Energy & Science
Robert Downey Jr. and Bill Gates Bet On Electric Motor Startup
California-based Turntide Technologies raised $80 million for its motors that reduce electricity use
Bill Gates, left, and Robert Downey Jr.
Source: Getty Images
This article is for subscribers only.
As much as half of the world’s electricity is consumed by motors. They power everything from fans to electric cars and pumps to industrial machinery. Making them more efficient could go a long way in reducing emissions of planet-warming greenhouse gases.
That’s the promise of California-based startup Turntide Technologies Inc., which has commercialized a new type of electric motor. The company said on Wednesday it has raised $80 million from investors including funds led by Microsoft Corp. founder Bill Gates, Iron Man actor Robert Downey Jr., and co-creator of the iPhone Tony Fadell.