A CASTLEMAINE-BASED innovator has received a $64,000 boost from the Federal Government to help promote its electric car concept. Blade Electric Technology has been awarded an AusIndustry grant to help commercialise its electric car technology under the Commercialising Emerging Technologies (COMET) scheme aimed at helping emergent companies and new ideas. Federal Member for Bendigo Steve Gibbons said he had taken a keen interest in the development of the alternative transport solutions Ross Blade was developing and had worked with him on the application.

“Ross Blade has taken a great idea and run with it, a decision that will benefit the company and the central Victorian economy.’’

Mr Gibbons said Blade Electric Technology was a company that typified the innovative and entrepreneurial spirit of businesses in central Victoria.

“Its battery management system allows small cars such as the Hyundai Getz and Toyota Yaris to be converted to run entirely on electric power, with significant savings in running costs and benefits to the environment.

“Australia has an outstanding record in developing innovative products and the Federal Government’s COMET is all about helping to bring them to market.’’

Mr Gibbons said BET was one of 57 Australian small businesses to receive grants totalling $3.6 million in the latest round of COMET funding announcements.

“The Rudd Government is committed to helping Australia’s innovative small and medium businesses,’’ he said.

“I encourage other local companies to contact AusIndustry to see if they are eligible to apply for a COMET grant or any other assistance.

“AusIndustry has more than 30 programs to help Australian businesses including innovation grants, tax and duty concessions, small business development, industry support and venture capital.’’