HOME REFUELING STARTUP RECEIVES $1 MILLION IN FUNDING

Simple-Fill, a Columbus-based spinoff of The Ohio State University, is the inaugural recipient of an investment from the new $1 million Technology Concept Fund. The Technology Concept Fund, which includes investments from Ohio State and Ohio Third Frontier, is managed by TechColumbus. Simple-Fill has announced that it is commercializing affordable home refueling technology. The technology was conceived at The Ohio State University’s Center for Automotive Research (CAR). Through the center, Simple-Fill is receiving additional non-dilutive funding from Honda. Simple-Fill also received further investment from strategic partner Worthington Cylinders. Simple- Fill envisions two primary markets, small to medium sized fleets with less than 20 vehicles and consumers. “Our equipment will be small, cost effective, and will allow small to medium size fleets and consumers to realize the benefits of CNG,” said Rob Underhill, Simple-Fill’s president. No details were provided on cost or availability.