Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc. (Nasdaq: QTWW) today announced the Quantum-Powered Fisker Karma hybrid sports sedan is featured in a five-page article in the July 2008 edition of CAR Magazine. This publication highlights trends and technology in the automotive industry, and gives the company and its partnership with Fisker Automotive Inc., widespread attention.
“We’re very excited to see the car featured in such a popular publication,” Alan P. Niedzwiecki, president and CEO of Quantum stated in the press release. “We continue to see growing interest in the Karma, both from traditional car enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers around the world.”
Designer of the Karma, and CEO of Fisker Automotive Henrik Fisker, gained notoriety in the luxury automotive market with his design of the Aston Martin’s DB9 and BMW’s Z8 roadster. And now, this Quantum-powered, zero-emission, green vehicle is one of the first of its kind with the ability to earn a price tag of $80,000.
“‘Usually, enthusiasts are the first to buy a new car, environmentalists the last. We’ve united the two. You don’t get as much reaction in a cool sports car now; people don’t look at you and say ‘lucky guy.’ That’s why you see movie stars in Priuses. People are just amazed and surprised that they can now have a truly sexy environmental car. This is the car they’ve been waiting for. Consumers are ahead of the car companies’ here,’” Fisker stated in the article.
Quantum’s Q-Drive hybrid propulsion system, integrated with a small gasoline engine, fuels the Karma through an electric generator that charges a lithium-ion battery pack. The sedan hits 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, reaching speeds in excess of 125 mph.
The company’s innovative and efficient systems, including regenerative braking, generator, power control, and electronics and software systems, has earned Quantum the role of providing Fisker Automotive a base for all future derivatives.
According to the press release, Fisker expects 100 of the luxury hybrids to hit the street by the end of 2009, with full production commencing in 2010.
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