On February 13, 2024, the Company announced the appointment of Anthony Cassella as an Independent Director to the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Mr. Cassella brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Company’s Board of Directors, having served in roles of increasing responsibility over his 26-year career with MarineMax, Inc. His background and knowledge of the industry will bring incredible value to the next chapter of the Company’s mission to become the leading provider of electric propulsion for the boating industry.
On February 15, 2024, the Company announced the unveiling of the Phantom, a rotomolded, recyclable, and hard-to-damage boat, offering significant market advantages through its economic and environmental benefits. Engineered for efficiency, the Phantom will enable the Company to produce up to an estimated 300 units annually at a cost that is 70% lower than that of fiberglass alternatives, with potential scalability to 1,500 units per year.
On February 23, 2024, the Company announced a groundbreaking partnership with Nautical Ventures Marine Group, a premier provider of maritime products and services. This collaboration marks a significant milestone with an initial purchase order for 50 units of the Company’s new Phantom product and the establishment of an exclusive distributorship agreement for South Florida.
On March 1, 2024, the Company announced the appointment of Raffi Sossoyan as its new Chief Financial Officer, replacing Kulwant Sandher, who remained as a consultant to the Company. The change highlights the Company’s focus on manufacturing, production, and delivery, underlining the Company’s dedication to scaling its operations and enhancing its market footprint.
On March 26, 2024, Mario Saucier resigned as a Director. On April 2, 2024, Carter Murray resigned as Chairman and Director. Both resignations were not the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to its operations, policies, or practices. As evidenced by the recent appointment of Anthony Cassella, the Company is focused on recruiting Directors from the boating or electric vehicle industry. The Company is currently recruiting a new Chairman with specific industry experience that can help guide the Company to the next phase of commercialization and growth.
On April 3, 2024, the Company announced the commissioning of a new state-of-the-art lithium battery production facility in Pompignac, France by its partner Neogy, a subsidiary of Startek Energy Group. This pivotal development marks a significant milestone in the industrialization of high-tension battery packs designed specifically for the Company’s innovative electric boating solutions.
On April 16, 2024, Patrick Bobby resigned as a Director and as Head of Performance & Special Projects. The resignation was not the result of any disagreement with the Company on any matter relating to its operations, policies, or practices.
On April 24, 2024, the Company filed its first patent application related to its E-Motion™ powertrain technology. Specifically, the patent application was for the Communication Cryptographic System technology, which seeks to enhance security for users, ensure the conformity of all system components, and deliver an elevated boating experience.
On April 25, 2024, the Company sold 100% of the shares of EB Rental, Ltd., which previously facilitated its electric boat rental operations located in Newport Beach, California, to EB Strategies Inc. for $1,089,302. The Company intends to continue to own and operate its electric boat rental operations in Ventura, California and Palm Beach, Florida. In addition, the Company is currently in the process of opening a new electric boat rental facility in Dania Beach, Florida. Part of the proceeds from the sale will be used to apply for up to 24 patents related to the Company’s E-Motion™ electric powertrain system. It is anticipated that the patent applications should be completed by the end of the 2024 calendar year.
On May 1, 2024, the Company filed its second patent application related to its E-Motion™ powertrain technology. Specifically, the patent application was for its innovative method and apparatus for controlling the cooling water system of an electric marine vessel.
On May 6, 2024, the Company was notified by Ernst & Young LLP, its independent registered public accounting firm for its most recently completed fiscal year, that it will not stand for reappointment as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Company for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2024.
On May 7, 2024, the Company filed its third patent application related to its E-Motion™ powertrain technology. Specifically, the patent application was for its innovative Control & Power Management Software, which is pivotal in managing the electric boating experience, offering precision and control over the motor’s impressive torque capabilities, which are crucial for optimizing performance, safety, and enjoyability for users.
On May 22, 2024, the Company filed its fourth patent application related to its E-Motion™ powertrain technology. Specifically, the patent application was for its dedicated high-voltage marine battery pack.
On May 26, 2024, the Company appointed M&K CPAS, PLLC to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Ernst & Young LLP, to be its independent registered public accounting firm until the close of the next annual meeting of its shareholders. The appointment of M&K CPAS, PLLC was considered and approved by the Company’s Audit Committee and Board of Directors.