Quantum Awarded $14.5 Million Development Program To Integrate Q-Drive System For Fisker Automotive
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. announced that it has received a $14.5 million program from Fisker Automotive, Inc. to advance and integrate Quantum’s proprietary high-performance plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle ("PHEV") architecture – known as "Q-Drive" – for the Fisker Karma four-door sport sedan production model.
Quantum claims that its Q-Drive system takes full advantage of the performance potential of electric drive systems while achieving high fuel mileage and low emissions through its integrated plug-in hybrid electric design. The company states that the benefits of its drive system include optimized fuel efficiency and superior performance, unchanged gas station infrastructure, and convenient battery recharging with any 110V outlet, 220/240V fast-charging, or using Quantum’s solar energy powered re-charging station. Quantum’s Q-Drive PHEV system will allow Fisker drivers to drive emission free for up to 50 miles a day following convenient at-home recharging every evening at a gasoline-equivalent price of $0.75 cents.
This contract initiates the integration of Quantum’s Q-Drive system into a unique chassis that will enable optimizing the performance and vehicle dynamics for each of the models in Fisker’s line of premium luxury green cars. Additional efforts are anticipated for Quantum to complete the development, testing, and validation of the integrated Q-Drive system to meet all automotive industry, safety, and emissions standards to be able to put the Fisker sedan into the hands of consumers.
"We are pleased to be working in partnership with the engineering team at Fisker to bring their innovative design to market," said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, the President and CEO of Quantum. "The new Fisker hybrid sports sedan, unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January, has generated much interest from the automotive industry, media, and consumers. This contract enables Quantum to accelerate and commercialize the Quantum Q-Drive system into the new Fisker Karma luxury hybrid sports sedan to meet the growing demand for this new class of ’green’ vehicles."
