems for aftermarket conversion
    •          Complete engine and vehicle management systems for heavy-duty engine on-highway truck and bus operation on natural gas
    •          Complete engine and vehicle management systems for off-highway and industrial engines used for material handling, pumping and industrial applications

 

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Services.    We provide a broad range of services to both our product customer base and the broader service marketplace. These services fall into the following key areas:

 

Services


      

Capabilities


Design and Systems Integration

  •          Strong team of applications engineers for component, system and engine level exercises providing support to customers in the application of our gaseous fuel products
    •          Applications engineering services for whole vehicle/machine integration outside of our products
    •          Full three dimensional design modeling and component rapid prototyping services

Certification

  •          Certification of component products and services in line with the requirements of California Air Resources Board for off-highway engines
    •          Provide customers with the required tools to manage in-field traceability and other requirements beyond initial emission compliance

Testing and Validation

  •          Component endurance testing
    •          Component thermal and flow performance cycling
    •          Engine and vehicle testing and evaluation for performance and emissions

Sub-System Assembly

  •          Pre-assembled modules for direct delivery to customers’ production lines
    •          Sourcing and integrating second and third tier supplier components

Training and Technical Service

  •          Complete technical service support, including technical literature, web-based information, direct telephone interface (in all major countries) and on-site support
    •          Training services through sponsored programs at approved colleges, at our facilities worldwide and on-site at customer facilities

Service Parts and Warranty Support

  •          Access to service parts network, along with direct support in development of customers’ own internal service parts programs and procedures
    •          Warranty and replacement services for our customers worldwide

 

Sales and Distribution

 

We sell products through a worldwide network encompassing more than 400 distributors and dealers in over 30 countries and through a sales force that develops sales with OEMs and large end-users. We focus on two markets: 1) the industrial market which includes material handling OEMs and aftermarket and stationary and portable power generation OEMs and aftermarket, and 2) the transportation OEM and aftermarket. Of these markets, we believe that the greatest potential for immediate growth is in the Latin America and Asia Pacific regions in the transportation OEM and aftermarket and in North America in the industrial OEM and aftermarket.

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, sales to distributors (including company-owned distributors) accounted for 45% of our net revenue and sales to OEM customers accounted for approximately 55% of our net

 

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revenue. During the transition period beginning May 1, 2002 and ending December 31, 2002, sales to distributors accounted for 56% of our net revenue and sales to OEM customers accounted for 44% of net revenues. This change is due to increased revenues to OEM domestic customers.

 

Our company-owned distributors are included in our International Operations segment and consist of our subsidiaries located in Europe, Australia, Mexico, Japan, India and China, which are responsible for sales, application and market development and technical service. Additionally, these subsidiaries provide sales support, application development and technical support to aftermarket and OEM customers.

 

Manufacturing

 

We manufacture and assemble products at our facilities in Cerritos, California, Sterling Heights, Michigan and at our international facilities. Current manufacturing operations consist primarily of mechanical assembly and light machining. We rely on outside suppliers for parts and components and obtain components for products from a variety of domestic and foreign automotive and electronics suppliers, die casters, stamping operations, specialized diaphragm manufacturers and machine shops. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, ten suppliers accounted for approximately 71% of our raw material purchases. During our fiscal years 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, General Motors Corporation, and affiliates of General Motors, accounted for approximately 29%, 9%, 12% and 33% respectively, of purchases. . During our fiscal years 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, Rangers Die Casting Company accounted for approximately 12%, 8%, 8% and 7%, respectively, of purchases.

 

Material costs and machined die cast aluminum parts represent the major components of cost of sales. Coordination with suppliers for quality control and timely shipments is a high priority to maximize inventory management. We use a computerized material requirement planning system to schedule material flow and balance the competing demands of timely shipments, productivity and inventory management. All of our U.S. manufacturing facilities are ISO-9001 or QS-9001 certified.

 

Research and Development

 

Our research and development facility near Seattle, Washington is dedicated to the research and development of systems and products that support the use of gaseous fuels in internal combustion engines. This facility has sophisticated, state-of-the-art research laboratories, emissions control equipment, and testing equipment. Our research and development is focused on fuel delivery and electronic control systems and products for motor vehicles, engines, forklifts, stationary engines and small industrial engines.

 

We have the following technical capabilities:

 

    Electronic Control Systems.    Specialization in hardware design and selection, engine modeling, calibration and software design for engine and emission controls;

 

    Mechanical Design and Development.    Specialization in pneumatic, kinematics, hydraulic components and systems and advanced materials, structural, flow and thermal analysis;

 

    Advanced Catalysts.    Catalyst and emission testing;

 

    Advanced Products.    Injectors, pressure sensors and bi-directional mass flow sensors, fuel management, mass flow sensors for natural gas measurement and “smart” sensors using 8-bit micro-controllers; and

 

    Component, Subsystem and Engine System Test Facilities.    Extended vibrations, shock loads and accelerations, flow simulations and pneumatic leak checks.

 

We believe this facility is a critical component in our ability to maintain our technological leadership position in alternative fuel enabling systems.

 

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We conduct alternative fuel application development at the following facilities:

 

    Cerritos, California for the power generation market;

 

    Seattle, Washington for the transportation market and industrial markets;

 

    Sterling Heights, Michigan for the industrial market.

 

    Rijswijk, Holland for the industrial and transportation market; and

 

    Cheltenham, Australia for the transportation market.

 

These facilities encompass a total of approximately 100,000 square feet of laboratory space, and we have more than 50 employees at these facilities.

 

Competition

 

We are a leading provider of alternative fuel systems. We provide products and integrated services for all gaseous fuels in our target markets for use in all end user applications in the alternative fuel industry.

 

Our key competitors in gaseous fuel delivery products, accessory components and engine conversions markets include Aisan, Koltec-Necam, Landi Renzo, Lovato, OMVL and Tartarini, which together with us account for a majority of the world market for alternative fuel products and services. These competitors compete with us primarily in the transportation markets. In the future, we may face competition from traditional automotive component suppliers, such as Bosch, Delphi, Siemens and Visteon, and from motor vehicle OEMs that develop fuel systems internally.

 

We believe that our competitive advantage over current and future competitors is our technology leadership derived from many years of experience with alternative gaseous fuels. Our current competitors typically focus on fuel injection and individual components. We are unique in being able to offer complete integrated fuel systems based on our own advanced technologies, including gaseous fuel storage, fuel metering, and electronic controls.

 

Product Certification

 

We must obtain emission compliance certification from the Environmental Protection Agency to sell certain of our products in the United States and from the California Air Resources Board to sell certain products in California. Each car, truck or van sold in the U.S. market must be certified by the Environmental Protection Agency before it can be introduced into commerce and its products must meet component, subsystem and system level durability, emission, refueling and various idle tests. In California, both on-road and off-road vehicles have emission compliance regulation. We have also obtained international emissions compliance certification in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Europe and Mexico.

 

We strive to meet stringent industry standards set by various regulatory bodies, including the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards of the United States, the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration, the National Fire Protection Association, Underwriters Laboratories and American Gas. Approvals enhance the acceptability of our products in the domestic marketplace. Many foreign countries also accept these agency approvals as satisfying the “approval for sale” requirements in their markets.

 

Backlog

 

As of March 8, 2004, our backlog for our products was $32.0 million as compared to $13.5 million on February 28, 2003. We measure backlog for our product sales from the time orders become irrevocable, which generally occurs 90 days prior to the planned delivery date. Some of our backlog may not be shipped, and revenues from such shipments may not be recognized in Fiscal 2004, or not at all.

 

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Employees

 

As of December 31, 2003, we employed approximately 373 persons. Of these employees, our U.S. Operations employed approximately 245 and 128 were employed by our International Operations. None of our employees are represented in a collective bargaining agreement. Management considers our relations with our employees to be good.

 

Intellectual Property

 

We currently rely primarily on patent and trade secret laws to protect our intellectual property. We currently have 11 U.S. patents and 15 foreign patents issued. Our U.S. patents began expiring in October 2002 and will expire on various dates until May 2020. We do not expect the expiration of our patents to have a material affect on our revenues.

 

We also rely on a combination of trademark, trade secret and other intellectual property laws and various contract rights to protect our proprietary rights. However, we cannot be sure that these intellectual property rights provide sufficient protection from competition. We believe that copyright, trademark and trade secret protection are less significant than our patents and that our growth and future success will be more dependent on factors such as the knowledge, ability and experience of our personnel, new product introductions and continued emphasis on research and development. We believe that establishing and maintaining strong strategic relationships with valued customers and OEMs are the most significant factors protecting us from new competitors.

 

Facilities

 

Our executive offices and our Gaseous Fuel Products division are located in Cerritos, California. We currently lease additional manufacturing, research and development and general office facilities in the following locations set forth below:

 

Location


  

Principal Uses


   Square Footage

Cerritos, California

  

Corporate offices; manufacturing; design, development and testing

   105,000

Sterling Heights, Michigan

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   78,000

Seattle, Washington

  

Research and development

   26,000

Rijswijk, Holland

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   16,000

Cheltenham, Australia

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   15,000

Sydney, Australia

  

Sales, marketing and assembly

   7,500

Mexico City, Mexico

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   12,000

Gurgaon, India

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   18,000

Fukuoka, Japan

  

Sales, marketing and assembly

   4,000

Cherasco, Italy*

  

Sales, marketing application, development and assembly

   250,000

 

*The Cherasco, Italy facility is operated by our unconsolidated subsidiary, BRC.

 

We also lease nominal amounts of office space in France and the United Kingdom.

 

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We believe our facilities are presently adequate for our current core product manufacturing operations and OEM development programs and production.

 

Legal Proceedings.

 

We are not currently a party to any material legal proceeding. However, we may from time to time become involved in litigation relating to claims arising in the ordinary course of business. These claims, even if not meritorious, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources.

 

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MANAGEMENT

 

Executive Officers and Directors

 

Our directors and executive officers, their ages and present positions as of March 23, 2004 are as follows:

 

Name


   Age

   Position

Robert M. Stemmler (3)

   68    Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and
Chief Executive Officer

Dale L. Rasmussen

   54    Senior Vice President and Secretary

Brad E. Garner

   41    Vice President and Chief Operating Officer,
Americas, Asia/Pacific

Terry K. Clapp

   60    Vice President and Chief Operating Officer,
Europe, Africa/Middle East

Nickolai A. Gerde

   59    Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer
and Treasurer

Norman L. Bryan (1)

   62    Director

Paul Mlotok (1)(2)

   59    Director

J. David Power III (2)

   72    Director

Don J. Simplot (2)(3)

   68    Director

Mariano Costamagna (3)

   52    Director

(1) Member of the Audit Committee
(2)   Member of the Compensation Committee
(3)   Member of the Nominating Committee

 

Robert M. Stemmler has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since May 1993. He has also been a director since May 1993, and the Chairman of our Board of Directors since June 1998. From December 1992 until July 1993, Mr. Stemmler was a full time consultant to our company. He served as our General Manager from 1982 to 1985 and has held various management and executive positions throughout his career at Celanese Corp. (now Hoechst-Celanese), an international chemical and fibers manufacturer; A.J. Industries, a holding company for aircraft, trucking and heating equipment companies; and Sargent Fletcher Company, a manufacturer of military aircraft fuel tanks and in-flight refueling systems. He holds an M.B.A. degree from Seton Hall University and a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis.

 

Dale L. Rasmussen has served as our Senior Vice President and Secretary since June 1989. He joined us in April 1984 as Vice President of Finance and Administration and Corporate Secretary. Prior to joining us, Mr. Rasmussen was a commercial banker for 12 years at banks that were acquired by Key Bank and U.S. Bank. He received his B.A. degree in Business Administration and Economics from Western Washington University and is a graduate of the Pacific Coast Banking School. Mr. Rasmussen serves as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc.

 

Brad E. Garner has served as our Chief Operating Officer since July 2003 and has previously served as General Manager & Director, Gaseous Fuel Products Division since April 2002. Mr. Garner joined IMPCO in July 1994 as Regional Sales Manager for the U.S. Midwest and Canada Regions. In February 1996, he was promoted to Manager of Applications & Field Engineering. Mr. Garner also held the roles of Engineering Manager and General Manager for the Industrial Engines business unit of the Gaseous Fuel Products Division. Prior to joining IMPCO, Mr. Garner held a position with Superior Propane as Senior Auto Propane Sales & Technical Manager. Prior to his employment at Superior, Mr. Garner was the owner and operator of Advanced Automotive Technology, one of the largest alternative fuels conversion centers in Canada. Mr. Garner is a graduate of Fanshawe College of Technology in Canada with an equivalent to an Associates Degree in Mechanical Engineering.

 

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Terry Clapp has served as our Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, European, Africa and Middle East Operations, since July 2003. Mr. Clapp joined IMPCO in 2000 as Managing Director of Strategic Planning and Acquisitions and is based in Europe. Prior to joining IMPCO, Mr. Clapp was Managing Director, Acquisitions and International Business Development of the Mayflower Corporation, a UK international automotive engineering group. Prior to joining Mayflower, Mr. Clapp had over 16 years experience as Managing Director of companies where he was responsible for company turn-arounds, restructuring and integration of new acquisitions. Early in his career he worked for Shell and Xerox Corporation in the USA. Mr. Clapp holds a Masters Degree in English, Economics and Philosophy from Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland.

 

Nickolai A. Gerde was appointed our Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in January 2004. Mr. Gerde was previously a Company director and co-Chair of the Audit Committee. Mr. Gerde is a former CPA, and has provided business and financial consulting services. He was previously the Vice President Finance and CFO for seven years of Pacific Aerospace & Electronics, Inc. a publicly traded NASDAQ international aerospace supplier. He has held a number of senior financial management positions in both public and private businesses including telecommunications; economic development and business recruitment; manufacturing; long term healthcare; and public accounting. Mr. Gerde earned a cum laude bachelors degree from the University of Washington Business School, a summa cum laude associates degree from Bellevue Community College and served honorably in the U.S. Army in the U.S. and Europe. He has served on the boards of a number of civic organizations.

 

Norman L. Bryan has served as a director since November 1993 and is Chair of the Audit Committee. He has been a consultant since January 1995. Mr. Bryan was employed as the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing of EIT, Inc., an electric meter manufacturing company, from October 1998 to July 2002. Prior to retiring in 1994 from Pacific Gas and Electric Company, he was Vice President, Marketing from February 1993 until December 1994, and was Vice President, Clean Air Vehicles from February 1991 to February 1993. Mr. Bryan holds an M.S. degree in business from Stanford University and a B.S.M.E. degree in mechanical engineering from California State University in San Jose.

 

Paul Mlotok has served as a director since April 1997 and is Chair of the Compensation Committee. He is President of the Janaka Group which is involved in consulting on management training. From 1995 to 2001, he was a Senior Practitioner with the consulting firm Global Business Network, doing scenario planning in the areas of energy, natural resources and finance. From 1989 to 1995, he was a Principal and oil industry analyst at Morgan Stanley & Co. He has a B.A. degree in economics from Cornell University and a Ph.D. in economics from Brown University.

 

J. David Power III has served as a director since August 2000. He is the founder of J.D. Power and Associates where he has served as Chairman since 1996. Mr. Power has previously worked with Ford Motor Company, General Motors Corporation, and J.I. Case Company. Mr. Power was a recipient of the Automotive Hall of Fame’s Distinguished Service Citation. Mr. Power graduated from the College of Holy Cross, has an M.B.A. from The Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania, and holds honorary doctorate degrees from College of the Holy Cross, California Lutheran University, and California State University, Northridge.

 

Don J. Simplot has served as a director since May 1978 and is Chair of the Nominating Committee. He is the President of Simplot Industries, Inc., which is engaged in agricultural enterprises, and a Director member of the office of the chair of J.R. Simplot Company, which is also engaged in agricultural enterprises. Mr. Simplot is a director of Micron Technology, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of semiconductor memory components primarily used in various computer applications.

 

Mariano Costamagna has served as a director since June 2003. He is the Chief Executive of MTM s.r.l. of Cherasco in the province of Piedmont in northern Italy. MTM trades internationally under the brand name of BRC. The company was founded by the Costamagna family in the 1970s and Mr. Costamagna has held senior

 

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management roles in the company since its inception. Over the last decade Mr. Costamagna has served as Managing Director responsible for the commercial aspects of the company. Mr. Costamagna is also a member of the board of directors of four other related companies, which specialize in electronics, plastics, mechanical operations, and water polishing machines.

 

The Board of Directors is divided into three classes; each consisting of three directors, with the three classes serving staggered three-year terms. Each director will hold office until the first meeting of stockholders immediately following expiration of his three year term of office and until his successor is qualified and elected.

 

Committees of the Board

 

Current members of the Audit Committee are Norman L. Bryan (Chair) and Paul Mlotok. Until Mr. Gerde assumed the position of Chief Financial Officer following Mr. Stone’s resignation, Mr. Gerde had served as Co-Chair of the Audit Committee and as the audit committee’s financial expert. The Company is currently seeking a replacement for Mr. Gerde on the audit committee. The Audit Committee reviews with the Company’s independent auditors the scope, results and costs of the annual audit and the Company’s accounting policies and financial reporting. The members of the Audit Committee are “independent” as defined in Rule 4200(a)(15) of the listing standards of the National Association of Securities Dealers.

 

Current members of the Compensation Committee are Paul Mlotok (Chair), Don J. Simplot and J. David Power. The function of the Compensation Committee is to consider and propose executive compensation policies and to submit to the Board of Directors reports recommending compensation to be paid to the Company’s executive officers. The members of the Compensation Committee are “independent” as defined in Rule 4200(a)(15) of the listing standards of the National Association of Securities Dealers.

 

Current members of the Nominating Committee are Don J. Simplot, Robert M. Stemmler and Mariano Costamagna (Chair). The Nominating Committee is responsible for recruiting and recommending candidates for membership on the Board of Directors.

 

Director Compensation

 

Each director who is not one of our employees is paid an annual fee of $10,000, plus out-of-pocket expenses. In addition, the Chairs of the Audit, Compensation and Nominating Committees are paid an annual fee of $5,000.

 

In the past, we granted options to purchase shares of Common Stock to each of the directors. Option exercise prices are the higher of (i) the average market value of the Company’s Common Stock for the 15 trading days following the date of grant and (ii) the market value of the Company’s Common Stock on the fifteenth trading day following the date of grant. Options are not assignable and vest cumulatively at the rate of 25% annually, beginning on the first anniversary date of grant. However, if a director dies, becomes disabled or retires at age 62 or later, then options vest at the rate of 25% for each full calendar year in which the director served. Options must be exercised while serving as a director or within three months following termination as director, unless termination results from death or disability, in which case options may be exercised during the one-year period following termination. In no event may options be exercised more than ten years after the date of grant.

 

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Executive Compensation

 

The following table sets forth all compensation paid or accrued during calendar year 2003, the eight-month transition period ended December 31, 2002 and each of the Company’s previous two fiscal years to our chief executive officer and our four other most highly compensated executive officers as of December 31, 2002. In this prospectus, we refer to these individuals as our Named Executive Officers.

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

Name and Principal Position


   Year

    Salary($)(1)

   Bonus($)

   Securities
Underlying
Options(#)(2)


   All Other
Compensation($)


 

Robert M. Stemmler

   2003     $ 360,000    $    341,500    $ 73,614 (3)

President and Chief Executive Officer

   2002 (t)     249,231         140,000      32,934  
     2002       360,000      100,000    25,000      60,224  
     2001       332,423      101,000    20,520      68,016  

Dale L. Rasmussen

   2003     $ 229,231    $ 30,000    102,500    $ 23,596 (4)

Senior Vice President and Secretary

   2002 (t)     103,846         110,000      17,183  
     2002       140,462      80,000    25,000      12,173  
     2001       133,789      28,000    10,440      19,804  

Brad Garner

   2003     $ 180,769    $    87,500    $ 17,594 (5)

Vice President and Chief Operating

   2002 (t)     180,088         30,000      11,022  

Officer, Americas, Asia/Pacific

   2002       143,304      17,000    45,000      16,345  

Operations

   2001       129,962      42,000    10,137      8,587  

Timothy S. Stone

   2003     $ 135,000    $    50,000    $ 22,025 (6)

Former Chief Financial Officer

   2002 (t)     83,288         50,000      11,215  

and Treasurer

   2002       107,231      15,000    5,000      14,975  
     2001       79,616      6,500    10,000      6,809  

Don L. Dominic(7)

   2003     $    $       $ 115,000 (7)

Former Vice President, General Counsel

   2002 (t)     90,000              29,312  

and Director Human Resources

   2002       130,000      12,000         53,441  
     2001       125,000      20,000    458      58,669  

Terry Clapp

   2003     $ 263,980    $    50,000    $ 54,499 (8)

Vice President and Chief Operating

   2002 (t)     134,413      40,000    50,000      30,243  

Officer, European, Africa, and

   2002       170,054      10,000    15,000      38,262  

Middle-Eastern Operations

   2001       94,593         15,000      21,283  

(t)   Transitional period for the eight-month period ended December 31, 2002.
(1)   Includes amounts deferred by executive officers pursuant to the Employee Savings Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan.
(2)   Includes options under the Company’s stock option plans.
(3)   Includes a group term life insurance premium of $12,023, an automobile allowance of $12,000, a matching contribution of $5,815 pursuant to the Employee Savings Plan, a matching contribution of $12,500 pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan, a Company-paid car lease of $19,726, and $11,550 for other compensation.
(4)   An automobile allowance of $12,000, a matching contribution of $2,250 pursuant to the Employee Savings Plan, a matching contribution of $5,596 pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan, and $3,750 for other compensation.
(5)   Includes a group term life insurance premium of $90, an automobile allowance of $12,000, a matching contribution of $1,754 pursuant to the Employee Savings Plan, and $3,750 in other compensation.

 

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(6)   Includes a group term life insurance premium of $12, an automobile allowance of $6,000, a matching contribution of $3,888 pursuant to the Employee Savings Plan, a matching contribution of $10,125 pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan, and $2,000 in other compensation. Mr. Stone resigned as an officer in January 2004.
(7)   Includes $115,000 per settlement agreement. Mr. Dominic resigned as an officer of IMPCO in December 2002.
(8)   Includes Company contribution of $39,499 pursuant to an executive pension plan, a matching contribution of $12,500 pursuant to the Deferred Compensation Plan, and $2,500 in other compensation.

 

Stock Option Grants

 

Option Grants During Calendar Year 2003

 

The following table describes the options granted to the Named Executive Officers in the calendar year ended December 31, 2003.

 

     Individual Grants

   Potential Realizable
Value at Assumed
Annual Rates of Stock
Price Appreciation for
Option Term (3)


     Number of
Securities
Underlying
Options
Granted(1)


   % of Total
Options Granted
to Employees in
Calendar Year(2)


    Exercise or
Base Price
($/sh)


   Expiration
Date


  

Name


              5% ($)

   10% ($)

Robert M. Stemmler

   60,000    5.0 %   3.26    2/5/2013    123,012    311,736
     67,000    5.6 %   3.06    5/27/2003    128,948    326,746
     214,500    18.0 %   7.17    10/1/2003    967,181    2,451,134

Dale L. Rasmussen

   40,000    3.3 %   3.26    2/5/2013    82,008    207,824
     25,000    2.1 %   3.06    5/27/2003    48,115    121,920
     37,500    3.1 %   7.17    10/1/2003    169,088    428,520

Terry Clapp

   25,000    2.1 %   3.06    5/27/2003    48,115    121,920
     25,000    2.1 %   7.17    10/1/2003    112,725    285,680

Brad Garner

   50,000    4.2 %   3.06    5/27/2003    96,230    243,840
     37,500    3.1 %   7.17    10/1/2003    169,088    428,520

Timothy S. Stone

   25,000    2.1 %   3.06    5/27/2003    48,115    121,920
     25,000    2.1 %   7.17    10/1/2003    112,725    285,680

(1)   Options are granted at the fair market value of the Company’s Common Stock on the date of grant and vest cumulatively at the rate of 40% after the first two years following the date of the grant and 20% each year thereafter so that the employee is 100% vested after five years. However, if employment terminates due to death or disability, retirement at or after age 62, or termination without cause, then options vest at the rate of 25% for each full calendar year of employment. Options may be exercised only while an optionee is employed by the Company, or within three months following termination of employment. If termination results from death or disability, options may be exercised within one year of the termination date. In no event may options be exercised more than ten years after date of grant. In the event of a change of control of the Company, the Board of Directors may in its sole discretion give all or certain optionees the right to exercise all or any portion of their unvested options.
(2)   Based on an aggregate of 1,194,800 options granted to employees during the calendar year ended December 31, 2003.
(3)   The 5% and 10% assumed annual rates of compounded stock price appreciation are mandated by SEC rules and do not represent the Company’s estimate or projection of future stock price performance.

 

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Calendar Year-End Option Values

 

Aggregated Option Exercises in the Last Calendar Year and Period-End Option Values

 

The following table sets forth information concerning stock option exercises during the calendar year ended December 31, 2003 and the value of unexercised options held by the Company’s Named Executive Officers.

 

     Shares
Acquired on
Exercise (#)


   Value
Realized
($)(1)


   Number of Securities
Underlying Unexercised
Options at Year-End (#)


   Value of Unexercised
In-the-Money Options
at Year-End(2)


Name


         Exercisable

   Unexercisable

   Exercisable

   Unexercisable

Robert M. Stemmler

   80,094    274,828    297,690    505,038    1,183,315    1,858,940

Dale L. Rasmussen

         88,402    231,990    367,813    1,064,174

Terry Clapp

         15,000    115,000    39,660    490,490

Brad Garner

         12,055    168,238    37,139    628,421

Timothy S. Stone

         4,000    106,000    6,540    461,060

(1)   Calculated by determining the difference between the fair market value of the Common Stock underlying the options on the date each option was exercised and the exercise price of the options.
(2)   Calculated by determining the difference between the fair market value of the Common Stock underlying the options on December 31, 2003 and the exercise price of the options.

 

Stock Incentive Plan

 

Our 2003 Stock Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) provides for the issuance of stock options and direct stock issuances covering up to 800,000 shares of our common stock. The maximum number of shares with respect to which options may be granted to any participant in any fiscal year of the company is 200,000 shares. In connection with a participant’s initial commencement of services with the company, a participant may be granted stock options for up to an additional 100,000 shares. The Plan administered by our board of directors or a committee appointed by the board of directors. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the board or the committee will determine who will receive shares or options, the number of shares or options granted, the type of options granted (incentive or non-qualified), the manner of exercise and the exercise price of the options.

 

Bonus Incentive Plan

 

Officers (and other employees) participate in a Bonus Incentive Plan. Each officer is eligible to receive a discretionary bonus based upon individually established performance goals.

 

Deferred Compensation Plan

 

We have adopted a Deferred Compensation Plan to provide a select group of highly compensated management employees and directors with the opportunity to participate in a deferred compensation program. Under the Deferred Compensation Plan, participants may defer up to 100% of their base compensation and bonuses. We are required to make certain matching contributions in the form of the Company’s Common Stock, subject to vesting provisions. The Deferred Compensation Plan is not qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code. The Company will pay participants upon retirement or termination of employment an amount equal to the amount of the deferred compensation plus investment returns and vested shares of the Company’s Common Stock.

 

Employment Agreements

 

We entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Stemmler, our President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman, for a term of two consecutive 12-month periods commencing on April 1, 2002. The agreement requires payment of an annual base salary of $360,000, and payment of incentive compensation under the

 

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our Bonus Incentive Plan unless the Board of Directors approves another cash bonus plan that supersedes the Bonus Incentive Plan. In addition, the agreement provides for certain benefits, including term life insurance of $750,000, disability insurance and a car allowance. The agreement is subject to termination events, which include Mr. Stemmler’s resignation and our right to terminate him. If terminated, Mr. Stemmler is entitled to cash payments equal to his annual base salary plus additional cash compensation that he would have earned for the remaining months following the effective date of termination of employment, and the benefits will continue for the remaining months of the fiscal year following the effective date of termination of employment.

 

We entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Rasmussen for a term of two years commencing on April 1, 2002. The agreement requires payment of an annual base salary of $150,000 and payment of incentive compensation under our Bonus Incentive Plan unless the Board of Directors approves another cash bonus plan that supersedes the Bonus Incentive Plan. In addition, the agreement provides for certain benefits, including a car allowance. The agreement is subject to termination events, which include Mr. Rasmussen’s resignation and our right to terminate him. If terminated, Mr. Rasmussen is entitled to cash payments equal to his annual base salary plus additional cash compensation that he would have earned for the remaining months following the effective date of termination of employment, and the benefits shall continue for the remaining months of the fiscal year following the effective date of termination of employment.

 

We entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Garner for a term of four consecutive one year periods commencing on January 5, 2004. The agreement requires payment of an annual base salary of $190,000 and payment of incentive compensation under our Bonus Incentive Plan unless the Board of Directors approves another cash bonus plan that supersedes the Bonus Incentive Plan. In addition, the agreement provides for certain benefits, including a car allowance. The agreement is subject to termination events, which include Mr. Garner’s resignation and our right to terminate him. If terminated, Mr. Garner is entitled to cash payments equal to his annual base salary plus additional cash compensation that he would have earned for the remaining months following the effective date of termination of employment, and the benefits shall continue for the remaining months of the fiscal year following the effective date of termination of employment.

 

We entered into an Employment Agreement with Mr. Clapp for a term of four consecutive one year periods commencing on January 5, 2004. The agreement requires payment of an annual base salary of £170,000 and payment of incentive compensation under the Company’s Bonus Incentive Plan unless the Board of Directors approves another cash bonus plan that supersedes the Bonus Incentive Plan. In addition, the agreement provides for certain benefits, including a car allowance. The agreement is subject to termination events, which include Mr. Clapp’s resignation and our right to terminate him. If terminated, Mr. Clapp is entitled to cash payments equal to his annual base salary plus additional cash compensation that he would have earned for the remaining months following the effective date of termination of employment, and the benefits shall continue for the remaining months of the fiscal year following the effective date of termination of employment.

 

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PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS

 

The following table sets forth information concerning ownership of our common stock as of March 18, 2004 for:

 

    each person to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our common stock;

 

    each of our directors;

 

    each of our named executive officers; and

 

    all of our executive officers and directors as a group.

 

This table is based upon information supplied by Schedules 13D and 13G, if any, filed with the SEC, and information obtained from our directors and named executive officers. Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and general includes voting and investment power with respect to securities. To our knowledge, except as set forth in the footnotes to this table and subject to applicable community property laws, each person named in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares shown as beneficially owned by him or her. Unless otherwise indicated, all addresses are c/o IMPCO Technologies, Inc., 16804 Gridley Place, Cerritos, California 90703.

 

As of March 18, 2004, 18,591,021 shares of our common stock were outstanding. In computing the number of shares beneficially owned by a person and the percentage of ownership of that person, shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options and warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of March 18, 2004, are deemed to be outstanding and beneficially owned by the person holding the options and warrants, as the case may be, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

 

       Shares Beneficially Owned

 

5% or Greater Stockholders:


     Number

    Percent

 

Pier Antonio Costamagna

     1,031,640  (1)   5.5 %

Officers and Directors


              

Norman Bryan

     49,500  (2)   *  

Terry Clapp

     15,000  (3)   *  

Mariano Costamagna

     1,031,640  (1)   5.5 %

Brad Garner

     31,110  (3)   *  

Nickolai A. Gerde

     7,500  (4)   *  

Paul Mlotok

     38,500  (3)   *  

David Power

     27,500  (3)   *  

Dale Rasmussen

     93,103  (3)   *  

Don Simplot

     544,433  (5)   2.9 %

Robert Stemmler

     397,891  (6)   2.1 %

Tim Stone

     5,000  (3)   *  

All current executive officers and directors as a group (11 persons)

     2,241,177  (7)   11.6 %

*   Less than 1% of the outstanding Common Stock.
(1)   The address for Mssrs. Costamagna is Via La Morra, 1, 12062 Cherasco, Italy. Mr. Piero Costamagna is the brother of Mr. Mariano Costamagna, a director of the company.
(2)   Includes 48,500 issuable upon exercise of outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.
(3)   Represents shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.

 

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(4)   Includes 5,000 issuable upon exercise of outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.
(5)   Includes 200,000 shares issuable upon the exercise of outstanding warrants and 28,500 shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.
(6)   Includes 307,407 shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.
(7)   Includes an aggregate of 799,620 shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding options and warrants that are exercisable within 60 days after March 18, 2004.

 

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CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

 

Acquisition of BRC

 

In July 2003, we paid the final deferred payment to the BRC equity holders, which completed our $23.8 million acquisition of a 50% equity interest in BRC. Mr. Costamagna is the Chief Executive Officer of MTM s.r.l., an Italian corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of BRC and, prior to the transaction, directly or indirectly held a 50% equity interest in BRC. In connection with this purchase, we paid $6,900,000 and issued 1,039,262 shares of common stock to Mr. Costamagna or his spouse, representing payment for one-half of the 50% equity interest he held directly or indirectly in BRC. Mr. Costamagna was elected to a three-year term as a director beginning June 12, 2003. Mr. Costamagna presently own 20% equity interest in BRC, and members of his immediate family own between 5% and 20% of the equity interest in BRC.

 

Loans to Executive Officers

 

In December 2000, we loaned Mr. Rasmussen, our Senior Vice President and Secretary, $100,000. The loan initially bore interest at a rate of 5% per annum and, since June 30, 2001, bears interest at a rate of 9% per annum. The loan became due and payable in full on July 31, 2002. As of January 9, 2004 approximately $3,000 was due and outstanding. We are negotiating with Mr. Rasmussen to recover the amounts due under the loan.

 

In September 2001, we loaned Mr. Rasmussen $175,000. The loan bore interest at a rate of 9% per annum. The loan became due and payable in full on July 31, 2002. The amount outstanding as of January 9, 2004 was approximately $216,000. We are negotiating with Mr. Rasmussen to recover the amounts due under the loan.

 

In December 2000, we loaned Mr. Hussain, former President of our spun off Quantum Subsidiary, $90,000. The loan bore interest at a rate of 5% per annum. This loan, plus accrued interest, was paid in full in July 2001.

 

In March 2001, we loaned three of our executive officers, Mr. Stemmler, Mr. Rasmussen and Mr. Hussain an aggregate of $3,913,854 ($1,565,547 each to Messrs. Stemmler and Hussain and $782,760 to Mr. Rasmussen) to finance the purchase of our common stock by exercise of options held by them. The loans were secured by (i) a pledge to us of a security interest in and lien upon shares of our common stock and stock options held by them and (ii) an agreement not to exercise any of our vested incentive stock options or to grant any third party any interest in such options. Additionally, Mr. Rasmussen pledged the equity value of his personal residence as collateral to secure his loan and Messrs. Stemmler and Rasmussen provided collateral to secure Mr. Hussain’s loan. Each loan bore interest at 9% per annum with a one year maturity. Each of these loans was repaid in full in July 2001.

 

We cannot make assurances that one or more of these related party loans are on terms no less favorable to the Company than might be obtained in arms’ length transactions. Because of the prohibitions arising under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Company will not modify any outstanding loans nor will it enter into new related party transactions other than as permitted by applicable law at the time of the transaction.

 

Loan from Directors and Affiliates

 

On March 31, 2003, Mr. Simplot extended to us a loan commitment of $8.0 million expiring May 31, 2003, subsequently reduced to $1.5 million and extended to January 31, 2004. In connection with his initial commitment to provide the loan, we granted to Mr. Simplot warrants to purchase 200,000 shares of IMPCO stock at a price of $2.51, which expire in four years. We cancelled the loan commitment in July 2003.

 

In September 2003, we borrowed $500,000 from B.R.C., our subsidiary in which Mr. Costamagna owns a 20% interest. We repaid the note, with interest, in December 2003.

 

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Table of Contents

Purchase of Interest in a Subsidiary

 

On June 30, 2003 the 10% minority holder of IMPCO Mexicano exercised his put option for $0.5 million. The Company entered into an agreement whereby Mr. Simplot agreed to purchase the 10% interest for $0.5 million, and would allow the Company to re-purchase the 10% interest at cost. In December 2003, we paid Mr. Simplot $0.5 million, plus $49,998 interest, for his 10% interest and we now own 100% of IMPCO Mexicano.

 

Sale/Leaseback Transaction

 

In July 2002, we sold all the land and buildings, owned by BRC, our 50% owned subsidiary, to IMCOS2 S.r.l., a real estate investment company controlled by Mr. Costamagna, and to a leasing company, which then leased the land and buildings to IMCOS2 under capital lease arrangements. The portion of these land and buildings that were previously used by BRC were then leased back to BRC under operating lease arrangements. The terms of the rental agreement between BRC and IMCOS2 S.r.l. require that the Company does not terminate the rental agreement until eight years have expired.

 

 

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SELLING STOCKHOLDERS

 

The following table sets forth the name of each of the selling stockholders, the number shares beneficially owned by each of the selling stockholders as of December 18, 2003, the number of shares that may be offered under this prospectus and the number and percentages of shares of our outstanding common stock owned by each of the selling stockholders after the offering is completed.

 

Because the selling stockholders may offer all, some or none of the shares of our common stock listed below, no estimate can be given as to the amount or percentage of our common stock that will be held by the selling stockholders upon termination of any of the sales. In addition, the selling stockholders identified below may have sold, transferred or otherwise disposed of all or a portion of their shares of common stock in transactions exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act since the date on which they provided to us the information regarding their shares of common stock.

 

None of the selling stockholders has held any position or office or had any other material relationship with us or any of our predecessors or affiliates within the past three years other than as a result of the ownership of our securities. We may amend or supplement this prospectus from time to time to update the disclosures contained herein.

 

Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting and investment power with respect to securities. To our knowledge, except as set forth in the footnotes to this table, each person named in this table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares shown as beneficially owned by such person.

 

As of January 9, 2004, 17,090,692 shares of our common stock and no shares of preferred stock were outstanding. In computing the number of shares beneficially owned by a person and the percentage of ownership of that person, shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of options and warrants that are currently exercisable or exercisable within 60 days of January 9, 2004, are deemed to be outstanding and beneficially owned by the person holding the options and warrants, as the case may be, but are not treated as outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person.

 

Name and Address of Selling Stockholder


 

Number of

Shares of
Common Stock
Owned Prior
to Offering


  Common Stock
Offered
Hereby


  Number of
Shares of
Common Stock
Owned After
Offering (1)


  Percentage of
Outstanding
Common Stock
Owned After
Offering(1)


 

Alexandra Global Master Fund Ltd. (2)

767 Third Avenue

New York, NY 10021

  26,729   26,729   0   ( *)

Bonanza Master Fund Ltd.

8235 Douglas, Suite 423

Dallas, TX 75225

  88,427   88,427   0   ( *)

Deephaven Small Cap Growth Fund LLC

130 Cheshire Lane, Suite 102

Minnetonka, MN 55305

  80,188   80,188   0   ( *)

Elliott Associates, L.P. (3)

712 5th Avenue

New York, NY 10019

  302,231   27,371   275,000   1.6 %

Elliott International, L.P. (4)

c/o Elliott Management Corp.

712 5th Avenue

New York, NY 10019

  316,056   41,056   275,000   1.6 %

 

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Table of Contents

Name and Address of Selling Stockholder


 

Number of

Shares of
Common Stock
Owned Prior
to Offering


  Common Stock
Offered
Hereby


  Number of
Shares of
Common Stock
Owned After
Offering (1)


  Percentage of
Outstanding
Common Stock
Owned After
Offering


 

Formula Unit Trust (5)

1010 Sherbrooke St. W. #2300

Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A2R7

  361,200   180,000   181,200   ( *)

Formula Growth Fund (6)

1010 Sherbrooke St. W. #2300

Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A2R7

  271,200   90,000   181,200   ( *)

FGL Partnership (7)

1010 Sherbrooke St. W. #2300

Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A2R7

  261,200   80,000   181,200   ( *)

Millrace Fund, LP

1055 Westlakes Drive, Suite 300

Berwyn, PA 19312

  80,000   80,000   0   ( *)

Portside Growth and Opportunity Fund (8)

c/o Ramius Capital Group, LLC

666 Third Ave., 26th Floor

New York, NY 10017

  26,729   26,729   0   ( *)

SF Capital Partners Ltd. (9)

c/o Staro Asset Management, LLC

3600 South Lake Drive

St. Francis, WI 53235

  194,500   194,500   0   ( *)

TCMP3 Partners (10)

c/o Titan Capital Management

7 Century Drive—Suite 201

Parsippany, NJ 07054

  40,000   40,000   0   ( *)

Vertical Ventures Investments, LLC

641 Lexington Ave. 26th Floor

New York, NY 10022

  100,000   100,000   0   ( *)

Wasatch Micro Cap Fund (11)

150 Social Hall Ave. 4th Floor

Salt Lake City, UT 84111

  215,000   215,000   0   ( *)

Wasatch Ultra Growth Fund (12)

150 Social Hall Ave. 4th Floor

Salt Lake City, UT 84111

  230,000   230,000   0   ( *)

*   less than 1%
(1)   Assumes sale by the selling stockholders of all shares offered under this prospectus.

 

(2)   Alexandra Investment Management LLC is the investment advisor of Alexandra Global Master Fund Ltd. and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Alexandra Global Master Fund Ltd.

 

(3)   Includes 137,500 shares of common stock beneficially owned by Elliott International Capital Advisors, Inc., an affiliate of Elliott Capital Advisors, L.P. Elliott Capital Advisors, L.P. is the general partner of Elliott Associates, L.P. and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Elliott Associates, L.P. Does not include 41,056 shares of common stock offered by Elliot International, L.P., in connection with this offering.

 

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(4)   Includes 137,500 shares of common stock beneficially owned by Elliott Capital Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of Elliott International Capital Advisors, Inc. Elliott International Capital Advisors, Inc. is the investment advisor of Elliott International Associates, L.P. and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Elliott International, L.P. Does not include 27,371 shares of common stock offered by Elliot Capital Advisors, L.P., in connection with this offering.

 

(5)   Includes 160,200 shares of common stock beneficially owned by Formula Growth Fund and 21,000 shares of common stock beneficially owned by FGL Partnership, each an affiliate of Formula Growth Fund. Does not include 90,000 shares of common stock beneficially offered by Formula Growth Fund in connection with this offering or 80,000 shares of common stock offered by FGL Partnership in connection with this offering.

 

(6)   Includes 21,000 shares of common stock owned by FGL Partnership, an affiliate of Formula Growth Fund. Does not include 180,000 shares of common stock offered by Formula Unit Trust in connection with this offering or 80,000 shares of common stock offered by FGL Partnership in connection with this offering.

 

(7)   Includes 160,200 shares of common stock owned by Formula Growth Fund and 21,000 shares owned by FGL Partnership, each an affiliate of FGL Partnership. Does not include 180,000 shares of common stock owned by Formula Unit Trust or 90,000 shares of common stock offered by Formula Growth Fund in connection with this offering.

 

(8)   Ramius Capital Group LLC is the investment advisor to Portside Growth and Opportunity Fund and consequently has investment and voting control over shares owned by Portside Growth and Opportunity Fund. Ramius Securities, LLC, an NASD member, is an affiliate of Ramius Capital Group LLC; however, Ramius Securities, LLC, will not sell any shares purchased by Portside Growth and Opportunity Fund in this offering and will receive no compensation in connection with sales of shares purchased in the transaction in which the selling stockholders acquired the securities described in this prospectus.

 

(9)   Staro Asset Management, LLC is the investment advisor to SF Capital Partners Ltd., Reliant Trading and Shepherd Trading Limited, are NASD members and are affiliates of Staro Asset Management, LLC; however, neither of these NASD members will sell any shares purchased by SF Capital Partners in this offering nor will either of them receive any compensation in connection with sales of shares purchased in the transaction in which the selling stockholders acquired the shares of common stock described in this prospectus.

 

(10)   Titan Capital Management LLC is the investment advisor of TCMP3 Partners and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by TCMP3 Partners. Includes 40,000 shares of common stock which TCMP3 Partners has a right to acquire within 60 days of the date of this prospectus.

 

(11)   Wasatch Funds, Inc. is the investment advisor of Wasatch Micro Cap Fund and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Wasatch Micro Cap Fund. Excludes 230,000 shares held by Wasatch Ultra Growth Fund, an affiliate of Wasatch Funds, Inc., and offered hereunder.

 

(12)   Wasatch Funds, Inc. is the investment advisor of Wasatch Ultra Growth Fund and consequently has voting control and investment discretion over securities held by Wasatch Ultra Growth Fund. Excludes 215,000 shares held by Wasatch Micro Cap Fund, an affiliate of Wasatch Funds, Inc., and offered hereunder.

 

 

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PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

 

On December 19, 2003, we issued and sold to the selling stockholders a total of 1,500,000 shares of common stock at a price per share of $6.40. The issuance and sale of such shares were exempt from registration under the Securities Act owing to the exemptions afforded by Section 4(2) and Rule 506 of Regulation D thereunder. The selling stockholders may sell the common stock offered by this prospectus to one or more underwriters or dealers for public offering, through agents, directly to purchasers or through a combination of any such methods of sale. The name of the underwriter, dealer or agent involved in the offer and sale of the common stock, the amounts underwritten and the nature of its obligation to take the common stock will be provided in the applicable prospectus supplement.

 

We will pay all expenses incurred in connection with the registration of the shares covered by this prospectus. Brokerage commissions, underwriters’ fees, discounts and commissions and similar selling expenses, if any, attributable to the sale of the shares covered by this prospectus will be borne by the selling stockholders.

 

When used in this prospectus, the term “selling stockholders” includes donees, pledgees, transferees or other successors-in-interest selling shares received after the date of this prospectus from the selling stockholders as a gift, pledge, partnership distribution or other non-sale related transfer. The selling stockholders will act independently of us in making decisions with respect to the timing, manner and size of each sale. The shares covered by this prospectus may be offered and sold from time to time by the selling stockholders on The Nasdaq National Market or otherwise at prices and on terms then prevailing or at prices related to the then-current market price and by one or more of, or a combination of, the following methods:

 

    purchases by a broker-dealer as principal and resale by such broker-dealer for its own account pursuant to this prospectus;

 

    ordinary brokerage transactions and transactions in which the broker solicits purchasers;

 

    block trades in which the broker-dealer so engaged will attempt to sell the shares as agent but may position and resell a portion of the block as principal to facilitate the transaction;

 

    an over-the-counter distribution in accordance with the rules of the Nasdaq National Market;

 

    in privately negotiated transactions; and

 

    in options transactions.

 

In addition, any shares that qualify for sale pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act may be sold under Rule 144 rather than pursuant to this prospectus.

 

In connection with distributions of the shares or otherwise, the selling stockholders may enter into hedging transactions with broker-dealers or other financial institutions. In connection with such transactions, broker-dealers or other financial institutions may engage in short sales of the common stock in the course of hedging the positions they assume with the selling stockholders. The selling stockholders may also sell the common stock short and redeliver the shares to close out such short positions. The selling stockholders may also enter into option or other transactions with broker-dealers or other financial institutions which require the delivery to such broker-dealer or other financial institution of shares offered by this prospectus, which shares such broker-dealer or other financial institution may resell pursuant to this prospectus (as supplemented or amended to reflect such transaction). The selling stockholders may also pledge shares to a broker-dealer or other financial institution, and, upon a default, such broker-dealer or other financial institution may effect sales of the pledged shares pursuant to this prospectus (as supplemented or amended to reflect such transaction).

 

The selling stockholders have advised us that they have not entered into any agreements, understandings or arrangements with any underwriters or broker-dealers regarding the sale of its securities, nor is there an underwriter or coordinating broker acting in connection with the proposed sale of the shares by the selling

 

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stockholders. Upon notification to us by the selling stockholders that any arrangements have been entered into with a broker or dealer for the sale of shares through a block trade, special offering, exchange distribution or secondary distribution or a purchase by a broker or dealer, a supplement to this prospectus will be filed, if required, pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Securities Act, disclosing:

 

    the name of the participating brokers or dealers;

 

    the number of shares involved;

 

    the price at which such shares were sold;

 

    the commissions paid or discounts or concessions allowed to such brokers or dealers, where applicable;

 

    that such brokers or dealers did not conduct any investigation to verify the information set forth or incorporated by reference in this prospectus; and

 

    other facts material to the transaction.

 

In effecting sales, broker-dealers or agents engaged by the selling stockholders may arrange for other broker-dealers to participate. Broker-dealers or agents may receive commissions, discounts or concessions from the selling stockholders in amounts to be negotiated immediately prior to the sale.

 

In offering the shares covered by this prospectus, the selling stockholders and any broker-dealers who execute sales for the selling stockholders may be deemed to be “underwriters” within the meaning of the Section 2(11) of the Securities Act in connection with such sales. Any profits realized by the selling stockholders and the compensation of any broker-dealer may be deemed to be underwriting discounts and commissions. Since the selling stockholders and any broker-dealers who execute sales for the selling stockholders may be deemed “underwriters,” they will be subject to the prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act. We will make copies of this prospectus available to the selling stockholders for the purpose of satisfying the prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act.

 

We have advised the selling stockholders that the anti-manipulation rules of Regulation M under the Exchange Act may apply to sales of shares in the market and to the activities of the selling stockholders and its affiliates.

 

We have agreed to indemnify the selling stockholders against specific liabilities, including liabilities arising under the Securities Act. The selling stockholders may agree to indemnify any agent, dealer or broker-dealer that participates in transactions involving sales of the shares covered by this prospectus against specific liabilities, including liabilities arising under the Securities Act.

 

We have also agreed to use our reasonable best efforts to prepare and file amendments and supplements to the registration statement to the extent necessary to keep the registration statement effective until the first to occur of the date on which all shares offered hereby have been disposed of in compliance with the prospectus delivery requirements under the Securities Act, or such time as an opinion of counsel to the Company has been rendered to the effect that disposition of the common stock offered hereby may be effected without registration in compliance with the Securities Act. There is no assurance that the selling stockholders will offer for sale or sell any of the shares of common stock offered by this prospectus.

 

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DESCRIPTION OF OUR CAPITAL STOCK

 

Our authorized capital stock consists of 100,000,000 shares of common stock having a par value of $0.001 per share and 500,000 shares of preferred stock having a par value of $0.001 per share. As of March 18, 2004, there were outstanding 18,591,021 shares held by 517 shareholders of record and no shares of preferred stock.

 

Common stock

 

Subject to the rights specifically granted to holders of any then outstanding shares of our preferred stock, our common stockholders are entitled to vote together as a class on all matters submitted to a vote of our stockholders and are entitled to any dividends that may be declared by our board of directors. Our common stockholders do not have cumulative voting rights. Upon our dissolution, liquidation or winding up, holders of our common stock are entitled to share ratably in our net assets after payment or provision for all liabilities and any preferential liquidation rights of our preferred stock then outstanding. Our common stockholders have no preemptive rights to purchase shares of our stock. The issued and outstanding shares of our common stock are not subject to any redemption provisions and are not convertible into any other shares of our capital stock. All outstanding shares of our common stock are, and the shares of common stock to be issued in this offering will be, upon payment therefore, fully paid and non-assessable. The rights, preferences and privileges of holders of our common stock will be subject to those of the holders of any shares of our common stock and preferred stock we may issue in the future.

 

Preferred Stock

 

Our articles of incorporation provide for the issuance of up to 500,000 shares of preferred stock. As of the date of this prospectus, there are no outstanding shares of preferred stock, and we do not have any current plans to issue any shares of preferred stock.

 

Issuance of Additional Common Stock and Preferred Stock

 

Subject to certain limitations prescribed by law, our board of directors is authorized, without further stockholder approval, from time-to-time to issue up to 100,000,000 shares of our common stock and 500,000 of our preferred stock, in one or more series. Each new series of common stock or preferred stock may have different rights and preferences that may be established by our board of directors. A majority of our directors must approve any issuance by us of our common stock or preferred stock. The rights and preferences of future series of common stock or preferred stock may include:

 

    number of shares to be issued

 

    dividend rights and dividend rates

 

    right to convert the preferred stock into a different type of security

 

    voting rights attributable to the preferred stock

 

    right to receive preferential payments upon a liquidation of the company

 

    right to set aside a certain amount of assets for payments relating to the preferred stock

 

    prices to be paid upon redemption of the preferred stock

 

Warrants and Options

 

As of March 18, 2004, we had outstanding warrants to purchase 795,000 shares of our common stock, all of which are presently exercisable. In addition, as of March 18, 2004, we have outstanding options to purchase 2,748,533 shares of our common stock of which 766,004 are vested and presently exercisable.

 

We have reserved 800,000 shares of our common stock for issuance under our 2003 stock incentive plan.

 

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Anti-Takeover Considerations and Special Provisions of Our Certificate of Incorporation and Our Bylaws

 

Certificate of incorporation and bylaws.    A number of provisions of our certificate of incorporation and bylaws concern matters of corporate governance and the rights of our stockholders. Provisions that grant our board of directors the ability to issue shares of common and preferred stock and to set the voting rights, preferences and other terms thereof may discourage takeover attempts that are not first approved by our board of directors, including takeovers which may be considered by some stockholders to be in their best interests. Certain provisions could delay or impede the removal of incumbent directors or the assumption of control by stockholders, even if such removal or assumption would be beneficial to our stockholders. These provisions also could discourage or make more difficult a merger, tender offer or proxy contest, even if they could be favorable to the interests of stockholders, and could potentially depress the market price of our common stock. Our board of directors believes that these provisions are appropriate to protect our interests and the interests of our stockholders.

 

Classified board of directors.    Our bylaws divide our board of directors into three classes. Moreover, no director may be removed prior to the expiration of his or her term except for cause. These provisions in our bylaws may tend to discourage a third party from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of our company and may maintain the incumbency of our board of directors, because this structure generally increases the difficulty of, or may delay, replacing a majority of the directors.

 

Meetings of stockholders.    Our bylaws provide that annual meetings of our stockholders may take place at the time and place established by our board of directors. A special meeting of our stockholders may be called at any time by our secretary or any other officer, whenever directed by the Board of Directors or by the Chief Executive Officer.

 

Filling of board vacancies.    Vacancies and newly created directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors may be filled by the affirmative vote of a majority of our directors then in office.

 

Amendment of the bylaws.    Our bylaws may be amended or repealed by a majority of our board of directors. Any amendment or repeal of our bylaws which has not previously received the approval of our board shall require for adoption the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of the voting power of our then outstanding shares of capital stock entitled to vote at any duly convened annual or special meeting of the stockholders, in addition to any other approval which is required by law, the certificate of incorporation, bylaws or otherwise.

 

Stockholder Protection Rights Agreement.    On June 30, 1999, our board of directors adopted a Stockholder Protection Rights Agreement and declared a dividend of one right on each outstanding share of our common stock. Each right entitles the holder, upon certain events, to purchase, at an exercise price of $45 per right, shares of common stock with a value equal to twice the exercise price. The dividend was paid on July 26, 1999 to stockholders of record on July 12, 1999.

 

Transfer Agent and Registrar

 

Mellon Bank is the transfer agent and registrar for our common stock.

 

Listing

 

Our common stock is traded on The Nasdaq National Market under the symbol “IMCO”.

 

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SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

 

Sales of substantial amounts of our common stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales may occur, could adversely affect the prevailing market price and impair our ability to raise capital in the future.

 

As of March 18, 2004, 18,625,612 and 18,591,021 shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding, respectively, 16,928,203 of which are freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the Securities Act after giving effect to this prospectus or may be eligible for immediate sale pursuant to Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The remaining 1,662,818 shares, which are otherwise freely tradable, are subject to a lockup agreement that restricts their resale until certain dates beginning August 2004. The following table presents the relevant expiration dates and the number of shares as to which lockup expires:

 

Date


   Number of Shares
Available for Sale


August 1, 2004

   277,691

February 1, 2005

   460,601

August 1, 2005

   460,601

February 1, 2006

   463,925

 

Other shares, which are not outstanding, may be issued and become available for resale. As of the date of this prospectus, an aggregate of 795,000 shares are issuable upon exercise of outstanding warrants. In addition, we have granted as of March 18, 2004, options to purchase an aggregate of 2,748,533 shares of common stock under our stock option plans. All of the shares underlying these options have previously been registered and, subject to the applicable vesting requirements, upon exercise of these options the underlying shares may be resold into the public market.

 

In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, a person who has beneficially owned restricted securities for at least one year would be entitled to sell within any three-month period a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of the following:

 

    one percent of the number of shares of common stock then outstanding, or

 

    the average weekly trading volume of the common stock during the four calendar weeks preceding the sale.

 

Sales under Rule 144 are also subject to requirements with respect to manner-of-sale requirements, notice requirements and the availability of current public information about us. Under Rule 144(k), a person who is not deemed to have been our affiliate at any time during the three months preceding a sale, and who has beneficially owned the shares proposed to be sold for at least two years, is entitled to sell his or her shares without complying with the manner-of-sale, public information, volume limitation, or notice provisions of Rule 144.

 

Rule 701, as currently in effect, permits our employees, officers, directors, and consultants who purchased shares pursuant to a written compensatory plan or contract to resell these shares in reliance upon Rule 144, but without compliance with the specific restrictions of Rule 144. Rule 701 provides that affiliates may sell their Rule 701 shares under Rule 144 without complying with the holding period requirement and that non-affiliates may sell their shares in reliance on Rule 144 without complying with the holding period, public information, volume limitation, or notice provisions of Rule 144.

 

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LEGAL MATTERS

 

The legality of the securities offered hereby will be passed on for us by Davis Wright Tremaine, LLP, Seattle, Washington.

 

EXPERTS

 

Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, have audited our consolidated financial statements and schedule at December 31, 2003 and 2002 and April 30, 2002, and for the year ended December 31, 2003, the eight months ended December 31, 2002 and each of the two years in the period ended April 30, 2002, as set forth in their report. We have included our financial statements and schedule in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Ernst & Young LLP’s report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

 

Reconta Ernst & Young S.P.A., independent auditors, have audited the BRC consolidated financial statements at December 31, 2003 and 2002 and each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, as set forth in their report. We have included BRC’s financial statements in the prospectus and elsewhere in the registration statement in reliance on Reconta Ernst & Young S.P.A.’s report, given on their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

 

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

 

We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act for the common stock sold in this offering. This prospectus constitutes part of that registration statement. This prospectus does not contain all of the information set forth in the registration statement and the accompanying exhibits and schedules because some parts have been omitted in accordance with the rules and regulations of the SEC. Accordingly, you should refer to the registration statement and its exhibits for further information with respect to us and the shares being sold in this offering. Copies of the registration statement and its exhibits are on file at the offices of the SEC and on its worldwide website.

 

You may read and copy the registration statement, including the attached exhibits and any report, statements or other information that we file at the SEC’s public reference facilities located in Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the operation of its public reference facilities. Our SEC filings will also be available to the public from commercial retrieval services and at the SEC’s worldwide website at www.sec.gov.

 

We provide copies of our annual and interim reports and exhibits filed with the SEC on our website, www.impco.ws. If you are a stockholder, you may also request a copy of these filings, at no cost, by writing or telephoning us at the following address:

 

IMPCO Technologies, Inc.

16804 Gridley Place

Cerritos, California 90703

Attention: Investor Relations Department

(562) 860-6666

 

We also provide on our website recent press releases and information necessary to contact our Investor Relations office if additional information is desired. Information contained in our website is not incorporated into this prospectus.

 

For further information about us and the shares being sold in this offering, we refer you to the registration statement and the accompanying exhibits and schedules. Statements in this prospectus concerning any document filed as an exhibit are not necessarily complete and we refer you to a copy of such document filed as an exhibit to the registration statement.

 

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IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

     Page

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

    

Report of Independent Auditors

   F-2

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   F-3

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   F-5

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

   F-6

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   F-7

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   F-8

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—BRC S.R.L.

    

Report of Independent Auditors

   F-34

Consolidated Balance Sheets

   F-35

Consolidated Statements of Operations

   F-36

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Quotaholders’ Equity

   F-37

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

   F-38

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

   F-39

SCHEDULE II—VALUATION ACCOUNTS—IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

   F-50

 

F-1


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

IMPCO Technologies, Inc.

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. and subsidiaries as of April 30, 2002, December 31, 2002 and 2003 and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended April 30, 2002, the eight months ended December 31, 2002 and the year ended December 31, 2003. Our audits also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index to the financial statements on page F-1. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. and subsidiaries at April 30, 2002, December 31, 2002 and 2003 and the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended April 30, 2002, the eight months ended December 31, 2002 and the year ended December 31, 2003 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly in all material respects the information set forth herein.

 

As more fully described in Note 16 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets.

 

/s/    ERNST & YOUNG LLP

 

Los Angeles, California

March 10, 2004,

except for the 6th paragraph

of Note 1 and the 3rd and

5th paragraph of Note 3

as to which the date

is March 12, 2004

 

F-2


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Thousands of Dollars Except Share Data)

 

    

April 30,

2002


  

December 31,

2002


  

December 31,

2003


ASSETS

                    

Current assets:

                    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 10,413    $ 1,996    $ 9,524

Restricted cash

     577      1,604      724

Accounts receivable, net

     13,104      11,641      14,051

Inventories:

                    

Raw materials and parts

     7,724      8,616      9,347

Work-in-process

     237      —        277

Finished goods

     10,695      8,705      8,275
    

  

  

Total inventories

     18,656      17,321      17,899

Deferred tax assets

     2,808      1,032      283

Other current assets

     1,881      1,649      1,648

Current assets from discontinued operation

     14,386      —        —  
    

  

  

Total current assets

     61,825      35,243      44,129

Equipment and leasehold improvements:

                    

Dies, molds and patterns

     6,061      6,343      6,572

Machinery and equipment

     6,126      6,317      7,792

Office furnishings and equipment

     8,737      8,462      8,545

Automobiles and trucks

     416      406      402

Leasehold improvements

     2,348      3,401      3,597
    

  

  

       23,688      24,929      26,908

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

     15,243      16,359      18,589
    

  

  

Net equipment and leasehold improvements

     8,445      8,570      8,319

Net goodwill and intangibles

     8,921      8,921      10,106

Deferred tax assets, net

     29,129      8,405      9,476

Investment in affiliates

     158      12,777      25,500

Other assets

     1,198      2,062      3,606

Non-current assets from discontinued operation

     13,773      —        —  
    

  

  

Total Assets

   $ 123,449    $ 75,978    $ 101,136
    

  

  

 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-3


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONTINUED

(Thousands of Dollars Except Share Data)

 

    

April 30,

2002


   

December 31,

2002


   

December 31,

2003


 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

                        

Current liabilities:

                        

Accounts payable

   $ 5,240     $ 5,166     $ 9,082  

Accrued payroll obligations

     2,886       2,387       2,762  

Other accrued expenses

     1,749       2,294       4,195  

Current revolving line of credit

     8,625       5,860       5,238  

Current maturities of long-term debt and capital leases

     5,473       8,331       713  

Current liabilities from discontinued operations

     9,137       —         —    
    


 


 


Total current liabilities

     33,110       24,038       21,990  

Term loans, net of discount

     4,890       —         17,617  

Capital leases

     376       101       95  

Non-current liabilities from discontinued operation

     127       —         —    

Other liabilities

     —         —         1,483  

Minority interest

     2,268       2,217       2,822  

Stockholders’ equity:

                        

Preferred stock, $.001 par value, authorized 500,000 shares; none issued and outstanding at April 30, 2002, December 31, 2002, and December 31, 2003

     —         —         —    

Common stock, $.001 par value, authorized 100,000,000 shares 12,606,966 issued and outstanding at April 30, 2002; 16,433,282 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2002; 18,568,721 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2003

     13       16       19  

Additional paid-in capital

     126,316       120,624       132,190  

Shares held in treasury

     (322 )     (173 )     (312 )

Accumulated deficit

     (39,671 )     (68,065 )     (74,993 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

     (3,658 )     (2,780 )     225  
    


 


 


Total stockholders’ equity

     82,678       49,622       57,129  
    


 


 


Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

   $ 123,449     $ 75,978     $ 101,136  
    


 


 


 

 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-4


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Thousands of Dollars Except Per Share Data)

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended

April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Revenue

   $ 80,539     $ 67,676     $ 46,421     $ 74,740  

Costs and expenses:

                                

Cost of revenue

     49,499       44,542       33,071       51,780  

Research and development expense

     5,870       5,856       2,635       3,803  

Selling, general and administrative expense

     18,561       19,676       11,922       19,638  
    


 


 


 


Total costs and expenses

     73,930       70,074       47,628       75,221  

Operating income (loss)

     6,609       (2,398 )     (1,207 )     [481 ]

Interest (income) expense, net

     (221 )     929       883       4,039  
    


 


 


 


Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity share in losses of unconsolidated affiliates

     6,830       (3,327 )     (2,090 )     (4,520 )

Equity share in losses of unconsolidated affiliates

     —         —         —         1,107  

Income tax expense (benefit)

     2,903       (1,331 )     23,240       668  
    


 


 


 


Income (loss) from continuing operations before minority interests

     3,927       (1,996 )     (25,330 )     (6,295 )

Minority interest in income (loss) of consolidated subsidiaries

     253       224       (51 )     605  
    


 


 


 


Income (loss) from continuing operations

     3,674       (2,220 )     (25,279 )     (6,900 )

Loss from discontinued operation

     (16,777 )     (25,016 )     (3,115 )     —    
    


 


 


 


Net loss

   $ (13,103 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )
    


 


 


 


Net Income (loss) per share:

                                

Basic:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.37     $ (0.20 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (1.69 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    
    


 


 


 


Net Income loss

   $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Diluted:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.33     $ (0.20 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (1.52 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    
    


 


 


 


Net Income loss

   $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Number of shares used in per share calculation:

                                

Basic

     9,935       11,098       14,376       16,643  
    


 


 


 


Diluted

     11,049       11,098       14,376       16,643  
    


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-5


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

   

Fiscal Years

Ended

April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended
December 31,
2002


    Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,
2003


 

(Thousands of Dollars Except Share Data)


  2001

    2002

     

Common Stock:

                               

Beginning balance

  $ 8     $ 10     $ 13     $ 16  

Issuance of common stock (97,572, 328,459, 19,200, and 651,807 shares, respectively) resulting from the exercise of stock options and warrants

    —         1       —         1  

Issuance of common stock (1,625,000, 2,000,000, 1,500,00 and 1,500,000 shares, respectively) resulting from equity offering

    2       2       1       2  

Issuance of common stock (0, 0, 2,309,470 and 0 shares, respectively) in connection with an option to acquire a business …

    —         —         2       —    
   


 


 


 


Ending balance

  $ 10     $ 13     $ 16     $ 19  

Additional paid-in capital relating to common stock:

                               

Beginning balance

  $ 47,539     $ 102,832     $ 126,316     $ 120,624  

Issuance of common stock resulting from the exercise of stock options and warrants

    881       2,626       157       1,753  

Issuance of common stock resulting from equity offering

    52,345       20,738       17,299       8,818  

Issuance of common stock in connection with option to acquire a business

    —         —         9,997       —    

Fair value of stock warrants issued in connection with financing, net of unamortized deferred interest costs

    —         —         —         995  

Reduction in current tax liability related to stock options

    2,067       120       —         —    

Spin-off of Quantum subsidiary

    —         —         (33,145 )     —    
   


 


 


 


Ending balance

  $ 102,832     $ 126,316     $ 120,624     $ 132,190  

Shares held in trust for deferred compensation plan, at cost (4,137, 15,870, 18,224 and 34,592 shares, respectively)

    (143 )     (322 )     (173 )     (312 )

Notes receivable from officers

    (3,914 )     —         —         —    

Retained earnings (accumulated deficit):

                               

Beginning balance

    668       (12,435 )     (39,671 )     (68,065 )

Sale of treasury shares below original cost

    —         —         —         (28 )

Net loss income applicable to common stock

    (13,103 )     (27,236 )     (28,394 )     (6,900 )
   


 


 


 


Ending balance

    (12,435 )     (39,671 )     (68,065 )     (74,993 )

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):

                               

Beginning balance

  $ (2,726 )   $ (3,719 )   $ (3,658 )   $ (2,780 )

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    (993 )     178       865       2,901  

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instrument

    —         (117 )     117       —    

Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities available-for-sale

    —         —         (104 )     104  
   


 


 


 


Ending balance

  $ (3,719 )   $ (3,658 )   $ (2,780 )   $ 225  
   


 


 


 


Total stockholders’ equity

  $ 82,631     $ 82,678     $ 49,622     $ 57,129  
   


 


 


 


Comprehensive income (loss):

                               

Net loss

  $ (13,103 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    (994 )     178       865       2,901  

Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instrument

    —         (117 )     117       —    

Unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities available-for-sale

    —         —         (104 )     104  
   


 


 


 


Comprehensive income (loss)

  $ (14,097 )   $ (27,175 )   $ (27,516 )   $ (3,895 )
   


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-6


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Thousands of Dollars)

 

     Fiscal Year Ended

   

Eight Months
Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Cash flows from operating activities:

                                

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 3,675     $ (2,220 )   $ (25,279 )   $ (6,900 )

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

                                

Amortization of intangibles arising from acquisition

     738       747       —         —    

Depreciation and other amortization

     1,852       2,255       1,376       3,557  

Valuation allowance for deferred taxes

     —         —         24,000       2,376  

Minority interests in income of consolidated affiliates

     253       224       (51 )     605  

Equity share in loss of unconsolidated affiliates

     —         —         —         629  

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

     (3 )     194       31       27  

(Gain) loss from sale of available-for-sale securities

     (17 )             18       —    

(Increase) decrease in deferred income taxes

     2,555       (2,294 )     (630 )     (2,698 )

(Increase) decrease in accounts receivable

     4,170       2,123       1,463       (2,410 )

(Increase) decrease in inventories

     1,603       4,046       1,335       (580 )

Increase (decrease) in accounts payable

     (4,668 )     (400 )     (75 )     3,916  

Increase in accrued expenses

     255       461       45       2,277  

Other, net

     7       168       (549 )     42  
    


 


 


 


Net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations

     10,420       5,304       1,684       841  

Cash flows from investing activities:

                                

Purchase of equipment and leasehold improvements

     (3,489 )     (3,086 )     (1,711 )     (1,744 )

Business acquisition cost

     (128 )     (211 )     (2,619 )     (13,622 )

Purchase of available-for-sale securities

     (15,736 )     —         —         —    

Sale of available-for-sale securities

     15,785       —         7       —    

Proceeds from sale of equipment

     9       3       131       3  
    


 


 


 


Net cash used in investing activities

     (3,559 )     (3,294 )     (4,192 )     (15,363 )

Cash flows from financing activities:

                                

Increase (decrease) in revolving line of credit

     (13,513 )     3,575       (2,765 )     (623 )

Payments on term loans

     (2,945 )     (1,380 )     (1,837 )     (6,855 )

Proceeds from term loans

     7,500       1,750       —         17,250  

Payments of capital lease obligation

     (643 )     (288 )     (275 )     (402 )

Acquire common shares held in treasury

     —         —         (15 )     (167 )

Decrease (increase) in restricted cash

     —         (815 )     (1,028 )     881  

Increase (decrease) on notes receivable from officers

     (3,914 )     3,914       —         —    

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

     53,195       23,198       17,458       10,573  
    


 


 


 


Net cash provided by financing activities

     39,680       29,954       11,538       20,657  

Net cash provided by continuing operations

     46,541       31,964       9,030       6,135  

Net cash used in discontinued operation

     (33,244 )     (38,347 )     (18,312 )     —    

Translation adjustment

     280       209       865       1,393  
    


 


 


 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     13,577       (6,174 )     (8,417 )     7,528  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     3,010       16,587       10,413       1,996  
    


 


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 16,587     $ 10,413     $ 1,996     $ 9,524  
    


 


 


 


 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

F-7


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

(a) Basis of presentation and description of the business—The consolidated financial statements of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. (“IMPCO” or the “Company”) include the accounts of the Company and its majority owned subsidiaries IMPCO-BERU Technologies B.V. (“IMPCO BV”); its wholly owned subsidiaries IMPCO Technologies, Pty. Limited (“IMPCO Pty”), IMPCO Tech Japan K.K. (“IMPCO Japan”) and Grupo I.M.P.C.O. Mexicano, S. de R.L. de C.V. (“IMPCO Mexicano); and its joint ventures Minda IMPCO Technologies Limited, IMPCO-Egypt, and CNGC-IMPCO Technologies, LLC (“CNGC”). The Company has a 40% interest in a joint venture, Minda IMPCO Limited, and uses the equity method for reporting the results of this entity. The Company has purchased 50% of B.R.C. Societá a Responsabilitá Limitata (“BRC”). The Company uses the equity method to recognize the assets and liabilities of BRC in the Company’s consolidated results. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.

 

The Company is a designer, manufacturer and supplier of components and systems that store gaseous fuels and monitor and control the pressure and flow of those fuels for use in primarily internal combustion engines.

 

On July 23, 2002, the Company completed the distribution and spin-off of Quantum Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (“Quantum”), a wholly owned subsidiary, by distributing one share of Quantum common stock for every share of IMPCO common stock held on the record date, July 5, 2002. The Company released Quantum from its liability related to the $8.6 million line of credit with Bank of America and contributed cash of $15.0 million to supply liquidity and Quantum’s short-term operating needs. As a result of the spin-off, the Company no longer holds any continuing interest in Quantum and has reported Quantum as a discontinued operation in the consolidated financial statements for all periods presented.

 

On November 14, 2002, the Company changed its fiscal calendar from April 30 to December 31. The consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes include the “transition period” for the eight months ended December 31, 2002.

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. This basis of accounting contemplates the recovery of the Company’s assets and the satisfaction of its liabilities in the normal course of conducting business. The Company uses cash generated from operations, bank financings and sales of its equity securities to fund capital expenditures and research and development, as well as to invest in and operate existing operations and new businesses. In July 2003, the Company concluded new loan agreements with Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC (“Bison”) for $20.0 million and with LaSalle Business Credit, LLC (“LaSalle”) for a maximum amount of $12.0 million. From these proceeds, the Company repaid the Bank of America line of credit and term loans for a total of $11.3 million. In December 2003, the Company completed a private placement to institutional investors of 1.5 million shares of its common stock in which it received approximately $9.0 million in net proceeds, after discounts, commissions and expenses.

 

At December 31, 2003 the Company was not in compliance under terms of the LaSalle and Bison agreements. See also Note 3. At December 31, 2003 the Company had received waivers from LaSalle and Bison for covenant non-compliance conditions. Bison granted the Company a modified EBITDA calculation for 2004 and a further waiver in maintaining its Term Loan status as a long term liability throughout 2004. LaSalle granted the Company an amendment on March 12, 2004 which resulted in additional borrowing line capacity of $2.6 million. Management believes that LaSalle will work with the Company to amend its credit arrangement for the remainder of its term. Accordingly, management believes that the Company has sufficient resources to meet its current financial obligations and finance its operations through December 31, 2004.

 

It is possible that the Company may require additional sources of financing in order to capitalize on opportunities that management believes currently exists in the alternative fuel market and to invest in long-term

 

F-8


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

business opportunities. These additional sources of financing may include bank borrowings or public or private offerings of equity or debt securities. No assurance can be given that such additional sources of financing will be available on acceptable terms, if at all.

 

(b) Cash and Cash Equivalents—The Company considers all highly liquid investments with maturity of three months or less when purchased to be cash equivalents.

 

(c) Restricted Cash—The Company classifies cash and cash equivalents that are restricted from operating use for the next twelve months as restricted cash. Amounts restricted for longer than twelve months are classified as other assets. When the restrictions are no longer in-place, the amounts are reclassified to cash and cash equivalents.

 

(d) Inventories—Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method while market is determined by replacement cost for raw materials and parts and net realizable value for work-in-process and finished goods.

 

(e) Equipment and leasehold improvements—Equipment and leasehold improvements are stated on the basis of historical cost. Depreciation of equipment is provided using the straight-line method over the assets’ estimated useful lives, ranging from three to seven years. Amortization of leasehold improvements and equipment under capital leases is provided using the straight-line method over the shorter of the assets’ estimated useful lives or the lease terms.

 

(f) Intangibles arising from acquisitions—Intangibles arising from acquisitions, primarily goodwill, are recorded based on the excess of the acquisition cost over the fair value of amounts assigned to tangible assets and liabilities. Goodwill and other unidentifiable intangible assets that arise from acquisitions are subject to an annual evaluation in accordance with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for the purpose of determining any impairment and would be recognized as goodwill expense.

 

In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, Business Combinations, and SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. Under these rules, goodwill is no longer amortized but is subject to annual impairment tests in accordance with the Statement. Other identifiable intangible assets continue to be amortized over their useful lives.

 

The Company has applied the rules on accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets beginning in the first quarter of the transition period ended December 31, 2002. Application of the nonamortization provisions of the Statement has resulted in an increase in net income of approximately $0.5 million ($0.03 per share) for the transition period ended December 31, 2002 and approximately $0.8 million ($0.05 per share) for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. The Company has completed the impairment tests as required upon adoption of SFAS No. 142 and the annual evaluation thereof for impairment and has determined that there is no impairment to its recorded goodwill balance as of December 31, 2003.

 

(g) Warranty costs—Estimated future warranty obligations related to certain products are provided by charges to operations in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. Estimates are based, in part, on historical experience.

 

(h) Research and development costs—Research and development costs are charged to expense as incurred. Equipment used in research and development with alternative future uses is capitalized.

 

 

F-9


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(i) Revenue recognition—Revenue is recognized when title is transferred, ordinarily when products are shipped, and when management is reasonably assured of collectibility. Also, in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force No. 00-10, the Company includes the costs of shipping and handling, when incurred, in cost of goods sold.

 

(j) Minority interests in subsidiaries—The balance sheet amounts in minority interest at December 31, 2003 represent 49% of the equity held by the single minority stockholder in IMPCO BV, 49% of the equity held by a single minority stockholder in IMPCO Fuel Systems, and a subsidiary of IMPCO Pty, 40% of the equity held by a joint venture partner in Minda IMPCO. Minority interest represents the minority stockholder’s proportionate share of equity in those subsidiaries.

 

(k) Net income per share—Basic income per share is computed by dividing net income applicable to common stock by the weighted average shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed based on the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding, and if dilutive, all common stock equivalents. In addition to net income (loss) per share, basic and diluted earnings per share are also presented for income (loss) from continuing operations and income (loss) from discontinued operation as appropriate.

 

(l) Stock based compensation—In October 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 123 Accounting For Stock Based Compensation, which established accounting and reporting standards for stock based employee compensation plans effective after fiscal year 1996. SFAS No. 123 encourages entities to adopt the fair value based method of accounting; however, it also allows an entity to continue to measure compensation cost using the intrinsic value based method prescribed by Accounting Principles Board No. 25. Entities electing to remain on the “intrinsic value based” method must make certain pro forma disclosures as if the new fair value method had been applied. At this time, the Company has not adopted the recognition provision of SFAS No. 123, but has provided pro forma disclosures.

 

In December 2002, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 148, Accounting For Stock Based Compensation—Transition and Disclosure. SFAS No. 148 amended SFAS No. 123 to provide new guidance concerning the transition when a company changes from the intrinsic-value method to the fair-value method of accounting for employee stock-based compensation cost. As amended by SFAS No. 148, SFAS No. 123 also requires additional disclosure regarding such cost in annual financial statements and in condensed interim financial statements. Certain disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 148 were adopted by the Company in its financial statements prepared as of December 31, 2003.

 

SFAS No. 123, as amended by SFAS No. 148, requires pro forma information regarding net income and net income per share to be disclosed for new options granted after fiscal year 1996. The fair value of these options was determined at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Expected dividend yield

   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %   0.0 %

Expected volatility

   69.5 %   74.8 %   79.3 %   83.3 %

Risk free interest rate

   5.6 %   5.0 %   4.4 %   4.0 %

Expected life of the option (years)

   6.0     6.0     6.0     6.0  

 

F-10


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The estimated fair value of the options is amortized to expense over the options’ vesting period for pro forma disclosures. The per share “pro forma” for the effects of SFAS No. 123, as amended by SFAS 148, is not indicative of the effects on reported net income/loss for future years. The Company’s “reported” and “pro forma” information for the periods April 30, 2001 and 2002, and at December 31, 2002 and 2003 are as follows (in thousands of dollars except per share data):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended
December 31,
2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,
2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Loss as reported

   $ (13,103 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )

Deduct: total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value based method for all awards, net of related taxes

     (461 )     (691 )     (545 )     (2,012 )
    


 


 


 


Proforma net loss

   $ (13,564 )   $ (27,927 )   $ (28,939 )   $ (8,912 )
    


 


 


 


Basic loss per share:

                                

Net loss as reported

   $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Proforma loss

   $ (1.37 )   $ (2.52 )   $ (2.01 )   $ (0.54 )
    


 


 


 


Diluted loss per share:

                                

Net loss as reported

   $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Proforma loss

   $ (1.23 )   $ (2.52 )   $ (2.01 )   $ (0.54 )
    


 


 


 


 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board has also issued Interpretation No. 44, “Accounting for Certain Transactions Involving Stock Compensation.” The Interpretation addresses implementation practice issues in accounting for compensation costs under existing rules prescribed by Accounting Principles Board No. 25. The rules are applied prospectively to all new awards, modifications to outstanding awards and changes in grantee status after July 1, 2000, with certain exceptions. The Company considers the impact of these rules when adopting new stock option plans and when granting any options.

 

(m) Impairment of long-lived assets and long-lived assets to be disposed of—Impairment losses are recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when an indicator of impairment (significant decrease in market value of an asset, significant change in extent or manner in which the asset is used or significant physical change to the asset) is present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets’ carrying amount. The Company has not experienced any significant changes in the business climate or in the use of assets that would require the Company to write down the value of the assets recorded in the balance sheet.

 

In August 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (SFAS No. 144), which addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets and supersedes SFAS No. 121, “Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of”, and the accounting and reporting provisions of APB Opinion No. 30, “Reporting the Results of Operations For a Disposal of a Segment of a Business”. SFAS No. 144 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001, with earlier application encouraged. We adopted SFAS No. 144 as of May 1, 2002, which did not have a significant impact on the Company’s financial position and results of operations, except that the Quantum operations is presented as a discontinued operation.

 

F-11


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(n) Use of estimates—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires that management make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

(o) Reclassifications—Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current presentations.

 

(p) Foreign currency translation—Assets and liabilities of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are generally translated at current exchange rates, and related revenues and expenses are translated at average exchange rates in effect during the period. Resulting translation adjustments are recorded as a foreign currency component of other comprehensive income in stockholders’ equity. The results and financial condition of the Company’s international operations are affected by changes in exchange rates between certain foreign currencies and the U.S. Dollar. The functional currency for all of the Company’s international subsidiaries is the local currency of the subsidiary. An increase in the value of the U.S. Dollar increases costs incurred by the subsidiaries because most of its international subsidiaries’ inventory purchases are U.S. Dollar denominated. The Company seeks to manage its foreign currency economic risk by minimizing its U.S. Dollar investment in foreign operations using foreign currency term loans and lines of credit to finance the operations of its foreign subsidiaries. At December 31, 2003, the Company had a single foreign exchange forward contract in which gains and losses are ordinarily recognized in the consolidated statement of operations as the fair value of the contracts fluctuates.

 

Transaction gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency, except those transactions that operate as a hedge of an identifiable foreign currency commitment, are included in the results of operations as incurred.

 

(q) Financial instruments—At December 31, 2003, the Company’s financial instruments recorded on the balance sheet include cash equivalents, capital lease obligations, short-term bank debt, and restricted cash. Because of the short maturity, short-term bank debt approximates fair value. At December 31, 2003, the fair value of the Company’s long-term debt and capital lease obligations approximated carrying value.

 

The Company periodically enters into foreign currency forward contracts and interest rate swap agreements. When the Company enters into foreign currency forward contracts, it does so to hedge identifiable foreign currency commitments. Foreign currency contracts reduce the Company’s exposure to unfavorable fluctuations in foreign currencies versus the U.S. dollar. Realized gains and losses on these contracts are included in the measurement of the related foreign currency transaction. The Company, from time to time, uses interest rate swap agreements to manage interest rate risk on its floating rate debt portfolio. Each interest rate swap is matched as a hedge against a specific debt instrument and has the same notional amount and tenor as the related debt instrument principle. As of December 31, 2003, the Company had a single foreign exchange forward contract of approximately $0.5 million for the purpose of hedging foreign exchange exposure.

 

[r] New accounting pronouncements—In January 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 46, Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities, an Interpretation of Accounting Research Bulletin No. 51, (“FIN 46”). FIN 46 introduces a new consolidation model, the variable interests model, which determines control (and consolidation) based on potential variability in gains and losses of the entity being evaluated for consolidation. The requirements for FIN 46, including its disclosures, apply immediately.

 

FIN 46 provides guidance for determining whether an entity qualifies as a variable interest entity (“VIE”) by considering, among other considerations, whether the entity lacks sufficient equity or its equity holders lack

 

F-12


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

adequate decision-making ability. If the entity does not qualify as a VIE, then the consolidation criteria is based on previously established accounting standards. Qualifying VIEs are covered by FIN 46 and are individually evaluated for consolidation based on their variable interests. FIN 46 requires consideration and estimates of a significant number of possible future outcomes of the VIE as well as the probability of each outcome occurring. Based on the allocation of possible outcomes, a calculation is performed to determine which party, if any, has a majority of potential negative outcomes (expected losses) or a majority of the potential positive outcomes (expected residual returns), with an emphasis on negative outcomes. That party, if any, is the primary beneficiary and is required to consolidate the VIE. The effective date for FIN 46 was deferred for public companies until the end of periods ending on or after December 15, 2003. Adoption of FIN 46 did not have an impact on the Company.

 

2.    Acquisitions

 

B.R.C. Societá a Responsabilitá Limitata.    On July 22, 2003, in conjunction with the refinancing of the Company, the deferred payment of $7.0 million was paid to the equity holders of BRC consequently completing the 50% acquisition of BRC. As of December 31, 2003, the Company had incurred acquisition costs of approximately $24.6 million, which is shown on the consolidated balance sheet as part of investment in affiliates. The corresponding costs incurred as of December 31, 2002 totaled $12.5 million.

 

The Company uses the equity method of accounting to recognize the investment in and the results of BRC in the Company’s financial position at December 31, 2003 and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. The condensed balance sheet for BRC as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 and the statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2003 follow (in thousands of dollars):

 

     December 31,
2002


    December 31,
2003


 

Current assets

   $ 28,641     $ 23,441  

Long-term assets

     5,997       9,182  
    


 


Total Assets

   $ 34,638     $ 32,623  
    


 


Current liabilities

   $ 11,609     $ 6,163  

Long-term liabilities

     3,357       4,155  

Shareholders’ equity

     19,672       22,305  
    


 


Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

   $ 34,638     $ 32,623  
    


 


     Year Ended
December 31,
2002


    Year Ended
December 31,
2003


 

Revenue

   $ 32,809     $ 36,280  

Cost of revenues

     16,328       18,811  
    


 


Gross profit

     16,481       17,469  

Operating expenses

     14,610       17,657  
    


 


Operating income (loss)

     1,871       (188 )

Interest expense, net

     622       241  

Other expenses

     1,288       497  
    


 


Pre-tax loss

     (39 )     (926 )

Income taxes

     980       239  
    


 


Net loss

   $ (1,019 )   $ (1,165 )
    


 


 

F-13


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In accordance with the BRC option agreement, the Company has the option to acquire at least 90% ownership in BRC after the 2006 calendar year based upon a price determined by a multiple of earnings before interest and taxes adjusted for depreciation and amortization and other quantitative factors.

 

The following supplemental condensed consolidated pro forma statements of operations for IMPCO for the year ended December 31, 2002 and 2003 are prepared to give effect to the acquisition of 50% of BRC as if the transaction had occurred on January 1, 2002 instead of July 22, 2003 (in thousands of dollars, except for per share data):

 

     Year Ended
December 31,
2002


    Year Ended
December 31,
2003


 

Revenue

   $ 68,390     $ 74,740  

Net Loss

   $ (37,332 )   $ (6,895 )

Net loss per share:

                

Basic:

                

Net loss

   $ (2.72 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


Diluted:

                

Net loss

   $ (2.72 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


Number of shares used in per share calculation:

                

Basic

     13,744       16,643  
    


 


Diluted

     13,744       16,643  
    


 


 

Related Party Transaction

 

In July 2003, the Company made the final deferred payment to the BRC equity holders, which completed the $23.8 million acquisition of a 50% equity interest in BRC. Mr. Mariano Costamagna is the Chief Executive Officer of MTM s.r.l., an Italian corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of BRC and, prior to the transaction, directly or indirectly held a 50% equity interest in BRC. In connection with this purchase, the Company paid $6.9 million and issued 1,039,262 shares of common stock to Mr. Costamagna or his spouse, representing payment for one-half of the 50% equity interest he held directly or indirectly in BRC. Mr. Costamagna was elected to a three-year term as a Company director beginning June 12, 2003. Mr. Costamagna presently owns 20% equity interest in BRC, and other members of his immediate family own between 5% and 20% of the equity interest in BRC.

 

F-14


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

3.    Debt Payable

 

The Company’s debt payable is summarized as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

         

April 30,

2001


  

April 30,

2002


  

December 31,

2002


  

December 31,

2003


(a)

  

Bank of America NT&SA:

                           
    

Revolving line of credit

   $ 3,914    $ 8,625    $ 5,860    $ —  
    

Mexican peso line of credit

     541      —        —        —  
    

Term loan

     8,894      6,353      4,447      —  
    

Capital lease and capital expenditure lines of credit facilities

     1,436      1,516      2,327      —  

(b)

  

Senior subordinated secured promissory note—Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC

     —        —        —        17,483

(c)

  

Revolving promissory note—LaSalle Business Credit, LLC

     —        —        —        5,238

(d)

  

Credit facility—Fortis Bank (formerly Mees Pierson)

     1,461      1,068      715      —  

(e)

  

Term loan—The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. Ltd

     776      500      540      598
    

Line of credit

     162      —        —        —  

(f)

  

Notes payable

     —        —        —        134

(g)

  

Other loans

     —        —        —        72
    

Other capital leases

     572      1,423      222      138
    

Derivative instruments

     —        195      181      —  
         

  

  

  

          $ 17,756    $ 19,680    $ 14,292    $ 23,663
    

Less: current portion

     9,758      14,287      14,191      5,951
         

  

  

  

    

Non-current portion

   $ 7,998    $ 5,393    $ 101    $ 17,712
         

  

  

  

 

(a) Bank of America NT&SA

 

On July 21, 2003 the Company completed the refinancing of the Bank of America debt and secured additional financing to complete the 50% acquisition of BRC and to provide for working capital. All of the amounts outstanding under the Bank of America agreements including accrued interest were settled in full.

 

(b) Senior Subordinated Secured Promissory Note—Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC

 

On July 18, 2003 the Company entered into an agreement with Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC to sell to Bison a senior subordinated secured promissory note in the amount of $20.0 million bearing interest at a rate of 11.25%. Interest payments are due monthly over the term of the note and the principal amount of the note is due in full on July 18, 2007. The proceeds of the note were approximately $17.3 million and resulted in a loan discount of approximately $2.7 million, which is amortized to interest expense over the term of the note. At December 31, 2003 the carrying value of the note was approximately $17.5 million. Approximately $1.0 million was recognized as interest expense from inception of the agreement to December 31, 2003. The Bison note is secured by the foreign assets of the Company. At December 31, 2003, the Company was in default for not meeting certain financial measurement covenants at the end of the 4th quarter. The Company has obtained a waiver of its covenants at December 31, 2003, and certain covenant amendments for the remainder of 2004. The Company will be required to pay the default rate of interest for the first quarter of 2004 (3% over the stated rate) in cash amounting to $150,000. The default rate of interest thereafter will be paid in kind and increase

 

F-15


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

150 basis points each quarter (up to a maximum of 18% per annum) as long as the Company does not perform to the covenants established at the inception of the loan. (See Note 1)

 

In conjunction with the promissory note agreement the Company issued warrants to Bison to purchase 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $2.00. In September 2003, Bison exercised the warrants and acquired 500,000 shares of common stock.

 

(c) Revolving Promissory Note—LaSalle Business Credit, LLC

 

On July 18, 2003 the Company entered into a revolving promissory note with LaSalle Business Credit, LLC for a maximum amount of $12.0 million bearing interest at a rate of prime plus 1%. The note is payable in full on July 18, 2006. The Company’s availability under this facility is determined by a percentage of eligible accounts receivable and inventory balances as defined by the asset-based lending agreement. As of December 31, 2003, $5.2 million was outstanding under the line of credit at an interest rate of 5.0% and approximately $1.6 million was unused and available under the line. As of December 31, 2003 the Company was in default for not meeting certain financial measurement covenants at the end of the 4th quarter. The Company has obtained a waiver of its covenants at December 31, 2003. Based upon a request by the Company, the lender has granted the Company an amendment whereby two large customers accounts will be granted up to 40% balance availability in the borrowing base (previously 15%), resulting in greater access to the credit facility. Based upon discussions with the bank, management believes that covenants may be subject to a re-negotiation which could result in better matching with the Company’s current performance capacities. (See Note 1)

 

(d) Credit facility—Fortis Bank

 

IMPCO BV has secured a € 2.3 million ($2.9 million) revocable credit facility with Fortis Bank in the Netherlands. The interest rate is determined on a weekly basis using a weighted average of several money market indices. IMPCO BV’s borrowings under this facility may not exceed the combined total of 70% of the book value of its eligible accounts receivable and 50% of the book value of its inventory (or the current market value when lower) with a maximum of € 1.0 million. At December 31, 2003, the interest rate was 4.0% with no outstanding balance.

 

(e) The Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd.

 

Line of Credit.    In April 2002, IMPCO Japan secured a ¥64.0 million ($0.6 million) line of credit facility with the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Ltd. (“HSBC”), Osaka Branch. This line of credit was renewed in March 2003 with a fixed interest rate of 1.685% for a period of 12 months and matures in April 2004. The line of credit is cash secured from a restricted account with National Australian Bank Limited, which issued a stand-by letter of credit to HSBC as collateral for the line of credit. At December 31, 2003, the outstanding loan balance was ¥64.0 million bearing interest at a rate of 1.685%.

 

(f) Notes payable

 

During April and May of 2003, the Company entered into agreements with investors to provide approximately $3.1 million in bridge loans, of which $1.4 million was from an entity related to one of the Company’s directors. The bridge loans bore interest at a rate of 12% and matured in October 2003. In conjunction with the bridge loan agreements the Company issued warrants to the investors to purchase 305,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $2.46, or 120% of market price. During July 2003, approximately $1.0 million of the loans was repaid, and the remaining loans and accrued interest in the amount of $2.2 million and $0.1 million, respectively, were repaid in full in December 2003. In September 2003, the Company borrowed € 0.5 million from an affiliate company and repaid the note plus accrued interest in December 2003.

 

F-16


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In the fourth quarter of 2003, the Company’s majority owned subsidiary, Minda IMPCO Ltd., of India entered into several loan agreements and obtained a total of INR6.0 million ($134,000) in loans with an average interest rate of 14.0% and two year maturities.

 

(g) Other finance loans

 

In May and September of 2003, the Company financed certain insurance policies through a third party lender. As of December 31, 2003 the balance of these loans was approximately $0.1 million, which mature in March 2004 and bear interest at 5.8%.

 

(h) Loans from a Director

 

On March 31, 2003, a Company director extended to the Company a loan commitment of $8.0 million expiring May 31, 2003, subsequently reduced to $1.5 million and extended to January 31, 2004. In connection with the loan commitment, the Company granted to the director 200,000 warrants, fully vested, at a price of $2.51, which expire in four years.

 

On June 30, 2003, the 10% minority holder of IMPCO Mexicano exercised his put option for $0.5 million. The Company entered into an agreement whereby the same Company director agreed to purchase the 10% interest for $0.5 million and would allow the Company to re-purchase the 10% interest at cost. In December 2003, the Company repaid the director $0.5 million, plus accrued interest of $49,998, for his 10% interest and the Company owns 100% of IMPCO Mexicano.

 

At December 31, 2003, the Company’s weighted average interest rate on debt payables was 13.1%.

 

4.    Marketable Securities

 

The Company’s deferred compensation plan (“plan”) acquired 17,978 shares of Quantum common stock at an average price of $9.12 per share in accordance with the Quantum spin-off, dated July 23, 2002. These shares were classified as marketable securities available-for-sale and are included as part of other assets on the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2002. In accordance with SFAS No. 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities, unrealized gains and losses on marketable securities classified as available-for-sale are recognized as a component of other accumulated comprehensive income in the equity section of the consolidated balance sheet. During the fourth quarter of 2003, the plan was instructed to sell its shares of Quantum and use the proceeds to acquire shares in IMPCO. As of December 31, 2003, the unsold Quantum shares were classified as trading securities in accordance with SFAS No. 115 and the unrealized loss in the amount of $39,000 carried in other accumulated comprehensive income was recognized as part of selling, general and administrative expense on the consolidated statements of operations. In February 2004, 10,844 shares of Quantum were sold at an average price of $9.17 and 12,725 shares of IMPCO were acquired at an average price of $7.69. As of December 31, 2003, approximately $0.1 million was classified as marketable securities held for trading as part of other assets on the balance sheet.

 

F-17


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

5.    Income Taxes

 

The provision for (benefit from) income taxes consists of the following (in thousands of dollars):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended
December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Current:

                                

Federal

   $ (529 )   $ (400 )   $ —       $ —    

State

     103       1       1       —    

Foreign

     774       519       42       807  
    


 


 


 


       348       120       43       807  

Deferred:

                                

Federal and State

     2,555       (1,451 )     (803 )     (2,479 )

Foreign

     —         —         —         (139 )

Change in Valuation Allowance

     —         —         24,000       2,479  
    


 


 


 


Total provision (benefit) for income taxes for continuing operations

   $ 2,903     $ (1,331 )   $ 23,240     $ 668  
    


 


 


 


Provision (benefit) for income taxes for discontinued operation

   $ (11,832 )   $ (16,675 )   $ (2,076 )   $ —    
    


 


 


 


 

Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest of consolidated subsidiaries and dividends for U.S. and foreign-based operations is shown below (in thousands of dollars):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended
December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Continuing operations

                                

U.S.

   $ 5,568     $ (3,767 )   $ (2,713 )   $ (6,135 )

Foreign

     1,262       440       623       1,615  
    


 


 


 


Total Continuing Operations

     6,830       (3,327 )     (2,090 )     (4,520 )

Discontinued Operations

     (28,610 )     (41,693 )     (5,191 )     —    
    


 


 


 


Total income (loss) before income taxes and minority interests

   $ (21,780 )   $ (45,020 )   $ (7,281 )   $ (4,520 )
    


 


 


 


 

A reconciliation of income taxes computed at the federal statutory income tax rate to income taxes reported in the consolidated statements of operations is as follows:

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Federal statutory income tax rate

   -34.0 %   -34.0 %   -34.0 %   -34.0 %

Permanent differences

   3.5     0.9     32.7     2.4  

State tax, net

   -1.6     -0.7     -11.8     —    

Foreign tax, net

   1.6     0.8     -8.1     2.6  

Research and development credit

   -10.5     -7.0     -15.2     -3.4  

Valuation Allowance

   —       —       1148.1     47.1  
    

 

 

 

Effective tax rate

   -41.0 %   -40.0 %   1111.7 %   14.7 %
    

 

 

 

 

F-18


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

The components of the Company’s deferred tax liabilities and assets is as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended
December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended
December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Deferred tax liabilities:

                                

Tax over book depreciation

   $ (1,203 )   $ (1,432 )   $ (1,275 )     (863 )

Other

     (1,791 )     (3,253 )     (2,857 )     (3,824 )
    


 


 


 


       (2,994 )     (4,685 )     (4,132 )     (4,687 )

Deferred tax assets:

                                

Tax credit carryforwards

     7,944       10,739       10,878       12,533  

Net operating loss carryforwards

     5,118       22,455       25,498       27,580  

Inventory reserves

     961       1,480       299       350  

Other provisions for estimated expenses

     1,741       1,948       894       462  
    


 


 


 


       15,764       36,622       37,569       40,925  

Valuation Allowance

     —         —         (24,000 )     (26,479 )

Net deferred tax assets

     12,770       31,937       9,437       9,759  

Less: deferred tax assets-current

     2,169       2,808       1,032       283  
    


 


 


 


Deferred tax assets non-current

   $ 10,601     $ 29,129     $ 8,405     $ 9,476  
    


 


 


 


 

The increase in valuation allowance of approximately $2.5 million is attributable to the increase in deferred tax assets, primarily due to the increase of net operating loss carryforwards. The total valuation allowance of approximately $26.5 million as of December 31, 2003 was recognized based on the weight of available evidence that it is more likely than not that this portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized within the next three years, notwithstanding that some of those assets may have longer lives under applicable tax laws. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. The Company believes, based on its history of prior operating earnings, its spin-off of the Quantum division and its expectations of future earnings, that operating income of the Company will more likely than not be sufficient to realize the future benefits of the amount classified as net deferred tax asset. Future adverse changes in market conditions, poor operating results or a decline in our projections about future profitability may affect the Company assessment of the adequacy of the valuation allowance and, consequently, the net carrying value of net deferred tax assets. In the event that the Company determines that it is more likely than not that it would be unable to realize an additional portion of the net deferred tax asset, an additional adjustment to the deferred tax asset valuation allowance would be charged to income in the period such determination was made.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2003, the Company has a federal research and development tax credit carryforward available for federal income tax purposes of approximately $5.1 million that, if not used, will begin to expire in 2009. Federal net operating loss carryforwards of $72.0 million will begin to expire in 2021. Additionally, the Company has an alternative minimum tax credit carryforward available for federal income tax purposes of approximately $0.2 million that will carryforward indefinitely until utilized and a foreign tax credit of $0.7 million that expires in 2004 if not utilized. The Company also has research and development credit carryforwards for state income tax purposes of approximately $4.6 million, which do not expire for tax reporting purposes. State net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $33.0 million which will begin to expire in 2008.

 

F-19


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

6.    Discontinued Operation

 

On July 23, 2002, the Company completed the distribution and spin-off of its Quantum subsidiary by distributing one share of Quantum common stock for every share of IMPCO common stock held on the record date, which was July 5, 2002. The Company assumed approximately $8.6 million outstanding under the line of credit with Bank of America and also made a contribution in cash of $15.0 million to Quantum as part of the spin-off transaction and was presented in net cash used in discontinued operations in the consolidated statements of cash flows for. As a result of the spin-off of Quantum, the Company no longer holds any continuing interest in Quantum.

 

The Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, effective as of May 1, 2002. Under the provisions of SFAS No. 144, the results of operations of Quantum are presented as discontinued operations in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.

 

Operating results of discontinued operations for the period May 1, 2002 to the date of the Quantum spin-off, July 23, 2002, and for the preceding fiscal years ended April 30, 2002 and 2001, are as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

     Fiscal Years Ended April 30,

    

May 1, 2002
to

July 23, 2002


 
     2001

       2002

    

Revenue

   $ 23,358        $ 23,403      $ 4,446  

Costs and expenses:

                            

Cost of product sales

     19,452          25,581        3,514  

Research and development expense

     26,687          32,657        4,730  

Selling, general and administrative expense

     5,499          6,379        1,296  
    


    


  


Total costs and expenses

     51,638          64,617        9,540  

Operating loss

     (28,280 )        (41,214 )      (5,094 )

Interest expense

     329          479        97  
    


    


  


Loss before income taxes

     (28,609 )        (41,693 )      (5,191 )

Income tax benefit

     (11,832 )        (16,676 )      (2,076 )
    


    


  


Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (16,777 )      $ (25,016 )    $ (3,115 )
    


    


  


 

F-20


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

7.    Commitments and Contingencies

 

(a) Leases

 

The Company has certain non-cancelable operating leases for facilities and equipment, and non-cancelable capital leases for machinery, equipment and motor vehicles. Future minimum lease commitments under non-cancelable leases at December 31, 2003 are as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

     Lease Obligations

Fiscal Years Ended December 31,


   Capital Leases

   Operating Leases

2004

   $ 47    $ 1,384

2005

     41      592

2006

     32      476

2007

     33      465

2008

     —        460

Thereafter

     —        1,575
    

  

Total minimum lease payments

   $ 153    $ 4,952
           

Less: imputed interest

     15       
    

  

Present value of future minimum lease payments

     138       

Less: current portion

     43       
    

      

Long-term capital lease obligation

   $ 95       
    

      

 

Total rental expense under the operating leases for fiscal years ended April 30, 2001, and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 were approximately $1.6 million, $1.7 million, $1.4 million, and $2.0 million respectively. These leases are non-cancelable and certain leases have renewal options and escalation clauses.

 

At April 30, 2001, and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 approximately $1.7 million, $1.1 million, $0.6 million, and $0.2 million were outstanding under the Company’s capital lease facility, respectively. At December 31, 2003, the gross and net assets acquired under the capital lease facility were approximately $3.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively. Amortization of these assets is included in depreciation expense.

 

(b) Contingencies

 

The Company is currently subject to certain legal proceedings and claims arising in the ordinary course of business. Based on advice from legal counsel, management does not believe that the outcome of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

(c) Investment and Tax Savings Plan

 

The Company’s Investment and Tax Savings Plan (the “Plan”) is a defined contribution plan, which is qualified under Internal Revenue Service Code Section 401(k). The Plan is subject to the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. All employees who are at least age twenty-one or older are eligible to participate in the Plan on the first day of employment with the Company. Employees of the Company who elect to participate in the Plan may contribute into the Plan not less than 1% nor more than 15% of compensation. The Company’s matching contributions are discretionary and match elective salary deferrals up to

 

F-21


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

3.0% of compensation. Approximately 69% of eligible employees were enrolled in the 401(k) plan at December 31, 2003. Employer contributions approximated $0.6 million, $0.6 million, $0.2 million, and $0.3 million for fiscal years ended 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 respectively.

 

(d) Pension Expense

 

The Company’s 51% owned subsidiary in The Netherlands has a defined benefit pension plan for employees over 25 years of age and mandatory retirement at age 65. The post-retirement benefit is 70% of the highest annual compensation level earned during employment. The Company purchases and fully funds this benefit with a state-approved insurance carrier who takes full responsibility for paying post-retirement benefits. For the years ended April 30, 2001 and 2002, the eight months ended December 31, 2002, and the year ended December 31, 2003, the Company paid approximately $0.1 million, $0.3 million, $0.2 million, and $0.5 million, respectively.

 

8.    Stockholders’ Equity

 

(a) Stockholder Protection Rights Agreement

 

On June 30, 1999, the Company’s Board of Director’s adopted a Stockholder Protection Rights Agreement and declared a dividend of one right on each outstanding share of IMPCO common stock. Each right entitles the holder, upon certain events, to purchase, at an exercise price of $45 per share, shares of common stock with a value equal to twice the exercise price. The dividend was paid on July 26, 1999 to stockholders of record on July 12, 1999.

 

(b) Stock options

 

The Company has eight stock option plans that provide for the issuance of options to key employees and directors of the Company at the fair market value at the time of grant. Options under the plans generally vest in four or five years and are generally exercisable while the individual is an employee or a director, or ordinarily within one month following termination of employment. In no event may options be exercised more than ten years after date of grant. On June 12, 2003, the stockholders of IMPCO approved the 2003 Stock Incentive Plan (“Plan”), which provides for the issuance of up to 800,000 shares of the Company’s common stock. Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Company’s board of directors or a committee appointed by the board will determine who will receive shares or options, the number of shares or options granted, the type of options granted (incentive or non-qualified), the manner of exercise and the exercise price of the options.

 

F-22


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

In connection with the spin-off of Quantum, all stock options outstanding on the spin-off date were split into one option of IMPCO and one option of Quantum stock. The exercise price of both the IMPCO and Quantum stock options was adjusted based on the relative market values of both companies on the first trading day following the spin-off. Options exercised prior to the spin-off of Quantum were made at the exercise price prior to such adjustment. All vesting schedules remain the same and the option holders are not required to exercise their options concurrently.

 

     Number of
Shares


   

Weighted

Average
Exercise Price


Outstanding at April 30, 2000

   1,321,931     $ 4.88

Granted

   416,453       7.27

Exercised

   (97,572 )     5.06

Forfeited

   (46,047 )     8.78
    

 

Outstanding at April 30, 2001

   1,594,765     $ 5.39

Granted

   232,000       6.17

Exercised

   (328,459 )     4.48

Forfeited

   (120,826 )     6.60
    

 

Outstanding at April 30, 2002

   1,377,480     $ 5.53

Granted

   819,000       3.30

Exercised

   (19,200 )     4.28

Forfeited

   (98,787 )     6.72
    

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2002

   2,078,493     $ 4.61

Granted

   988,000       5.04

Exercised

   (141,807 )     5.20

Forfeited

   (173,853 )     4.90
    

 

Outstanding at December 31, 2003

   2,750,833     $ 4.72

Shares exercisable at April 30, 2001

   774,889     $ 4.66

Shares exercisable at April 30, 2002

   666,623     $ 4.79

Shares exercisable at December 31, 2002

   818,107     $ 4.88

Shares exercisable at December 31, 2003

   746,514     $ 5.08

 

The following table sets forth summarized information with respect to stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2003:

 

     Outstanding at December 31, 2003

   Exercisable

Exercise Price Range:


   Number of Shares

   Average Life

   Average Price

   Number of Shares

   Average Price

$3.01 to $4.50

   1,644,291    7.8    $ 3.43    383,791    $ 4.08

$4.51 to $6.00

   107,033    3.9      5.21    100,533      5.17

$6.01 to $7.50

   952,251    8.1      6.71    242,472      6.33

$7.51 to $9.00

   43,858    7.2      8.00    17,678      8.00

$9.01 to $15.00

   3,400    6.6      12.50    2,040      12.50
    
  
  

  
  

     2,750,833    7.7    $ 4.72    746,514    $ 5.08

 

At December 31, 2003, there were approximately 102,000 shares available for grant.

 

The Company has elected to account for its employee stock options under Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees” (APB 25) and related interpretations in accounting for

 

F-23


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

employee stock options. No compensation expense is recorded under APB 25 because the exercise price of the Company’s employee common stock options equals the market price of the underlying common stock on the grant date.

 

(c) Warrants

 

On January 11, 2002, the Company completed a private placement of 2,000,000 shares of common stock at a price of $11.25 per share for $22.5 million. The Company also issued to the investors warrants to purchase an aggregate of 200,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $13.25 per share. Each purchaser was issued a warrant to purchase one-tenth of a share of common stock for each share of common stock purchased under the agreement. In addition, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 100,000 shares of common stock to the placement agent in connection with the transaction. The total of 300,000 warrants were outstanding at December 31, 2002 and the warrants are exercisable at any time until January 11, 2006.

 

In connection with a $8.0 million loan commitment obtained in March 2003 from a Company director that expired on July 31, 2003, the Company granted 200,000 warrants, vesting immediately, to the director to purchase IMPCO stock at a price of $2.51. The warrants expire in four years. During 2003, the Company utilized the Black-Scholes model to determine the fair value of the options and recognized as expense approximately $0.3 million.

 

During April and May of 2003, the Company entered into agreements with investors to provide approximately $3.1 million in bridge loans, of which $1.4 million was from an entity related to one of the Company’s directors. In conjunction with the bridge loan agreements the Company issued warrants to the investors to purchase 305,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at $2.46, or 120% of market price. As of December 31, 2003, 10,000 warrants had been exercised and the bridge loans were repaid. See Note 3(g). During 2003, the Company utilized the Black-Scholes option pricing model and determined the fair value of the 305,000 warrants to be approximately $0.4 million. This amount was recognized on the statement of operations as part of interest expense.

 

On July 21, 2003, the Company issued 500,000 warrants, fully vested, to Bison to acquire the Company’s stock in connection with the issuance of a $20.0 million senior secured subordinated promissory note at a price of $2.00. In September 2003, Bison exercised all of the warrants and the Company received $1.0 million in proceeds from the exercise of the warrants. During 2003, the Company determined the fair value of the 500,000 Bison warrants to be approximately $2.6 million. The assumptions used in the Black-Scholes option pricing model were (i) expected term of the options – 4 years, (ii) annual volatility – 91.3%, (iii) risk-free interest rate –2.6%, market price of the IMPCO common stock on the date of issuance – $6.02, and (iv) dividends paid – none. During 2003, approximately $0.3 million was recognized as interest expense and the deferred portion of approximately $2.3 million is classified as part of additional paid in capital on the December 31, 2003 balance sheet and is amortized to interest expense ratably over the four year term of the loan.

 

(d) Notes receivable from officers

 

On March 2, 2001, the Board of Directors authorized loans to three officers of the Company for the exercise of options to purchase Company stock from former stockholders. The loans accrued interest at 9% and were fully collateralized by a security interest in and lien upon shares of common stock of the Company and certain vested Company nonqualified stock options issued to the officers. Additionally, the loans were secured by the personal residence of one of the officers and were cross-collateralized. Each of these loans was repaid in full in July 2001.

 

F-24


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

(e) Loans to Executive Officer

 

In December 2000, the Company loaned an officer of the Company $100,000. The loan initially bore interest at a rate of 5% per annum and, since June 30, 2001, bears interest at a rate of 9% per annum. The loan became due and payable in full on July 31, 2002. As of December 31, 2003 approximately $3,000 was due and outstanding. The Company is negotiating to recover the amounts due under the loan.

 

In September 2001, the Company loaned this officer $175,000. The loan bore interest at a rate of 9% per annum. The loan became due and payable in full on July 31, 2002. The amount outstanding as of December 31, 2003 was approximately $216,000. The Company is negotiating with this officer to recover the amounts due under the loan.

 

9.    Income (Loss) Per Share

 

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted loss per share (in thousands of dollars except per share data):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Ended
December 31,

2002


   

Ended
December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Numerator:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 3,675     $ (2,220 )   $ (25,279 )   $ (6,900 )

Loss from discontinued operation

     (16,777 )     (25,016 )     (3,115 )     —    
    


 


 


 


Net income (loss)

   $ (13,102 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )
    


 


 


 


Denominator:

                                

Denominator for basic earnings per share—weighted average number of shares

     9,935       11,098       14,376       16,643  

Effect of dilutive securities:

                                

Employee stock options

     1,114       —         —         —    
    


 


 


 


Dilutive potential common shares

     11,049       11,098       14,376       16,643  

Basic loss per share:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.37     $ (0.20 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (1.69 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    
    


 


 


 


Net loss

   $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Diluted loss per share:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.33     $ (0.20 )   $ (1.76 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (1.52 )   $ (2.25 )   $ (0.22 )   $ —    
    


 


 


 


Net loss

   $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


 

For the period ended December 31, 2003, options to purchase approximately 2,751,000 shares of common stock and 815,000 stock warrants were excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share, as the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the fiscal years ended April 30, 2001 and 2002 and the transition period ended December 31, 2002, options to purchase approximately 480,000, 1,377,000, and 2,078,000 shares, respectively, of common stock were excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share, as the effect would be anti-dilutive. For the fiscal years ended April 30, 2001 and 2002 and the transition period ended December 31, 2002,

 

F-25


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

options to purchase 0, 300,000, and 300,000 shares, respectively, of warrants to acquire common stock were excluded in the computation of diluted net income per share, as the effect would be anti-dilutive.

 

10.    Revenues

 

During fiscal year 2001, IMPCO BV, IMPCO Pty, Grupo IMPCO Mexicano and IMPCO Japan subsidiaries accounted for approximately 18%, 8%, 9% and 4% of total consolidated revenues, respectively. During fiscal year 2002, IMPCO BV, IMPCO Pty, Grupo IMPCO Mexicano and IMPCO Japan subsidiaries accounted for approximately 22%, 6%, 16%, and 3% of total consolidated revenues, respectively. During the eight months ended December 31, 2002, IMPCO BV, IMPCO Pty, Grupo IMPCO Mexicano and IMPCO Japan subsidiaries accounted for approximately 18%, 6%, 26%, and 3% of total consolidated revenues, respectively. During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, IMPCO BV, IMPCO Pty, Grupo IMPCO Mexicano and IMPCO Japan subsidiaries accounted for approximately 22%, 6%, 16%, and 3% of total consolidated revenues, respectively.

 

The Company routinely sells products to a broad base of domestic and international customers, which includes distributors and original equipment manufacturers. Based on the nature of these customers, credit is generally granted without collateral being required. The Company does not anticipate that a significant credit risk exists as a result of these customer relationships.

 

During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, the Company had one customer with net revenues greater than ten percent of consolidated net revenues. Revenues for this customer as a percentage of total revenues were 10.3%, 14.4%, 7.9%, and 7.3% for the year ended December 31, 2003, the eight months ended December 31, 2002, and the years ended April 30, 2002 and 2001, respectively.

 

11.    Business Segment and Geographic Information

 

Business Segments.    The Company currently has two reporting segments organized along geographical boundaries: a domestic segment consisting of U.S. Operations and the rest of the world known as the International segment. Prior to 2001, the U.S. Operations segment was called the Gaseous Fuel Products Division. The domestic segment sells products including parts and conversion systems to OEMs and the aftermarket. The Company’s International Operations in Australia, Europe, Japan, India, and Mexico provide distribution for the Company’s products, predominantly from its domestic division and some product assembly.

 

Corporate expenses consist of general and administrative expenses at the corporate level and include the amortization of identifiable intangibles. Intersegment eliminations are primarily the result of intercompany sales from our domestic division to our International Operations.

 

The Company evaluates performance based on profit or loss from operations before interest and income taxes. The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

 

F-26


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Financial Information by Business Segment.    Financial information by business segment for continuing operations follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Revenues:


   2001

    2002

     

U.S. Operations

   $ 66,925     $ 52,055     $ 33,151     $ 51,951  

International Operations

     31,132       32,773       25,304       36,107  

Intersegment Elimination

     (17,518 )     (17,152 )     (12,034 )     (13,318 )
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 80,539     $ 67,676     $ 46,421     $ 74,740  
    


 


 


 


    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Operating Income (Loss)


   2001

    2002

     

U.S. Operations

   $ 11,138     $ 3,416     $ 1,751     $ 4,549  

International Operations

     1,387       599       637       1,589  

Corporate Expenses

     (5,862 )     (6,807 )     (3,460 )     (6,992 )

Intersegment Elimination

     (53 )     393       (135 )     373  
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 6,610     $ (2,399 )   $ (1,207 )   $ (481 )
    


 


 


 


    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Identifiable Assets


   2001

    2002

     

U.S. Operations

   $ 34,495     $ 26,346     $ 23,555     $ 25,704  

International Operations

     24,222       23,432       23,697       27,739  

Corporate

     29,230       45,512       28,725       47,693  

Discontinued Operation

     32,816       28,159       —         —    
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 120,763     $ 123,449     $ 75,977     $ 101,136  
    


 


 


 


    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Capital Expenditures


   2001

    2002

     

U.S. Operations

   $ 977     $ 2,103     $ 1,087     $ 1,361  

International Operations

     312       134       376       98  

Corporate

     2,003       763       248       285  

Discontinued Operation

     9,343       3,471       —         —    
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 12,635     $ 6,471     $ 1,711     $ 1,744  
    


 


 


 


    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Depreciation and Amortization


   2001

    2002

     

U.S. Operations

   $ 1,291     $ 1,259     $ 895     $ 1,294  

International Operations

     609       592       177       273  

Corporate

     691       916       304       1,990  

Discontinued Operation

     1,687       2,903       862       —    
    


 


 


 


Total

   $ 4,278     $ 5,670     $ 2,238     $ 3,557  
    


 


 


 


 

F-27


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Product Revenues by Application.    The Company’s product revenues by application across all business segments follows (in thousands):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


  

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


  

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


Revenues:


   2001

   2002

     

Transportation

   $ 26,425    $ 24,595    $ 22,953    $ 29,523

Industrial

     54,114      43,081      23,468      45,217
    

  

  

  

Total

   $ 80,539    $ 67,676    $ 46,421    $ 74,740
    

  

  

  

 

Geographic Information.    The Company’s geographic information for revenues to unaffiliated customers and long-lived assets is shown below. The basis for determining revenues is the geographic location of the ”end-user”. Long-lived assets, excluding those classified under discontinued operation, represent long-term tangible assets that are physically located in the region as indicated (in thousands):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


  

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


  

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


Revenues:


   2001

   2002

     

United States and Canada

   $ 44,229    $ 29,882    $ 18,778    $ 32,053

Europe

     16,302      18,800      10,691      21,724

Asia & Pacific Rim

     10,486      6,701      4,958      9,223

Latin America

     9,522      12,293      11,994      11,740
    

  

  

  

Total

   $ 80,539    $ 67,676    $ 46,421    $ 74,740
    

  

  

  

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


  

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


  

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


Long-Lived Assets:


   2001

   2002

     

United States and Canada

   $ 6,399    $ 7,472    $ 7,455    $ 7,100

Europe

     310      355      595      691

Asia & Pacific Rim

     224      211      203      228

Latin America

     419      407      317      300
    

  

  

  

Total

   $ 7,352    $ 8,445    $ 8,570    $ 8,319
    

  

  

  

 

F-28


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

12.    Warranties

 

Estimated future warranty obligations related to certain products are provided by charges to operations in the period in which the related revenue is recognized. Estimates are based, in part, on historical experience. Changes in the Company’s product warranty liability during the fiscal years ended April 30, 2001, and 2002, the eight months ended December 31, 2002 and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 are as follows:

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal
Year Ended

December 31,

2003


 

Warranty reserve for the period ended:


   2001

    2002

     

Balance at beginning of period

   $ 427     $ 227     $ 285     $ 452  

New warranties issued

     73       170       233       396  

Warranties settled

     (273 )     (112 )     (66 )     (175 )
    


 


 


 


Balance at end of period

   $ 227     $ 285     $ 452     $ 674  
    


 


 


 


 

13.    Purchases

 

During fiscal years 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002 and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 purchases from two vendors constituted approximately 41%, 17%, 19%, and 33% of consolidated net inventory purchases, respectively. In fiscal year 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 10 suppliers accounted for approximately 67%, 28%, 34%, and 71% respectively, of consolidated net inventory purchases.

 

14.    Supplementary Cash Flow Information

 

For fiscal years 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003, the Company incurred capital lease obligations of approximately $0.6 million, $0.4 million, $0, and $0.1 million, respectively.

 

Interest and income taxes paid for fiscal years 2001 and 2002, the transition period ended December 31, 2002, and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 are as follows (in thousands of dollars):

 

    

Fiscal Years

Ended April 30,


  

Eight Months

Ended

December 31,

2002


  

Fiscal Year

Ended

December 31,

2003


     2001

   2002

     

Interest Paid

   $ 1,363    $ 1,354    $ 953    $ 2,387

Taxes paid (including franchise taxes)

   $ 982    $ 638    $ 42    $ 495

 

Payments made by Quantum for interest and taxes were not material for the periods indicated.

 

On November 29, 2002, the Company issued 2,309,470 shares of the Company’s common stock to the equity holders of BRC valued at $10.0 million as a down payment towards an option to acquire a 50% ownership in BRC.

 

F-29


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

15.    Fiscal Year Change

 

On November 14, 2002, the Company changed its fiscal year from April 30 to December 31. The table below summarizes selected data for the unaudited eight months ended December 31, 2001 and the eight months ended December 31, 2002 (in thousands except for earnings per share).

 

    

Eight Months

Ended December 31,


 
     2001

    2002

 
     (unaudited)        

Statement of Operations:

                

Revenue:

                

Net revenue

   $ 45,707     $ 46,421  

Cost and expenses:

                

Cost of sales

     29,185       33,071  

Research and development expense

     3,712       2,635  

Selling, general and administrative

     13,075       11,922  

Operating income (loss)

     (266 )     (1,207 )

Interest expense

     933       995  

Interest income

     112       112  

Income (loss) from continuing operations (net of tax)

     (908 )     (25,279 )

Loss on discontinued operation (net of tax)

     (17,908 )     (3,115 )

Net income (loss) applicable to common stock

   $ (18,816 )   $ (28,394 )

Net income (loss) per share:

                

Basic:

                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )

Loss from discontinued operation

     (1.71 )     (0.22 )

Net income (loss)

   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )

Diluted:

                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ (0.09 )   $ (1.76 )

Loss from discontinued operations

     (1.71 )     (0.22 )

Net income (loss)

   $ (1.80 )   $ (1.98 )

Number of shares used in per share computation:

                

Basic

     10,445       14,376  

Diluted

     10,445       14,376  

Balance Sheet Data:

                

Total current assets

   $ 60,439     $ 35,243  

Total assets

     117,270       75,978  

Total current liabilities

     20,332       24,038  

Long-term obligations, less current portion

     25,236       101  

Stockholders’ equity

   $ 69,401     $ 49,622  

 

F-30


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

16.    Goodwill

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, amortization of goodwill is no longer permitted. No such amortization expense for goodwill was recognized for the eight-month period ended December 31, 2002 or the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003. The following data shows the effect on net loss and net loss per share of common stock if the provisions of SFAS No. 142 had been in effect for the fiscal years ended April 30, 2001, and 2002 (in thousands of dollars except for per share data).

 

    

Fiscal Year

Ended April 30,


   

Eight Months
Ended

December 31,

2002


   

Fiscal Year
Ended

December 31,

2003


 
     2001

    2002

     

Net loss as reported

   $ (13,102 )   $ (27,236 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )
    


 


 


 


Add: Amortization of goodwill recorded during fiscal years prior to adoption of SFAS No. 142, net of tax effect

     437       443       —         —    
    


 


 


 


Proforma loss

   $ (12,665 )   $ (26,793 )   $ (28,394 )   $ (6,900 )
    


 


 


 


Basic loss per share:

                                

Loss as reported

   $ (1.32 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Goodwill amortization

     0.04       0.04       —         —    
    


 


 


 


Proforma loss

   $ (1.28 )   $ (2.41 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


Diluted loss per share:

                                

Loss as reported

   $ (1.19 )   $ (2.45 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )

Goodwill amortization

     0.04       0.04       —         —    
    


 


 


 


Proforma loss

   $ (1.15 )   $ (2.41 )   $ (1.98 )   $ (0.41 )
    


 


 


 


 

F-31


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

17.    Quarterly Results Of Operations

 

A summary of the unaudited quarterly results of operations follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):

 

     First Qtr.

    Second Qtr.

    Third Qtr.

    Fourth Qtr.

 
Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2001                         

Revenue

   $ 22,276     $ 20,485     $ 18,145     $ 19,633  

Gross profit

     9,220       7,865       6,611       7,345  

Operating income

     2,799       1,954       737       1,120  

Interest (income) expense, net

     541       (294 )     (111 )     (32 )

Income from continuing operations

     1,249       1,389       821       216  

Loss from discontinued operation

     (1,857 )     (2,771 )     (5,172 )     (6,977 )

Net loss

   $ (608 )   $ (1,382 )   $ (4,351 )   $ (6,761 )

Net income (loss) per share: (1)

                                

Basic:

                                

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.14     $ 0.13     $ 0.08     $ 0.02  

Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (0.21 )   $ (0.26 )   $ (0.50 )   $ (0.68 )

Net loss

   $ (0.07 )   $ (0.13 )   $ (0.42 )   $ (0.66 )

Diluted:

                                

Income from continuing operations

   $ 0.13     $ 0.12     $ 0.07     $ 0.02  

Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (0.19 )   $ (0.24 )   $ (0.46 )   $ (0.61 )

Net loss

   $ (0.06 )   $ (0.12 )   $ (0.39 )   $ (0.59 )
     First Qtr.

    Second Qtr.

    Third Qtr.

    Fourth Qtr.

 
Fiscal Year Ended April 30, 2002                         

Revenue

   $ 18,920     $ 18,223     $ 13,799     $ 16,733  

Gross profit

     7,836       6,056       4,143       5,099  

Operating income (loss)

     1,891       (696 )     (1,817 )     (1,776 )

Interest expense, net

     153       397       62       316  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

     843       (789 )     (1,069 )     (1,203 )

Loss from discontinued operation

     (6,439 )     (7,943 )     (5,951 )     (4,684 )

Net loss

   $ (5,596 )   $ (8,732 )   $ (7,020 )   $ (5,887 )

Net income (loss) per share: (1)

                                

Basic:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.08     $ (0.07 )   $ (0.10 )   $ (0.10 )

Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (0.62 )   $ (0.76 )   $ (0.54 )   $ (0.37 )

Net loss

   $ (0.54 )   $ (0.83 )   $ (0.64 )   $ (0.47 )

Diluted:

                                

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   $ 0.07     $ (0.07 )   $ (0.10 )   $ (0.10 )

Loss from discontinued operation

   $ (0.56 )   $ (0.76 )   $ (0.54 )   $ (0.37 )

Net loss

   $ (0.49 )   $ (0.83 )   $ (0.64 )   $ (0.47 )

 

F-32


Table of Contents

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

          First Qtr.

    Second Qtr.

   

November &

December


 
Transition Period Ended December 31, 2002                        

Revenue

          $ 19,475     $ 18,771     $ 8,175  

Gross profit

            5,826       5,191       2,332  

Operating income (loss)

            385       97       (1,689 )

Interest expense, net

            215       290       378  

Income (loss) from continuing operations

            115       (163 )     (25,231 )

Loss from discontinued operation

            (2,884 )     (2 )     (229 )

Net loss

          $ (2,769 )   $ (165 )   $ (25,460 )

Net income (loss) per share: (1)

                               

Basic:

                               

Income (loss) from continuing operations

          $ 0.01     $ (0.01 )   $ (1.64 )

Loss from discontinued operation

          $ (0.21 )   $ —       $ (0.02 )

Net loss

          $ (0.20 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (1.66 )

Diluted:

                               

Income (loss) from continuing operations

          $ 0.01     $ (0.01 )   $ (1.64 )

Loss from discontinued operation

          $ (0.20 )   $ —       $ (0.02 )

Net loss

          $ (0.19 )   $ (0.01 )   $ (1.66 )
     First Qtr.

   Second Qtr.

    Third Qtr.

    Fourth Qtr.

 
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2003                        

Revenue

   $ 19,572    $ 18,340     $ 18,669     $ 18,159  

Gross profit

     6,559      5,970       5,805       4,626  

Operating income (loss)

     1,141      1,052       412       (3,086 )

Interest expense, net

     231      1,026       1,552       1,230  

Net income (loss)

   $ 451    $ (181 )   $ (1,240 )   $ (5,930 )

Net income (loss) per share: (1)

                               

Basic:

                               

Net income (loss)

   $ 0.03    $ (0.01 )   $ (0.08 )   $ (0.34 )

Diluted:

                               

Net income (loss)

   $ 0.03    $ (0.01 )   $ (0.08 )   $ (0.34 )

(1)   Per common share amounts for the quarters and full years have each been calculated separately. Accordingly, quarterly amounts may not add to the annual amounts because of differences in the average common shares outstanding during each period and, with regard to diluted per common share amounts only, because of the effect of potentially dilutive securities only in the periods in which the effect would have been dilutive.

 

The Company made certain adjustments in the 4th quarter of fiscal year 2003. These adjustments were to: 1) Increase inventory obsolescence reserves by $0.3 million; 2) Increase the allowance for doubtful accounts by $0.2 million; 3) Write-off of bad debt expense by $0.4 million; and 4) Increase in the valuation allowance for deferred income taxes by $2.5 million.

 

F-33


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

 

To the Board of Directors and

Shareholders’ of BRC S.r.l.

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of BRC S.r.l. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in quotaholders’ equity and cash flows for the three years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of BRC S.r.l. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 and the consolidated results of operations and cash flows for the three years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

 

/s/    RECONTA ERNST & YOUNG S.P.A.

 

Milan, Italy

March 5, 2004

 

F-34


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

As of December 31, 2002 and 2003

(In thousands of Euros)

 

     2002

    2003

 
Assets                 

Current Assets:

                

Cash and cash equivalents

   5,883     1,752  

Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful accounts of €1,086, and €988, respectively

     6,706       4,743  

Receivables from related parties

     2,975       2,372  

Inventory, net (Note 3)

     10,331       8,554  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     861       510  

Deferred income taxes (Note 7)

     565       737  
    


 


Total Current Assets

     27,321       18,668  

Property, plant and equipment (Note 4)

     14,052       14,749  

Less: Accumulated depreciation

     (9,440 )     (10,524 )
    


 


Net property, plant and equipment

     4,612       4,225  

Investments in affiliated companies

     443       537  

Loans to affiliated companies

     —         1,920  

Other non current assets

     666       630  
    


 


Total Assets

   33,042     25,980  
    


 


Liabilities and Quotaholders’ Equity                 

Current Liabilities:

                

Short-term borrowings (Note 6)

   266     —    

Current portion of long-term debt

     4,356       143  

Accounts payable

     4,344       2,810  

Payables to related parties

     680       361  

Income taxes payable (Note 7)

     —         24  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities (Note 8)

     1,428       1,570  
    


 


Total Current Liabilities

     11,074       4,908  

Long-term debt (Note 9)

     950       976  

Employees severance indemnities (Note 10)

     1,717       1,897  

Other non current liabilities

     50       —    

Deferred income taxes (Note 7)

     485       436  

Commitments and Contingencies

     —         —    
    


 


Total Non Current Liabilities

     3,202       3,309  

Quotaholders’ Equity:

                

Ordinary quota, authorized 1,500,000 shares, issued and outstanding, par value €1.00 each

     1,500       1,500  

Additional paid in capital

     221       221  

Retained earnings

     16,990       15,961  

Other comprehensive income

     55       81  
    


 


Total Quotaholders’ Equity

     18,766       17,763  
    


 


Total Liabilities and Quotaholders’ Equity

   33,042     25,980  
    


 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-35


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003

(In thousands of Euros)

 

     2001

    2002

    2003

 

Net sales

   33,540     33,729     31,709  

Other revenues

     781       956       338  
    


 


 


Total revenues

     34,321       34,685       32,047  

Costs and Operating expenses:

                        

Cost of materials

     15,357       17,262       16,616  

Costs of external services

     6,365       6,185       6,082  

Salaries, wages and employee benefits

     8,186       7,809       7,814  

Depreciation and amortization

     1,384       1,058       1,084  

Other operating expenses

     834       394       617  
    


 


 


Total costs and operating expenses

     32,126       32,708       32,213  

Operating income

     2,195       1,977       (166 )

Interest expense

     (926 )     (694 )     (305 )

Interest income

     40       37       92  

Foreign exchange losses, net

     1,048       1,948       299  

Equity share in losses of unconsolidated affiliates

     —         369       140  

Other income

     —         956       —    
    


 


 


Income (loss) before taxes

     261       (41 )     (818 )

Income taxes

     783       1,037       211  
    


 


 


Net loss

   (522 )   (1,078 )   (1,029 )
    


 


 


 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-36


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN QUOTAHOLDERS’ EQUITY

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003

(In thousands of Euros)

 

    

Ordinary

Quota


  

Additional
Paid

in Capital


  

Retained

Earnings


   

Other

Comprehensive

Income (Loss)


   

Total

Quotaholders’

Equity


 

As at December 31, 2000

   1,500     —      18,590     (10 )   20,080  

Foreign exchange translation adjustment

                           129       129  

Net loss

                   (522 )             (522 )
                                  


Total comprehensive loss

                                   (393 )
    

  

  


 


 


As at December 31, 2001

     1,500      —        18,068       119       19,687  

Additional paid in capital

            221                      221  

Foreign exchange translation adjustment

                           (64 )     (64 )

Net loss

                   (1,078 )             (1,078 )
                                  


Total comprehensive loss

                                   (1,142 )
    

  

  


 


 


As at December 31, 2002

     1,500      221      16,990       55       18,766  

Foreign exchange translation adjustment

                           26       26  

Net loss

                   (1,029 )             (1,029 )
                                  


Total comprehensive loss

                                   (1,003 )
    

  

  


 


 


As at December 31, 2003

   1,500    221    15,961     81     17,763  
    

  

  


 


 


 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

F-37


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003

(In thousands of Euros)

 

     2001

    2002

    2003

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

                        

Net loss

   (522 )   (1,078 )   (1,029 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

                        

Depreciation and amortization

     1,384       1,058       1,084  

Employees severance indemnities

     210       223       180  

Deferred taxes

     (131 )     300       (221 )

Losses in equity investees

     —         369       140  

Gain on partial sale of Brazilian business

     —         (953 )     —    

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                        

Accounts receivable

     4,878       (921 )     2,566  

Inventories

     2,229       6,686       1,777  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     604       577       351  

Accounts payable

     (13,781 )     (76 )     (1,853 )

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

     (675 )     122       142  

Income taxes

     (1,770 )     (106 )     24  

Other

     (44 )     (169 )     (50 )
    


 


 


Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

     (7,618 )     6,032       3,111  

Cash flows from investing activities:

                        

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

     (1,266 )     (526 )     (709 )

Disposals of property, plant and equipment

     —         6,201       12  

Proceeds on partial sale of Brazilian business

     —         1,906       —    

Investment in equity investees

     —         (1,060 )     (234 )

Loans to affiliated companies

     —         —         (1,920 )

Increase in non-current assets

     (75 )     (217 )     36  
    


 


 


Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

     (1,341 )     6,304       (2,815 )

Cash flows from financing activities

                        

Net change in short-term borrowings

     3,151       (6,217 )     (266 )

Increase in long-term debt

     5,582       688       163  

Repayment of long-term debt

     (555 )     (2,136 )     (4,350 )
    


 


 


Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

     8,178       (7,665 )     (4,453 )

Translation adjustment

     (40 )     128       26  
    


 


 


Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     (821 )     4,799       (4,131 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

     1,905       1,084       5,883  
    


 


 


Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

   1,084     5,883     1,752  
    


 


 


     2001

    2002

    2003

 

Supplemental disclosures:

                        

Cash paid during the period for:

                        

Interest

   782     623     197  

Taxes

   3,833     831     —    

 

F-38


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003

(In thousands of Euros)

 

1.    Basis of Presentation and Description of Business

 

The consolidated financial statements of BRC S.r.l. (“BRC” or the “Company”) include the accounts of the Company, of its wholly owned subsidiary MTM S.r.l. and of MTM’s wholly owned subsidiary BRC Argentina S.A. and majority owned subsidiaries BRC Brasil S.A. and NG LOG Armazens Gerais Ltda. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The Company has a 50% interest in the joint ventures WMTM and MTE and an 18.5% interest in Jehin and uses the equity method for reporting the results of these entities.

 

Prior to February 2001, MTM was owned directly by Mariano and Piero Costamagna. In February 2001, Mariano and Piero Costamagna incorporated BRC S.r.l. and contributed their shareholdings in MTM to BRC S.r.l. This contribution has been accounted for as a reorganization under common control under which it is assumed that BRC S.r.l. has been the parent company from January 1, 2001 for all periods presented. Consequently, the carrying amounts of MTM and its subsidiaries were not adjusted at their transfer dates in accounting for the reorganization and the Company’s quota capital has been reported in the consolidated financial statements as if outstanding since January 1, 2001.

 

On July 22, 2003, the shareholders of BRC completed the sale of 50% of the Company to IMPCO Technologies Inc., a U.S. Company.

 

The Company is a designer, manufacturer and supplier of fuel technology systems for automobiles that enable traditional internal combustion engines to run on alternative fuels such as propane and natural gas.

 

2.    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

This summary of significant accounting policies is presented to assist the reader in understanding and evaluating the accompanying financial statements. These policies are in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and have been consistently applied.

 

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of the financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents consist of time deposits and other short-term, highly liquid instruments with maturities of three months or less when acquired and are stated at cost, which approximates fair value.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and market. Cost is determined using the weighted-average method. Elements of cost in inventories include raw materials, direct labor and manufacturing overhead. Any write-downs of inventory are recorded as an adjustment to the cost basis.

 

F-39


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost and depreciated using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives:

 

Buildings

   33 years

Machinery and equipment

   10 years

Furniture and fittings

   5 to 8 years

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

The Company assesses its long-lived assets (primarily property, plant and equipment) for impairment whenever there is an indication that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is determined by comparing the estimated undiscounted cash flows expected from these assets to their respective net carrying values. The amount of impairment loss, if any, is measured as the difference between the net book value of the assets and their estimated fair value.

 

Investments in affiliates

 

Investments in affiliates which are not majority owned or controlled but for which the Company exercises significant influence are accounted for using the equity method.

 

Income Taxes

 

Income taxes provided by each entity are included in the consolidation in accordance with the applicable local laws. Deferred income taxes are accounted for under the liability method, in accordance with SFAS No. 109 Accounting for Income Taxes, and reflect the tax effects of all significant temporary differences between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements and net operating loss carry-forwards. Valuation allowances are provided against deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized.

 

Investment tax credits are accounted for as a reduction in current income taxes in the year in which the credit arises.

 

Foreign Currency Translation

 

The Company’s reporting currency and functional currency is the Euro. The financial statements of the Company’s subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. With respect to the Brazilian and Argentine subsidiaries, revenues and expenses have been translated into Euros using the average exchange rate for the period and assets and liabilities have been translated using the period-end exchange rate. With respect to the Argentine subsidiary, at December 31, 2001 through January 10, 2002, there was no exchangeability between the Argentine Peso and foreign currencies. On January 11, 2002 when the exchange market first opened, the exchange rate was ARP 1.5 to Euro 1. Under US GAAP, when exchangeability between two currencies is temporarily lacking at the balance sheet date, the first subsequent rate at which exchange could be made shall be used as of the balance sheet date.

 

The resulting cumulative translation adjustments have been recorded as a separate component of Quotaholder’s equity. Translation adjustments resulting from changes in exchange rates affecting balance sheet and income statement items amount to (losses)/gains of €129, €(64) and €26, for the periods ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively, and are presented in the Other Comprehensive Income.

 

F-40


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction gains and losses are included in the determination of net income.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

Revenues are recognized on product sales when title transfers, which generally corresponds to the date when products are shipped, and when collectibility is reasonably assured. Provisions for returns and other adjustments related to sales are provided in the same period the related sales are recorded on the basis of historical rates of return.

 

Research and Development Expenses

 

Research and development expenses are charged to expense as incurred.

 

Government Grants

 

The Company receives grants from Italian governmental entities to subsidize certain investments in plant and equipment and research and development expenditures. Grants are recognized when earned and there is no remaining risk of repayment. There is no remaining risk of repayment when the grant conditions are met or when there is no doubt that these conditions will be met in the future. Grants relating to plant and equipment are recorded as a reduction of the cost of the related assets. Grants relating to research and development expenditure are recorded in other revenues.

 

During 2001, 2002 and 2003, the Company recognized government grants relating to plant and equipment for nil, €133 and nil, respectively, and relating to research and development expenditure for €31, €507 and €137, respectively.

 

Statement of Cash Flows

 

Short-term borrowings arise primarily under the Company’s short-term lines of credit with its banks. These short-term obligations are payable on demand. The cash flows from these items are included under the caption “Net change in short-term borrowings” in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

 

Shipping and Handling Costs

 

Shipping and handling costs on product sales are classified in costs for external services and amount to €454, €373 and €362, for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

3.    Inventory, Net

 

    

December, 31

2002


   

December, 31

2003


 

Raw materials

   7,810     6,189  

Work in progress

     217       203  

Finished goods

     2,621       2,501  
    


 


Total inventory

     10,648       8,893  

Inventory valuation reserve

     (317 )     (339 )
    


 


Inventory, net of reserve

   10,331     8,554  
    


 


 

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Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

4.    Property, Plant and Equipment

 

    

December, 31

2002


   

December, 31

2003


 

Machinery and equipment

   11,522     11,813  

Office furniture and equipment

     1,013       1,106  

Vehicles

     563       525  

Other

     954       1,305  
    


 


Total property plant and equipment

     14,052       14,749  

Accumulated depreciation

     (9,440 )     (10,524 )
    


 


Net property plant and equipment

   4,612     4,225  
    


 


 

In July 2002, the Company sold all its land and buildings to IMCOS2 S.r.l., a real estate investment company controlled by the shareholders of BRC, and to a leasing company, which then leased the land and buildings to IMCOS2 under capital lease arrangements. The portion of these land and buildings that were previously used by BRC were then leased back to BRC under operating lease arrangements. The remaining portion of the land and buildings were previously leased by BRC to a related company and a third party. As the sale-and-leaseback was undertaken between companies under common control, the transaction has been accounted for at historical cost and, consequently, the excess of the sale price over the carrying value of the land and buildings of €221 has been credited to additional paid-in capital.

 

The terms of the rental agreement between BRC and IMCOS2 S.r.l. require that the Company does not terminate the rental agreement until eight years have expired.

 

5.    Investments in Affiliates

 

In February 2001, the Company acquired a 50% stake in MTE S.r.l. for €25. MTE supplies the Company with electronic components for its fuel systems. The amount at which the investment is carried equals the amount of underlying equity in net assets.

 

In March 2002, the Company acquired a 18.5% stake in Jehin Engineering Company Ltd., a Korean manufacturer of fuel technology systems for €260. In accordance with the share purchase agreement, BRC was able to appoint a member of the Board of Directors. In view of the influence that BRC gained through board membership, the investment has been accounted for using the equity method. The amount at which the investment is carried equals the amount of underlying equity in net assets.

 

In October 2001, BRC Brasil Ltda. (“BRC Brasil”) signed a joint venture agreement with White Martin Gases Industriais S.A. (“WM”), a Brazilian company and subsidiary of Praxair, Inc., by which BRC and WM (the “joint venture partners”) agreed to establish a joint venture for the development, manufacture and supply of fuel technology systems in the Brazilian market. Pursuant to the agreement, the joint venture partners agreed to invest jointly up to a maximum of US$4 million in the first three years of operations. In May 2002, the joint venture partners gave effect to the joint venture agreement and established WMTM Equipamentos de Gases Ltda. (“WMTM”) owned 50% by each joint venture partner with an initial cash investment of €819. At the same time the joint venture partners established another 50-50 owned company, BRC Gas Equipment Ltda. (“BRCGE”), with the objective of succeeding BRC Brasil in its activity of importation and sale of BRC’s products on the Brasilian market until such time as WMTM had become fully operational. BRC Brasil subscribed to the creation of BRCGE by contributing the inventories and certain other assets for a value of €717. MTM has also provided a bank guarantee to WMTM for an amount of €1,500, which was subsequently reduced to €819. In exchange for

 

F-42


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

entering into the joint venture agreement, BRC Brasil received from WM US$2.2 million. The agreement also required that BRC Brasil pay WM a certain amount in the event that BRCGE failed to achieve a stipulated level of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined (“EBITDA”). Conversely, WM would pay BRC Brasil if the EBITDA exceeded the stipulated level of earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined. In 2003, the parties agreed that the stipulated level of EBITDA had not been achieved and, accordingly, BRC Brasil paid €98 and recorded this amount as a reduction of the US$2.2 million. The Company has accounted for this transaction in accordance with EITF 01-2 Interpretations of APB Opinion No. 29 and has recognized a partial gain in 2002 of €953, representing 50% of the excess of the fair value of the assets given up over the carrying value of such assets. The remaining 50% has been recorded as a reduction of the carrying value of the Company’s investment in the joint venture companies.

 

In August 2003 BRCGE ceased operations and in September 2003 was merged into WMTM. The carrying value of the investment in WMTM at December 31, 2003 in the amount of €605 has been classified as an equity investment.

 

For all the above investments, the amount at which the investment is carried equals the amount of the underlying equity in net assets.

 

In August 2003, BRC Brasil and WM each made loans to WMTM in the amount of 5,000,000 Real and each company subsequently made additional loans in the amount of 2,000,000 Real. The total of the loans made by BRC Brasil to WMTM of approximately €1,920 have been classified as loans to affiliated companies. The loans are non-interest bearing and are due in January 2005.

 

6.    Short-Term Borrowings

 

At December 31, 2003, the Company has an unsecured line of credit amounting to approximately €1,300 with no outstanding balance. Additionally, the Company has up to a €4,500 line of credit secured by customer account receivable drafts, which has current availability of €2,198 and has no outstanding balance. The weighted average interest rate on these short-term borrowings was approximately 3.5% and nil per annum at December 31, 2002 and 2003. The lines of credit are callable on demand.

 

7.    Income Taxes

 

Italian and foreign income (losses) before income taxes are as follows:

 

    

Year ended

December 31,

2001


   

Year ended

December 31,

2002


   

Year ended

December 31,

2003


 

Italian

   808     1,051     (190 )

Foreign

     (547 )     (1,092 )     (628 )
    


 


 


Total Italian and foreign income (losses) before income taxes

   261     (41 )   (818 )
    


 


 


 

Significant components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

 

    

Year ended

December 31,

2001


   

Year ended

December 31,

2002


  

Year ended

December 31,

2003


 

Current

   914     737    432  

Deferred

     (131 )     300      (221 )
    


 

  


Total provision for income taxes

   783     1,037    211  
    


 

  


 

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Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

A reconciliation between income taxes computed at the Italian statutory tax rate and the effective income tax provision is as follows:

 

    

Year ended

December 31,

2001


   

Year ended

December 31,

2002


   

Year ended

December 31,

2003


 

Income tax provision at the Italian statutory tax rate of 34%

   93     14     (278 )

Effect of Italian IRAP

     439       383       356  

Aggregated effect of different foreign tax rates

     (38 )     (15 )     —    

Permanent Differences:

                        

Non deductible expenses

     46       42       17  

Investment tax incentive

     (375 )     —         (70 )

Other

     —         25       (4 )

Change in valuation allowance

     618       588       190  
    


 


 


Effective income tax provision

   783     1,037     211  
    


 


 


 

The Italian “IRAP” tax is regional tax on productive activities, and has statutory rate of 4.25%. The IRAP tax is not deductible for corporate tax purposes. The IRAP tax base is similar to the corporate tax base, however does not permit a deduction for labor or interest.

 

The 2001 Italian investment tax incentive law was enacted in order to encourage capital investments in Italy. Companies are able to reduce their taxable income by up to 50% of the excess of new qualifying capital and other expenditures made in the second half of 2001 and in the year 2002 in fixed assets (tangibles and specified intangibles) over the average of the investments made in such assets during the five prior years. The incentive results in a current one time deduction and neither increases nor decreases the tax bases of the assets to compute future tax deductions for depreciation and amortization relating to investment deductions granted. In 2001 and 2003 the Company recognized a benefit from the investment deductions of €375 and €70, respectively.

 

The components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2002 and 2003 are:

 

    

December 31,

2002


   

December 31,

2003


 

Deferred tax asset

   1,771     2,133  

Less: valuation allowance

     (1,206 )     (1,396 )
    


 


Deferred tax assets

     565       737  

Deferred tax liabilities

     (485 )     (436 )
    


 


Net deferred tax asset (liability)

   80     301  
    


 


 

F-44


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Principal items comprising net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 are:

 

    

December 31,

2002


   

December 31,

2003


 

Fixed assets

   (485 )   (407 )

Warranty Provision

     52       74  

Inventories

     163       327  

Allowance for receivables

     302       331  

NOL carry-forwards

     465       585  

Equity investments

     418       531  

Foreign exchange losses

     323       285  

Other

     48       (29 )
    


 


Total deferred tax assets (liabilities)

     1,286       1,697  

Valuation allowance

     (1,206 )     (1,396 )
    


 


Net deferred tax assets (liabilities)

   80     301  
    


 


 

At December 31, 2003, the Company had NOLs, in Argentina amounting to approximately €1,290 which expire in 2011 and in Italy amounting to €98 which do not expire. Utilization of these NOL’s is limited to future earnings of the related companies. The deferred tax asset valuation allowance is principally related to tax assets located in the Argentine and Brazilian tax jurisdictions.

 

8.    Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities

 

    

December 31,

2002


  

December 31,

2003


Social Security and other contributions

   289    299

Withholding taxes on payroll and other sundry taxes

     274      308

Accrued employee compensation

     489      547

Warranty provision

     137      200

Accrued interest

     54      2

Other

     185      214
    

  

Total accrued expenses and other current liabilities

   1,428    1,570
    

  

 

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Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

9.    Debt Payable

 

Debt payable is as follows:

 

    

December 31,

2002


   

December 31,

2003


 

Loan from Interbanca bearing interest at 6.3%, due in 2003, unsecured

   2,143     —    

Loan from Cassa di Risparmio di Bra, bearing interest at 5.5%, due in 2003, unsecured

     1,886       —    

Loans from Ministry of Industry, pursuant to Law 46/82, for research and development and capital expenditures, repayable in annual installments through 2011, bearing interest at a subsidized rate of 3.25%

     1,021       1,077  

Other loans

     257       42  
    


 


Total Debt

     5,307       1,119  

Less: current portion

     (4,357 )     (143 )
    


 


Non-current Portion

   950     976  
    


 


 

At December 31, 2003, long-term debt is repayable as follows:

 

Year ended December 31


    

2004

   143

2005

     231

2006

     107

2007

     107

2008 and thereafter

     531
    

Total debt

   1,119
    

 

10.    Employees Severance Indemnities

 

The liability for severance indemnities relates primarily to the Company’s employees in Italy. The severance indemnity liability is calculated in accordance with local civil and labor laws based on each employee’s length of service, employment category and remuneration. There is no vesting period or funding requirement associated with the liability. The liability recorded in the balance sheet is the amount that the employee would be entitled to if the employee terminates immediately. The charge to earnings was €383, €381 and €391 for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

F-46


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

11.    Related Party Transactions

 

A detail of balances with related parties as of December 31, 2002 and 2003 is as follows:

 

    

December, 31

2002


  

December, 31

2003


Receivables and advances:

             

WMTM Equipamentos de Gases Ltda.

   2,812    2,317

BRC Gas Equipment Ltda.

     137      —  

MTE S.r.l.

     8      1

Jehin Engineering Company Ltd.

     18      54
    

  

Total receivables and advances

     2,975      2,372
    

  

Payables:

             

MTE S.r.l.

     322      185

Europlast S.r.l.

     112      68

TCN S.r.l.

     246      108
    

  

Total payables

   680    361
    

  

 

In 2002 and 2003, the Company sold fuel technology systems to BRCGE for an amount of €882 and €85, respectively.

 

In 2002 and 2003, the Company sold fuel technology systems to WMTM for an amount of €3,399 and €2,914, respectively.

 

In 2001, 2002 and 2003, the Company acquired from its affiliate, MTE S.r.l., electronic components for its fuel technology systems for an amount of €746, €1,332 and €1,306, respectively. In 2002 and 2003, the Company paid rent to MTE in the amount of €6 and sold products to MTE in the amount of €37 and €29, respectively.

 

In 2001, 2002 and 2003, the Company acquired plastic components from Europlast S.r.l. for an amount of €310, €362 and €552, respectively, and iron-made elements from TCN S.r.l. for an amount of €577, €779 and €584, respectively. In 2003, the Company sold products to Europlast and TCN in the amount of €47 and €4, respectively. In 2003, the Company sold products and purchased products from MTM Hydro S.r.l in the amount of €14, and €7, respectively. In 2003, the Company received rent from and sold product to BM2 in the amount of €6 and €40, respectively. Europlast, TCN, MTM Hydro and BM2 are majority owned by the shareholders of the Company.

 

In 2001, 2002 and 2003, BRC rented an industrial building to TCN for €19, €11 and nil, respectively.

 

In 2002 and 2003, the Company leased buildings from IMCOS2 S.r.l., a related company, for an amount of €122 and €450, respectively.

 

12.    Commitments and Contingencies

 

Litigation

 

The Company is involved in legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. Management believes that, based on advice of legal counsel, the outcome of these proceedings will not have any material adverse effect on the Company’s financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Lease Commitments

 

The following are the minimum payments that will have to be made in each of the years indicated based on operating leases in effect as of December 31, 2003:

 

Year ended December 31


    

2004

   450

2005

     450

2006

     450

2007

     450

2008

     450

Thereafter

     788
    

Total minimum lease payments

   3,038
    

 

Rental expense for all operating leases amounted to nil, €122 and €450 in the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively. The major portion of these leases contain renewal options.

 

13.    Financial Instruments

 

Off Balance Sheet Risk

 

The Company does not enter into forward exchange contracts or purchase foreign currency options to hedge firm sales/purchases commitments, anticipated but not yet committed sales/purchases and investments in debt securities denominated in foreign currency.

 

Concentration of Credit Risks

 

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Group to concentration of credit risks consist principally of cash investments and trade accounts receivable. The Group maintains cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments with financial institutions located in the various countries in which it operates. The Company selects only financial institutions with high credit standards for use in its investment strategies.

 

Concentration of credit risks and the risk of accounting loss with respect to trade receivables is generally limited due to the large number of the Company’s end customers. The Company generally does not require collateral with respect to goods and services provided in Italy, but it normally makes sales to foreign customers against secured letters of credit.

 

The Company’s two largest individual customers accounted for 10.5%, 18.9% and 22%, of net sales for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively.

 

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The following methods and assumptions were used by the Company in estimating its fair value disclosure for financial instruments.

 

Cash and cash equivalents—The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents reported by the Company approximates their fair value.

 

Accounts receivable and payable—The carrying amount of accounts receivable and payable approximates their fair value.

 

F-48


Table of Contents

BRC S.R.L.

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

 

Short and long-term debt—The fair value of long-term debt, as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, amounts to approximately €5,507and €934, respectively. The carrying amount of the Company’s other borrowings approximate their fair value. The fair values of the Company’s long-term debt are estimated using cash flow analyses, based on the Company’s incremental borrowing rates for similar types of borrowing arrangements.

 

14.    Subsequent   Events

 

In January 2004, MTM exercised its put option for the disposal of a 10.5% portion of their shares held in Jehin at a price of €122, which approximates the purchase price net of the change in foreign exchange rate. The ownership of the shares is expected to be transferred in the second half of 2004. No significant gain or loss is anticipated as the put price approximates carrying value.

 

F-49


Table of Contents

SCHEDULE II—VALUATION ACCOUNTS

(In Thousands)

 

     Balance at
beginning of
period


   Additions
charged to
costs and
expenses


  

Write-offs

and other
adjustments


   

Balance at

end of period


Allowance for doubtful accounts for the period ended:

                            

December 31, 2003

   $ 1,295    $ 430    $ (1,096 )   $ 629

December 31, 2002

     875      539      (119 )     1,295

April 30, 2002

     981      365      (471 )     875

April 30, 2001

     525      654      (199 )     981

Inventory valuation reserve for the period ended:

                            

December 31, 2003

   $ 1,666    $ 984    $ (381 )   $ 2,269

December 31, 2002

     1,582      320      (236 )     1,666

April 30, 2002

     1,739      507      (665 )     1,582

April 30, 2001

     1,562      584      (407 )     1,739

Warranty reserve for the period ended:

                            

December 31, 2003

   $ 452    $ 396    $ (176 )   $ 674

December 31, 2002

     285      233      (66 )     452

April 30, 2002

     227      170      (112 )     285

April 30, 2001

     427      73      (273 )     227

Product liability reserve for the period ended:

                            

December 31, 2003

   $ 1    $ —      $ —       $ 1

December 31, 2002

     1      —        —         1

April 30, 2002

     1      —        —         1

April 30, 2001

     1      —        —         1

Deferred tax valuation allowance for the period ended:

                            

December 31, 2003

   $ 24,000    $ 2,479    $ —       $ 26,479

December 31, 2002

     —        24,000      —         24,000

 

F-50


Table of Contents

PART II

 

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

 

Item 13.    Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

 

The following table sets forth the various expenses that will be paid by IMPCO in connection with the securities being registered. With the exception of the SEC registration fee, all amounts shown are estimates:

 

SEC Registration Fee:

   $ 1,024

Legal Fees and Expenses (including Blue Sky):

   $ 60,000

Accounting Fees and Expenses:

   $ 25,000

Printing Fees and Expenses:

   $ 10,000

Miscellaneous:

   $ 5,000
    

Total:

   $ 101,024
    

 

We will pay all expenses incurred in connection with the registration of the shares covered by this prospectus. Brokerage commissions, underwriters’ fees, discounts and commissions and similar selling expenses, if any, attributable to the sale of the shares covered by this prospectus will be borne by the selling stockholders.

 

Item 14.    Indemnification of Directors and Officers

 

Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law (the “DGCL”) contains detailed provisions on indemnification of directors and officers against expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement, actually and reasonably incurred in connection with legal proceedings. Section 102(a)(7) of the DGCL permits a provision in the certificate of incorporation of each corporation organized thereunder, such as our company, eliminating or limiting, with certain exceptions, the personal liability of a director of the corporation or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director. Our Certificate of Incorporation eliminates the liability of each of our directors to our stockholders or us for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty to the full extent provided by the DGCL, as such law exists or may hereafter be amended.

 

Indemnification applies to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether, civil, criminal, administrative or investigative. Indemnification may include all expenses (including attorneys’ fees, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes and amounts paid in settlement) reasonably incurred by the indemnified person.

 

Item 15.    Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

 

On January 11, 2002, the Company completed a private placement of 2,000,000 shares of common stock at a price of $11.25 per share for $22.5 million. The Company also issued to the investors warrants to purchase an aggregate of 200,000 shares of common stock at an exercise price of $13.25 per share. Each purchaser was issued a warrant to purchase one-tenth of a share of common stock for each share of common stock purchased under the agreement. In addition, the Company issued warrants to purchase an aggregate of 100,000 shares of common stock to the placement agent in connection with the transaction. A total of 300,000 warrants were outstanding at June 30, 2003 and the warrants are exercisable at any time until January 11, 2006. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder. On May 8, 2002, the Company completed the sale of an aggregate of 1.5 million shares of its common stock to institutional and accredited investors. The Company received proceeds of approximately $18.75 million. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder.

 

On November 29, 2002, we issued approximately 2.3 million shares of our common stock in connection with our acquisition of BRC at an agreed purchase price of $10.0 million. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder.

 

II-1


Table of Contents

On March 28, 2003, we granted 200,000 warrants, fully vested, to purchase common stock at a price of $2.51 in connection with an $8.0 million loan commitment from Mr. Simplot expiring May 31, 2003 (if exercised interest payable monthly at 12% with a maturity of January 31, 2004). The warrants expire in four years. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder. We did not exercise our option to borrow funds under this loan commitment agreement and the agreement was cancelled.

 

On April 14, 2003, we issued warrants, fully vested, to lenders to acquire 305,000 shares of IMPCO common stock at a price 120% over the market price of $2.05 in connection with bridge loans totaling approximately $3.1 million made to the Company. Approximately $1.0 million and $2.1 million were repaid in July 2003 and December 2003, respectively. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder.

 

On July 18, 2003, we issued fully vested warrants, to Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC to purchase 500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at a price of $2.00. The securities were issued pursuant to an exemption to the registration requirements of the Securities Act provided by Regulation D thereunder.

 

On December 19, 2003, we issued and sold to the selling stockholders a total of 1,500,000 shares of common stock at a price per share of $6.40. The issuance and sale of such shares were exempt from registration under the Securities Act owing to the exemptions afforded by Section 4(2) and Rule 506 of Regulation D thereunder.

 

Item 16(a)    Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.

  

Description


   Note No.

 
  2.1   

Sale and Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2002, between the Registrant and Mariano Costamagna, Bruna Giachino and Carla Brogogno.

   (19 )
  2.2   

Option Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2002, between the Registrant and Mariano Costamagna, Pier Antonio Costamagna, Bruna Giachino and Carla Brogogno.

   (19 )
  2.3   

Shareholders Agreement, dated as of October 3, 2002, between the Registrant and Mariano Costamagna, Pier Antonio Costamagna, Bruna Giachino and Carla Brogogno.

   (19 )
  2.4   

Agreement, dated as of December 15, 2002, between the Registrant and Mariano Costamagna, Pier Antonio Costamagna, Bruna Giachino and Carla Brogogno.

   (19 )
  2.5   

Amendment and Waiver, dated as of April 30, 2003, between the Registrant and Mariano Costamagna, Pier Antonio Costamagna, Bruna Giachino and Carla Brogogno.

   (19 )
  3.1   

Certificate of Incorporation, as currently in effect.

   (10 )
  3.2   

Bylaws adopted July 22, 1998.

   (7 )
  4.1   

Stockholders’ Protection Rights Agreement dated as of June 30, 1999 between the Registrant and ChaseMellon Stockholder Services, L.L.C., as Rights Agent.

   (6 )
  5.1   

Opinion of Davis Wright Tremaine LLP.

   (21 )
10.1+   

1989 Incentive Stock Option Plan

   (2 )
10.2+   

Amendment to 1989 Incentive Stock Option Plan

   (3 )
10.3+   

1993 Stock Option Plan for Non-employee Directors.

   (3 )
10.4+   

1996 Incentive Stock Option Plan.

   (4 )
10.5+   

1997 Incentive Stock Option Plan.

   (5 )

 

II-2


Table of Contents
Exhibit No.

  

Description


   Note No.

 
10.6+   

2000 Incentive Stock Option Plan.

   (8 )
10.7+   

2002 Incentive Stock Option Plan.

   (15 )
10.8+   

2002 Stock Option Plan for Non-employee Directors

   (15 )
10.9+   

2003 Stock Incentive Plan.

   (17 )
10.10+   

Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2002, between the Registrant and Robert M. Stemmler.

   (14 )
10.11+   

Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2002, between the Registrant and W. Brian Olson.

   (14 )
10.12+   

Employment Agreement dated April 1, 2002, between the Registrant and Dale L. Rasmussen.

   (14 )
10.13   

Promissory Note Issued by Dale Rasmussen to the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.14   

Security Agreement and Agreement Not to Exercise Options entered into between Dale Rasmussen and the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.15   

Promissory Note Issued by Robert Stemmler to the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.16   

Security Agreement and Agreement Not to Exercise Options entered into between Robert Stemmler and the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.17   

Promissory Note Issued by Syed Hussain to the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.18   

Security Agreement and Agreement Not to Exercise Options entered into between Syed Hussain and the Registrant dated March 15, 2001.

   (9 )
10.19   

Common Stock and Warrants Purchase Agreement, dated January 11, 2002.

   (11 )
10.20   

Registration Rights Agreement, Dated January 11, 2002.

   (11 )
10.21   

Form of Stock Purchase Warrant, Dated January 11, 2002.

   (11 )
10.22   

Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 3, 2002.

   (12 )
10.23   

Letter of commitment, dated March 26, 2003, among Don J. Simplott and the Registrant.

   (16 )
10.24   

Form of Note Purchase Agreement, dated as of April 14, 2003.

   (20 )
10.25   

Form of Promissory Note, dated as of April 14, 2003.

   (20 )
10.26   

Form of Common Stock Warrant, dated as of April 14, 2003.

   (20 )
10.27   

Revolving Promissory Note, dated as of July 18, 2003, executed by the Registrant in favor of LaSalle Business Credit, LLC.

   (18 )
10.28   

Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant in favor of LaSalle Business Credit, LLC.

   (18 )
10.29   

Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (18 )
10.30   

Pledge Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (18 )
10.31   

Warrant Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (18 )
10.32   

Senior Secured Subordinated Promissory Note, dated as of July 18, 2003, executed by the Registrant in favor of Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (18 )
10.33   

Joint Company Buy-Out Agreement, by, between and among the Registrant, IMPCO-BERU Technologies, B.V. and BERU Aktiengesellschaft, dated January 27, 1999.

   (20 )

 

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Table of Contents
Exhibit No.

  

Description


   Note No.

 
10.34   

Contribution and Distribution Agreement between the Registrant and Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc., dated July 23, 2002.

   (13 )
10.35   

Tax Allocation and Indemnification Agreement between the Registrant and Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc., dated July 23, 2002.

   (13 )
10.36   

Employee Benefit Matters Agreement between the Registrant and Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc., dated July 23, 2002.

   (13 )
10.37   

Equity Joint Venture Contract, dated as of December 16, 2002, among China Natural Gas Co. Ltd., and the Registrant.

   (16 )
10.38   

Joint Venture Agreement Minda IMPCO Technologies, Limited, dated May 18, 2001 among Minda Industries Limited and Mr. Nirmal K. Minda and the Registrant.

   (16 )
10.39   

Joint Venture Agreement Minda IMPCO Limited, dated May 18, 2001 among Minda Industries and Mr. Nirmal K. Minda and the Registrant.

   (16 )
10.40+   

Employment Agreement dated January 5, 2004, between the Registrant and Terry Clapp.

   (21 )
10.41+   

Employment Agreement dated January 5, 2004, between the Registrant and Brad Garner.

   (21 )
10.42   

Revolving Promissory Note, dated as of July 18, 2003, executed by the Registrant in favor of LaSalle Business Credit, LLC.

   (20 )
10.43   

Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and LaSalle Business Credit, LLC.

   (20 )
10.44   

Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (20 )
10.45   

Pledge Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (20 )
10.46   

Warrant Agreement, dated as of July 18, 2003, between the Registrant and Bison Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (20 )
10.47   

Senior Secured Subordinated Promissory Note, dated as of July 18, 2003, executed by the Registrant in favor of Bison Capital Structured Equity Partners, LLC.

   (20 )
10.48   

Form of Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of December 17, 2003, between the Registrant and the selling stockholders.

   (21 )
21.1   

Subsidiaries of the Company.

   (20 )
23.1   

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors.

   (1 )
23.2   

Consent of Reconta Ernst & Young S.P.A., Independent Auditors

   (1 )
23.3   

Consent of Davis Wright Tremaine LLP (included in Exhibit 5.1).

   (21 )

(1)   Filed herewith.
(2)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for fiscal year 1990.
(3)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for fiscal year 1994.
(4)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form S-8 filed on June 27, 1996.
(5)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form S-8 filed on January 12, 1998.
(6)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on July 7, 1999.
(7)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for fiscal year 1999.
(8)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form DEF14A filed on August 28, 2000.
(9)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on March 26, 2001.
(10)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for fiscal year 2001.
(11)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on January 11, 2002.
(12)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on May 10, 2002.
(13)   Incorporated by reference to the Form 10-K filed by Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies, Inc., for fiscal year 2002.
(14)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-K for fiscal year 2002.

 

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Table of Contents
(15)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form DEF14A filed on October 18, 2002.
(16)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 10-KT for fiscal year 2003.
(17)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form DEF14A filed on May 13, 2003.
(18)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on July 29, 2003 (dated July 21, 2003).
(19)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Form 8-K filed on July 29, 2003 (dated July 22, 2003).
(20)   Incorporated by reference to the registrant’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2003.
(21)   Incorporated by reference to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-111988) filed on January 16, 2003.
+   Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

 

(b) Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

 

Item 17.    Undertakings

 

(a) We hereby undertake:

 

(1) to file, during any period in which offers or sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to this registration statement:

 

  (i)   to include any prospectus required by section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;

 

  (ii)   to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events arising after the effective date of the registration statement (or the most recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the information set forth in the registration statement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20% change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the “Calculation of Registration Fee” table in the effective registration statement;

 

  (iii)    to include any material information with respect to the plan of distribution not previously disclosed in the registration statement or any material change to such information in the registration statement.

 

(2) that, for the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each such post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

 

(3) to remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the termination of the offering.

 

(b) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

 

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, IMPCO has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in Cerritos, California, on March 25, 2004.

 

IMPCO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.

By:

 

/s/    ROBERT M. STEMMLER        


   

Robert M. Stemmler

Chief Executive Officer

 

Power of Attorney and Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

Signature


  

Title


 

Date


/s/    ROBERT M. STEMMLER        


Robert M. Stemmler

  

Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board (Principal Executive Officer)

  March 25, 2004

/s/    NICKOLAI GERDE        


Nickolai Gerde

  

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer)

  March 25, 2004

/s/    RICHARD T. FOGARTY        


Richard T. Fogarty

  

Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)

  March 25, 2004

/s/    NORMAN L. BRYAN        


Norman L. Bryan

  

Director

  March 25, 2004

/s/    PAUL MLOTOK        


Paul Mlotok

  

Director

  March 25, 2004

/s/    J. DAVID POWERS III        


J. David Powers III

  

Director

  March 25, 2004

/s/    MARIANO COSTAMAGNA        


Mariano Costamagna

  

Director

  March 25, 2004

 

 

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