YOKNEAM, Israel, Sept. 21 -- Surface Technology, a subsidiary of ESC Medical Systems Ltd., has signed a joint R&D contract with GM-UMI Technology & Research, a subsidiary of General Motors Co., to develop more efficient engine parts. ESC Medical Systems will provide GM with the opportunity to acquire a minority interest in Surface Technologies, which holds worldwide patent rights to a new technology called Micro Texturing. This new technology is a laser-based process that can significantly reduce the friction between moving parts, such as in an engine, said ESC Medical. Micro Texturing is a cost effective and highly efficient way to increase part lives, lower energy costs and reduce pollution, said Yacha Sutton, president and CEO of ESC Medical. It addresses a potential multibillion dollar market. We are delighted to be partnering with General Motors to refine this technology for the automobile market. Surface Technologies is an example of ESC leveraging light technology outside of its core medical markets using outside management and financing.