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Quantum Fuel Systems – Fisker Automotive Joint Venture To Launch Fisker Premium Hybrid

January 14, 2008 by Jeff Shepard

Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. announced that its Fisker Automotive, Inc. joint venture will launch the Fisker Hybrid and a second sedan displayed together with a solar energy-based re-charging station, developed by Quantum in conjunction with its German solar energy partner, Asola Advanced and Automotive Solar Systems GmbH ("Asola").

The 2010 Fisker Hybrid is a 4-door premium sports sedan. Initial deliveries are anticipated to commence in the 4th quarter of 2009, with annual production projected to reach 15,000 units. Quantum will supply its proprietary "Q-Drive" high-performance plug-in-hybrid electric vehicle architecture for the current Fisker Hybrid sedan as well as all future Fisker models. The Q-Drive plug-in hybrid electric drive system is designed to achieve 50 miles of zero emission, battery-only range while providing combined gasoline-electric hybrid operation to enable uncompromised vehicle range and performance. The Q-Drive system will be integrated into a unique chassis developed by Quantum that will enable optimizing the performance and vehicle dynamics. Benefits of the Q-Drive system include optimized fuel efficiency and superior performance, unchanged gas station infrastructure, and home-based battery recharging with any 110V outlet or, as an option, 220/240V fast-charging using Quantum’s solar energy powered re-charging station.

The Fisker Hybrid will be offered with an optional roof-integrated solar photovoltaic generation system supplied by Asola to provide power for ventilation when parking, pre-air conditioning of the vehicle, supplemental cooling of the lithium-ion battery pack, and opportunity trickle charging of the vehicle batteries.

Recently, auto industry sales and marketing veteran Victor H. Doolan was appointed by Fisker Automotive to become a member of Fisker’s board and lead the automaker’s global retail development. Doolan was formerly President of BMW of North America, Executive Director of the Premier Automotive Group, the luxury division of Ford Motor Company, and President of Volvo Cars North America. During his tenure with these automakers, Doolan led each through periods of continuous sales growth in the United States.

"The new Fisker Hybrid sports sedan, which incorporates Quantum’s proprietary Q-Drive system, will change the way we look at the automotive world," said Alan Niedzwiecki, the President and CEO of Quantum. "Featuring the design aesthetic of Henrik Fisker, world renowned automotive designer of the Aston Martin DB9 and V8 Vantage and BMW Z8, the Fisker Hybrid premium sports sedan provides discerning environmentally conscious consumers with no compromise of performance or luxury together with its energy efficient, low emission signature."