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GMG Unveils Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery That Fully Charges in 6 Minutes

Brisbane, Australia – Newsfile Corp. – December 15, 2025 – Graphene Manufacturing Group Ltd. (TSXV: GMG) (OTCQX: GMGMF) (“GMG” or the “Company“) is pleased to provide the latest progress update on the Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery technology (“G+AI“) being developed by GMG and the University of Queensland (“UQ“) under a Joint Development Agreement with Rio Tinto, one of the world’s largest metals and mining groups, and with the support of the Battery Innovation Center of Indiana (“BIC”) in the United States of America.

Based on its current state of development as reflected below, the GMG G+AI Battery has similar performance characteristics to those provided by High Power Lithium Titanate Oxide (“LTO”) batteries, which are sold at a premium price of up to US$1500/kWh. However, the GMG G+AI Battery can be produced at a substantially lower cost and therefore can be priced below that of LTO batteries. In 2025, sales of LTO batteries, which are used in many applications globally, totalled US$ 5.6[1] billion.

Battery Performance Update:

GMG is pleased to announce that it has progressed its G+AI Battery technology and believes that, once development is completed, it can meet the key target specification requirements for the main targeted battery use case as per Figure 1, including:

  • Charging in under 6 minutes;
  • Energy density > 100 Wh/kg after 1 hour of charging;
  • Long Cycle Life (10,000 cycles);
  • Safe (no Lithium);
  • Lower Thermal Runaway Risk; and
  • Likely no thermal management system will be needed.

Bob Galyen, GMG Non-Executive Director, commented: “In my nearly five decades in the battery industry, I have rarely seen a technology with the disruptive potential of GMG’s next-generation graphene aluminium-ion battery. With the possibility of charging from empty to full in around six minutes, this chemistry fundamentally changes how designers can think about electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and stationary storage. Instead of planning around long charge stops with large packs, engineers can optimise for rapid energy turnaround, with higher power, and safer, with GMG’s battery made from abundant raw materials. Lithium-ion will remain a key part of the energy landscape for years to come, but its limitations in fast charging, temperature tolerance, and critical-mineral supply are increasingly evident. By leveraging aluminium and graphene, the GMG team is demonstrating a pathway to reduce reliance on traditional lithium-based systems while delivering step-change improvements in charge time and power density. This is not an incremental tweak to existing cells – it is a new platform that can open markets and use cases that were previously uneconomic or impractical. As GMG moves from the lab toward scaled manufacturing, its primary focus is on proving reliability, safety, and cost at industrial level. Automotive, grid, and specialty-device partners are already engaging with GMG to explore pilot programs and early integrations. The companies that adapt quickest to this shift will lead the next wave of electrification, and GMG intends to be at the centre of that transition with graphene aluminium-ion technology.”


Figure 1: G+AI Battery Use Case – heavy mobile equipment

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/278044_gmg_figure1.jpg

GMG is pleased to share the energy densities of the current GMG G+AI pouch cell at 60 minutes and 6-minute charging compared to other chemistry batteries on the market (Figure 2), and a voltage vs capacity graph (Figure 3) of its latest G+AI Battery technology based on data provided by the third-party BIC battery testing laboratory.

Based on that testing, the current stage of development, batteries produced by GMG and BIC had an energy density of 58 Wh/kg when charged in 1 hour and 26 Wh/kg when charged in 6 minutes. In 6-minute fast charging, the battery cells achieved 62% capacity in 3.2 minutes. The batteries had a nominal voltage of approximately 3.0 Volts and maintained performance over hundreds of cycles at 6-minute fast charging, without the significant degradation typically observed in lithium and sodium-ion batteries at such high charging rates.



Figure 2: Different Battery Chemistry Performance at 6 min and 60 min Charge
[2]

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_002full.jpg

Standard commercial Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt (“LNMC”) and Lithium Iron Phosphate (“LFP”) battery cells for electric vehicles and stationary storage are not designed for continuous 6-minute charging (10C); typical recommended charge rates are ≤1 hour (1C), often 2 hours (0.5C), with only limited fast charge operation. Only specialized high-power cell designs like LTO battery cells can tolerate charge rates of 6 minutes (10C).[3]

Figure 3: Battery performance curves of GMG’s G+AI Battery at 60 min and 6min charge

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_003full.jpg

GMG has now developed a completely new hybrid electrolyte that is chloride free and noncorrosive, unlike common aluminium battery electrolytes, along with a complex cathode and anode technology that enables very stable fast charging over several cycles. The substrate for both the cathode and anode in the GMG G+AI Battery is aluminium foil – which provides significant cost and weight savings compared with copper, the substrate material used in most lithium and sodium-ion batteries. GMG’s technology does not include the use of lithium or copper. The Company has submitted an additional patent application covering these new developments.

Craig Nicol, GMG Managing Director and CEO, commented: “I couldn’t be happier with the GMG team to get to this point with our battery. We have rebuilt this battery in our weekly sprints from the ground up and developed completely new complex cathode, anode and electrolyte. This will provide a next generation fast charging battery technology currently not available in the world, and we look forward to sending out sample cells to test with partners in early 2026. This technology has many years of development in front of it and will improve as we keep pushing through known issues to improve capacity, voltage and reduce weight.”

GMG management believes that the Company’s battery technology can eventually achieve over 150 Wh/kg when charged in 1 hour, and over 75 Wh/kg when charged in 6 minutes. The Company believes further development of the cathode, anode, electrolyte and component weights will eventually achieve this end goal.

Figure 4 shows the latest Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery multi-layer pouch cell.

Figure 4: Current Multi-Layer Battery Pouch Cell

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_004full.jpg

Battery Technology Readiness Level

The battery technology readiness level (“BTRL”) of the G+AI technology remains at Level 4, see Figure 5. GMG is currently optimizing electrochemical behaviour for pouch cells via ongoing laboratory experimentation. Through collaboration with BIC, it is anticipated that the battery technology readiness will progress to BTRL 7 and 8 since the equipment and processes needed to produce the G+AI batteries are the same as those employed to make Lithium-Ion Batteries.

Figure 5: Battery Technology Readiness Level (BTRL)

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_005full.jpg

The Company is confident it can meet the overall timeline, as seen in Figure 6, of its battery cell roadmap that calls for testing of cells with customers in 2026 and small commercial production with support of various partners, including BIC, in 2027.

Figure 6: Battery Cell Roadmap

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_006full.jpg

Next Steps Toward Commercialisation & Market Applications

Jack Perkowski, GMG Chairman and Non-Executive Director, commented: “I am extremely proud that GMG has progressed its battery to this stage. It is a significant milestone for the Company because the battery technology has so much opportunity in so many applications – especially in commercial vehicles. I look forward to the next updates as GMG makes further progress in the development of its battery technology.”

The Company continues to see a broad range of applications for a completed GMG G+AI Battery – utilising its ultra-high power-density and economic energy density characteristics. Along with Rio Tinto, a range of global companies have confidentially expressed their interest in working with GMG in the following vertical sectors:

Figure 7: Market Applications

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8082/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_007full.jpg

Currently, GMG believes it will use a plastic battery pack design, similar to Figure 8, to hold the battery pouch cells – reducing the weight, cost and complexity of using a metal case. Using a plastic battery pack is possible for two main reasons – GMG believes that its battery will not require a thermal management system or the fireproofing precautions provided by the metal case in a lithium-ion battery. Using plastic will increase the comparative energy density of GMG’s G+AI battery packs when compared to lithium-ion batteries.

Figure 8: Expected Battery Pack for G+AIB Pouch Cells

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/278044_3e8dbe4f44c75b4b_008full.jpg

Comparison and Market Review: LTO Batteries

As shown in Figure 9 below, the performance of GMG’s G+AI battery technology is already very similar to LTO batteries.

Figure 9: Comparison of Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery (G+AI) to Lithium Titanate Oxide (LTO) Battery

Parameter High Power LTO[4] GMG G+AI Battery
Rapid Charging 80% in 6 minutes 100% in 6 minutes
Energy Density – 6-minute charge 37 Wh/kg (80% of Capacity)
46 Wh/kg (6 min +)
26 Wh/kg(Current)
Large upside to be confirmed
Depth of Discharge Full Range Full Range
Safety Safe Safer (no lithium fire potential)
Longevity 70% performance over 20,000 cycles To be confirmed
Battery Price US$800 – US$1500 / kWh[5] Lower price due to lower material costs
No lithium, no Titanium
Market Size US$5.6 Billion in Sales in 2025 Under development

LTO batteries are sold at a premium to LFP and LNMC batteries, which are the main chemistries used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, and are also widely used in other electronic applications due to their high performance and long cycle life. The material and manufacturing costs for GMG’s G+AI Battery are expected to be similar to, or less than, the cost to manufacture standard lithium-ion batteries, but substantially lower than the costs to produce LTO batteries.

LTO batteries have energy density ranging from 50 – 80 Wh/kg.[6] The LTO product is sold globally for use in many applications – with a total of US$5.6[7] billion sales per annum in 2025. Sales of LTO batteries are expected to grow at 10% per annum to an estimated US$ 9.0 billion by 2030. The major manufacturers of LTO batteries include Toshiba, Gree, Microvast and CATL.

Further details on applications for the LTO battery from Mordor Intelligence7 are described below. In many of the use cases for LTO batteries, GMG believes that its G+AI Battery can be substituted at a substantially lower cost.

  • Commercial Vehicles: Automotive, primarily buses, refuse trucks, and drayage tractors rather than passenger cars, is the largest user of LTO batteries. Fleets realize five-year total-cost-of-ownership parity once fuel savings and lower maintenance offset higher upfront prices.
  • Fast-charging Electric Buses and Trucks: Transit authorities need battery systems that accept repeated high-power “opportunity charges” during short layovers. LTO cells replenish 80% capacity in roughly five minutes, allowing operators to shrink fleet size without sacrificing route frequency. U.S. Low-No Emission Bus grants earmark more than US$1.5 billion per year, with bid specifications that explicitly reference rapid-charge capability. Parallel subsidy programs in China reimburse up to CNY 80,000 (US$ 11,396) per new-energy bus, accelerating volume deployment in provincial capitals.
  • Hybrid and BEV: Regenerative braking and high-C-rate acceleration favour the use of LTO batteries. Use in fast-charge EV stations is growing rapidly as ride-hailing fleets adopt swap-ready models.
  • Stationary Storage: Utility-scale batteries now cycle multiple times per day for frequency regulation, peak shaving, and voltage support. Energy-storage-system integrators adopt LTO batteries for grid-frequency response where state-of-charge swings are shallow but frequent.
  • Industrial Robotics: LTO batteries are used in continuous-duty forklifts that require partial charges during operator breaks.
  • Aerospace and Defense: Unmanned aerial vehicles, missile auxiliaries, and soldier-worn power banks operating from -40 °C to +60 °C ambient.
  • 5-minute Battery-Swap Stations: Battery-as-a-service platforms require ultra-fast turnaround and high cycle life. CATL confirmed plans to install 1,000 swap stations in 2025 and 30,000-40,000 by 2030, each requiring packs that tolerate thousands of rapid exchanges without degradation.
  • Sub-10 kWh Packs: Cordless construction tools, autonomous ground vehicles, and medical carts select LTO batteries to bypass daily pack swaps.
  • 12V starter replacement to Lead acid: GMG’s G+AI battery technology would be a viable 12 V starter-battery replacement for lead-acid, offering lower weight, longer cycle life, good low-temperature performance and improved cold-cranking capability, together with excellent tolerance to storage at 0% state of charge. In suitable system designs, the chemistry’s stable voltage behaviour can also reduce balancing requirements and simplify battery management, helping to lower overall system cost.
  • Lifecycle Procurement Preference: Many government procurement frameworks now weigh lifecycle reliability higher than purchase price. For example, New Mexico awarded a US$ 400 million bus electrification contract that included stringent thermal-runaway resistance metrics. Europe’s Clean Industrial Deal allocates capital for storage technologies that stabilize renewables, aligning well with LTO batteries’ fast-response profile.
  • Cylindrical Cells: accounted for 37.7% of LTO battery sales in 2024 as entrenched production lines and robust steel casings satisfied heavy-duty demand. Pouch designs address aerospace weight requirements and constrained dashboards in autonomous robots.

Summary of Important Milestones for GMG’s G+AI Battery Development:

Month Important Milestones in the Development of the Graphene Aluminium Ion Battery
May 2020 GMG and UQ win Australian Research Council grant for Graphene battery development
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-and-uq-wins-australian-research-council-grant-for-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-development/
Apr 2021 The University of Queensland and GMG kick off coin cell battery development project
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-the-university-of-queensland-research-uni-quest-kick-off-the-graphene-enhanced-aluminium-ion-battery-development-project/
May 2021 Graphene aluminium-ion battery performance data – Energy Density and Power Density
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-performance-data/
Jun 2021 Graphene aluminium-ion battery performance data – Cycle Life
https://graphenemg.com/graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-performance-data/
Jun 2021 Significant potential battery customer market response to launch of battery
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-progress-update/
Jul 2021 Investment decision for coin cell battery development centre
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-battery-pilot-plant-investment/
Oct 2021 Construction starts for coin cell battery development centre
https://graphenemg.com/construction-battery-pilotplant/
Oct 2021 Bosch Australia Manufacturing Solutions and GMG sign Letter of Intent
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-and-bosch-sign-collaboration-arrangement-for-bosch-to-design-and-deliver-gmgs-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-manufacturing-plant/
Dec 2021 Commencement coin cell battery development centre
https://graphenemg.com/battery-pilot-plant/
Dec 2021 Initial coin cell batteries sent for customer feedback
https://graphenemg.com/graphene-aluminium-battery-customers-prototypes/
Mar 2022 Initial factory acceptance testing of semi-automated prototype battery cell assembly equipment
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-announces-initial-factory-acceptance-testing-of-semi-automated-prototype-battery-cell-assembly-equipment/
Mar 2022 Wood Engineering and GMG Sign a Letter of Intent
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-and-wood-agree-collaboration-arrangement-for-wood-to-engineer-and-deliver-major-graphene-manufacturing-expansion-projects/
May 2022 Rio Tinto and GMG sign Letter of Intent
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-riotinto-energysavings-battery/
Jun 2022 Commissioning of Pouch Cell Equipment
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-manufactures-first-pouch-cell/
Jun 2022 Bob Galyen, former chief technology officer of CATL, joins GMG technical advisory committee.
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-technical-advisory-committee-leadership-team-additions-and-cfo-change/
Aug 2022 Investment decision for Phase 1 modular Graphene Production Plant
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-announces-phase-1-expansion-project-to-graphene-manufacturing-facility-for-energy-saving-products-and-batteries/
Oct 2022 Significant battery performance, cell and graphene production improvements
https://graphenemg.com/gmgs-battery-update-significant-battery-performance-cell-and-graphene-production-improvements/
Dec 2022 Investment of $600k Battery Development Centre
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-invests-au-600000-to-accelerate-battery-pouch-cell-customer-testing-development-in-2023/
Feb 2023 Australian Government Approval (AICIS) for production and sale of batteries.
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-receives-regulatory-approval-to-enable-significant-commercial-sales/
May 2023 Battery Joint Development Agreement with Rio Tinto signed
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-announces-battery-joint-development-agreement-with-rio-tinto/
May 2023 Battery Technology Readiness Level (BRTL) 2-3 reached
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-announces-battery-team-and-related-updates/
May 2023 Decision to switch to develop Pouch Cells (instead of Coin Cells)
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-announces-battery-team-and-related-updates/
Jul 2023 Bob Galyen former chief technology officer of CATL joins GMG board of Directors
https://graphenemg.com/graphene-manufacturing-group-appoints-former-chief-technology-officer-of-catl-limited-to-its-board-of-directors/
Sep 2023 Battery Pouch Cell Prototypes Multilayered Auto-Stacker Demonstration
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-pouch-cell-prototypes-multilayered-auto-stacker-demonstration/
Sep 2023 Reaching 500 mAh capacity battery
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-achieves-500mah-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-prototype-in-pouch-cell-format/
Sep 2023 Battery Technology Readiness Level (BRTL) 4 reached
https://graphenemg.com/gmg-achieves-500mah-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-prototype-in-pouch-cell-format/
Nov 2023 Rio Tinto and GMG Partnership Video Launched
https://graphenemg.com/rio-tinto-gmg-battery-partnership-video-launch/
Dec 2023 Commissioning of modular Graphene Production Plant
https://graphenemg.com/graphene-manufacturing-group-commissions-modular-graphene-production-plant/
Feb 2024 1000 mAh Capacity Reached
https://graphenemg.com/gmgs-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-1000-mah-capacity-reached-and-next-steps-toward-commercialisation/
Mar 2024 Graphene Manufacturing Group Secures AU$2 million Funding Grant from Queensland Government for Battery Pilot Plant
https://graphenemg.com/graphene-manufacturing-group-secures-au2-million-funding-grant-from-queensland-government-for-battery-pilot-plant/
Aug 2024 GMG’s Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery: Progress Update and Next Steps Toward Commercialisation
https://graphenemg.com/gmgs-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-progress-update-and-next-steps-toward-commercialisation/
Mar 2025 GMG’s Graphene Aluminium-Ion Battery: Collaboration with World Leading USA Battery Innovation Centre and Next Steps Toward Commercialisation
https://graphenemg.com/gmgs-graphene-aluminium-ion-battery-collaboration-with-world-leading-usa-battery-innovation-centre-and-next-steps-toward-commercialisation/

About BIC:

BIC is a collaborative initiative designed to incorporate leadership from renowned universities, government agencies, and commercial enterprises. BIC is a public-private partnership and a not-for-profit organization focusing on the rapid development, testing and commercialization of safe, reliable and lightweight energy storage systems for defense and commercial customers. BIC is a unique organization that has been leading battery cell development for world leading battery companies for over 10 years and has carried out over 500 battery development projects.

About GMG

GMG is an Australian based clean-technology company which develops, makes and sells energy saving and energy storage solutions, enabled by graphene manufactured via in house production process. GMG uses its own proprietary production process to decompose natural gas (i.e. methane) into its natural elements, carbon (as graphene), hydrogen and some residual hydrocarbon gases. This process produces high quality, low cost, scalable, ‘tuneable’ and low/no contaminant graphene suitable for use in clean-technology and other applications.

The Company’s present focus is to de-risk and develop commercial scale-up capabilities, and secure market applications. In the energy savings segment, GMG has initially focused on graphene enhanced heating, ventilation and air conditioning (“HVAC-R”) coating (or energy-saving coating) which is now being marketed into other applications including electronic heat sinks, industrial process plants and data centres. Another product GMG has developed is the graphene lubricant additive focused on saving liquid fuels initially for diesel engines.

In the energy storage segment, GMG and the University of Queensland are working collaboratively with financial support from the Australian Government to progress R&D and commercialization of graphene aluminium-ion batteries (“G+AI Batteries”). GMG has also developed a graphene additive slurry that is aimed to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries.

GMG’s 4 critical business objectives are:

  1. Produce Graphene and improve/scale cell production processes
  2. Build Revenue from Energy Savings Products
  3. Develop Next-Generation Battery
  4. Develop Supply Chain, Partners & Project Execution Capability

For further information please contact:

  • Craig Nicol, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of the Company at craig.nicol@graphenemg.com, +61 415 445 223
  • Leo Karabelas at Focus Communications Investor Relations, leo@fcir.ca, +1 647 689 6041

www.graphenemg.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “intends”, “expects” or “anticipates”, or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “should”, “would” or will “potentially” or “likely” occur. This information and these statements, referred to herein as “forward‐looking statements”, are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding the lower cost to produce GMG G+AI batteries, expectations for GMG G+AI batteries in respect of charging time, energy density, life cycle, safety, thermal runway risk and the need for a thermal management system when development is completed, that the new hybrid electrolyte is chloride free and non-corrosive, that the cathode and anode technology employed enables very fast and stable charging, that GMG G+AI batteries provide significant cost and weight savings relative to copper, that G+AI batteries can achieve over 150 Wh/kg charged over 1 hour and 75 Wh/kg when charged over 6 minutes following further development of cathode, anode, electrolyte and component weights, that G+AI batteries will progress to BTRL 7 and 8, that the timeline for the battery cell roadmap is achievable, that a range of global companies in a variety of industries will be interested in working with GMG, that the battery pack design will be plastic and which offers weight, cost and complexity advantages to a metal case and increased energy density, expectations for the lack of a thermal management system or fireproofing precautions, expectations for material and manufacturing costs, expectations for sales of LTO batteries, expectations for G+AI batteries being substitutable for LTO batteries at lower cost, expectations that G+AI batteries are viable 12V starter battery replacements and the rationale therefor and the advantages of pouch design for aerospace weight requirements and constrained dashboards of autonomous robots.

Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions of management, including, without limitation, assumptions that GMG G+AI batteries can be produced at lower cost, as to charging time, energy density, life cycle, safety, thermal runway risk and the need for a thermal management system for G+AI batteries, the speed and stability of charging, that G+AI batteries will progress to BTRL 7 and 8, that a range of global companies in a variety of industries will be interested in working with GMG, that the battery pack design will be plastic and offer weight, cost and complexity advantages to a metal case and increased energy density, that the service agreement with the BIC will enable the Company to optimize its cell design and battery manufacturing equipment, and that the Company will be able to meet its overall timeline on the battery cell roadmap. Additionally, forward-looking information involves a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements of GMG to be materially different from any future plans, intentions, activities, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks include, without limitation: that GMG G+AI batteries cannot be produced at lower cost, or any of the assumptions as to charging time, energy density, life cycle, safety, thermal runway risk and the need for a thermal management system for G+AI batteries can not be achieved, G+AI batteries do not offer expected speed and stability of charging, that G+AI batteries will not progress to BTRL 7 and 8, that a range of global companies in a variety of industries will not be interested in working with GMG, that the battery pack design will not be plastic and not offer weight, cost and complexity advantages to a metal case and increased energy density, that the Company will not be able to optimize the electrochemical behaviour of the pouch cell through laboratory experimentation or at all, that the Company will not be able to meet its overall timeline on the battery cell roadmap, that the service agreement with the BIC will not enable the Company to optimize its cell design and battery manufacturing equipment and the risk factors set out under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual information form dated November 04, 2025 available for review on the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial out-look that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.


[1] Lithium Titanate Oxide Battery Market Size, Share & 2030 Growth Trends Report
[2] LFP: https://www.evlithium.com/catl-battery-cell/catl-150ah-lifepo4-battery-cell.html
LNMC: https://keheng-battery.com/product/catl-nmc-3-7v-151ah-high-energy-density-battery-for-ev/
LTO: https://www.global.toshiba/ww/products-solutions/battery/scib/product-next/product/cell/high-power.html
Lead Acid: https://www.altronics.com.au/p/s4530-12v-3.5ah-sealed-lead-acid-sla-battery/?srsltid=AfmBOoqZGMEIsX__YYOuRLC3nvYDFtNkf35qZYuYeoh3ACf4wrrOLISD
[3] https://findingspress.org/article/21459-impact-of-charging-rates-on-electric-vehicle-batt
[4] High-power type cells | SCiB™ Rechargeable battery | Toshiba
[5] https://www.ritarpower.com/industry_information/The-Price-of-50-kWh-Lithium-Ion-Batteries-A-Comprehensive-Analysis_297.html#:~:text=Lithium%20Titanate%20(LTO)%20Batteries%3A,cost%20between%20%2440%2C000%20and%20%2460%2C000.
[6] https://www.grepow.com/blog/battery-energy-density.html
[7] Lithium Titanate Oxide Battery Market Size, Share & 2030 Growth Trends Report

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

smart #2 Advances Real-World Testing on All-New Electric Compact Architecture

  • smart’s new ECA platform is being validated through rigorous testing.
  • smart #2 will present a new vision while preserving the essential DNA of the fortwo. 
  • Progress on-track for world premiere in 2026.

HANGZHOU, China, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The reinvention of smart’s iconic city car is accelerating as the all-electric #2 advances through real-world testing of its Electric Compact Architecture (ECA). To validate this all-new proprietary architecture and technological platform, smart engineers are conducting tests using car bodies of the smart fortwo – thereby confirming the #2 will stay true to the original’s ultra-compact dimensions.

The smart #2 will retain the ultra-compact dimensions of the fortwo
The smart #2 will retain the ultra-compact dimensions of the fortwo

As well as its distinctive ultra-compact size, the #2 will retain the fortwo’s two-door, two-seat configuration, real-wheel drive dynamics and signature wheels-at-the-corners stance. This DNA, however, is just the starting point for the complete reinvention of smart’s city two-seater. With a fully redesigned interior and exterior from the Mercedes-Benz design team, the smart #2 will launch with a fresh identity. The new ECA architecture will provide the basis for a next-generation electric drivetrain, advanced safety, and an urban driving experience that’s unlike anything else.

smart’s all-new ECA architecture will enable next-generation EV performance
smart’s all-new ECA architecture will enable next-generation EV performance

The latest tests on the ECA architecture have been enabled by a creative engineering solution: integrating the new platform into existing smart fortwo bodies, creating a fleet of highly representative test vehicles. Leveraging these prototypes, smart’s R&D team is carrying out validation work at specialized facilities globally. At a proving ground in China, engineers are focusing on core driving dynamics: refining ride and handling for city agility, verifying structural strength, and optimizing brake system performance. Simultaneously, other testing locations are validating crash safety performance, suspension durability, battery performance, software systems, and climate control systems across various conditions – all integral steps in preparing the vehicle for its next stage of testing, and ultimately, series production.

The all-electric smart #2 will premiere in 2026
The all-electric smart #2 will premiere in 2026

The all-electric smart #2 remains on schedule for its world premiere in late 2026, where it will set new benchmarks for the city-car segment that smart defined almost thirty years ago.

Contact
Jack Bailey
jack.bailey@smart.com

About smart

Since the birth of the brand in the 1990s, smart has always maintained the vision of exploring the best solutions for future urban mobility. In late 2019, Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group officially established smart global joint venture.

From 2019 to 2024, after the comprehensive renewal of its brand, products, and business model, smart successfully achieved the strategic objectives set for its initial five-year phase. Adhering steadfastly to the “China–Europe, Dual Home” global development strategy, smart has transformed into a leading premium intelligent electric automotive brand. It now boasts an expanding product matrix and a global footprint spanning around 40 countries and regions. In 2025, smart aims to boost its global business operations.

 

AMTD Digital’s Subsidiary TGE Executed SPA to Acquire Upper View Regalia Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

PARIS and NEW YORK and LONDON, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AMTD Group Inc. (“AMTD Group”), AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB), AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) and The Generation Essentials Group (“TGE”, NYSE & LSE: TGE), a subsidiary of AMTD Digital Inc., announce jointly that TGE has entered into a sale and purchase agreement (“SPA”) to purchase an 80% stake in the Upper View Regalia Hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 

The aggregate consideration of the transaction is HK$300 million (equivalent to approximately US$38.6 million), following specific terms and conditions of the SPA. Closing of the acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions.

Upper View Regalia Hotel is strategically situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpurs vibrant commercial and business district, providing convenient pedestrian access to both Sunway Putra Mall and the Putra World Trade Centre. The hotel comprises over 129 rooms and a range of amenities, including a fully equipped gym, a library, and a stunning rooftop Infinity Pool, and an award-winning restaurant.

The addition of Upper View Regalia Hotel further strengthens TGE’s global hospitality offerings. This acquisition in Kuala Lumpur also marks TGE’s fourth major hotel project of the year, reaffirming the company’s commitment to expanding its global footprint with premium properties in key markets around the world.

As of the date of this announcement, the hotel portfolio of TGE (including those with executed SPAs pending completions) consists of six properties located in major cities worldwide, offering over 800 rooms. This portfolio includes the iclub AMTD Sheung Wan Hotel in Hong Kong, Dao by Dorsett AMTD Singapore, along with recent projects in New York, London, Australia, and Malaysia.

About AMTD Group

AMTD Group is a conglomerate with a core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality sectors.

About AMTD IDEA Group

AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) represents a diversified institution and digital solutions group connecting companies and investors with global markets. Its comprehensive one-stop business services plus digital solutions platform addresses different clients’ diverse and inter-connected business needs and digital requirements across all phases of their life cycles. AMTD IDEA Group is uniquely positioned as an active super connector between clients, business partners, investee companies, and investors, connecting the East and the West. For more information, please visit www.amtdinc.com or follow us on X (formerly known as “Twitter”) at @AMTDGroup.

About AMTD Digital Inc.

AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD) is a comprehensive digital solutions platform headquartered in France. Its one-stop digital solutions platform operates key business lines including digital media, content and marketing services, investments as well as hospitality and VIP services. For AMTD Digital’s announcements, please visit https://ir.amtdigital.net/investor-news.

About The Generation Essentials Group

The Generation Essentials Group (NYSE and LSE: TGE), jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group (NYSE: AMTD; SGX: HKB) and AMTD Digital Inc. (NYSE: HKD), is headquartered in France and focuses on global strategies and developments in multi-media, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide as well as hospitality and VIP services. TGE comprises L’Officiel, The Art Newspaper, movie and entertainment projects. Collectively, TGE is a diversified portfolio of media and entertainment businesses, and a global portfolio of premium properties. Also, TGE is special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) sponsor manager in global media, entertainment, and gaming areas.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains statements that may constitute “forward-looking” statements pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “likely to,” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about the beliefs, plans, and expectations of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and/or The Generation Essentials Group, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the filings of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and The Generation Essentials Group with the SEC. All information provided in this press release is as of the date of this press release, and none of AMTD IDEA Group, AMTD Digital and The Generation Essentials Group undertakes any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

For AMTD IDEA Group:
IR Office
AMTD IDEA Group
EMAIL: ir@amtdinc.com 

For AMTD Digital Inc.:
IR Office
AMTD Digital Inc.
EMAIL: ir@amtdigital.net 

For The Generation Essentials Group:
IR Office
The Generation Essentials Group
EMAIL: tge@amtd.world

Autozi China-Europe Cross-Border Supply Chain Platform Officially Launches, Marking a Key Step in Globalization Strategy Implementation

BEIJING, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Autozi Internet Technology (Global) Ltd. (NASDAQ: AZI) (“Autozi” or the “Company”), a leading and fast-growing lifecycle automotive service and supply-chain technology platform in China, today announced the official launch of its cross-border supply chain platform in Europe. This launch follows the recent release of the Company’s new fiscal year development strategy and global business roadmap.

During the platform’s trial operation over the past several months, it has achieved sales of approximately 300 to 500 Customized Passenger Vehicles (CPV) and Special-Purpose Vehicles (SPV) per month. The Company’s European business partner, Tianjin MaShang Haoche Information Technology Ltd. (Tianjin Velocar Ltd.), plans to expand business coverage across all European regions by 2026, targeting monthly sales exceeding 5,000 units. This expansion will be supported by providing comprehensive after-sales services, including parts supply and maintenance technical training, to ensure optimal vehicle operation for customers. This initiative signifies the initial execution of the Company’s new fiscal year strategy and is expected to accelerate Autozi’s global development.

About Tianjin MaShang Haoche Information Technology Ltd. (Velocar (Tianjin) Ltd.)
Established in September 2019, Velocar specializes in developing and operating new vehicle supply chain cloud platforms and building offline warehousing and logistics systems. By leveraging digital supply chain platforms and online supply chain financial services, it provides customized specialty vehicle sales and services to auto dealers and multi-brand showrooms in China’s lower-tier markets, achieving annual sales of tens of thousands of new vehicles. The company began its international expansion in 2024, selecting Europe as its first pilot market.

Strategic Context
On November 12, 2024, Autozi formally unveiled its new fiscal year strategy. The Company is strategically focused on the CPV and SPV sectors and related aftermarket parts supply. Centered on mergers, acquisitions, and integration, Autozi provides partners with three core services: “Capitalized Integration,” “Digitalized Upgrade,” and “Globalized Expansion.” By consolidating high-quality industry resources, the Company aims to jointly build a global end-to-end digital supply chain platform and an online supply chain financial service platform, driving rapid business growth and enhancing long-term shareholder value. The launch of the Europe platform and the collaboration with regional partners mark the commencement of this global strategy, utilizing the Company’s capital platform and digital capabilities to unify supply chain operations worldwide.

About Autozi Internet Technology (Global) Ltd.
Founded in 2010, Autozi is a fast-growing automotive service and technology platform in China. The Company offers a broad portfolio of high-quality, cost-effective automotive products and services through integrated online and offline channels nationwide. Utilizing its advanced supply chain cloud platform and SaaS solutions, Autozi has built an integrated ecosystem that connects key stakeholders across the automotive industry, enhancing collaboration and efficiency throughout the supply chain.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This release contains forward-looking statements regarding future expectations and plans. These statements are based on current assumptions and involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Details of these risks are outlined in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 20-F and Current Reports on Form 6-K. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements except as required by law.

GIBO Announces Strategic Collaboration with E Total Technology Sdn Bhd to Accelerate Deployment of AI Compute Centers Featuring NVIDIA’s Most Advanced Chips

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GIBO Holdings Ltd. (NASDAQ: GIBO) today announced a strategic collaboration with Malaysia-based technology and infrastructure solutions provider E Total Technology Sdn Bhd, under which the parties will work together on the planning, site sourcing, feasibility studies, and deployment of next-generation artificial intelligence compute centers in Malaysia. The project is expected to incorporate NVIDIA’s most advanced high-performance AI chips and computing architectures, supporting the rapidly growing demand for AI training and inference workloads.

This collaboration represents a significant step in expanding Malaysia’s AI infrastructure capabilities, providing scalable and high-performance compute resources to enterprises, research institutions, and digital economy participants across the region.

E Total Technology Sdn Bhd to Lead Local Execution and Feasibility Planning

Under the collaboration framework, E Total Technology Sdn Bhd will serve as the primary local execution and infrastructure partner, responsible for key preparatory and implementation activities, including:

  • Identification and evaluation of suitable sites for AI compute and data center facilities
  • Technical, commercial, and operational feasibility studies
  • Local coordination, regulatory support, and approval processes
  • Planning and execution support for data center infrastructure and related facilities

Leveraging its experience in infrastructure delivery, engineering coordination, and local regulatory engagement, E Total Technology Sdn Bhd will play a central role in ensuring the efficient and compliant execution of the AI compute center development.

Deploying NVIDIA’s Most Advanced AI Chips to Support High-Intensity Compute Workloads

From a technology standpoint, the planned AI compute centers are expected to deploy NVIDIA’s latest-generation AI chips and GPU computing platforms, designed to support high-density, high-throughput AI workloads. These capabilities are intended to serve large-scale model training, advanced inference tasks, and multi-industry AI applications, while allowing for future scalability as AI technologies continue to evolve.

The deployment of advanced compute architectures is expected to deliver strong performance efficiency, improved energy utilization, and internationally competitive compute density.

Strengthening Malaysia’s Position as a Regional AI Compute Hub

As global adoption of artificial intelligence accelerates, access to reliable, high-performance compute infrastructure has become a critical component of digital economic competitiveness. The collaboration between GIBO and E Total Technology Sdn Bhd aims to introduce internationally benchmarked AI compute infrastructure into Malaysia, further enhancing the country’s attractiveness as a regional hub for AI computation and advanced digital infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region.

The parties will continue to evaluate opportunities for future expansion of compute capacity and related infrastructure in response to growing market demand.

 

Leadgene Biosolutions, Inc., (Formerly CYTENA BPS), Announces Corporate Rebranding to Mark a New Phase of Growth within the Leadgene Group

TAIPEI, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leadgene Biosolutions, Inc. (formerly CYTENA BPS), following its transition out of the BICO Group, now officially integrates with Leadgene Biomedical, a biotechnology company specializing in recombinant proteins, antibodies, and diagnostic reagent development with integrated CRO/CDMO services. This alignment enables the combined organization to offer a full suite of bioprocessing products, solutions, and services across both research and industrial applications.

The integration provides Leadgene Biosolutions with a clear direction and expanded opportunities in global bioprocessing and cell-based research markets. The company will continue to advance its signature technologies, including the S.NEST®, C.NEST®, and C.BIRD™ microbioreactor systems – platforms recognized as the only solutions on the market capable of delivering true high-throughput 24- and 96-well culture with fully adjustable mixing, supported by integrated DO, pH, OCR, and ECAR monitoring. These technologies remain central to the organization’s long-term vision, and future product families and expanded applications are being developed to support broader bioprocessing workflows and long-term metabolism assays.

“Building on proven strengths in bioprocessing, the integration gives Leadgene Biosolutions the expanded expertise to advance our long-term plans with refined focus.” said Cheng-Han (Charles) Tsai, CEO of Leadgene Biosolutions. “The group now delivers one of the most complete end-to-end bioprocessing ecosystems, enabling customers to move faster from early research to clinical-ready workflows,” added Dr. Chasel Yung-Chun Chuang, Chairman of Leadgene Biomedical.

All existing contracts, demo schedules, warranties, and support services remain fully intact. Gradual brand updates will introduce a more unified and forward looking identity that reflects the group’s core vision.

Leadgene Biosolutions website: https://www.leadgene-biosolutions.com/

Leadgene Biomedical website: https://www.leadgenebio.com/

Rona Therapeutics Advances INHBE siRNA Into Phase 1 Clinical Development

SHANGHAI and SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Rona Therapeutics, a clinical-stage RNAi company, today announced the recent completion of Cohort 1 dosing in its Phase 1 first-in-human clinical study of RN3161, an investigational GalNAc-conjugated siRNA targeting INHBE for obesity treatment. Cohort 1 was completed successfully with a favorable initial safety and tolerability profile, marking the first clinical milestone for Rona’s INHBE program.

Scientific and industry interest in INHBE has accelerated, supported by compelling human genetic evidence and emerging clinical observations. RN3161 is designed for deep and durable silencing of INHBE with once- or twice-yearly dosing, enabling a differentiated therapeutic profile for obesity treatment.

“We are pleased to report successful completion of our first cohort in this Phase 1 trial, an important step in advancing RN3161 and validating the potential of INHBE as a new metabolic target,” said Alex M. DePaoli, MD, CMO. “This milestone underscores the strength of our siRNA therapeutic platform as we work to bring forward next-generation siRNAs for metabolic disease.”

The Phase 1 study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and effect on body weight in adults with overweight and obesity. Additional cohorts will be completed in 2026.

About Rona Therapeutics

Rona Therapeutics is a world-leading RNAi therapeutics company dedicated to addressing cardiometabolic, obesity and degenerative diseases with next generation RNA technology platform. Since its inception in 2021, the Company has progressed four programs into the clinic leveraging its proprietary platform in delivery, multi-valency and oligo chemistry. The Company has raised approximately $200M from global blue-chip healthcare investors and strategic partners.

All-new Hyundai NEXO Achieves Maximum Five-Star Rating in Euro NCAP Safety Assessment

  • Hyundai’s next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV earns top scores across all major safety categories
  • Achieves outstanding results in Adult and Child Occupant Protection, securing maximum points for adult whiplash protection in rear impacts and for six- and ten-year-old child dummies in frontal and side impact tests
  • Continues Hyundai’s five-star streak following IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 9
  • Reinforces Hyundai’s long-standing commitment to safety leadership and zero-emission mobility innovation

SEOUL, South Korea, Dec. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Company announced that the all-new Hyundai NEXO has achieved the highest possible five-star rating in the latest Euro NCAP safety assessment, reaffirming the company’s dedication to delivering class-leading safety across its electrified lineup.

All-new Hyundai NEXO Achieves Maximum Five-Star Rating  in Euro NCAP Safety Assessment
All-new Hyundai NEXO Achieves Maximum Five-Star Rating in Euro NCAP Safety Assessment

As Hyundai’s next-generation hydrogen fuel-cell electric SUV, the NEXO emits only water vapor and exemplifies the company’s vision for zero-emission mobility. Its top rating adds strong validation to Hyundai’s pursuit of safety excellence, following previous five-star Euro NCAP results for the IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 9.

Hyundai continues to demonstrate that safety is central to every vehicle it develops — not only for customers but for all road users. The NEXO’s latest recognition underscores Hyundai’s consistent performance in crash protection and its extensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assistance technologies.

Outstanding Occupant Protection Across Adult and Child Categories

Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) — Europe’s most trusted independent organization for evaluating vehicle safety — assesses new vehicles across four categories: adult occupant protection, child occupant protection, protection of vulnerable road users, and safety assistance technologies.

The all-new Hyundai NEXO achieved exceptional results across all four areas, including 90 percent in Adult Occupant Protection and 85 percent in Child Occupant Protection.

Building on Hyundai’s proven safety leadership

This achievement further highlights Hyundai’s long-term commitment to hydrogen technology and safety innovation. The previous generation NEXO became the first fuel-cell electric vehicle ever tested by Euro NCAP in 2018 — and earned a five-star rating under the evaluation standards at that time.

The new five-star result underscores Hyundai’s continuous advancement in fuel-cell engineering, crash protection and customer-focused safety technology, setting a benchmark in the global FCEV segment.

More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at:
https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/ or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai