(Calculating project cash flows and NPV) Howells Tools is considering the launch of a new automatic drill for construction-based firms. Market research estimates the development cost of this machine at £75,000. The machine will have a commercial salability for the next five years after which it will become obsolete due to technological changes. The sales figures are estimated at £800,000 in year 1 at a price of £200. The sales volume is expected to increase by 4 percent every year, and the price is expected to increase by 3 percent every year. The production of this tool, however, will require an immediate cash outlay of

£450,000, and it will cost an additional £18,000 per year to properly maintain the equipment. In year 4, there will be a technical certification process that will cost an additional

£60,000. The total variable cost of production for this product will be £500,000, increasing at 4 percent every year. The cost of capital for Howell Tools is estimated at 8 percent. Also, consider the research and development cost as relevant for your calculations.

a. Calculate the project cashflows.

b. Calculate the payback period for this project.

c. Calculate the NPV for this project.