Quantum lines up $10.2M contract with Fisker

Irvine, Calif.-based Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide (Nasdaq:QTWW) said today it signed a $10.2 million contract with Fisker Automotive. The contract is expected to help Quantum complete development of its plug-in hybrid powertrain, which would be launched in Fisker's luxury cars. 

The contract is expected to allow Quantum to achieve production validation of the Q-Drive plug-in hybrid system and prepare it for volume production in 2010, according to a news release. Quantum said it has developed an advanced version of its Q-Drive system for Fisker’s $87,900 Karma, a luxury sports sedan, as well as the Karma S Sunset, a coupe/convertible.

Fisker tapped Finland's Valmet Automotive, which makes Porsche's Boxter and Cayman models, to produce the Karma sedan beginning in the fourth quarter of 2009 for the North American market (see Cleantech cars advance as old guard stumbles). The first Karmas are expected to be delivered in Europe in 2010 (see Fisker closes $85M financing in run-up to production).

Quantum, which develops and produces advanced propulsion systems, energy storage technologies, and alternative fuel vehicles, first teamed up with Fisker in 2007 (see Attack of the plug-in hybrids!).

The new contract is expected to include continued engineering development and validation of the powertrain, putting it through high altitude, durability, hot and cold weather testing. Once that validation is achieved, Fisker’s production using Quantum's technology would launch.

The Q-Drive includes a gas-powered engine/generator set, which Quantum claims offers high efficiency with low emissions. Karma’s lithium-ion battery pack and electric traction motor drive system allow it to be driven 50 miles only on electrically and then achieve fuel economy in hybrid mode, according to the companies.The car can go and additional 250 miles on a tank of gas running the 2.0 liter engine.

Quantum is also working with companies including Norway’s Miljo Innovasjon, a subsidiary of Miljobil Grenland, which develops technology for electric vehicles. In September 2008, Miljo signed a letter of agreement with Quantum to develop and produce electric vehicles for the European and Chinese automotive markets (see Electrovaya, Tata Motors to make electric Indica).

Quantum was contracted in 2006 to develop hydrogen-fueled Toyota Priuses to Miljobil Grenland, to be tested on Norway’s HyNor. The 580-kilometer (360-mile) stretch of road runs from Oslo on the east coast to Stavanger on the west coast (see Norway fast-tracks hydrogen highway).

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