MANCHESTER, England, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Smartkem (Nasdaq: SMTK), which is seeking to change the world of electronics with a new class of transistor technology, today provides a business update and reports its financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

Smartkem Chairman and CEO, Ian Jenks, commented: “Progress toward commercialization continued in the first quarter of 2025. As previously announced, we commenced our project with AUO to develop the world’s first rollable, transparent MicroLED display, made the first sales of our TRUFLEX® advanced semiconductor materials to Chip Foundation, and signed a memorandum of understanding with RiTdisplay Corporation for the integration of Smartkem’s OTFT process on RiTdisplay’s Gen2.5 line. In addition, the Company appointed Jonathan Watkins as our new COO.

“Building on our momentum in the first quarter, in April, we introduced the first application of our “MiP4” platform at Touch Taiwan 2025. This MicroLED Smart Backlight showcases how our unique semiconductor materials and chip-first architecture can unlock higher brightness and better contrast for LCDs, particularly in automotive displays.

“Tomorrow, during Display Week 2025 and as part of the associated SID Business Conference, I’ll be giving a presentation titled “Changing the World of Electronics: Unveiling a Breakthrough in Transistor Technology for the Future of MicroLED Displays” that will present the latest advancements in our technology.

“I look forward to keeping you informed of our progress this year as we strengthen our position as a global leader in organic transistor technology and close in on our goal of commercializing our technology,” Jenks concluded.

First Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights:

Cash and cash equivalents were $3.9 million as of March 31, 2025, compared to $7.1 million as of December 31, 2024.Revenues were $23 thousand for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to nil for the same period of 2024, primarily as a result of sales of OTFT backplanes and TRUFLEX® materials for customer assessment and development purposes.Operating expenses were $3.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2025, compared to $2.7 million for the same period of 2024.Loss from operations was $3.1 million for the three months ending March 31, 2025, compared to $2.4 million for the same period of 2024.

About Smartkem

Smartkem is seeking to change the world of electronics with a new class of transistors developed using its proprietary advanced semiconductor materials. Our TRUFLEX® materials can be used in a range of applications including next generation MicroLED, LCD and AMOLED displays, as well as advanced computer and AI chip packaging, and a new type of sensor.

Smartkem’s MiP4 is designed to replace existing MiniLED packages in LCD backlights and signage applications.  The MiP4 will offer higher brightness at lower power, lower production costs, and compatibility with existing MiniLED die bonding equipment.  MiP4s are expected to ship -on-blue tape format for seamless industry adoption.

For MicroLED display applications, Smartkem’s low temperature process allows its liquid transistors to be poured directly onto MicroLEDs, eliminating the need to use current high-cost, low-yield manufacturing processes. This innovation is expected to reduce defects and enhance yield, and to integrate seamlessly into existing manufacturing infrastructure, with the potential to make MicroLED displays more commercially viable across a number of sectors including smartphones, wearables, automotives and digital signage.

Smartkem designs and develops its materials at its research and development facility in Manchester, UK and provides prototyping services at the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) in Sedgefield, UK. It operates a field application office in Hsinchu, Taiwan, close to collaboration partner, The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). Smartkem is developing a commercial-scale production process and Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools to demonstrate the commercial viability of manufacturing a new generation of displays using its materials.

The company has an extensive IP portfolio including 138 granted patents across 17 patent families, 16 pending patents and 40 codified trade secrets. For more information, visit our website or follow us on LinkedIn.

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements in this press release that are not historical are forward-looking statements, including, among other things, its market position and market opportunity, expectations and plans as to its product development, manufacturing and sales, and relations with its partners and investors. These statements are not historical facts but rather are based on Smartkem, Inc.’s current expectations, estimates, and projections regarding its business, operations and other similar or related factors. Words such as “may,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “anticipate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “project,” “believe,” “estimate,” and other similar or elated expressions are used to identify these forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. You should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions that are difficult or impossible to predict and, in some cases, beyond the Company’s control. Actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors, including those described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update information in this release to reflect events or circumstances in the future, even if new information becomes available.

Industry Representatives and Media

Selena Kirkwood
Head of Communications for Smartkem
T: +44 (0) 7971 460 364
s.kirkwood@smartkem.com

Analysts and Investors

David Barnard, CFA
Alliance Advisors Investor Relations
T: 1 415 433 3777
dbarnard@allianceadvisors.com

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All-new, Toyota C-HR Battery Electric Vehicle with 338 combined system net hp and a manufacturer-estimated all electric driving range rating of up to 290-miles*Premium interior and easy access rear cargo area for comfort, convenience and utilityDC fast-charging capability with access to thousands of Level Three charging stations nationwide for a 10-80% charge in around 30 minutes under ideal conditionsCoupe-like SUV profile with eye-catching design and a fun-to-drive character with standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD)Built on Toyota’s e-TNGA platform, with chassis tuning that compliments its spirited outputModern interior with soft touch materials, customizable lighting, and 14-inch touchscreenCompact crossover utility with 60/40-fold flat seats and up-to 25.4-cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seatsExpected arrival at U.S. Toyota dealerships in 2026

PLANO, Texas, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Today Toyota announces the all-new 2026 Toyota C-HR Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), an all-new model set to be a bold entry in its electrified lineup. With an impressive 338 horsepower combined system output, and standard All-Wheel Drive, it has a performance-inspired spirit with a manufacturer estimated 0-60 mph time of around 5 seconds. The C-HR couples its dynamic performance with a coupe-like design, a well-appointed interior, and up-to 25.4-cubic feet of rear cargo space behind the rear seats for compact crossover utility.

The 2026 C-HR BEV brings cutting-edge style and high-tech features. It will be powered by a 74.7 kW battery and have a manufacturer-estimated all-electric range rating of 290 miles*. It will come equipped with a North American Charging System (NACS) port, giving it access to thousands of DC charging stations nationwide. It will also be capable of charging on Level One and Level Two AC power sources. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters that control regenerative braking power are also standard. When activated, four different levels of regenerative braking power can be selected to convert kinetic energy to electric energy, adding charge to the traction battery.

It will come in SE and XSE grades and have great standard interior features like a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, fully digital gauge cluster, dual wireless chargers in the center console, and the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 system. The cabin also brings comfort, with seating choices from fabric and SofTex®-trim to synthetic suede and SofTex-trim.

On the outside, key standard equipment like a power liftgate, low-profile roof rails, and rain-sensing wipers bring functional value. There will be 18-inch and 20-inch wheel options and a variety of available exterior paint colors in single and two-tone paint options.

Developed from a compact BEV concept Toyota first presented in 2022, the new C-HR BEV is the 20th electrified model to be added to the Toyota lineup. The model carries forward Toyota’s multi-pathway powertrain approach, which includes a variety of models available across its lineup to fit customers’ lifestyles, including BEV, Hybrid, Plug-in Hybrid, and Fuel Cell (CA and Hawaii only) powertrains. The 2026 C-HR BEV is expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships nationwide in 2026.

Spacious Style

The Toyota C-HR BEV is designed as an expression of the fun-to-drive, exhilarating character of electric vehicles. Built on Toyota’s dedicated e-TNGA battery electric vehicle platform, its flowing body lines and wide stance convey a dynamic drive. The vehicle’s compact coupe silhouette is formed by Toyota’s signature hammerhead front end flowing seamlessly into a compact cabin and angular rear.

The C-HR has compact crossover proportions with an overall length of 177.9-inches, overall width of 73.6-inches, wheelbase of 108.3-inches, and overall height 63.8-inches. This helps give it spacious accommodation, with generous headroom and ample cabin space. The interior design is clean and open, with a slim driver’s display and easy-to-access center console. For an added touch, it also has customizable ambient lighting for setting just the right mood. Altogether, it has a comfortable, high-tech cabin that is stylish and functional.

It also provides drivers and passengers alike with plenty of comfort and convenience, such as two wireless smartphone chargers and rear cabin USB ports to ensure everyone on board can be connected when on the move; rear cabin air conditioning controls; and an available panoramic roof that brings natural light to all parts of the interior.

Electrifying Performance

The 2026 Toyota C-HR BEV comes equipped with standard AWD with electric motors housed in the front and rear eAxles. Altogether, the model is expected to be capable of going from 0 to 60 miles per hour in around 5 seconds. Its coupe-like lines are complemented by a low center of gravity, thanks to the underfloor-mounted battery pack that is surrounded by a cross-framing structure for overall vehicle rigidity. In addition to the fundamental strength, rigidity and agility of the dedicated BEV platform, suspension parts have been precisely tuned for the new C-HR, including spring and damper performance and the stiffness of the anti-roll bars.

It will have a lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 74.7-kWh and an 11-kW on-board AC charger. It will have a NACS charging port that is compatible with Level Three DC fast-charging, giving it access to thousands of high-speed charging stations nationwide. When using fast charging the C-HR will be capable of recharging from 10% to 80% battery capacity in around 30 minutes under ideal conditions*. The 2026 C-HR will also be capable of charging on Level One and Level Two AC power sources.

A battery pre-conditioning function is also included on C-HR. This system brings the battery to an optimal temperature for DC fast charging, enabling faster charging in colder climates. This function can be activated manually or automatically by setting the navigation system destination to a fast-charging station.  

The 2026 C-HR also features steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters to activate and adjust regenerative braking. Regenerative braking is the process of converting energy created by the movement of the vehicle, also known as kinetic energy, into electrical energy. The driver can adjust the amount of regenerative braking power from four levels using the paddle shifters.

Two Style and Value-Packed Grades

The all-electric 2026 C-HR will be available in an SE and XSE grade. Exterior paint options on both grades will include the all-new Overcast and Tandoori colors, along with Cement, Midnight Black Metallic, and Wind Chill Pearl (premium paint option). The XSE will also have two-tone paint available, including the combination of Tandoori, Cement, or Wind Chill Pearl with a Midnight Black Metallic Roof. Key features by grade include:

SE

Performance specifications:Manufacturer estimated 290-mile all-electric driving range rating*338 horsepower11-kW onboard AC chargerDual-voltage A/C charging cableNACS charging port18-in. wheels with black alloy insertsPower liftgateRain-sensing wipersLow profile roof railsFabric/SofTex trimmed seating with 8-way power driver seat and 6-way manual passenger seatHeated front seats and steering wheel14-in. touchscreen with Toyota Audio Multimedia systemTwo front wireless Qi chargersThree USB-Type C ports (one front, two rear)Toyota Safety Sense 3.0Front & Rear Parking Assist with Automatic BrakingBlind Spot Monitor

XSE (adds to or replaces SE features with):

20-in. gun metal finished wheelsSofTex and synthetic suede-trimmed seats8-way power passenger seatDriver memory seatDigital Rearview Mirror with HomeLink®Traffic Jam Assist**Lane Change AssistPanoramic View Monitor

Intuitive Connected Tech

Modern convenience also comes standard on the 2026 Toyota C-HR BEV, as it will come with a 14-inch touchscreen that runs the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, designed and engineered by Toyota’s Texas-based Connected Technologies team. It also comes with a host of Toyota Connected Services** trials.

The Drive Connect** 3-year trial gives access to Intelligent Assistant, Cloud Navigation and Destination Assist. With Intelligent Assistant, simple phrases like “Hey Toyota” awakens the system for voice activated commands to search for directions, find Points of Interest (POI), adjust audio controls, change the cabin temperatures and more. Cloud Navigation, the available onboard navigation solution, utilizes the cloud to download the latest available map, traffic and routing information. To ensure users have the most up-to-date search capabilities, POI search is provided by Google Points-of-Interest data. Destination Assist also gives access to 24/7 live agent assistance to locate the next destination.

All Toyota C-HR models are equipped with a six-speaker audio system for enjoying entertainment while on-the-go, a JBL® Premium Audio system with 9 speakers, including an 8-channel 800-watt amplifier and 9-inch subwoofer will also be available.

The Toyota Audio Multimedia system also allows for dual Bluetooth phone connectivity, with support for standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility. With further connectivity, the C-HR has a Wi-Fi Connect trial (30 days or up to 3GB upon activation) that offers 4G connectivity for up to five devices – turning the C-HR into an AT&T Hotspot.

Adding to the already robust offering of audio playback ability with HD Radio, USB data and a SiriusXM® 3-month trial subscription, Wi-Fi Connect also enables the new Integrated Streaming feature, providing the ability to link separate Apple Music® and Amazon Music subscriptions to the vehicle for onboard control.

The C-HR also comes with a 5-year minimum trial subscription for both Safety Connect** and Service Connect**. Safety Connect includes an Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), 24/7 Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification and Stolen Vehicle Locator. Service Connect gives drivers the capability to receive Vehicle Health Reports, Maintenance Alerts and reminders.

With the Toyota App, users can stay connected to their C-HR with Remote Connect**, included as a 3-year trial. With Remote Connect, users can activate headlights, a horn alert, buzzer and unlock the rear hatch. The remote climate features include the ability for in-cabin temperature controls, including remote activation of the available seat heaters/ventilators, steering wheel heater, defroster, and the ability to schedule a timer to activate in a daily routine.

Remote charging capabilities are also included with Remote Connect trial or subscription on the C-HR, which includes the ability to check charging status, start/stop charging with a vehicle that is already plugged in and even edit charging schedules, allowing for enhanced controls of the C-HR’s charging. The Toyota App also provides an easy-to-use map to find charging station locations near you or along your route.

Active Safety & Driver Assist Technology

The C-HR features Toyota Safety Sense 3.0™, Toyota’s suite of active safety and driver assistance features designed to support driver awareness, decision-making, and vehicle operation. Please note that Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 systems and driver assist features are not a substitute for safe and attentive driving. The safety suite includes:

Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection (PCS w/PD): Designed to help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist and provide an audible/visual forward-collision warning under certain circumstances. If you don’t react, the system is designed to provide automatic emergency braking.Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DCRR): An adaptive cruise control system that is designed to be set at speeds above 20 mph. DRCC uses vehicle-to-vehicle distance control to help maintain a preset distance from the vehicle ahead of you.Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist (LDA w/SA):  Detects lane markings or the road’s edge at speeds above 30 mph. LDA w/SA is designed to provide an audible/visual warning if an inadvertent lane departure is detected. If no corrective action is taken, Steering Assist is designed to provide gentle corrective steering for lane-keeping assistance.Lane Tracing Assist (LTA): Designed to help keep the vehicle in the center of a lane. LTA assists the driver with steering control while DRCC is in use.Road Sign Assist (RSA): Uses the forward-facing camera to recognize specific road signs, such as speed limit, stop, and yield signs. RSA provides sign information to the driver via the Multi-Information Display.Automatic High Beams (AHB): Designed to detect headlights of oncoming vehicles and taillights of preceding vehicles. AHB automatically toggles between high and low beams as appropriate.Proactive Driving Assist (PDA): Uses the vehicle’s camera and radar, when system operating conditions are met, to provide gentle braking and/or steering to support driving tasks such as distance control between your vehicle and a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist. PDA can also provide gentle braking into curves.

For complete details on TSS 3.0, please visit Toyota.com/safety-sense.

Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert is also standard. The BSM system uses rear side radar sensors installed on the inner side of the rear bumper, on both the left and right sides, to assist the driver in confirming safety when changing lanes. The RCTA function uses the same sensors installed behind the rear bumper. This function is intended to assist the driver in checking areas that are not easily visible when backing up.

Safe Exit Alert is also standard on the C-HR. This system is designed to detect vehicles or cyclists approaching from the rear and judge if there is a possibility of a collision with an open door or passengers who are exiting. Safe Exit Alert will illuminate an indicator in the outer mirror and provide an audible alert to notify vehicle occupants.

The Toyota C-HR is also equipped with Toyota’s Star Safety System, standard. This system includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Smart Stop Technology® (SST).

Driver assistance features include Traffic Jam Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Front Cross-Traffic Alert, standard**.

In terms of battery safety, Toyota uses many measures to help protect cell integrity, thanks to the design and a multiple monitoring system intended to protect the vehicle’s battery system. This includes:

Redundant monitoring of battery voltage, current and temperature designed to detect signs of abnormal heating to maintain optimal battery temperature and help prevent cell damageUtilization of a high-resistance coolant circulation system is designed to help prevent a thermal event from short circuits even in high battery load conditions due to repeatedly switching between high-speed driving and rapid charging

Limited Warranty

Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and corrosion with no mileage limitation. The Electric Vehicle Driving Components, including the traction battery, are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. Toyota dealers have complete details on the limited warranty.

The Toyota C-HR also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and three years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of mileage.

About Toyota 

Toyota (NYSE: TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.   

Toyota directly employs nearly 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 35 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota’s plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 32 electrified options. 

Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved communities near the company’s U.S. operating sites.   

For more information about Toyota, visit  www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Paul Hogard
paul.hogard@toyota.com  
469-429-4524

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SOURCE Toyota Motor North America

Companies will Demo Innovative Wine Authentication Solution in May 28 Webinar on the Future of Wine Authentication

SANTA ANA, Calif., May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Identiv, Inc. (NASDAQ: INVE), a global leader in RFID- and BLE-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, introduces a new NFC-based anti-counterfeiting smart packaging solution for luxury wine producers and collectors in collaboration with ZATAP and Genuine-Analytics.

With global wine fraud estimated to impact as much as 20% of bottles in circulation, the partnership between Identiv, ZATAP, and Genuine-Analytics AG is setting a new standard in wine authentication using wireless IoT, digital certificates, and blockchain to verify not just the bottle, but the wine inside.  This next-generation solution combines secure NFC technology, non-invasive content testing, and blockchain-based digital identity, enabling near-instant verification of a wine’s authenticity and protecting a brand’s value, reputation, and consumer trust.

At a Swiss wine auction in 2024, the partnership’s solution successfully authenticated a series of rare, high-value vintages, with some bottles priced at over 20,000 Swiss Francs. It even detected a counterfeit bottle, reinforcing the platform’s potential for broader adoption.

“This is the future of wine authentication,” said Klaus Simonmeyer, Vice President at Identiv. “With our NFC inlays designed specifically for the unique properties of wine bottles, Genuine-Analytics’ groundbreaking analysis of wine contents, and ZATAP’s digital twin technology, we’re able to confirm not only that a wine bottle is authentic, but so is the wine inside.”

A Proven Solution
Each company brings its specific expertise to the solution. This collaboration establishes an immutable digital link between a physical bottle of wine, its contents, and its authenticated, digital twin hosted on an IoT-based blockchain.  The integrated solution includes:

Identiv’s secure NFC inlays, powered by NTAG® 424 DNA TagTamper security-certified chips from trusted IC provider NXP® Semiconductors, are built to detect tampering and link each bottle to its digital identity.Genuine-Analytics’ scientific content analysis, validated against its proprietary winePROOF database.ZATAP’s mobile interface communicates with Blockchain infrastructure, providing real-time authentication and provenance data to buyers and sellers.

To authenticate a wine bottle’s contents, Genuine-Analytics uses a microscopic laser-drilled hole to test the wine inside the bottle against its proprietary winePROOF database. Once verified, a GA Safety Tag custom-designed by Identiv is applied to reseal the bottle and provide digital proof of authenticity. By securing both the contents and the container, the system creates a new standard for digital trust – one that benefits not only collectors and auction houses, but also wine producers seeking to protect their brand and customers.

“This partnership’s goal is to make wine authentication seamless and reliable for everyone,” said Dr. Markus Ehrat, CEO of Genuine-Analytics. “Together, we’re delivering a complete authentication solution that’s scalable and secure, helping the wine industry stay ahead of counterfeiting risks.”

David Geisser, CEO of ZATAP, added, “When this solution is applied at the producer level, it can scale to include any wine, from luxury wines to more everyday vintages.”

Leaders from Identiv, Genuine-Analytics AG, and ZATAP will co-host a webinar, “The Future of Wine Authentication,” on May 28, 2025, at 9:00 AM PDT/6 PM CET. The webinar will include a live demo of the wine authentication application. To attend, please register here.

About Identiv
Identiv’s full-circle RFID-enabled IoT solutions create digital identities for physical objects, enhancing global connectivity for businesses, people, and the planet. Its solutions, integrated into over 1.5 billion applications worldwide, drive innovation across healthcare, consumer electronics, luxury goods, smart packaging, and more. For additional information, visit identiv.com.

Identiv Media Contact:
Sophie Pearson
Identiv, Inc.
spearson@identiv.com

ZATAP Media Contact:
David Geisser
ZATAP
geisser@collectid.net

Genuine-Analytics AG Media Contact:
Dr. Markus Ehrat
Genuine-Analytics AG
markus.ehrat@genuine-analytics.ch

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SOURCE Identiv