CEO MONTHLY / FEBRUARY 2025 13 Hybrid Vehicle Batteries CEO of the Year 2024 - California Jack Chiou, the innovative mind behind NexPower Energy Inc., has earned the prestigious “CEO of the Month” award. Chiou’s extraordinary journey, marked by resilience and groundbreaking achievements, has transformed NexPower into a beacon of innovation in the hybrid battery industry. Here, we celebrate his accomplishments and delve into the remarkable story behind his success. Humble Beginnings and Early Genius Born in Taiwan in 1978, Jack Chiou’s talent for invention emerged at an early age. At just 12 years old, he received international recognition, winning multiple awards, including the IWIEF Inventors & Entrepreneurs Expo in Los Angeles in 1990. These early accolades foreshadowed his future as a trailblazer. In 2002, Chiou moved to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in biomedical engineering at the University of Southern California. Living with his aunt in a modest 50-square-foot room and working as a teaching assistant, he saved every penny to purchase his first car, a used 2006 Toyota Prius Hybrid. These experiences not only shaped his character but also laid the groundwork for his vision of creating costeffective and high-performing battery solutions. From Engineer to Entrepreneur After graduating, Chiou began his career as a software engineer at CCC Collision Repair Software. This role offered him a unique perspective on the automotive industry, particularly the high cost of OEM hybrid batteries. This insight ignited his passion for developing affordable and efficient alternatives, culminating in the creation of his first product: the Dr. Prius App. This revolutionary application allowed millions of hybrid vehicle owners to monitor their battery health and predict battery life expectancy. The success of the Dr. Prius App provided Chiou with the funding and confidence to launch “Project Lithium,” a bold initiative to transition aging hybrid vehicles from Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) to Lithium-ion battery technology. Initially, the project received widespread acclaim, offering customers a more cost effective and efficient solution. However, unforeseen challenges emerged as extreme temperatures and driving conditions began to impact the performance of the lithium-ion batteries. Overcoming Adversity By late 2023, NexPower faced significant setbacks. Warranty claims, safety concerns, and online criticism threatened the company’s reputation and financial stability. Yet, instead of capitulating, Chiou demonstrated exceptional resilience. Traveling to Asia, he sought out battery cell manufacturers willing to collaborate on the development of a nextgeneration battery solution. His persistence paid off, culminating in the creation of sodium-ion batteries tailored to withstand extreme conditions. A New Era with Sodium-Ion Technology In December 2024, NexPower’s sodium-ion batteries are setting a new standard in the industry. Most people don’t even know that Chiou is one of the main forces behind the success of the sodiumion battery. The first dozen prototypes have successfully endured two harsh winters without issue, restoring customer confidence and positioning the company for a bright future. Despite personal sacrifices, including forgoing his salary and depleting his savings, Chiou’s unwavering dedication has revitalized NexPower’s mission. A CEO Who Leads by Example Jack Chiou’s leadership extends far beyond innovation. His commitment to customer satisfaction is unparalleled, personally responding to every inquiry and fostering a sense of community among NexPower’s clients. His handson approach and willingness to face challenges head-on have earned him not only the respect of his peers but also the loyalty of his customers. As NexPower continues to redefine hybrid battery technology, Jack Chiou’s story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs worldwide. His perseverance, vision, and customer-centric philosophy are a testament to what can be achieved through unwavering dedication and innovative thinking. Congratulations to Jack Chiou on being named CEO of the Year. The future of NexPower, under his extraordinary leadership, looks brighter than ever. Contact: Jack Chiou Company: NexPower Energy Inc. Website: nexpowerenergy.com Dec24118 Celebrating Visionary Leadership: Jack Chiou
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