Quantum Awarded Contract to Develop Diesel Hybrid Electric Vehicles for U.S. Army

    IRVINE, Calif., May 21 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Quantum Fuel Systems
Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (Nasdaq: QTWW) today announced that it was
awarded a contract to develop a diesel hybrid electric version of its
Alternative Mobility Vehicle (AMV) "Aggressor." This program is a follow on
to Quantum's successful "Aggressor" vehicle, a high performance light-duty
off-road fuel cell hybrid vehicle developed for the U.S. Army's Tank
Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC), National
Automotive Center (NAC). The contract has a total value of $4.88 million.
   The objective of this program is to develop a second-generation
high-performance light-duty off-road hybrid electric vehicle platform based
on the results of and feedback from the U.S. Army's testing and evaluation
of the Aggressor. The propulsion system for this next phase of AMV
development will focus on a JP-8 fuel-compatible diesel internal combustion
engine based, battery dominant, series hybrid electric system, which would
provide a cost-effective, near-term solution as fuel cell technology
matures. Pre-production prototypes will be developed and built for testing
and evaluation by selected commands to assess mission suitability,
supportability, performance objectives, and guidance on final vehicle
configuration.
   "We believe that the AMV program offers an innovative solution as a
long-range reconnaissance vehicle that fills a technology gap for the U.S.
Army in its national defense efforts while reducing its fuel logistic
burden," said Alan Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum. "The
vehicle's silent watch capability, high performance acceleration, extended
range, and exportable power provide significant advantages for the U.S.
Army in communications, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance
missions. We believe that this vehicle and Quantum's innovative hybrid
drivetrain will also be very well-suited for other commercial applications,
including homeland security, border patrol, park service operations, and
light-duty automobiles."
   The contract will be through and administered by Alion Science and
Technology Corporation, based in Alexandria, VA. Alion will provide project
management oversight in support of this effort for the U.S. Army Tank
Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center.
   About Quantum:
   Quantum, a fully integrated alternative energy company, is a leader in
powertrain engineering, system integration and manufacturing of packaged
fuel systems and accessories for specialty vehicles and applications
including fuel cells, hybrids, alternative fuels, hydrogen refueling, new
body styles, mid-cycle vehicle product enhancements and high performance
engines and drive trains for OEMs and consumers of aftermarket parts and
accessories. Quantum also designs and manufactures hybrid and fuel cell
vehicles. Quantum also develops and manufacturers advanced lithium-ion
batteries through its partner, Advanced Lithium Power.
   Quantum has product commercialization alliances with General Motors, AM
General and Sumitomo. Quantum's customer base includes General Motors,
Toyota, Opel, Hyundai, Suzuki, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, SunLine, Yamaha,
AeroVironment, and the U.S. Army.