UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

[X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2020

 

OR

 

[  ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from _____________ to _____________

 

Commission file number: 001-37960

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware   33-0479020

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

     
249 E. Gardena Blvd., Gardena, California   90248
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)

 

(310) 830-9153

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.05 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes [X] No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company or emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

  Large Accelerated Filer [  ]   Accelerated Filer [  ]
  Non-Accelerated Filer [X]   Smaller Reporting Company [X]
      Emerging Growth Company [X]

 

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. [X]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes [  ] No [X]

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class   Trading Symbol(s)   Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.0001 per share   POLA   The NASDAQ Stock Market, LLC

 

The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant’s common stock, $0.0001 par value, as of November 16, 2020 was 11,650,681.

 

 

 

 
 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION 1
   
ITEM 1. Condensed Financial Statements 1
   
ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations 15
   
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 25
   
ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures 25
   
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION 27
   
ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings 27
 
ITEM 1A. Risk Factors 27
   
ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds 44
   
ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities 44
   
ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosure 44
   
ITEM 5. Other Information 44
   
ITEM 6. Exhibits 44

 

i
 

 

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, including without limitation the sections entitled “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Risk Factors,” contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In some cases you can identify these statements by forward-looking words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “might,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “could,” “should,” “would,” “project,” “plan,” “outlook,” “target,” “expect,” or similar expressions, or the negative or plural of these words or expressions.

 

Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties, which could cause our actual results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements. These statements appear throughout this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and are statements regarding our intent, belief, or current expectations, primarily based on our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events and trends that we may affect our business, financial conditions, operating results, cash flows or prospects, as well as related industry developments. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements for many reasons, including the risks faced by us and described in Part II, Item 1A, entitled “Risk Factors,” and in “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Part I, Item 2 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason, or to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

 

ii
 

 

PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. Condensed Financial Statements

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

   September 30,
2020
   December 31,
2019
 
   (Unaudited)     
ASSETS          
Current assets          
Cash and cash equivalents  $2,071   $2,840 
Accounts receivable   1,776    934 
Inventories, net   11,380    13,912 
Prepaid expenses   334    1,265 
Income tax receivable   1,715    231 
Total current assets   17,276    19,182 
           
Other assets:          
Operating lease right-of-use assets, net   1,721    2,187 
Property and equipment, net   1,634    2,100 
Deposits   98    94 
Deferred tax assets   655     
           
Total assets  $21,384   $23,563 
           
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
Current liabilities          
Accounts payable  $319   $575 
Customer deposits   689    197 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities   912    1,031 
Current portion of operating lease liabilities   657    618 
Current portion of notes payable   290    328 
Line of Credit   245     
Total current liabilities   3,112    2,749 
           
Notes payable, net of current portion   569    778 
Operating lease liabilities, net of current portion   1,162    1,660 
PPP Loan   1,715     
           
Total liabilities   6,558    5,187 
           
Commitments and Contingencies          
           
Stockholders’ Equity          
Preferred stock, $0.0001 par value, 5,000,000 shares authorized, no shares issued and outstanding        
Common stock, $0.0001 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized, 11,668,158 shares issued and 11,650,681 shares outstanding on September 30, 2020 and 10,143,158 shares issued and 10,125,681 shares outstanding on December 31, 2019   1    1 
Additional paid-in capital   23,330    19,657 
Accumulated deficit   (8,465)   (1,242)
Treasury Stock, at cost (17,477 shares)   (40)   (40)
Total stockholders’ equity   14,826    18,376 
           
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity  $21,384   $23,563 

 

See Accompanying Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements

 

1
 

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except share and per share data)

 

   Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
   2020   2019   2020   2019 
Net Sales  $2,501   $6,939   $6,488   $23,922 
Cost of Sales   2,800    4,707    7,658    16,336 
Increase in inventory reserve   2,400        2,400     
Gross profit (loss)   (2,699)   2,232    (3,570)   7,586 
                    
Operating Expenses                    
Sales and marketing   445    707    1,296    2,033 
Research and development   489    546    1,309    1,650 
General and administrative   1,080    936    3,154    3,209 
Total operating expenses   2,014    2,189    5,759    6,892 
                     
Income (loss) from operations   (4,713)   43    (9,329)   694 
                     
Other income (expenses)                    
Interest expense and finance costs   (11)   (14)   (46)   (34)
Other income (expense), net   1    19    14    26 
Total other income (expenses), net   (10)   5    (32)   (8)
                     
Income (loss) before income taxes   (4,723)   48    (9,361)   686 
                     
Income tax benefit                    
Current           (1,484)    
Deferred           (655)    
Total income tax benefit           (2,139)    
                     
Net income (loss)  $(4,723)  $48   $(7,222)  $686 
                     
Net income (loss) per share – basic and diluted  $(0.42)  $0.00   $(0.68)  $0.07 
Weighted average shares outstanding, basic and diluted   11,315,984    10,143,158    10,659,308    10,143,158 

 

See Accompanying Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements

 

2
 

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

(in thousands, except share data)

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2020

 

   Common Stock   Additional
paid-in
   (Accumulated   Treasury   Total
Stockholders’
 
   Number   Amount   capital   Deficit)   Stock   Equity 
Balance, June 30, 2020 (unaudited)   10,143,158   $1   $19,657   $(3,741)  $(40)  $15,877 
Common shares issued with warrants for cash   1,250,000        2,812            2,812 
Common shares issued upon exercise of warrants   275,000        861            861 
Net loss               (4,723)       (4,723)
Balance, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   11,668,158   $1   $23,330   $(8,464)   (40)  $14,827 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020

 

   Common Stock   Additional
paid-in
   (Accumulated   Treasury   Total
Stockholders’
 
   Number   Amount   capital   Deficit)   Stock   Equity 
Balance, December 31, 2019 (unaudited)   10,143,158   $1   $19,657   $(1,242)  $(40)  $18,376 
Common shares issued with warrants for cash   1,250,000        2,812            2,812 
Common shares issued upon exercise of warrants   275,000         861            861 
Net loss               (7,222)       (7,222)
Balance, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   11,668,158   $1   $23,330   $(8,464)  $(40)  $14,827 

 

Three months Ended September 30, 2019

 

   Common Stock   Additional
paid-in
   Retained   Total
Stockholders’
 
   Number   Amount   capital   Earnings   Equity 
Balance, June 30, 2019 (unaudited)   10,143,158   $1   $19,736   $3,440   $23,177 
Fair value of vested stock options           79        79 
Net income               48    48 
Balance, September 30, 2019 (unaudited)   10,143,158   $1   $19,815   $3,488   $23,304 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

 

   Common Stock   Additional
paid-in
   Retained   Total
Stockholders’
 
   Number   Amount   capital   Earnings   Equity 
Balance, December 31, 2018   10,143,158   $1   $19,578   $2,803   $22,382 
Fair value of vested stock options             237        237 
Net income               685    685 
Balance, September 30, 2019 (unaudited)   10,143,158   $1   $19,815   $3,488   $23,304 

 

See Accompanying Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements

 

3
 

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

UNAUDITED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW

(in thousands)

 

   Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
   2020   2019 
Cash flows from operating activities:          
Net income (loss)  $(7,222)  $686 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:          
Fair value of vested stock options       237 
Depreciation and amortization   469    459 
Increase in inventory reserve   2,400     
Deferred tax assets   (655)    
Amortization of operating lease right-of-use asset   466    391 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities          
Accounts receivable   (842)   2,689 
Inventories   132    (5,671)
Prepaid expenses   930    (819)
Deposits   (4)    
Income tax receivable   (1,484)   484 
Accounts payable   (255)   (210)
Customer deposits   491    149 
Accrued expenses and other current liabilities   (120)   468 
Decrease in lease liability   (458)   (352)
Net cash used in operating activities   (6,152)   (1,489)
           
Cash flows from investing activities:          
Acquisition of property and equipment       (311)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment   (3)    
Net cash used in investing activities   (3)   (311)
           
Cash flows from financing activities:          
Proceeds from PPP Loan   1,715     
Advances from line of credit   245     
Proceeds from sales of common shares and warrants   2,812     
Proceeds from exercise of warrants   861     
Repayment of notes   (247)   (174)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities   5,386    (174)
           
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents   (769)   (1,974)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   2,840    5,640 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $2,071   $3,666 
           
Supplemental non-cash investing and financing activities:          
Assets acquired through issuance of notes payable  $   $153
Initial recognition of operating lease right-of-use assets and operating lease obligations upon adoption of ASC Topic 842  $   $2,847 
Reclassification of prepaid expenses to property and equipment  $   $114 

 

See Accompanying Notes to the Condensed Financial Statements

 

4
 

 

POLAR POWER, INC.

NOTES TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 AND 2019

(In thousands, except for share and per share data and where otherwise noted)

(UNAUDITED)

 

NOTE 1 – ORGANIZATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The Company

 

Polar Power, Inc. was incorporated in the State of Washington as Polar Products, Inc. and in 1991 reincorporated in the State of California under the name Polar Power, Inc. In December 2016, Polar Power, Inc. reincorporated in the State of Delaware (the “Company”). The Company designs, manufactures and sells direct current, or DC, power systems to supply reliable and low-cost energy to off-grid, bad-grid and backup power applications. The Company’s products integrate DC generator and proprietary automated controls, lithium batteries and solar systems to provide low operating cost and lower emissions alternative power needs in telecommunications, defense, automotive and industrial markets.

 

Going Concern

 

The Company’s financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis, which presumes the Company will continue realization of its assets and settlement of its liabilities in the normal course of operations. The application of the going concern basis is dependent upon the Company achieving profitable operations to generate sufficient cash flows to fund continued operations, or, in the absence of adequate cash flows from operations, obtaining additional financing. The Company has reported losses from operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 and used cash in operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Its U.S. telecommunications customers, which represented 95% of the Company’s net sales as of December 31, 2019, and 99% and 97% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, respectively, have postponed shipments and orders to prioritize expansion of 5G and cell site edge computing networks. In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the coronavirus of 2019 (“COVID-19”) a global pandemic. This contagious disease pandemic, which has continued to spread, and any related adverse public health developments, has adversely affected workforces, economies, and financial markets globally, and has resulted in an economic downturn. It is not possible for the Company to predict the duration or magnitude of the adverse results of the pandemic and its effects on the Company’s business or ability to raise funds. These factors raise substantial doubt regarding the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern within one year from the issue date of the Company’s financial statements.

 

In addition, the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, in its report on the Company’s December 31, 2019 financial statements, has expressed substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

At September 30, 2020, the Company had cash on hand in the amount of $2,071. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, the Company received proceeds of $1,715 pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (see Note 5), proceeds of $2,812 from the issuance of common stock (See Note 6), and proceeds of $861 from the exercise of warrants (See Note 8). The Company’s management estimates, as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, that the current funds on hand will be sufficient to continue operations through March 31, 2021. The continuation of the Company as a going concern is dependent upon its ability to obtain necessary debt or equity financing to continue operations until it begins generating positive cash flow. No assurance can be given that any future financing will be available or, if available, that it will be on terms that are satisfactory to the Company. Even if the Company is able to obtain additional financing, it may contain undue restrictions on its operations, in the case of debt financing or cause substantial dilution for its stockholders, in case or equity financing. Management continues to review operations in order to identify additional strategies designed to generate cash flow, improve the Company’s financial position, and enable the timely discharge of the Company’s obligations. If management is unable to identify sources of additional cash flow in the short term, it may be required to further reduce or limit operations.

 

Impact of COVID-19

 

The Company continues to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and guidance from international and domestic authorities, including federal, state and local public health authorities and it may need to make changes to its business based on their recommendations. COVID-19, has had and is likely to continue to have, a material and substantial adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations including, among others, a decrease in the Company’s sales, delays in sourcing of raw materials from suppliers which, in turn, has raised liquidity concerns. In addition, the Company’s inventory reserve increased during the first nine months of 2020 due to current uncertainties regarding specific product shipments. The Company’s business is directly dependent upon, and correlates closely with, the marketing levels and ongoing business activities of its existing customers and suppliers. In the event of a continued widespread economic downturn caused by COVID-19, the Company will likely experience a further reduction in current projects, longer sales and collection cycles, deferral or delay of purchase commitments for our DC power systems, a reduction in its manufacturing functionality, higher than normal inventory levels, a reduction in the availability of qualified labor, and increased price competition, all of which could substantially adversely affect its net revenues and its ability to remain a going concern.

 

In the event the Company remains a going concern, the impacts of COVID-19 on its business, sources of revenues and the general economy, are currently not fully known. The Company is conducting business as usual with some modifications to employee work locations, and cancellation of certain marketing events, among other modifications. As a result of the Company’s declining revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Company’s management team implemented a cost reduction program to reduce overhead. The Company lowered operation expenses, while still keeping the business operational and ready to expand when needed. The Company will continue to actively monitor the situation and may take further actions that may alter its business operations as may be required by federal, state or local authorities or that the Company determines are in the best interests of its employees, customers, partners, suppliers and stockholders. It is not clear what the potential effects any such alterations or modifications may have on the Company’s business, including the effects on its customers and prospects, although the Company does anticipate it to negatively impact its financial results during fiscal year 2020 and perhaps beyond.

 

During November 2020, two leaders in the pharmaceutical industry released news of achieving over 90% effectiveness on their COVID-19 vaccines. We remain hopeful that this is the beginning of taking control over the COVID-19 pandemic and seeing economic conditions gradually improve in 2021. Control over COVID-19 will improve our ability to travel for purpose of training our sales staff and customers, commissioning of generators, and promoting the rollout of our new products to enhance our efforts for customer diversification. We expect to see significant improvements to labor and manufacturing efficiencies and a reduction in delays in the supply chain. In addition, we believe our investments during the last two years in facilities, state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, and training of our staff place us in good position to achieve significant improvements in our financial position as opportunities arise and the negative impact of COVID-19 is reduced.

 

Basis of Presentation of Unaudited Financial Information

 

The unaudited condensed financial statements of the Company for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information and pursuant to the requirements for reporting on Form 10-Q and Regulation S-K for scaled disclosures for smaller reporting companies. Accordingly, they do not include all the information and footnotes required by GAAP for complete financial statements. However, such information reflects all adjustments (consisting solely of normal recurring adjustments), which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for the fair presentation of the Company’s financial position and results of operations. Results shown for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results to be obtained for a full fiscal year. The balance sheet information as of December 31, 2019 was derived from the audited financial statements included in the Company’s financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, on May 14, 2020. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with that report.

 

5
 

 

Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Material estimates relate to the assumptions made in determining reserves for uncollectible receivables, inventory reserves and returns, impairment analysis of long-term assets, valuation allowance on deferred tax assets, income tax accruals, accruals for potential liabilities and warrant reserves and assumptions made in valuing equity instruments issued for services. Actual results may differ from those estimates.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

The Company recognizes revenue in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. The underlying principle of ASC 606 is to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at the amount expected to be collected. ASC 606 creates a five-step model that requires entities to exercise judgment when considering the terms of contract(s), which includes (1) identifying the contract(s) or agreement(s) with a customer, (2) identifying our performance obligations in the contract or agreement, (3) determining the transaction price, (4) allocating the transaction price to the separate performance obligations, and (5) recognizing revenue as each performance obligation is satisfied. Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied, which occurs for us upon shipment or delivery of products or services to our customers based on written sales terms, which is also when control is transferred. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring the products or services to a customer.

 

6
 

 

We determine whether delivery has occurred based on when title transfers and the risks and rewards of ownership have transferred to the customer, which usually occurs when we place the product with the customer’s carrier or deliver the product to a customer’s location. We regularly review our customers’ financial positions to ensure that collectability is reasonably assured.

 

We recognize revenues from rental equipment on a straight-line basis over the rental period. Our rental contracts are fixed price contracts for fixed durations of time and include freight and delivery charges. Our rental revenues have not been significant to date and accounted for less than one percent of our total revenues for the three and nine months Ended September 30, 2020 and 2019.

 

Disaggregation of Net Sales

 

The following table shows the Company’s disaggregated net sales by product type:

 

   Three months ended
September 30,
 
  

2020

(Unaudited)

  

2019

(Unaudited)

 
DC power systems  $2,414   $6,776 
Accessories   87    163 
Total net sales  $2,501   $6,939 

 

   Nine months ended
September 30,
 
  

2020

(Unaudited)

  

2019

(Unaudited)

 
DC power systems  $6,200   $23,379 
Accessories   288    543 
Total net sales  $6,488   $23,922 

 

The following table shows the Company’s disaggregated net sales by customer type:

 

   Three months ended
September 30,
 
  

2020

(Unaudited)

  

2019

(Unaudited)

 
Telecom  $2,491   $6,753 
Government/Military   2    40 
Marine   1     
Other (backup DC power to various industries)   7    146 
Total net sales  $2,501   $6,939 

 

   Nine months ended
September 30,
 
  

2020

(Unaudited)

  

2019

(Unaudited)

 
Telecom  $6,294   $22,497 
Government/Military   9    588 
Marine   5    61 
Other (backup DC power to various industries)   180    776 
Total net sales  $6,488   $23,922 

 

7

 

 

Inventories

 

Inventories consist of raw materials and finished goods and are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value. If the estimated net realizable value is determined to be less than the recorded cost of the inventory, a provision is made to reduce the carrying amount of the inventory item to the lower net realizable value determination. Determination of the net realizable value may be complex, and therefore, requires management to make assumptions and to apply a high degree of judgment. In order for management to make the appropriate determination of net realizable value, the following items are commonly considered: inventory turnover statistics, inventory quantities on hand in our facilities and customer inventories, unfilled customer order quantities, forecasted consumer demand, current prices, competitive pricing, seasonality factors, consumer trends and performance of similar products or accessories. Subsequent changes in facts or circumstances do not result in the reversal of previously recorded write-downs. As of December 31, 2019, the Company established inventory reserves of $600 for obsolete and slow-moving inventory. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, due to lower than expected demand and sales of our products, we increased our inventory reserve by $2,400 to reduce the remaining inventory of our products to its estimated net realizable value of $11,380 as of September 30, 2020. If actual future demand or market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required. As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the components of inventories were as follows:

 

  

September 30,

2020

(unaudited)

  

December 31,

2019

 
         
Raw materials  $9,482   $8,651 
Finished goods   4,898    5,861 
    14,380    14,512 
Less: Inventory reserve   (3,000)   (600)
Total Inventories, net  $11,380   $13,912 

 

Product Warranties

 

The Company provides limited warranties for parts and labor at no cost to its customers within a specified time period after the sale. The warranty terms are typically from one to five years. The Company’s warranties are of an assurance-type and come standard with all Company products to cover repair or replacement should product not perform as expected. Provisions for estimated expenses related to product warranties are made at the time products are sold. These estimates are established using historical information about the nature, frequency and average cost of warranty claim settlements as well as product manufacturing and recovery from suppliers. Management actively studies trends of warranty claims and takes action to improve product quality and minimize warranty costs. The Company estimates the actual historical warranty claims coupled with an analysis of unfulfilled claims to record a liability for specific warranty purposes. The Company’s product warranty obligations are included in other accrued liabilities in the balance sheets. As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the Company had accrued a liability for warranty reserve of $375 and $375, respectively. Management believes that the warranty accrual is appropriate; however, actual claims incurred could differ from original estimates, requiring adjustments to the accrual. The product warranty accrual is included in current liabilities in the accompanying balance sheets.

 

The following is a tabular reconciliation of the product warranty liability, excluding the deferred revenue related to the Company’s warranty coverage:

 

Changes in estimates for warranties 

September 30,

2020

(unaudited)

  

December 31,

2019

 
Balance at beginning of the period  $375   $175 
Payments   (408)   (530)
Provision for warranties   408    730 
Balance at end of the period  $375   $375 

 

8

 

 

Financial Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value

 

The Company uses various inputs in determining the fair value of its investments and measures these assets on a recurring basis. Financial assets recorded at fair value in the balance sheets are categorized by the level of objectivity associated with the inputs used to measure their fair value.

 

Authoritative guidance provided by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) defines the following levels directly related to the amount of subjectivity associated with the inputs to fair valuation of these financial assets:

 

  Level 1 Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
     
  Level 2 Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that is observable either directly or indirectly.
     
  Level 3 Unobservable inputs based on the Company’s assumptions.

 

The carrying amounts of financial assets and liabilities, such as cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable, approximate their fair values because of the short maturity of these instruments. The carrying values of the line of credit, notes payable approximate their fair values due to the fact that the interest rates on these obligations are based on prevailing market interest rates.

 

Segments

 

The Company operates in one segment for the manufacture and distribution of its products. In accordance with the “Segment Reporting” Topic of the ASC, the Company’s chief operating decision maker has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer and President, who reviews operating results to make decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance for the entire Company. Existing guidance, which is based on a management approach to segment reporting, establishes requirements to report selected segment information quarterly and to report annually entity-wide disclosures about products and services, major customers, and the countries in which the entity holds material assets and reports revenue. All material operating units qualify for aggregation under “Segment Reporting” due to their similar customer base and similarities in: economic characteristics; nature of products and services; and procurement, manufacturing and distribution processes. Since the Company operates in one segment, all financial information required by “Segment Reporting” can be found in the accompanying financial statements.

 

Concentrations

 

Cash. The Company maintains cash balances at three banks, with the majority held at one bank located in the U.S. At times, the amount on deposit exceeds the federally insured limits. Management believes that the financial institutions that hold the Company’s cash are financially sound and, accordingly, minimal credit risk exists.

 

9

 

 

Cash denominated in Australian Dollars with a U.S. Dollar equivalent of $11 and $17 at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, was held in an account at a financial institution located in Australia. Cash denominated in Romanian Leu with a U.S. Dollar equivalent of $29 and $4 at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, was held in an account at a financial institution located in Romania.

 

Revenues. For the three months ended September 30, 2020, 41% and 27% of revenues were generated from the Company’s two largest customers, one being a Tier-1 telecommunications wireless carrier. For the same period in 2019, 84% and 7.5% of revenues were generated from the Company’s two largest customers, both being Tier-1 telecommunications wireless carriers. For the three months ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, sales to telecommunications customers accounted for 99% and 97% of total revenues, respectively.

 

For the nine months Ended September 30, 2020, sales to the Company’s two largest customers accounted for 57% and 13% of total revenues, one being a Tier-1 telecommunications wireless carrier. For the same period in 2019, the Company’s two largest customers accounted for 84% and 24% of total revenues, both beingTier-1 telecommunications wireless carriers. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, sales to telecommunications customers accounted for 96% and 96% of total revenues, respectively.

 

Accounts receivable. At September 30, 2020, 58% and 29% of the Company’s accounts receivable were from the Company’s two largest customers. At December 31, 2019, 70% and 20% of the Company’s accounts receivable were from the Company’s two largest customers.

 

Accounts payable. At September 30, 2020, accounts payable to the Company’s largest vendor represented 14% while the other two largest vendors represented 11% and 10%, respectively. At December 31, 2019, accounts payable to the Company’s largest vendor represented 11% while the other two largest vendors represented 10% each.

 

Net Income (Loss) Per Share

 

Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income applicable to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the number of additional common shares that would have been outstanding if all dilutive potential common shares had been issued using the treasury stock method. Potential common shares are excluded from the computation when their effect is antidilutive. The dilutive effect of potentially dilutive securities is reflected in diluted net income per share if the exercise prices were lower than the average fair market value of common shares during the reporting period.

 

The following potentially dilutive shares were excluded from the shares used to calculate diluted earnings per share as their inclusion would be anti-dilutive:

 

  

September 30,

2020

(Unaudited)

  

September 30,

2019
(Unaudited)

 
Options   140,000    360,000 
Warrants   465,000    115,000 
Total   605,000    475,000 

 

10

 

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In September 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Credit Losses - Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments (“ASC 326”). The standard significantly changes how entities will measure credit losses for most financial assets, including accounts and notes receivables. The standard will replace today’s “incurred loss” approach with an “expected loss” model, under which companies will recognize allowances based on expected rather than incurred losses. Entities will apply the standard’s provisions as a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the first reporting period in which the guidance is effective. The standard is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2022. The adoption of ASU 2016-13 is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, and cash flows.

 

The Company’s management does not believe that there are other recently issued but not yet effective authoritative guidance, if currently adopted, would have a material impact on the Company’s financial statement presentation or disclosures.

 

NOTE 2 – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

 

Property and equipment consist of the following:

 

  

September 30,

2020

(Unaudited)

  

December 31,

2019

 
Production tooling, jigs, fixtures  $71   $71 
Shop equipment and machinery   3,275    3,264 
Vehicles   180    188 
Leasehold improvements   390    390 
Office equipment   172    172 
Software   103    103 
Total property and equipment, cost   4,191    4,188 
Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization   (2,557)   (2,088)
Property and equipment, net  $1,634   $2,100 

 

Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was $156 and $164, respectively. During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, $148 and $153, respectively, of the depreciation expense was included in the balance of cost of sales.

 

Depreciation and amortization expense on property and equipment for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was $469 and $459, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, $450 and $428, respectively, of the depreciation expense was included in the balance of cost of sales.

 

NOTE 3 – NOTES PAYABLE

 

Notes payable consist of the following:

 

  

September 30,

2020

   December 31, 
   (Unaudited)   2019 
Total Equipment Notes Payable  $859   $1,106 
Less Current Portion   290    328 
Notes Payable, long term  $569   $778 

 

11

 

 

The Company has entered into several financing agreements for the purchase of equipment. The terms of these financing arrangements are for a term of 2 years to 5 years, with interest rates ranging from 1.9% to 6.9% per annum, secured by the purchased equipment. Aggregate monthly payments of principal and interest of approximately $29 are due through 2023.

 

NOTE 4 – LINE OF CREDIT

 

Credit Facility

 

Effective September 30, 2020, the Company entered into a Loan and Security Agreement (the “Loan Agreement”) with Pinnacle Bank (“Pinnacle”). The balance outstanding under the line of credit at September 30, 2020 was $245. There was no balance outstanding under the line of credit at December 31, 2019. As of September 30, 2020, the Company had availability under the line of credit in the amount of $2,560.

 

The Loan Agreement provides for a revolving credit facility under which Pinnacle may make advances to the Company, subject to certain limitations and adjustments, of up to (a) 85% of the aggregate net face amount of the Company’s accounts receivable and other contract rights and receivables, plus (b) the lesser of (i) 35% of the lower of cost or wholesale market value of certain inventory of the Company or (ii) $2,500. In no event shall the aggregate amount of the outstanding advances under the revolving credit facility be greater than $4,000. Interest accrues on the daily balance at a rate of 1.25% above the prime rate (the “Standard Interest Rate”), but in no event shall the Standard Interest Rate be less than 3.75% per annum. Interest on the portion of the daily balance consisting of advances against inventory accrues interest at a rate of 2.25% above the prime rate per annum (the “Inventory Interest Rate”), but in no event shall the Inventory Interest Rate be less than 4.75% per annum. The Loan Agreement also contains a financial covenant requiring the Company to attain an effective tangible net worth, defined as its total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less its total liabilities plus loans to the Company from our officers, stockholders or employees that have been subordinated to the Company’s obligations to Pinnacle, greater than $6,000 as determined by Pinnacle as of the end of each fiscal quarter.

 

The Loan Agreement’s initial term ends on September 30, 2022 and is renewed thereafter for additional one-year terms. Either party may terminate the Loan Agreement on the last day of the initial term or subsequent renewal term by giving the other party at least sixty days prior written notice. In addition, Pinnacle may terminate the Loan Agreement at any time upon sixty days prior written notice and immediately upon the occurrence of an event of default. The Loan Agreement obligates the Company to pay Pinnacle a yearly facility fee in an amount equal to 1.125% of the sum of the advance limit plus the original principal balance of any term loans and advances other than under the revolving credit facility.

 

Under the Loan Agreement, the Company also agreed to grant Pinnacle a security interest in all presently existing and thereafter acquired or arising assets of the Company. The Loan Agreement also contains customary representations, warranties and covenants, and other terms and conditions.

 

Supplier Agreement

 

Effective June 4, 2019, the Company executed a Supplier Agreement with Citibank, N.A. Under the terms of the Supplier Agreement, the Company may from time to time offer to sell to Citibank certain of the Company’s accounts receivable relating to invoiced sales made to AT&T. Once AT&T approves the invoice, AT&T sends payment instructions to Citibank. The sale price is equal to the face amount of the receivable less the applicable discount charge calculated by multiplying the face amount of the receivable by (i) the annual discount rate (which is equal to the 90-day London Inter-bank Offered Rate plus 1.00%) and (ii) the discount acceptance period (which is equal the number of days in the payment terms less the number of days necessary to approve the invoice) divided by 360. On October 8, 2020, the Company terminated the Supplier Agreement with Citibank, N.A. During the period ended September 30, 2020, a total of $2,621 of accounts receivables had been sold to Citibank by the Company, and the Company incurred fees of approximately $12 during the nine-month period then ended.

 

NOTE 5- PPP LOAN

 

On May 4, 2020, the Company entered into a loan with Citibank, N.A. in an aggregate principal amount of $1,715 (the “PPP Loan”), pursuant to the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) under the CARES Act.

 

The PPP Loan is evidenced by a promissory note dated May 4, 2020. The PPP Loan matures two years from the disbursement date and bears interest at a rate of 1% per annum, with the first nine months of interest deferred. Principal and interest are payable monthly commencing nine months after the disbursement date and may be prepaid by the Company at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. The Company applied ASC 470, Debt, to account for the PPP Loan.

 

Under the terms of the CARES Act, recipients of PPP loans can apply for and be granted forgiveness for all or a portion of loans granted under the PPP. The PPP Loan is subject to forgiveness to the extent proceeds are used for payroll costs, including payments required to continue group health care benefits, and certain rent, utility, and mortgage interest expenses (collectively, “Qualifying Expenses”), pursuant to the terms and limitations of the PPP. The Company intends to use a significant majority of the PPP Loan amount for Qualifying Expenses and expects the full amount of the PPP Loan to be forgiven. However, no assurance can be given that the Company will obtain forgiveness of the PPP Loan in whole or in part.

 

NOTE 6 – STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

Issuance of common stock with warrants

 

On July 2, 2020, the Company entered into a securities purchase agreement with certain institutional investors for the sale in a private placement of 1,250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, at a purchase price of $2.25 per share. Additionally, each investor received a warrant exercisable into 50% of the shares purchased by an investor (see Note 8). The closing of the private placement took place on July 7, 2020, and aggregate net proceeds from the sale of the shares of common stock and warrants was approximately $2,812.

 

Treasury Stock

 

The Company entered into a Rule 10b-18 Stock Repurchase Agreement on November 6, 2019 authorizing ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., to repurchase up to $500 of the Company’s common stock par value $0.0001. As of December 31, 2019, the Company purchased 17,477 shares and held them as treasury stock at cost of $40. There were no purchases during 2020 and on January 20, 2020, the Company terminated the Stock Repurchase Agreement. As of September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, funds of $155 were due back from ThinkEquity and are included in the prepaid expenses as of those dates.

 

NOTE 7 – STOCK OPTIONS

 

The following table summarizes stock option activity:

 

   Number of   Weighted Average
Exercise
 
   Options   Price 
Outstanding, December 31, 2019   140,000   $5.22 
Granted        
Exercised        
Outstanding, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   140,000   $5.22 
Exercisable, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   140,000   $5.22 

 

Effective July 8, 2016 the Company’s board of directors approved the Polar Power 2016 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2016 Plan”), authorizing the issuance of up to 1,754,385 shares of common stock as incentives to employees and consultants to the Company with awards limited to a maximum of 350,877 shares in any calendar year.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, the Company expensed total stock-based compensation related to the vested options of nil and $237, respectively, related to the vesting of these options. As of September 30, 2020, there was no unamortized cost compensation costs remaining.

 

There was no intrinsic value of the outstanding options at September 30, 2020.

 

12

 

 

NOTE 8 – STOCK WARRANTS

 

At September 30, 2020, warrant shares outstanding were as follows:

 

   Number of
Warrants
   Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
 
Outstanding December 31, 2019   115,000   $8.75 
Issued   625,000    3.13 
Exercised   (275,000)   (3.13)
Outstanding, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   465,000   $4.52 
Exercisable, September 30, 2020 (unaudited)   465,000   $4.52 

 

On July 7, 2020, the Company issued warrants exercisable into 625,000 shares of the Company’s common stock in conjunction with the sales by the Company in a private placement of 1,250,000 shares of the Company’s common stock (see Note 6). The warrants have an exercise price of $3.13 per share, are exercisable beginning on July 7, 2020 and have a term of five years. On September 24, 2020, the warrants to purchase 275,000 shares of common stock were exercised, and the Company received net proceeds of $861 upon such exercise.

 

The outstanding and exercisable warrants at September 30, 2020 had intrinsic value of approximately $10.

 

NOTE 9 – DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT WITH A RELATED ENTITY

 

On March 1, 2014, the Company entered into a subcontractor installer agreement with Smartgen Solutions, Inc. (“Smartgen”), a related entity that is engaged in business of equipment rental and provider of maintenance, repair and installation services to mobile telecommunications towers in California. Under the terms of the agreement, Smartgen has been appointed as a non-exclusive, authorized service provider for the installation, repair and service of the Company’s products in Southern California. The agreement has a term of three years from the date of execution and automatically renews for additional one-year periods if not terminated.

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, Smartgen performed $33 and $54 in field services, respectively. Smartgen performed $193 and $227 in field services for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

Smartgen had no purchases from the Company during the three months and the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.

 

NOTE 10 – INCOME TAXES

 

On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”) was enacted by the United States Congress. The CARES Act allows, among other provisions, for net operating losses (NOL’s) arising in tax years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2021 may be carried back to each of the five preceding taxable years to generate a refund of previously paid income taxes. During the nine month period ended September 30, 2020, the Company has recorded an income tax benefit of $2,139 related to the carryback of NOLs. At September 30, 2020, the Company has recorded an income tax receivable of $1,715 and $655 of deferred tax assets related to the carryback of NOLs.

 

NOTE 11 - LEASES

 

The Company has two operating lease agreements for its warehouse and office spaces with one have a remaining lease term of 2.9 years and the other 2.4 years. The Company also has another storage facility on a twelve-month lease term. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet. The Company accounts for the lease and non-lease components of its leases as a single lease component. Rent expense is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

 

Operating lease right-of-use (“ROU”) assets and liabilities are recognized at commencement date based on the present value of lease payments over the lease term. ROU assets represent our right to use an underlying asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent our obligation to make lease payments arising from the lease. Generally, the implicit rate of interest in arrangements is not readily determinable and the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of lease payments. The Company’s incremental borrowing rate is a hypothetical rate based on its understanding of what its credit rating would be. The operating lease ROU asset includes any lease payments made and excludes lease incentives.

 

13

 

 

The components of rent expense and supplemental cash flow information related to leases for the period are as follows:

 

  

Nine Months
Ended

September 30, 2020

  

Nine Months
Ended

September 30, 2019

 
Lease Cost          
Operating lease cost (of which $74 is included in general and administration and $451 is included in cost of sales in the Company’s statement of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, and for the same period in 2019, respectively)  $525   $525 
           
Other Information          
Weighted average remaining lease term – operating leases (in years)   2.7    3.7 
Average discount rate – operating leases   3.75%   3.75%

 

The supplemental balance sheet information related to leases for the period is as follows:

 

   At
September 30, 2020
   At
December 31, 2019
 
Operating leases          
Long-term right-of-use assets, net of amortization of $89 and $155, respectively  $1,721   $2,187 
           
Short-term operating lease liabilities  $657   $618 
Long-term operating lease liabilities   1,162    1,660 
Total operating lease liabilities  $1,819   $2,278 

 

Maturities of the Company’s lease liabilities are as follows (in thousands):

 

Year Ending  Operating Leases 
2020   168 
2021   721 
2022   747 
2023   272 
Total lease payments   1,908 
Less: Imputed interest/present value discount   (89)
Present value of lease liabilities  $1,819 

 

Rent expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019 was $604 and $602, respectively.

 

14

 

 

ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion And Analysis Of Financial Condition And Results Of Operations

 

You should read the following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our financial statements and the related notes and other financial information included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Our actual results may differ materially from those discussed below. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those identified below, and those discussed in the section titled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this report. Our historical results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for any future period, and results for any interim period are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

 

All dollar amounts are presented in thousands, except share and per-share data and where otherwise noted.

 

Overview

 

We design, manufacture, and sell DC power generators, renewable energy and cooling systems for applications primarily in the telecommunications market and, to a lesser extent, in other markets, including military, electric vehicle charging, marine and industrial.

 

Within the telecommunications market, our DC power systems provide reliable and low-cost DC power to service applications that do not have access to the utility grid (i.e., prime power applications) or have critical power needs and cannot be without power in the event of utility grid failure (i.e., back-up power applications). Within this market, we offer the following three configurations of our DC power systems, with output power ranging from 5 kW to 32 kW:

 

  DC base power systems. These systems integrate a DC generator and automated controls with remote monitoring, which are typically contained within an environmentally regulated enclosure.
     
  DC hybrid power systems. These systems incorporate lithium-ion batteries (or other advanced battery chemistries) with our proprietary BMS into our standard DC power systems.
     
  DC solar hybrid power systems. These systems incorporate photovoltaic and other sources of renewable energy into our DC hybrid power system.

 

Our DC power systems are available in diesel, natural gas, LPG / propane and renewable formats, with diesel, natural gas and propane gas being the predominate formats.

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, 99% and 97%, respectively, of our total net sales were within the telecommunications market. In 2020, 70% of our total net sales were derived from our two largest customers, of which 57% were derived from AT&T. In 2019, we had 86% of our total net sales derived from our two largest customers, of which 68% were derived from AT&T. During those periods, the majority of our sales were of our DC base powers systems.

 

Impact of COVID-19

 

We continue to monitor the rapidly evolving situation and guidance from international and domestic authorities, including federal, state and local public health authorities and may need to make changes to our business based on their recommendations. COVID-19, has had and is likely to continue to have, a material and substantial adverse impact on our results of operations including, among others, a decrease in our sales, delays in sourcing of raw materials from suppliers which, in turn, has raised liquidity concerns. In addition, our inventory reserve increased during the first nine months of 2020 due to current uncertainties regarding specific product shipments. Our business is directly dependent upon, and correlates closely with, the marketing levels and ongoing business activities of our existing customers and suppliers. In the event of a continued widespread economic downturn caused by COVID-19, we will likely experience a further reduction in current projects, longer sales and collection cycles, deferral or delay of purchase commitments for our DC power systems, a reduction in our manufacturing functionality, higher than normal inventory levels, a reduction in the availability of qualified labor, and increased price competition, all of which could substantially adversely affect our net revenues and our ability to remain a going concern.

 

15

 

 

In the event we remain a going concern, the impacts of COVID-19 on our business, sources of revenues and the general economy, are currently not fully known. We are conducting business as usual with some modifications to employee work locations, and cancellation of certain marketing events, among other modifications. As a result of our declining revenues during the COVID-19 pandemic, our management team implemented a cost reduction program to reduce overhead. We lowered operation expenses, while still keeping the business operational and ready to expand when needed. We will continue to actively monitor the situation and may take further actions that may alter our business operations as may be required by federal, state or local authorities or that we determine are in the best interests of our employees, customers, partners, suppliers and stockholders. It is not clear what the potential effects any such alterations or modifications may have on our business, including the effects on our customers and prospects, although we do anticipate it to negatively impact our financial results during fiscal year 2020 and perhaps beyond.

 

During November 2020, two leaders in the pharmaceutical industry released news of achieving over 90% effectiveness on their COVID-19 vaccines. We remain hopeful that this is the beginning of taking control over the COVID-19 pandemic and seeing economic conditions gradually improve in 2021. Control over COVID-19 will improve our ability to travel for purpose of training our sales staff and customers, commissioning of generators, and promoting the rollout of our new products to enhance our efforts for customer diversification. We expect to see significant improvements to labor and manufacturing efficiencies and a reduction in delays in the supply chain. In addition, we believe our investments during the last two years in facilities, state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment, and training of our staff place us in good position to achieve significant improvements in our financial position as opportunities arise and the negative impact of COVID-19 is reduced.

 

Recent Business Events

 

Our sales generated through U.S. based Tier-1 telecommunications customers in the first nine months of 2020 continue to be sluggish as compared to the same period in 2019. Our revenues generated through U.S. based Tier-1 telecommunications customers represents 68% of our total revenue for the nine-month ended September 30, 2020, as compared to 91% for the same period in 2019. The slowdown in purchases from these customers has significantly impacted our business operations and has resulted in, among other things, an increase of $2,400 in our inventory reserve.

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2020, our revenues declined by 64% when compared to same three-month period ended September 30, 2019. We believe that this slowdown in the purchases of our backup generators is a result of, among other things, the following:

 

  a shift in the allocation of our customers’ capital expenditure budgets from backup power solutions to the transition of their 3G and 4G networks to 5G networks which we believe to be temporary given the ever increasing federal and state laws requiring backup power on cell sites;
     
  delays experienced by our customers in determining the future power requirements associated with new 5G networks where macro cell sites are connected to numerous small cell sites; and
     
  a trend by some of our customers of divesting tower assets to invest capital into the acquisition of wireless communication spectrum.

 

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on our results of operations this year, we believe that our telecom markets have not been diminished, but due to COVID-19 all of our telecom accounts domestic and abroad have slowed their installation and maintenance of equipment, including generators. There are travel restrictions on installation and commissioning crews along with government inspections and site build approval slowdowns that are keeping generators from being purchased and installed. Employees working from home also has slowed down purchasing. As we have stated before, for major generator manufacturers, telecom typically represents only 10% to 30% of their overall business. Residential and commercial backup, off grid prime power, military, and recreational generators make up the majority of their businesses.

 

We have to diversify our customer base and that would include pursuing other markets. We chose to first prioritize the diversification of our customer base within our telecom market. The Toyota engine-based generator project was aimed at telecom companies desiring to be more environmentally friendly by reducing their use of diesel fuels and going with cleaner (and lower cost) fuels coupled with more energy efficient generators. Given the current telecom slowdown we have moved up our plans and allocation of resource to pursue to non-telecom related markets. Non-telecom related accounts (except military) require larger customer service resource as the number of generators sold to a customer is significantly smaller in volume, but the number of these customers is a magnitude larger. Our current obstacle of filling our own manpower needs and managing the increasing number of customers is also COVID-19 related.

 

We also believe that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, there may be increased need for expansion of telecommunication networks on a global basis in order to support the growing demand in data and streaming services. We believe this increase in demand will, in turn, result in the overall expansion of the market for backup power generators in telecommunication tower applications globally. We also believe that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many developed and developing nations will undertake major investments in the development of telecommunications infrastructure to support tele-education, tele-medicine, and IoT related initiatives for both urban and rural areas.

 

During the first nine months of 2020, we adopted certain targeted austerity measures to rationalize our investments in sales, R&D and manufacturing to help improve liquidity. During the same period, we were also affected by the spread of COVID-19 which required us to further reassess our objectives and investments. During the first half of 2020, we successfully implemented cost reduction programs in operating expenses while not reducing support to our sales initiatives and service programs.

 

During the first nine months of 2020, we entered into a contract with a defense contractor to develop a 50kW generator for military application. We believe this configuration will provide a complete range of solutions, from 10kW to 50kW, for diverse power requirements in the global telecommunications marketplace. We plan to deliver the first unit to our customer during the fourth quarter of 2020, and then further enhance the military configuration towards a commercially viable product.

 

16

 

 

During the first nine months of 2020 we completed the development of our natural gas and LPG product line which utilizes a higher efficiency Toyota engine and received an initial order from a large telecommunication company located in East Asia. As a result, our revenue generated from the international telecommunications market increased 53% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to the same period in 2019. We believe, that as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many nations will be required to reduce the network divide between rural and urban centers, where the presence of a reliable network becomes a deciding factor in the economic outcome of various population groups. However, implementation of these programs will require environmental constraint and stewardship from local leaders. We believe that the introduction of our natural gas and LPG product line for both off-grid and on-grid market applications in standalone and hybrid configurations, will help expand our sales in developing nations. We plan to launch this low emission product line for both residential and commercial markets in the U.S. during the fourth quarter of 2020.

 

In order to effectively manage our liquidity during this period of uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have obtained a $1,715 low interest loan under the Paycheck Protection Program, or the PPP, and a tax benefit of $1,715 payable to us later in 2020 resulting from recent changes in tax laws. In July 2020, we completed a private placement of shares of our common stock and warrants to purchase shares of common stock resulting in aggregate net proceeds of approximately $2,812. In addition, effective September 30, 2020, we secured a credit facility with Pinnacle Bank, which subject to certain limitations and adjustments, we may borrow up to an aggregate of $4,000 against our eligible accounts receivable and inventory.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

We believe that the following critical accounting policies, among others, affect our more significant judgment and estimates used in the preparation of our financial statements:

 

Revenue Recognition. We recognize revenue in accordance with ASC 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), (ASC 606). The underlying principle of ASC 606 is to recognize revenue to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers at the amount expected to be collected. ASC 606 creates a five-step model that requires entities to exercise judgment when considering the terms of contract(s), which includes (i) identifying the contract(s) or agreement(s) with a customer, (ii) identifying our performance obligations in the contract or agreement, (iii) determining the transaction price, (iv) allocating the transaction price to the separate performance obligations, and (v) recognizing revenue as each performance obligation is satisfied. Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied, which occurs for us upon shipment or delivery of products or services to our customers based on written sales terms, which is also when control is transferred. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring the products or services to a customer.

 

We determine whether delivery has occurred based on when title transfers and the risks and rewards of ownership have transferred to the customer, which usually occurs when we place the product with the customer’s carrier or deliver the product to a customer’s location. We regularly review our customers’ financial positions to ensure that collectability is reasonably assured.

 

Under ASC 606, revenue is recognized when performance obligations under the terms of a contract are satisfied, which occurs for us upon shipment or delivery of products or services to our customers based on written sales terms, which is also when control is transferred. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive in exchange for transferring the products or services to a customer.

 

Warranty Costs. We provide limited warranties for parts and labor at no cost to our customers within a specified time period after the sale. The warranty terms are typically from one to five years. Our warranties are of an assurance-type and come standard with all our products to cover repair or replacement should a product not perform as expected. Our warranties are not a separate performance obligation and no transaction price is allocated to it. Provisions for estimated expenses related to product warranties are made at the time products are sold. These estimates are established using historical information about the nature, frequency and average cost of warranty claim settlements as well as product manufacturing and recovery from suppliers. Management actively studies trends of warranty claims and takes action to improve product quality and minimize warranty costs. We estimate the actual historical warranty claims coupled with an analysis of unfulfilled claims to record a liability for specific warranty purposes. Our product warranty obligations are included in other accrued liabilities in the balance sheets. As of September 30, 2020, and December 31, 2019, we had accrued a liability for warranty reserve of $375 and $375, respectively. Management believes that the warranty accrual is appropriate; however, actual claims incurred could differ from original estimates, requiring adjustments to the accrual. We do not provide any service warranties to its customers that require to be accounted for as a separate performance obligation.

 

Inventory. We value inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value. If the estimated net realizable value is determined to be less than the recorded cost of the inventory, a provision is made to reduce the carrying amount of the inventory item to the lower net realizable value determination. Determination of the net realizable value may be complex, and therefore, requires management to make assumptions and to apply a high degree of judgment. In order for management to make the appropriate determination of net realizable value, the following items are commonly considered: inventory turnover statistics, inventory quantities on hand in our facilities and customer inventories, unfilled customer order quantities, forecasted consumer demand, current prices, competitive pricing, seasonality factors, consumer trends and performance of similar products or accessories. Subsequent changes in facts or circumstances do not result in the reversal of previously recorded write-downs.

 

Stock-Based Compensation. We account for share-based awards to employees and nonemployees directors and consultants in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, Compensation—Stock Compensation., and under the recently issued guidance following FASB’s pronouncement, ASU 2018-07, Compensation—Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Nonemployee Share-Based Payment Accounting. Under ASC 718, and applicable updates adopted, share-based awards are valued at fair value on the date of grant and that fair value is recognized over the requisite service, or vesting, period. We value our equity awards using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, and account for forfeitures when they occur. Use of the Black-Scholes option pricing model requires the input of subjective assumptions including expected volatility, expected term, and a risk-free interest rate. We estimate volatility using a blend of our own historical stock price volatility as well as that of market comparable entities since our common stock has a limited trading history and limited observable volatility of its own. The expected term of the options is estimated by using the SEC Staff Bulletin No. 107’s Simplified Method for Estimate Expected Term. The risk-free interest rate is estimated using comparable published federal funds rates.

 

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Effects of Inflation

 

The impact of inflation and changing prices has not been significant on the financial condition or results of operations of our company.

 

Impact of New Accounting Pronouncements

 

See “Note 1 – Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies – Recent Accounting Pronouncements” of the Notes to our condensed financial statements commencing on page 5 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012

 

On April 5, 2012, the JOBS Act was enacted. Section 107 of the JOBS Act provides that an “emerging growth company” can take advantage of the extended transition period provided in Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an “emerging growth company” can delay the adoption of certain accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. We have irrevocably elected not to avail ourselves of this extended transition period and, as a result, we will adopt new or revised accounting standards on the relevant dates on which adoption of such standards is required for other public companies.

 

We are in the process of evaluating the benefits of relying on other exemptions and reduced reporting requirements provided by the JOBS Act. Subject to certain conditions set forth in the JOBS Act, if as an “emerging growth company” we choose to rely on such exemptions, we may not be required to, among other things, (i) provide an auditor’s attestation report on our system of internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404, (ii) provide all of the compensation disclosure that may be required of non-emerging growth public companies under the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, (iii) comply with any requirement that may be adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board regarding mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to the auditor’s report providing additional information about the audit and the financial statements (auditor discussion and analysis), and (iv) disclose certain executive compensation-related items such as the correlation between executive compensation and performance and comparisons of the Chief Executive Officer’s compensation to median employee compensation. These exemptions will apply until we no longer meet the requirements of being an “emerging growth company.” We will remain an “emerging growth company” until the earliest of (i) the last day of the fiscal year in which we have total annual gross revenues of $1 billion or more; (ii) December 31, 2021; (iii) the date on which we have issued more than $1.07 billion in nonconvertible debt during the previous three years; or (iv) the date on which we are deemed to be a large accelerated filer under the rules of the SEC.

 

Financial Performance Summary and Outlook

 

Our net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $2,501, which represents a 64% decrease in net sales as compared to $6,939 for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Our net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 were $6,488, which represents a 73% decrease in net sales as compared to $23,922 for the same period in 2019. We expect sales to continue to be sluggish for the rest of this year. We believe this decline in revenues is primarily due to our Tier-1 telecommunications customers shifting their investments to the deployment of their new 5G networks rather than making investments in back-up power generators. We also believe that COVID-19 has had a negative impact on our customers’ ability to deploy new systems due to precautionary measures focused at slowing down the spread of COVID-19 within their employee base. The focus on the deployment of new 5G networks has had a direct negative impact on our ability to increase sales of our products to our Tier-1 telecommunications customers.

 

Our international sales increased to $588 for the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $38 for the same period in 2019. International sales increased to $866 for the nine-month ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $566 in the same period in 2019. The increase was due primarily to shipments of our new LPG DC power systems during the third quarter of 2020.

 

Our sales backlog as of September 30, 2020 was $3,411, with 59% of that amount being attributable to U.S. telecommunications customers, 20% to telecommunications customers outside the U.S., 10% to military customers, and 11% to other customer in other markets.

 

We are focused on continuing to diversify our customer base within the telecom market while seeking new opportunities in other markets. We see these initiatives as imperative in order to minimize the impact of unexpected sales disruptions. Therefore, we continue to invest heavily in our sales and marketing efforts and research and development capacity. We anticipate that our future sales will improve as the U.S. economy recovers from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, our U.S. telecommunications customers return to their backup power programs, and we succeed in diversifying our customer base. However, the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our financial and operating performance will depend significantly on the duration and severity of the outbreak, the actions taken to contain or mitigate its impact, disruption to our supply chain, and the pace with which our clients return to more normalized purchasing behavior, among others factors beyond our knowledge or control. See “Risk Factors” commencing on page 28 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for additional considerations.

 

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Results of Operations

 

The tables presented below, which compare our results of operations from one period to another, present the results for each period, the change in those results from one period to another in both dollars and percentage change, and the results for each period as a percentage of net revenues. The columns present the following:

 

  The first two data columns in each table show the absolute results for each period presented.
     
  The columns entitled “Dollar Variance” and “Percentage Variance” shows the change in results, both in dollars and percentages. These two columns show favorable changes as a positive and unfavorable changes as negative. For example, when our net revenues increase from one period to the next, that change is shown as a positive number in both columns. Conversely, when expenses increase from one period to the next, that change is shown as a negative in both columns.
     
  The last two columns in each table show the results for each period as a percentage of net revenues.

 

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Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to the Three Months Ended September 30, 2019

 

   Three Months Ended
September 30,
   Dollar
Variance
   Percentage
Variance
   Results as a
Percentage
of Net Sales for
the Period Ended
September 30,
 
   2020
(unaudited)
   2019
(unaudited)
   Favorable
(Unfavorable)
   Favorable
(Unfavorable)
   2020   2019 
Net sales  $2,501   $6,939   $(4,438)   (64)%   100.0%   100.0%
Cost of sales   2,800    4,707    1,907    (41)%   112.0%   67.8%
Increase in inventory reserve   2,400        (2,400)       96.0%   0.00%
Gross profit (loss)   (2,699)   2,232    (4,931)   (220)%   (107.9)%   32.2%
Sales and marketing expenses   445    707    262    37%   17.8%   10.2%
Research and development expenses   489    546    57    10%   19.6%   7.9%
General and Administrative expenses   1,080    936    (144)   (15)%   43.2%   13.5%
Total operating expenses   2,014    2,189    175    8%   80.5%   31.5%
Income (loss) from operations   (4,713)   43    (4,756)   (11,061)%   (188.4)%   0.6%
Interest and finance costs   (11)   (14)   3    21%   (0.4)%   (0.2)%
Other income (expense), net   1    19    (18)   (95)%   0.0%   0.3%
Income (loss) before income taxes   (4,723)   48    (4,771)   (9,939)%   (188.8)%   0.7%
Net income (loss)  $(4,723)  $48   $(4,771)   (9,939)%   (188.8)%   0.7%

 

Net Sales. Net sales decreased $4,438, or 64%, to $2,501 for the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $6,939 for the same period in 2019. Sales to our two largest customers, accounted for 57% and 13%, respectively, of our total net sales during the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to 68% and 18%, respectively, of total net sales for the same period in 2019.

 

International net sales increased to $588 for the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $38 for the same period in 2019. The increase was due primarily to sales of our new LPG DC power systems. International sales accounted for 23% of our total net sales for the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to 1% for the same period in 2019.

 

We continue to believe the decline in revenues is primarily the result of our Tier-1 telecommunications customers shifting their investments in back-up power generators to their new 5G networks. In addition, we also believe that COVID-19 continues to have a negative impact on our customers’ ability to deploy new systems due to precautionary measures aimed at slowing down the spread of COVID-19. These factors have had a direct negative impact on our ability to increase sales of our products to our telecommunications customers. Until the threat of COVID-19 is reduced and/or stabilized, which may not occur for the foreseeable future, we cannot predict with any certainty when our customers will resume their purchases of back-up generators at normal levels.

 

Cost of Sales. Cost of sales during the three months ended September 30, 2020 decreased by $1,907, or 41%, to $2,800, as compared to $4,707 during the same period in 2019. Cost of sales as a percentage of net sales during the three months ended September 30, 2020 increased to 112.0% as compared to 67.8% in the same period in 2019. For the three months ended September 30, 2020, an inventory reserve of $2,400, 96% of net sales, has been recorded in cost of sales as a separate line item.

 

The decrease in cost of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2020, is primarily due to lower manufacturing cost as a result of a decrease in sales. The increase in cost of sales as a percentage of net sales was a result of a decrease in factory overhead absorption due to under-utilization of the production capacity and a slight increase in prices of raw materials related to lower volume purchases. We made significant investments in manufacturing equipment and facilities during the previous two years to increase our production capacity which is currently under-utilized due to the current slowdown in sales of our DC power systems. These initiatives have resulted in an increase in cost of sales in the short-term, but we believe that they will eventually result in a reduction in our cost of sales as a percentage of net sales in future quarterly periods as sales increase to normal levels.

 

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Gross Profit (loss). We had a gross loss of $2,699 for the three months ended September 30, 2020, which is a decrease in gross profit of $4,931, or 220%, as compared to gross profit of $2,232 during the same period in 2019. The decrease in in gross profit for the three months ended September 30, 2020, included a $2,400 write-down of excess and obsolete inventory. Our gross loss as a percentage of net sales was (107.9)% for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, as compared to a gross profit as a percentage of net sales of 32.2% in the same period in 2019.

 

The decrease in gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2020 included a $2,400 write-down of excess and obsolete inventory. In addition, the decrease in gross profit margin was also attributable to a decrease in factory overhead absorption resulting from lower sales and resulting underutilization of our production facilities, a slight increase in price discounts offered on the sale of our DC power systems, coupled a with a slight increase in prices of raw materials related to lower volume purchases.

 

Sales and Marketing Expenses. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, sales and marketing expenses decreased by $262, or 37%, to $445, as compared to $707 during the same period in 2019. The decrease was attributable to a decrease in marketing and promotions of our DC power systems in the U.S. and international markets due to travel restrictions and other measures aimed to reducing the spread of COVID-19. As part of our ongoing strategy to expand our customer base, we plan to increase our sales and marketing expenditures as travel restrictions are lifted and tradeshow and similar events return to normal.

 

Research and Development Expenses. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, research and development expenses decreased by $57, or 10%, to $489, as compared to $546 during the same period in 2019. Our research and development efforts during the third quarter of 2020 primarily focus on supporting existing sales activity related to our new natural gas and LPG DC power systems and with our hybrid power systems for off-grid and unreliable grid cell sites.

 

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by $144, or 15%, to $1,080 during the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $936 during same period in 2019. The increase in G&A expenses during the three month period ending September 30, 2020, was primarily due to $248 in legal and brokerage fees related to the private placement equity raise and $77 in loan origination expenses related to the credit facility with Pinnacle Bank. Due to lower sales and impact of spread of COVID-19 on future sales, we anticipate our general and administrative costs to decrease as a percentage of net sales for the remainder of 2020.

 

Interest and Finance Costs. Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $11, as compared to $14 during the same period in 2019. The $3 decrease in interest expense resulted from a decrease in interest expense paid on equipment financing and finance charges in connection to selling receivables to Citibank under our Supplier Agreement.

 

Income Tax. We had no income tax expense for the three months ended September 30, 2020, and for the same period in 2019.

 

Net Income (Loss). As a result of the factors identified above, we reported net loss of $4,723, or $(0.42) per basic and diluted share, for the three months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to net income of $48, or $0.00 per basic and diluted share, for the same period in 2019.

 

21

 

 

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019

 

   Nine Months Ended
September 30,
   Dollar
Variance
   Percentage
Variance
   Results as a
Percentage
of Net Sales for
the Period Ended
September 30,
 
   2020
(unaudited)
   2019
(unaudited)
   Favorable
(Unfavorable)
   Favorable
(Unfavorable)
   2020   2019 
Net sales  $6,488   $23,922   $(17,434)   (73)%   100.0%   100.0%
Cost of sales   7,658    16,336    8,678    53%   118.0%   68.3%
Increase in inventory reserve   2,400        (2,400)       37.0%     
Gross profit (loss)   (3,570)   7,586    (11,156)   (147)%   (55.0)%   31.7%
Sales and marketing expenses   1,296    2,033    737    36%   20.0%   8.5%
Research and development expenses   1,309    1,650    341    21%   20.2%   6.9%
General and Administrative expenses   3,154    3,209    55    2%   48.6%   13.4%
Total operating expenses   5,759    6,892    1,133    16%   88.8%   28.8%
Income (loss) from operations   (9,329)   694    (10,023)   (1,444)%   (143.8)%   2.9%
Interest and finance costs   (46)   (34)   (12)   (35)%   (0.7)%   (0.1)%
Other income (expense), net   14    26    (12)   (46)%   0.2%   0.1%
Income (loss) before income taxes   (9,361)   686    (10,047)   (1,465)%   (144.3)%   2.9%
Income tax benefit   (2,139)       2,139        (33.0)%    
Net income (loss)  $(7,222)  $686   $(7,908)   (1,153)%   (111.3)%   2.9%

 

Net Sales. Net sales decreased $17,434, or 73%, to $6,488 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $23,922 for the same period in 2019. The decrease in net sales was primarily due to a decrease in sales of our DC power systems to Tier-1 telecommunications customers in the U.S. Sales to our two largest customers, accounted for 57% and 13% of our total net sales during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Sales to our two largest customers as of September 30, 2019, accounted for 68% and 18% of total net sales.

 

We believe this decline in revenues is a result of Tier-1 telecommunications customers focusing investments in their 5G infrastructure which temporarily reduced investments in back-up power generators. Our sales have also been negatively impacted by the spread of COVID-19, which has slowed down our customers’ ability to deploy new systems due to precautionary measures aimed at slowing down the spread of COVI D-19.

 

International net sales increased to $866 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $566 for the same period in 2019. The increase was due primarily to sales of our new LPG DC power systems.

 

Cost of Sales. Cost of sales during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 decreased by $8,678, or 53%, to $7,658, as compared to $16,336 during the same period in 2019. Cost of sales as a percentage of net sales during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 increased to 118.0%, as compared to 68.3% in the same period in 2019. This decrease in cost of sales was consequential to a decrease in net sales in 2020 as compared to 2019. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, cost of sales as a percentage of net sales decreased as a result of a decrease in factory overhead absorption due to under-utilization of the production capacity, and a slight increase in prices of raw materials related to lower volume purchases.

 

For the three months ended September 30, 2020, an inventory reserve of $2,400, 37% of net sales, has been recorded in cost of sales as a separate line item.

 

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Gross Profit (Loss). Gross profit during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 decreased by $11,156, or 147%, to gross loss of $3,570, as compared to gross profit of $7,586 during the same period in 2019. Our gross loss as a percentage of net sales was (55.0)% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to a gross profit as a percentage of net sales of 31.7% in the same period in 2019. The decrease in the gross profit margin, was a result of multiple factors including a $2,400 write-down of excess and obsolete inventory during the third quarter, a decrease in factory overhead absorption due to under-utilization of the factory capacity, reduced revenues during the nine month period ending September 30, 2020, a slight increase in price discounts offered on the sale of our DC power systems, and a slight increase in prices of raw materials related to lower volume purchases.

 

Sales and Marketing Expenses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, sales and marketing expenses decreased by $737, or 36%, to $1,296, as compared to $2,033 during the same period in 2019. COVID-19 created travel restrictions and the closure or postponement of tradeshow and promotion events worldwide limiting our sales teams to telework. These restrictions caused our travel expenses including tradeshows and field product demonstrations to decrease by $642. In addition, sales commissions decreased by $109 during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to sales commission expense for the same period in 2019.

 

Research and Development Expenses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, research and development expenses decreased by $341, or 21%, to $1,309, as compared to $1,650 during the same period in 2019. The decrease in research and development expense in 2020 was a result of reductions in labor head counts during the second and third quarter of 2020 as part of the Company’s cost reduction program.

 

General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased by $55, or 2%, to $3,154 during the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $3,209 during same period in 2019. The decrease in general and administrative expenses decreased during the nine second quarter of 2020 as a result of various government mandates related to the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in office closures and staffing limitations.

 

Interest and Finance Costs. Interest and finance costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $46, as compared to $34 during the same period in 2019, an increase of $12. The increase in interest expense and finance costs during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily a result of $11 in finance cost related to selling $2,621 in accounts receivable through our Supplier Agreement with Citibank, compared to nil finance cost during the same period in 2019.

 

Income Tax Benefit. We had an income tax benefit of $2,139 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, and no such amount for the same period in 2019.

 

Net Income (Loss). For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, we incurred net loss of $7,222, or $(0.68) per basic and diluted share, as compared to net income of $686, or $0.07 per basic and diluted share for the nine months ended September 30, 2019.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Sources of Liquidity

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, we funded our operations primarily from cash on hand. These funds were also used to increase inventory to support research and development projects and the launch of our new line of LPG / propane generators. As of September 30, 2020, we had working capital of $14,165, as compared to working capital of $16,434 at December 31, 2019. This $2,269 decrease in working capital is primarily attributable to $769 decrease in cash and cash equivalents resulting from net cash of $6,152 used in operating activities which includes a $2,400 write down of excess and obsolete inventory, net cash used in investing activities of $3 from acquisition of new Company property and equipment, and net cash of $5,386 from financing activities which included proceeds of $1,715 from PPP Loan and proceeds of $2,812 from the issuance of common stock and warrants in our July 2020 private placement and proceeds of $861 from the exercise of certain of these warrants.

 

On September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, our net trade receivables totaled $1,776 and $934, respectively. On September 30, 2020, $1,037 (58%) and $514 (29%) represented customer account balances of our two largest customers, while $652 (70%) and $183 (20%) represented customer account balances of our two largest customers on December 31, 2019.

 

Our available capital resources on September 30, 2020 consisted primarily of $2,071 in cash and cash equivalents, as compared to $2,840 as of December 31, 2019. We expect our future capital resources will consist primarily of cash on hand, cash generated by operations, if any, and future debt or equity financings, if any. In light of the COVID-19 crisis, the U.S. Department of the Treasury enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or the CARES Act, to provide emergency assistance and health care response for individuals, families, and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. On May 4, 2020, we entered into a loan agreement with Citibank, N.A. in the amount of $1,715 through the PPP which we expect will be forgiven in whole or in part. On July 2, 2020, the Company received net proceeds of $2,812 from a private placement of securities and on September 24, 2020, received proceeds of $861 from warrants exercised. We believe these programs, together with our credit facility with Pinnacle Bank, or Pinnacle, described below, will supplement our current and future available capital resources.

 

Credit Facility

 

Effective September 30, 2020, we entered into a Loan and Security Agreement, or Loan Agreement, with Pinnacle. The Loan Agreement provides for a revolving credit facility under which Pinnacle may, in its sole discretion upon our request, make advances to us in an amount, subject to certain limitations and adjustments, of up to (a) 85% of the aggregate net face amount of our accounts receivable and other contract rights and receivables, plus (b) the lesser of (i) 35% of the lower of cost or wholesale market value of certain of our inventory or (ii) $2,500. In no event shall the aggregate amount of the outstanding advances under the revolving credit facility be greater than $4,000.

 

Interest accrues on the daily balance at a rate of 1.25% above the prime rate, or Standard Interest Rate, but in no event will the Standard Interest Rate be less than 3.75% per annum. Interest on the portion of the daily balance consisting of advances against inventory accrues interest at a rate of 2.25% above the prime rate per annum, or the Inventory Interest Rate, but in no event will the Inventory Interest Rate be less than 4.75% per annum. The Loan Agreement also contains a financial covenant requiring us to attain an effective tangible net worth, defined as our total assets, excluding all intangible assets, less our total liabilities plus loans to us from our officers, stockholders or employees that have been subordinated to our obligations to Pinnacle, greater than $6,000 as determined by Pinnacle as of the end of each fiscal quarter.

 

The balance outstanding under the Loan Agreement at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 was $245 and nil, respectively. As of September 30, 2020, we had availability under the Loan Agreement of $2,560.

 

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Future Capital Requirements – Going Concern

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm indicated in its report on our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 that there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. A “going concern” opinion indicates that the financial statements have been prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern and do not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets, or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result if we do not continue as a going concern. We estimate that the current funds on hand will be sufficient to continue operations through approximately March 31, 2021. Our continuation as a going concern is dependent upon our ability to obtain necessary debt or equity financing to continue operations until sales increase and we begin generating positive cash flow. No assurance can be given that any future financing will be available or, if available, that it will be on terms that are satisfactory to us. Even if we are able to obtain additional financing, such financing may contain undue restrictions on our operations, in the case of debt financing or cause substantial dilution for our stockholders, in the case of equity financing. We continue to review operations in order to identify additional strategies designed to generate cash flow, improve our financial position, and enable the timely discharge of our obligations. If we are unable to identify sources of additional cash flow in the short term, we may be required to further reduce or limit operations.

 

Cash Flow

 

The following table sets forth the significant sources and uses of cash for the nine-month periods set forth below:

 

  

September 30,

2020

  

September 30,

2019

 
   (Unaudited)   (Unaudited) 
Net Cash Provided By (Used In)          
Operating Activities  $(6,152)  $(1,489)
Investing Activities   (3)   (311)
Financing Activities   5,386    (174)
Net decrease in cash  $(769)  $(1,974)

 

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Operating Activities

 

Net cash used in operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $6,152, as compared to net cash used in operating activities of $1,489 for the same period in 2019. This increase in net cash used in 2020 was primarily due to a net loss of $7,222, a write-down of $2,400 for excess and obsolete inventory, an increase in accounts receivable of $842, a decrease in accounts payable of $255, an increase in income tax benefit of $2,139, coupled with an increase in customer deposits of $491 on new purchase orders of our DC power systems and a decrease of $930 in prepaid assets resulting from engines imported from Japan which had been prepaid during the last twelve months.

 

Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 totaled $3, as compared to $311 used during the same period in 2019. This increase use of cash of $308 was primarily due to a decrease in property and equipment acquisitions during 2020 as compared to 2019.

 

Financing Activities

 

Net cash provided by financing activities totaled $5,386 for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to $174 used in financing activities during the same period in 2019. This increase was primarily due to borrowing $1,715 in May 2020 from Citibank, N.A. pursuant to the PPP under the CARES Act., and receiving an aggregate net proceeds of $2,812 from a private placement of common stock and warrants and proceeds of $861 from the exercise of certain of these warrants during the three months ended September 30, 2020.

 

Backlog

 

As of September 30, 2020, we had a backlog of $3,411. The amount of backlog represents revenue that we anticipate recognizing in the future, as evidenced by purchase orders and other purchase commitments received from customers, but on which work has not yet been initiated or with respect to which work is currently in progress. Backlog at September 30, 2020 was comprised of the following elements: 59% in purchases of DC power systems, parts and services by telecommunications customers in the U.S., 20% in purchases from telecommunication customers outside the U.S., 10% by military contractors; and 11% from other markets. We believe the majority of our backlog will be shipped within the next six months. However, there can be no assurance that we will be successful in fulfilling such orders and commitments in a timely manner or that we will ultimately recognize as revenue the amounts reflected in our backlog.

 

ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4. Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Our management, with the participation of our principal executive officer and our principal financial officer, evaluated, as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(c) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that as of September 30, 2020, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level. Management recognizes that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving their objectives and our management necessarily applies its judgment in evaluating the cost-benefit relationship of possible controls and procedures.

 

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Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Our internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets; and (ii) provide reasonable assurance (a) transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, (b) our receipts and expenditures are being made only in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors, and (c) regarding the prevention or timely detection of the unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of assets that could have a material effect on our financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

As of September 30, 2020, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013). Based on this evaluation, our management concluded that, as of September 30, 2020, our internal control over financial reporting was effective.

 

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q does not include an attestation report of our registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our registered public accounting firm pursuant to rules of the SEC that permit us to provide only management’s report in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(d) and 15d-15(d) of the Exchange Act that occurred during the quarter or three months ended September 30, 2020 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

ITEM 1. Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time, we may be involved in general commercial disputes arising in the ordinary course of our business. We are not currently involved in legal proceedings that could reasonably be expected to have material adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition or results of our operation.

 

ITEM 1A. Risk Factors

 

Before deciding to purchase, hold or sell our common stock, you should carefully consider the risks described below in addition to the other information contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in our other filings with the SEC, including subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K. The risks and uncertainties described below are not the only ones we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we currently deem immaterial may also affect our business. If any of these known or unknown risks or uncertainties actually occurs with material adverse effects on Polar Power, our business, financial condition, results of operations and/or liquidity could be seriously harmed. In that event, the market price for our common stock will likely decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.

 

Risks Related to Our Business and Industry

 

The COVID-19 pandemic will likely have a significant negative impact on our business, sales, results of operations and financial condition.

 

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to severe disruptions in general economic activities, as businesses and federal, state, and local governments continue to implement broad actions to mitigate this public health crisis. We have experienced significant disruption to our business, both in terms of disruption of our operations and the adverse effect on overall economic conditions. We closed our manufacturing facilities when the California “stay at home” order was implemented by the governor of California in March 2020 and slowly reopened operations in phases as permitted by the governor. Although California modified its “stay at home” order by permitting certain retail, manufacturing and other businesses to gradually reopen in phases, spikes in new coronavirus cases during the month of August 2020 have led government authorities to reinstate “stay at home” orders for certain businesses. Ultimately, the scope and duration of business restrictions is not known at this time. We have 35 employees on furlough status as of August 2020 in the U.S. and a combination of 80 part-time and full-time employees supporting essential business operations. These conditions will significantly negatively impact all aspects of our business. Our business is also dependent on the continued health and productivity of our employees, including our manufacturing employees, sales staff and corporate management team. Individually and collectively, the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic could continue to have a material adverse effect on our business, sales, results of operations and financial condition during the remainder of 2020 and perhaps beyond.

 

Additionally, our liquidity has and could continue to be negatively impacted if these conditions continue for a significant period of time and we may be required to pursue additional sources of financing to obtain working capital, maintain appropriate inventory levels, and meet our financial obligations. Currently capital and credit markets have been disrupted by the crisis and our ability to obtain any required financing is not guaranteed and largely dependent upon evolving market conditions and other factors. Depending on the continued impact of the crisis, further actions may be required to improve our cash position and capital structure.

 

The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic ultimately impacts our business, sales, results of operations and financial condition will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including, but not limited to, the duration and spread of the pandemic, its severity, the actions to contain the virus or treat its impact, and how quickly and to what extent normal economic and operating conditions can resume. Even after the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, we may continue to experience significant impacts to our business as a result of its global economic impact, including any economic downturn or recession that has occurred or may occur in the future.

 

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Our independent registered public accounting firm’s reports for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 have raised substantial doubt as to our ability to continue as a “going concern.”

 

Our independent registered public accounting firm indicated in its report on our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018 that there is substantial doubt about our ability to continue as a going concern. A “going concern” opinion indicates that the financial statements have been prepared assuming we will continue as a going concern and do not include any adjustments to reflect the possible future effects on the recoverability and classification of assets, or the amounts and classification of liabilities that may result if we do not continue as a going concern. Therefore, you should not rely on our consolidated balance sheet as an indication of the amount of proceeds that would be available to satisfy claims of creditors, and potentially be available for distribution to stockholders, in the event of liquidation. The presence of the going concern note to our financial statements may have an adverse impact on the relationships we are developing and plan to develop with third parties as we continue the commercialization of our products and could make it challenging and difficult for us to raise additional financing, all of which could have a material adverse impact on our business and prospects and result in a significant or complete loss of your investment.

 

In addition, we estimate that the current funds on hand will be sufficient to continue operations through approximately March 31, 2021. Our continuation as a going concern is dependent upon our ability to obtain necessary debt or equity financing to continue operations until sales increase and we begin generating positive cash flow. No assurance can be given that any future financing will be available or, if available, that it will be on terms that are satisfactory to us. Even if we are able to obtain additional financing, such financing may contain undue restrictions on our operations, in the case of debt financing or cause substantial dilution for our stockholders, in the case of equity financing. We continue to review operations in order to identify additional strategies designed to generate cash flow, improve our financial position, and enable the timely discharge of our obligations. If we are unable to identify sources of additional cash flow in the short term, we may be required to further reduce or limit operations.

 

We face inventory risk and may be required to write-off additional inventory in the future.

 

We value inventories at the lower of cost or net realizable value. If the estimated net realizable value is determined to be less than the recorded cost of the inventory, a provision is made to reduce the carrying amount of the inventory item to the lower net realizable value determination. Determination of the net realizable value may be complex, and therefore, requires management to make assumptions and to apply a high degree of judgment. In order for management to make the appropriate determination of net realizable value, the following items are commonly considered: inventory turnover statistics, inventory quantities on hand in our facilities and customer inventories, unfilled customer order quantities, forecasted consumer demand, current prices, competitive pricing, seasonality factors, consumer trends and performance of similar products or accessories. Subsequent changes in facts or circumstances do not result in the reversal of previously recorded write-downs.

 

For example, we built substantial inventory of our products in anticipation of customer demands in 2020. Due to lower than expected demand and sales of our products, we recorded a $2,400 inventory write-down to reduce the remaining inventory of our products to its estimated net realizable value of $11,380 as of September 30, 2020.

 

If our estimates regarding net realizable value are inaccurate, including our estimates regarding our inventory, or changes in customer demand for our products in an unforeseen manner, we may be exposed to additional write-downs of our inventory that could be material.

 

We are dependent on, and derive substantially all of our revenue from, sales of our DC base power systems to two customers within the U.S. telecommunications market. Our efforts to expand our customer base, our product portfolio or markets within which we operate may not succeed and may reduce our revenue growth rate.

 

We derive substantially all our revenues from sales of our DC base power systems to two customers within the telecommunications market, AT&T, and Verizon Wireless. Any factor adversely affecting sales of these power systems to these customers or to other customers within this market, including market acceptance, product competition, performance and reliability, reputation, price competition and economic and market conditions, could adversely affect our business and results of operations. For example, during the fourth quarter of 2019, and extending into the first quarter of 2020, our U.S. Tier-1 telecommunications customers postponed orders and shipments to the latter part of 2020 which resulted in an 87% decline in net revenues during the fourth quarter of 2019 as compared to the third quarter of 2019. Although net revenues from our Tier-1 telecommunications customers increased over 300% in each of the first two quarters of 2020 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2019, we believe net sales have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as a result of certain restrictions imposed by our customers which have effectively prevented them from operating their businesses in the ordinary course.

 

In addition, any unfavorable change in our business relationship with our Tier-1 telecommunications wireless carrier customers, or delays in customer implementation and deployment of our products, could have a material adverse effect on our results of operation and financial condition. Our plan to invest in the development of higher capacity DC hybrid solar systems to address data centers and other applications within the telecommunications market may not result in an anticipated growth in sales and may reduce our revenue growth rate.

 

Many of our DC power systems involve long design and sales cycles, which could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial performance.

 

The design and sales cycle for our DC power systems, from initial contact with our potential customer to the shipments of our product, may be lengthy. Customers generally consider a wide range of factors before making a purchase decision. Prior to purchasing our products, our customers often require a significant technical review, tests and evaluations over long periods of time, assessments of competitive products and approval at a number of management levels within their organization. During the time our customers are evaluating our products, we may incur substantial sales and service, engineering and research and development expenses to customize our products to meet customer’s application needs. We may also expend significant management efforts, increase manufacturing capacity, order long-lead-time components or purchase significant amounts of components and other inventory prior to receiving an order. Even after this evaluation process, a potential customer may not purchase our products.

 

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The product development time before our customer agrees to purchase our DC power systems can be considerable. Our process for developing an integrated solution may require use of significant engineering resources, including design, prototyping, modeling, testing and application engineering. The length of this cycle is influenced by many factors, including the difficulty of the technical specification and complexity of the design and the customer’s procurement processes. A significant period may elapse between our investment of time and resources in designing and developing a product for our customer and revenue from sales of that product. The length of this process combined with unanticipated delays in the development cycle could materially affect results of operations and financial conditions.

 

We do not have long-term commitments for significant revenues with most of our customers and may be unable to retain existing customers, attract new customers or replace departing customers with new customers that can provide comparable revenues and profits.

 

Because we generally do not obtain firm, long-term volume purchase commitments from our customers, most of our sales are derived from individual purchase orders. We remain dependent upon securing new purchase orders in the future in order to sustain and grow our revenues. Accordingly, there is no assurance that our revenues and business will grow in the future. Our failure to maintain and expand our customer relationships could materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.

 

The high concentration of our sales within the telecommunications market could result in a significant reduction in sales and negatively affect our profitability if demand for our DC power systems declines within this market.

 

We expect to be predominately focused on the manufacturing, marketing and sales of DC power systems to telecommunications companies for the foreseeable future. We may be unable to shift our business focus away from these activities. Accordingly, the emergence of new competing DC power products or lower-cost alternative technologies may reduce the demand for our products. A downturn in the demand for our DC power systems within the telecommunications market would likely materially and adversely affect our sales and profitability.

 

The markets within which we compete are highly competitive. Many of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do and one or more of these competitors could use their greater financial and other resources to gain market share at our expense.

 

If our business continues to develop as expected, we anticipate that we will continue to grow in the near future. If, due to capital constraints or otherwise, we are unable to fulfill our existing backlog in a timely manner and/or procure and timely fulfill our anticipated future backlog, our customers and potential customers may decide to use competing DC power systems or continue the use of alternating current, or AC, power systems. If we are unable to fulfill the growing demand for products and services in a timely manner, our customers and potential customers may choose to purchase products from our competitors. Some of our larger competitors may be willing to reduce prices and accept lower margins in order to compete with us. In addition, we could face new competition from large international or domestic companies with established industrial brands and distribution networks that enter our end markets. Demand for our products may also be affected by our ability to respond to changes in design and functionality, to respond to downward pricing pressure, and to provide shorter lead times for our products than our competitors. If we are unable to respond successfully to these competitive pressures, we could lose market share, which could have an adverse impact on our results. We cannot assure that we will be able to compete successfully in our markets or compete effectively against current and new competitors as our industry continues to evolve.

 

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Rapid technological changes may prevent us from remaining current with our technological resources and maintaining competitive product and service offerings.

 

The markets in which we and our customers operate are characterized by rapid technological change, especially within the telecommunications market. Significant technological changes could render our existing and potential new products, services and technology obsolete. Our future success will depend, in large part, upon our ability to:

 

  effectively identify and develop leading energy efficient technologies;
     
  continue to develop our technical expertise;
     
  enhance our current products and services with new, improved and competitive technology; and
     
  respond to technological changes in a cost-effective and timely manner.

 

If we are unable to successfully respond to technological change or if we do not respond to it in a cost-effective and timely manner, then our business will be materially and adversely affected. We cannot assure you that we will be successful in responding to changing technology. In addition, technologies developed by others may render our products, services and technology uncompetitive or obsolete. Even if we do successfully respond to technological advances, the integration of new technology may require substantial time and expense, and we cannot assure you that we will succeed in adapting our products, services and technology in a timely and cost-effective manner.

 

If we are unable to continue to develop new and enhanced products and services that achieve market acceptance in a timely manner, our competitive position and operating results could be harmed.

 

Our future success will depend on our ability to continue to develop new and enhanced DC power systems and related products and services that achieve market acceptance in a timely and cost-effective manner. The markets in which we and our customers operate are characterized by frequent introductions of new and enhanced products and services, evolving industry standards and regulatory requirements, government incentives and changes in customer needs. The successful development and market acceptance of our products and services depends on a number of factors, including:

 

 

the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global markets;

 

  the changing requirements and preferences of the potential customers in our markets;
     
  the accurate prediction of market requirements, including regulatory issues;
     
  the timely completion and introduction of new products and services to avoid obsolescence;
     
  the quality, price and performance of new products and services;

 

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  the availability, quality, price and performance of competing products and services;
     
  our customer service and support capabilities and responsiveness;
     
  the successful development of our relationships with existing and potential customers; and
     
  changes in industry standards.

 

We may experience financial or technical difficulties or limitations that could prevent us from introducing new or enhanced products or services. Furthermore, any of these new or enhanced products and services could contain problems that are discovered after they are introduced. We may need to significantly modify the design of these products and services to correct problems. Rapidly changing industry standards and customer preferences and requirements may impede market acceptance of our products and services.

 

Development and enhancement of our products and services will require significant additional investment and could strain our management, financial and operational resources. The lack of market acceptance of our products or services or our inability to generate sufficient revenues from this development or enhancement to offset their development costs could have a material adverse effect on our business. In addition, we may experience delays or other problems in releasing new products and services and enhancements, and any such delays or problems may cause customers to forego purchases of our products and services and to purchase those of our competitors.

 

We cannot provide assurance that products and services that we have recently developed or that we develop in the future will achieve market acceptance. If our new products and services fail to achieve market acceptance, or if we fail to develop new or enhanced products and services s that achieve market acceptance, our growth prospects, operating results and competitive position could be adversely affected.

 

Natural disasters and other events beyond our control could materially adversely affect us.

 

Natural disasters or other catastrophic events, including the COVID-19 pandemic, may cause damage or disruption to our operations, international commerce and the global economy, and thus could have a strong negative effect on us. Our business operations are subject to interruption by natural disasters, fire, power shortages, pandemics and other events beyond our control. Although we maintain crisis management and disaster response plans, such events could make it difficult or impossible for us to deliver our services to our customers and could decrease demand for our services.

 

We are dependent on relationships with our key material suppliers, and the partial or complete loss of one of these key suppliers, or the failure to find replacement suppliers or manufacturers in a timely manner, could adversely affect our business.

 

We have established relationships with third party engine suppliers and other key suppliers from which we source components for our power systems. We purchase standard configurations of engines for our DC power systems and are substantially dependent on timely supply from our two key engine suppliers, Yanmar Engines Company and Toyota Motor Corporation. During the three months ended September 30, 2020, 63% of our product sales included a Yanmar engine and engine cost represented 3.86% of our total cost of sales. For the same period, 32% of our product sales included a Toyota engine and engine cost represented 1.40% of our total cost of sales. During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, 73% of our product sales included a Yanmar engine and engine cost represented 6.77% of our total cost of sales. For the same period, 13% of our product sales included a Toyota engine and engine cost represented 0.84% of our total cost of sales. We do not have any long-term contracts or commitments with any of these suppliers. If any of these engine suppliers were to fail to provide emissions certified engines in a timely manner or fail to supply engines that meet our quality, quantity or cost requirements, or were to discontinue manufacturing any engines we source from them or discontinue providing any of these engines to us, or the supply chain is interrupted or delayed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic or unprecedented event, and we were unable to obtain substitute sources in a timely manner or on terms acceptable to us, our ability to manufacture our products could be materially adversely affected.

 

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Price increases in some of the key components in our DC power systems could materially and adversely affect our operating results and cash flows.

 

The prices of some of the key components of our DC power systems are subject to fluctuation due to market forces beyond our control, including changes in the costs of raw materials incorporated into these components. Such price increases occur from time to time due to spot shortages of commodities, increases in labor costs or longer-term shortages due to market forces. In particular, the prices of engines can fluctuate frequently and often significantly. We do not have any long-term contracts or commitments with our two key engine suppliers. Substantial increases in the prices of raw materials used in components which we source from our suppliers may result in increased prices charged by our suppliers. If we incur price increases from our suppliers for key components in our DC power systems, our production costs will increase. Given competitive market conditions, we may not be able to pass all or any of those cost increases on to our customers in the form of higher sales prices. To the extent our competitors do not suffer comparable component cost increases, we may have even greater difficulty passing along price increases and our competitive position may be harmed. As a result, increases in costs of key components may adversely affect our margins and otherwise adversely affect our operating results and cash flows.

 

A portion of our key components are sourced in foreign countries, exposing us to additional risks that may not exist in the U.S.

 

A portion of our key components, such as engines, magnets and cooling systems, are purchased from suppliers located overseas, primarily in Asia. Our international sourcing subjects us to a number of potential risks in addition to the risks associated with third-party sourcing generally. These risks include:

 

  inflation or changes in political and economic conditions;
     
  unstable regulatory environments;
     
  changes in import and export duties;
     
  currency rate fluctuations;
     
  trade restrictions;
     
  labor unrest;
     
  logistical and communications challenges; and
     
  other restraints and burdensome taxes.

 

These factors may have an adverse effect on our ability to source our purchased components overseas. In particular, if the U.S. dollar were to depreciate significantly against the currencies in which we purchase raw materials from foreign suppliers, our cost of goods sold could increase materially, which would adversely affect our results of operations.

 

The unavailability or shortage, or increase in the cost, of raw materials and components could have an adverse effect on our sales and profitability.

 

Our operations require raw materials, such as aluminum, copper and permanent magnets. Commodities such as aluminum and copper are known to have significant price volatility based on global economic conditions including the COVID-19 pandemic. An increase in global economic outlook may result in significant price increases in the cost of our raw materials. In addition, we use Neodymium permanent magnets in our alternators, for which there are a limited number of global suppliers that can meet our standards. Increase in manufacturing of electric vehicles worldwide can have an adverse effect on the cost or supply of these magnets. At our current production volumes, we are unable to secure large quantities of these commodities at fixed prices; however, we do have multiple sources of supply for our raw materials to meet our near term forecasted needs. Various factors could reduce the availability of raw materials and components and shortages may occur from time to time in the future. An increase in lead times for the supply of raw materials due to a global increase in demand for commodities outlined may significantly increase material costs of our products. If production was interrupted due to unavailability or shortage of raw materials and we were not able to find alternate third-party suppliers or re-engineer our products to accommodate different components or materials, we could experience disruptions in manufacturing and operations including product shortages, higher freight costs and re-engineering costs. If our supply of raw materials or components is disrupted or our lead times extended, our business, results of operations or financial condition could be materially adversely affected.

 

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We manufacture and assemble a majority of our products at two facilities. Any prolonged disruption in the operations of this facility would result in a decline in our sales and profitability.

 

We manufacture and assemble our DC power systems at our facilities located in Gardena, California. Any prolonged disruption in the operations of our manufacturing and assembly facilities, whether due to the COVID-19 pandemic, equipment or information technology infrastructure failure, labor difficulties, destruction of or damage to this facility as a result of an earthquake, fire, flood, other catastrophes, and other operational problems would result in a decline in our sales and profitability. In the event of a business interruption at our facilities, we may be unable to shift manufacturing and assembly capabilities to alternate locations, accept materials from suppliers or meet customer shipment needs, among other severe consequences. Such an event could have a material and adverse impact on our financial condition and results of our operations.

 

Our business operations are subject to substantial government regulation.

 

Our business operations are subject to certain federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations. For example, our products, services and technologies are subject to regulations relating to building codes, public safety, electrical connections, security protocols, and local and state licensing requirements. The regulations to which we are subject may change, additional regulations may be imposed, or existing regulations may be applied in a manner that creates special requirements for the implementation and operation of our products or services that may significantly impact or even eliminate some of our revenues or markets. In addition, we may incur material costs or liabilities in complying with any such regulations. Furthermore, some of our customers must comply with numerous laws and regulations, which may affect their willingness and ability to purchase our products, services and technologies.

 

Additionally, we are subject to laws, regulations and other governmental actions instituted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

The modification of existing laws and regulations or interpretations thereof or the adoption of future laws and regulations could adversely affect our business, cause us to modify or alter our methods of operations and increase our costs and the price of our products, services and technology. In addition, we cannot provide any assurance that we will be able, for financial or other reasons, to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. If we fail to comply with these laws and regulations, we could become subject to substantial penalties or restrictions that could materially and adversely affect our business.

 

Certain of our products are used in critical communications networks which may subject us to significant liability claims.

 

Because certain of our products for customers in the telecommunications industry are used in critical communications networks, we may be subject to significant liability claims if our products do not work properly. We warrant to our current customers that our products will operate in accordance with our product specifications. If our products fail to conform to these specifications, our customers could require us to remedy the failure or could assert claims for damages. The provisions in our agreements with customers that are intended to limit our exposure to liability claims may not preclude all potential claims. In addition, any insurance policies we have may not adequately limit our exposure with respect to such claims. Liability claims could require us to spend significant time and money in litigation or to pay significant damages. Any such claims, whether or not successful, would be costly and time-consuming to defend, and could divert management’s attention and seriously damage our reputation and our business.

 

We could be adversely affected by our failure to comply with the laws applicable to our foreign activities, including the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and other similar worldwide anti-bribery laws.

 

The U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, or the FCPA, and similar anti-bribery laws in other jurisdictions prohibit U.S.-based companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to non-U.S. officials for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business. We may pursue opportunities in certain parts of the world that experience government corruption, and in certain circumstances, compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. Our policies mandate compliance with all applicable anti-bribery laws. Further, we require our partners, subcontractors, agents and others who work for us or on our behalf to comply with the FCPA and other anti-bribery laws. Although we have policies and procedures, and have conducted training, designed to ensure that we, our employees, our agents and others who work with us in foreign countries comply with the FCPA and other anti-bribery laws, there is no assurance that such policies, procedures or training will protect us against liability under the FCPA or other laws for actions taken by our agents, employees and intermediaries. If we are found to be liable for FCPA violations (either due to our own acts or inadvertence, or due to the acts or inadvertence of others), we could suffer from severe criminal or civil penalties or other sanctions, which could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, business, results of operations or cash flows. In addition, detecting, investigating and resolving actual or alleged FCPA violations is expensive and could consume significant time and attention of our senior management.

 

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We are exposed to risks related to our international sales, and the failure to manage these risks could harm our business. If we fail to expand our business into international markets, our revenues and results of operations may be adversely affected.

 

In addition to our sales to customers within the U.S., we may become increasingly dependent on sales to customers outside the U.S. as we pursue expanding our business with current and potential customers worldwide. In 2017, we established full-time sales executives and support staff in: Australia, Dubai, Singapore, Romania, Poland, Africa and the Dominican Republic. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2020, and 2019, our sales to international customers accounted for 7% and 3%, and 7% and 3%, respectively, of total revenue. We expect that international sales will increase over time and that a significant portion of our future international sales will be from less developed or developing countries. As a result, the occurrence of any international, political, economic, or geographic event could result in a significant decline in revenue. There are significant risks associated with conducting operations internationally, requiring significant financial commitments to support such operations. These operations present a number of challenges including oversight of daily operating practices in each location, handling employee benefits and employee behavior. In addition, compliance with complex foreign and U.S. laws and regulations that apply to our international operations increases our cost of doing business in international jurisdictions. These numerous and sometimes conflicting laws and regulations include internal control and disclosure rules, data privacy and filtering requirements, anti-corruption laws, such as the FCPA, and other local laws prohibiting corrupt payments to governmental officials, and anti-competition regulations, among others. Violations of these laws and regulations could result in fines and penalties, criminal sanctions against us, our officers, or our employees, prohibitions on the conduct of our business and on our ability to offer our products and services in one or more countries, and could also materially affect our brand, our international expansion efforts, our ability to attract and retain employees, our business, and our operating results. Although we have implemented policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with these laws and regulations, there can be no assurance that our employees, contractors, or agents will not violate our policies.

 

Some of the risks and challenges of doing business internationally include:

 

  the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global markets and the power generation market with the international telecommunications markets;
     
  requirements or preferences for domestic products or solutions, which could reduce demand for our products;
     
  unexpected changes in regulatory requirements;
     
  imposition of tariffs and other barriers and restrictions;
     
  restrictions on the import or export of critical technology;
     
  management communication and integration problems resulting from cultural and geographic dispersion;
     
  the burden of complying with a variety of laws and regulations in various countries;
     
  difficulties in enforcing contracts;
     
  the uncertainty of protection for intellectual property rights in some countries;
     
  application of the income tax laws and regulations of multiple jurisdictions, including relatively low-rate and relatively high-rate jurisdictions, to our sales and other transactions, which results in additional complexity and uncertainty;
     
  tariffs and trade barriers, export regulations and other regulatory and contractual limitations on our ability to sell products;
     
  greater risk of a failure of foreign employees to comply with both U.S. and foreign laws, including export and antitrust regulations, the FCPA and any trade regulations ensuring fair trade practices;
     
  heightened risk of unfair or corrupt business practices in certain geographies and of improper or fraudulent sales arrangements that may impact financial results and result in restatements of, or irregularities in, financial statements;
     
  potentially adverse tax consequences, including multiple and possibly overlapping tax structures;

 

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  general economic and geopolitical conditions, including war and acts of terrorism;
     
  lack of the availability of qualified third-party financing; and
     
  currency exchange controls.

 

While these factors and the impacts of these factors are difficult to predict, any one or more of them could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations in the future.

 

Failures or security breaches of our networks or information technology systems could have an adverse effect on our business.

 

We rely heavily on information technology, or IT, both in our products and services for customers and in our IT systems. Further, we collect and store sensitive information in our data centers and on our networks. Government agencies and security experts have warned about growing risks of hackers, cyber-criminals, malicious insiders and other actors targeting confidential information and all types of IT systems. These actors may engage in fraudulent activities, theft of confidential or proprietary information and sabotage.

 

Our IT systems and our confidential information may be vulnerable to damage or intrusion from a variety of attacks including computer viruses, worms or other malicious software programs. These attacks pose a risk to the security of the products, systems and networks of our customers, suppliers and third-party service providers, as well to the confidentiality of our information and the integrity and availability of our data. While we attempt to mitigate these risks through controls, due diligence, training, surveillance and other measures, we remain vulnerable to information security threats.

 

Despite the precautions we take, an intrusion or infection of our systems could result in the disruption of our business, loss of proprietary or confidential information, or injuries to people or property. Similarly, an attack on our IT systems could result in theft or disclosure of trade secrets or other intellectual property or a breach of confidential customer or employee information. Any such events could have an adverse impact on sales, harm our reputation and cause us to incur legal liability and increased costs to address such events and related security concerns. As the threats evolve and become more potent, we may incur additional costs to secure the products that we sell, as well as our data and infrastructure of networks and devices.

 

Risks Related to Our Intellectual Property

 

If we fail to adequately protect our intellectual property rights, we could lose important proprietary technology, which could materially and adversely affect our business.

 

Our success and ability to compete depends, in substantial part, upon our ability to develop and protect our proprietary technology and intellectual property rights to distinguish our products, services and technology from those of our competitors. The unauthorized use of our intellectual property rights and proprietary technology by others could materially harm our business.

 

Historically, we have relied primarily on a combination of trademark, copyright and trade secret laws, along with non-competition and confidentiality agreements, contractual provisions, licensing arrangements and proprietary software and manufacturing processes, to establish and protect our intellectual property rights. Although we hold several unregistered copyrights in our business, we believe that the success of our business depends more upon our proprietary technology, information, processes and know-how than on patents or trademark registrations. In addition, much of our proprietary information and technology may not be patentable; if we decided to apply for patents and/or trademarks in the future, we might not be successful in obtaining any such future patents or in registering any marks.

 

Despite our efforts to protect our intellectual property rights, existing laws afford only limited protection, and our actions may be inadequate to protect our rights or to prevent others from claiming violations of their proprietary rights. Unauthorized third parties may attempt to copy, reverse engineer or otherwise obtain, use or exploit aspects of our products and services, develop similar technology independently, or otherwise obtain and use information that we regard as proprietary. We cannot assure you that our competitors will not independently develop technology similar or superior to our technology or design around our intellectual property. In addition, the laws of some foreign countries may not protect our proprietary rights as fully or in the same manner as the laws of the U.S.

 

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We may need to resort to litigation to enforce our intellectual property rights, to protect our trade secrets, and to determine the validity and scope of other companies’ proprietary rights in the future. However, litigation could result in significant costs and in the diversion of management and financial resources. We cannot assure you that any such litigation will be successful or that we will prevail over counterclaims against us. Our failure to protect any of our important intellectual property rights or any litigation that we resort to in order to enforce those rights could materially and adversely affect our business.

 

If we face claims of intellectual property infringement by third parties, we could encounter expensive litigation, be liable for significant damages or incur restrictions on our ability to sell our products and services.

 

Although we are not aware of any present infringement of our products, services or technology on the intellectual property rights of others, we cannot be certain that our products, services and technologies do not or in the future will not infringe on the valid intellectual property rights held by third parties. In addition, we cannot assure you that third parties will not claim that we have infringed their intellectual property rights.

 

In recent years, there has been a significant amount of litigation in the U.S. involving patents and other intellectual property rights. In the future, we may be a party to litigation as a result of an alleged infringement of others’ intellectual property. Successful infringement claims against us could result in substantial monetary liability, require us to enter into royalty or licensing arrangements, or otherwise materially disrupt the conduct of our business. In addition, even if we prevail on these claims, this litigation could be time-consuming and expensive to defend or settle and could result in the diversion of our time and attention and of operational resources, which could materially and adversely affect our business. Any potential intellectual property litigation also could force us to do one or more of the following:

 

  stop selling, incorporating or using our products and services that use the infringed intellectual property;
     
  obtain from the owner of the infringed intellectual property right a license to sell or use the relevant technology, which license may not be available on commercially reasonable terms, or at all; or
     
  redesign the products and services that use the technology.

 

If we are forced to take any of these actions, our business may be seriously harmed. Although we carry general liability insurance, our insurance may not cover potential claims of this type or may not be adequate to indemnify us for all liability that may be imposed.

 

Risks Related to Our Common Stock

 

Our operating results can fluctuate significantly from period to period, which makes our operating results difficult to predict and can cause our operating results in any particular period to be less than comparable periods and expectations from time to time.

 

Our operating results have fluctuated significantly from quarter-to-quarter, period-to-period and year-to-year during our operating history and are likely to continue to fluctuate in the future due to a variety of factors, many of which are outside of our control. Certain factors that may affect our operating results include, without limitation, those set forth under “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — Critical Accounting Policies” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Because we have little or no control over many of these factors, our operating results are difficult to predict. Any adverse change in any of these factors could negatively affect our business and results of operations.

 

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Our revenues, net income and other operating results are heavily dependent upon the size and timing of customer orders and projects, and the timing of the completion of those projects. The timing of our receipt of large individual orders, and of project completion, is difficult for us to predict. Because our operating expenses are based on anticipated revenues over the mid- and long-term and because a high percentage of our operating expenses are relatively fixed, a shortfall or delay in recognizing revenues can cause our operating results to vary significantly from quarter-to-quarter and can result in significant operating losses or declines in profit margins in any particular quarter. If our revenues fall below our expectations in any particular quarter, we may not be able, or it may not be prudent for us, to reduce our expenses rapidly in response to the revenue shortfall, which can result in us suffering significant operating losses or declines in profit margins in that quarter.

 

Due to these factors and the other risks discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, you should not rely on quarter-to-quarter, period-to-period or year-to-year comparisons of our results of operations as an indication of our future performance. Quarterly, period and annual comparisons of our operating results are not necessarily meaningful or indicative of future performance. As a result, it is likely that, from time to time, our results of operations or our revenue backlog could fall below historical levels or the expectations of public market analysts and investors, which could cause the trading price of our common stock to decline significantly.

 

Our Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer owns a significant percentage of our common stock and will exercise significant influence over matters requiring stockholder approval, regardless of the wishes of other stockholders.

 

Our Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary, Arthur D. Sams, beneficially owns approximately 49% of our outstanding shares of common stock. Mr. Sams therefore has significant influence over management and significant control over matters requiring stockholder approval, including the annual election of directors and significant corporate transactions, such as a merger or other sale of our company or our assets, for the foreseeable future. This concentrated control will limit stockholders’ ability to influence corporate matters and, as a result, we may take actions that our stockholders do not view as beneficial. As a result, the market price of our common stock could be adversely affected.

 

The price of our shares of common stock is volatile, and you could lose all or part of your investment.

 

The trading price of our shares of common stock is volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors, some of which are beyond our control, including limited trading volume. In addition to the factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section and elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, these factors include, without limitation:

 

  competition from existing technologies and products or new technologies and products that may emerge;
     
  the loss of significant customers, including AT&T and Verizon Wireless;
     
  actual or anticipated variations in our quarterly operating results;

 

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  failure to meet the estimates and projections of the investment community or that we may otherwise provide to the public;
     
  our cash position;
     
  announcement or expectation of additional financing efforts;
     
  issuances of debt or equity securities;
     
  our inability to successfully enter new markets or develop additional products;
     
  actual or anticipated fluctuations in our competitors’ operating results or changes in their respective growth rates;
     
  sales of our shares of common stock by us, or our stockholders in the future;
     
  trading volume of our shares of common stock on the Nasdaq Capital Market;
     
  market conditions in our industry;
     
  overall performance of the equity markets and general political and economic conditions;
     
  introduction of new products or services by us or our competitors;
     
  additions or departures of key management, engineering or other personnel;
     
  publication of research reports about us or our industry or positive or negative recommendations or withdrawal of research coverage by securities or industry analysts;
     
  changes in the market valuation of similar companies;
     
  disputes or other developments related to intellectual property and other proprietary rights;
     
  changes in accounting practices;
     
  significant lawsuits, including stockholder litigation; and
     
  other events or factors, many of which are beyond our control.

 

Furthermore, the public equity markets have experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have affected and continue to affect the market prices of equity securities of many companies. These fluctuations often have been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of those companies. These broad market and industry fluctuations, as well as general economic, political and market conditions such as recessions, interest rate changes or international currency fluctuations, may negatively impact the market price of our shares of common stock.

 

A decline in the price of our common stock could affect our ability to raise further working capital, which could adversely impact our ability to continue operations.

 

A prolonged decline in the price of our common stock could result in a reduction in the liquidity of our common stock and a reduction in our ability to raise capital. We may attempt to acquire a significant portion of the funds we need in order to conduct our planned operations through the sale of equity securities; thus, a decline in the price of our common stock could be detrimental to our liquidity and our operations because the decline may adversely affect investors’ desire to invest in our securities. If we are unable to raise the funds we require for all of our planned operations, we may be forced to reallocate funds from other planned uses and may suffer a significant negative effect on our business plan and operations, including our ability to develop new products or services and continue our current operations. As a result, our business may suffer, and we may be forced to reduce or discontinue operations. We also might not be able to meet our financial obligations if we cannot raise enough funds through the sale of our common stock and we may be forced to reduce or discontinue operations.

 

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We do not anticipate paying cash dividends, and accordingly, stockholders must rely on stock appreciation for any return on their investment.

 

We have never declared or paid cash dividends on our capital stock. We intend to retain a significant portion of our future earnings, if any, to finance the operations, development and growth of our business. Any future determination to declare dividends will be made at the discretion of our board of directors, subject to applicable laws, and will depend on number of factors, including our financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, contractual restrictions, general business conditions and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. As a result, only appreciation of the price of our common stock, which may never occur, will provide a return to stockholders.

 

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If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports or publish inaccurate or unfavorable research or reports about our business, our share price and trading volume could decline.

 

The trading market for our shares of common stock depends, in part, on the research and reports that securities or industry analysts publish about us or our business. We do not have any control over these analysts. If no securities or industry analysts undertake coverage of our company, the trading price for our shares of common stock may be negatively impacted. If we obtain securities or industry analyst coverage and if one or more of the analysts who covers us downgrades our shares of common stock, changes their opinion of our shares or publishes inaccurate or unfavorable research about our business, our share price would likely decline. If one or more of these analysts ceases coverage of us or fails to publish reports on us regularly, demand for our shares of common stock could decrease and we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which could cause our share price and trading volume to decline.

 

We are not subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which could negatively affect your investment.

 

We elected in our certificate of incorporation to not be subject to the provisions of Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, or Section 203. In general, Section 203 prohibits a publicly held Delaware corporation from engaging in a “business combination” with an “interested stockholder” for a period of three years after the date of the transaction in which the person became an interested stockholder, unless the business combination is approved in a prescribed manner. A “business combination” includes a merger, asset sale or other transaction resulting in a financial benefit to the interested stockholder. An “interested stockholder” is a person who, together with affiliates and associates, owns (or, in certain cases, within three years prior, did own) 15% or more of the corporation’s voting stock. Our decision not to be subject to Section 203 will allow, for example, Arthur D. Sams, our Chairman, President, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary (who beneficially owns approximately 55% of our common stock) to transfer shares in excess of 15% of our voting stock to a third-party free of the restrictions imposed by Section 203. This may make us more vulnerable to takeovers that are completed without the approval of our board of directors and/or without giving us the ability to prohibit or delay such takeovers as effectively.

 

Some provisions of our charter documents and Delaware law may have anti-takeover effects that could discourage an acquisition of us by others, even if an acquisition would be beneficial to our stockholders, and may prevent attempts by our stockholders to replace or remove our current management.

 

Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as well as provisions of Delaware law, could make it more difficult for a third party to acquire us or increase the cost of acquiring us, even if doing so would benefit our stockholders. These provisions include:

 

  a requirement that special meetings of stockholders be called only by the board of directors, the president or the chief executive officer;
     
  advance notice requirements for stockholder proposals and nominations for election to our board of directors; and
     
  the authority of the board of directors to issue preferred stock on terms determined by the board of directors without stockholder approval and which preferred stock may include rights superior to the rights of the holders of common stock.

 

These anti-takeover provisions and other provisions in our certificate of incorporation and bylaws could make it more difficult for stockholders or potential acquirers to obtain control of our board of directors or initiate actions that are opposed by the then-current board of directors and could also delay or impede a merger, tender offer or proxy contest involving our Company. These provisions could also discourage proxy contests and make it more difficult for you and other stockholders to elect directors of your choosing or cause us to take other corporate actions you desire. Any delay or prevention of a change of control transaction or changes in our board of directors could cause the market price of our common stock to decline.

 

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Our certificate of incorporation designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our stockholders, which could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees.

 

Our certificate of incorporation provides that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware shall be the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers or other employees to us or our stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our certificate of incorporation or our bylaws, or (iv) any action asserting a claim against us governed by the internal affairs doctrine.

 

For the avoidance of doubt, the exclusive forum provision described above does not apply to any claims arising under the Securities Act or Exchange Act. Section 27 of the Exchange Act creates exclusive federal jurisdiction over all suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Exchange Act or the rules and regulations thereunder, and Section 22 of the Securities Act creates concurrent jurisdiction for federal and state courts over all suits brought to enforce any duty or liability created by the Securities Act or the rules and regulations thereunder.

 

The choice of forum provision in our certificate of incorporation may limit our stockholders’ ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that they find favorable for disputes with us or our directors, officers, employees or agents, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and our directors, officers, employees and agents even though an action, if successful, might benefit our stockholders. The applicable courts may also reach different judgments or results than would other courts, including courts where a stockholder considering an action may be located or would otherwise choose to bring the action, and such judgments or results may be more favorable to us than to our stockholders. With respect to the provision making the Court of Chancery the sole and exclusive forum for certain types of actions, stockholders who do bring a claim in the Court of Chancery could face additional litigation costs in pursuing any such claim, particularly if they do not reside in or near Delaware. Finally, if a court were to find this provision of our bylaws inapplicable to, or unenforceable in respect of, one or more of the specified types of actions or proceedings, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such matters in other jurisdictions, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” and we cannot be certain if the reduced reporting requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our shares of common stock less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act. For as long as we continue to be an emerging growth company, we may take advantage of exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not emerging growth companies, including not being required to comply with the auditor attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, reduced disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation in this report, our periodic reports and proxy statements and exemptions from the requirements of holding a nonbinding advisory vote on executive compensation and stockholder approval of any golden parachute payments not previously approved. We could be an emerging growth company until December 31, 2021, although circumstances could cause us to lose that status earlier, including if the market value of our shares of common stock held by non-affiliates exceeds $700 million as of any March 30 before that time or if we have total annual gross revenue of $1.0 billion or more during any fiscal year before that time, in which cases we would no longer be an emerging growth company as of the following December 31, or if we issue more than $1.0 billion in non-convertible debt during any three-year period before that time, in which case we would no longer be an emerging growth company immediately. We cannot predict if investors will find our shares of common stock less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our shares of common stock less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our shares of common stock and our share price may be more volatile.

 

Under the JOBS Act, emerging growth companies also can delay adopting new or revised accounting standards until such time as those standards apply to private companies. We have irrevocably elected not to avail ourselves of this exemption from new or revised accounting standards and, therefore, will be subject to the same new or revised accounting standards as other public companies that are not emerging growth companies.

 

If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud. As a result, stockholders could lose confidence in our financial and other public reporting, which would harm our business and the trading price of our common stock.

 

Effective internal controls over financial reporting are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to prevent fraud. Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. In addition, any testing by us conducted in connection with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or any subsequent testing by our independent registered public accounting firm, may reveal deficiencies in our internal controls over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses or that may require prospective or retroactive changes to our financial statements or identify other areas for further attention or improvement. Inferior internal controls could also cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our common stock.

 

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We are required to disclose changes made in our internal controls and procedures on a quarterly basis and our management is required to assess the effectiveness of these controls annually. However, for as long as we are an “emerging growth company” under the JOBS Act, our independent registered public accounting firm will not be required to attest to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting pursuant to Section 404. We could be an “emerging growth company” for up to five years. An independent assessment of the effectiveness of our internal controls could detect problems that our management’s assessment might not. Undetected material weaknesses in our internal controls could lead to financial statement restatements and require us to incur the expense of remediation.

 

We incur significant costs as a result of operating as a public company and our management expects to devote substantial time to public company compliance programs.

 

As a public company, we incur significant legal, accounting and other expenses due to our compliance with regulations and disclosure obligations applicable to us, including compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act as well as rules implemented by the SEC and Nasdaq. The SEC and other regulators have continued to adopt new rules and regulations and make additional changes to existing regulations that require our compliance. In July 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, or the Dodd-Frank Act, was enacted. There are significant corporate governance and executive compensation related provisions in the Dodd-Frank Act that have required the SEC to adopt additional rules and regulations in these areas. Stockholder activism, the current political environment, and the current high level of government intervention and regulatory reform may lead to substantial new regulations and disclosure obligations, which may lead to additional compliance costs and impact, in ways we cannot currently anticipate, the manner in which we operate our business. Our management and other personnel devote a substantial amount of time to these compliance programs and monitoring of public company reporting obligations and, as a result of the new corporate governance and executive compensation related rules, regulations, and guidelines prompted by the Dodd-Frank Act and further regulations and disclosure obligations expected in the future, we will likely need to devote additional time and costs to comply with such compliance programs and rules. These rules and regulations cause us to incur significant legal and financial compliance costs and make some activities more time-consuming and costly.

 

To comply with the requirements of being a public company, we may need to undertake various activities, including implementing new internal controls and procedures and hiring new accounting or internal audit staff. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires that we maintain effective disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting. We are continuing to develop and refine our disclosure controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and that information required to be disclosed in reports under the Exchange Act, is accumulated and communicated to our principal executive and financial officers. Our current controls and any new controls that we develop may become inadequate and weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting may be discovered in the future.

 

Any failure to develop or maintain effective controls could adversely affect the results of periodic management evaluations and annual independent registered public accounting firm attestation reports regarding the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting which we may be required to include in our periodic reports we will file with the SEC under Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, harm our operating results, cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations, or result in a restatement of our prior period financial statements. In the event that we are not able to demonstrate compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, that our internal control over financial reporting is perceived as inadequate or that we are unable to produce timely or accurate financial statements, investors may lose confidence in our operating results and the price of our common stock could decline. In addition, if we are unable to continue to meet these requirements, we may not be able to remain listed on the Nasdaq Capital Market.

 

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We are not currently required to comply with the SEC rules that implement Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, and are therefore not yet required to make a formal assessment of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for that purpose. However, we are required to comply with certain of these rules, which require management to certify financial and other information in our quarterly and annual reports and provide an annual management report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting commencing with our next annual report. This assessment will need to include the disclosure of any material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting identified by our management or our independent registered public accounting firm. We are just beginning the costly and challenging process of compiling the system and processing documentation needed to comply with such requirements. We may not be able to complete our evaluation, testing and any required remediation in a timely fashion. During the evaluation and testing process, if we identify one or more material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting, we will be unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

Raising additional capital, including through future sales and issuances of our common stock, the exercise of warrants or the exercise of rights to purchase common stock pursuant to our equity incentive plan could result in additional dilution of the percentage ownership of our stockholders, could cause our share price to fall and could restrict our operations.

 

We expect that significant additional capital will be needed in the future to continue our planned operations, including any potential acquisitions, purchasing of capital equipment, hiring new personnel, and continuing activities as an operating public company. To the extent we seek additional capital through a combination of public and private equity offerings and debt financings, our stockholders may experience substantial dilution. To the extent that we raise additional capital through the sale of equity or convertible debt securities, the ownership interest of our existing stockholders may be diluted, and the terms may include liquidation or other preferences that adversely affect the rights of our stockholders. Debt and receivables financings may be coupled with an equity component, such as warrants to purchase shares of our common stock, which could also result in dilution of our existing stockholders’ ownership. The incurrence of indebtedness would result in increased fixed payment obligations and could also result in certain restrictive covenants, such as limitations on our ability to incur additional debt and other operating restrictions that could adversely impact our ability to conduct our business. A failure to obtain adequate funds may cause us to curtail certain operational activities, including sales and marketing, in order to reduce costs and sustain the business, and would have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

 

Under our 2016 Plan, we may grant equity awards covering up to 1,754,385 shares of our common stock. As of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, we had granted options to purchase an aggregate of 140,000 shares of our common stock under the 2016 Plan. We have registered 1,754,385 shares of common stock available for issuance under our 2016 Plan. Sales of shares issued upon exercise of options or granted under our 2016 Plan may result in dilution to our existing stockholders, which could cause our share price to fall.

 

Our issuance of shares of preferred stock could adversely affect the market value of our common stock, dilute the voting power of common stockholders and delay or prevent a change of control.

 

Our board of directors has the authority to cause us to issue, without any further vote or action by the stockholders, up to 5,000,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more series, to designate the number of shares constituting any series, and to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions thereof, including dividend rights, voting rights, rights and terms of redemption, redemption price or prices and liquidation preferences of such series.

 

The issuance of shares of preferred stock with dividend or conversion rights, liquidation preferences or other economic terms favorable to the holders of preferred stock could adversely affect the market price for our common stock by making an investment in the common stock less attractive. For example, investors in the common stock may not wish to purchase common stock at a price above the conversion price of a series of convertible preferred stock because the holders of the preferred stock would effectively be entitled to purchase common stock at the lower conversion price causing economic dilution to the holders of common stock.

 

Further, the issuance of shares of preferred stock with voting rights may adversely affect the voting power of the holders of our other classes of voting stock either by diluting the voting power of our other classes of voting stock if they vote together as a single class, or by giving the holders of any such preferred stock the right to block an action on which they have a separate class vote even if the action were approved by the holders of our other classes of voting stock. The issuance of shares of preferred stock may also have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of our company without further action by the stockholders, even where stockholders are offered a premium for their shares.

 

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Claims for indemnification by our directors and officers may reduce our available funds to satisfy successful third-party claims against us and may reduce the amount of money available to us.

 

Our certificate of incorporation and bylaws provide that we will indemnify our directors and officers, in each case to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. In addition, as permitted by Section 145 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our bylaws and the indemnification agreements that we have entered into with our directors and officers provide that:

 

  We will indemnify our directors and officers for serving us in those capacities or for serving other business enterprises at our request, to the fullest extent permitted by Delaware law. Delaware law provides that a corporation may indemnify such person if such person acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the registrant and, with respect to any criminal proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe such person’s conduct was unlawful.
     
  We may, in our discretion, indemnify employees and agents in those circumstances where indemnification is permitted by applicable law.
     
  We are required to advance expenses, as incurred, to our directors and officers in connection with defending a proceeding, except that such directors or officers shall undertake to repay such advances if it is ultimately determined that such person is not entitled to indemnification.
     
  We will not be obligated pursuant to our bylaws to indemnify a person with respect to proceedings initiated by that person against us or our other indemnitees, except with respect to proceedings authorized by our board of directors or brought to enforce a right to indemnification.
     
  The rights conferred in our bylaws are not exclusive, and we are authorized to enter into indemnification agreements with our directors, officers, employees and agents and to obtain insurance to indemnify such persons.
     
  We may not retroactively amend our bylaw provisions to reduce our indemnification obligations to directors, officers, employees and agents.

 

To the extent that a claim for indemnification is brought by any of our directors or officers, it would reduce the amount of funds available for use in our business.

 

ITEM 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None.

 

ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4. Mine Safety Disclosure.

 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5. Other Information

 

None.

 

ITEM 6. Exhibits

 

Reference is made to the exhibits listed on the Index to Exhibits.

 

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INDEX TO EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit
Number
  Description
31.1   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2   Certification Required by Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1   Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
101.INS   XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101.CAL   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101.DEF   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101.LAB   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101.PRE   XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

 

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SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

Date: November 16, 2020 POLAR POWER, INC.
   
  By: /s/ Arthur D. Sams
    Arthur D. Sams
President, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary

 

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