Projects
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. Grant for the Product Launch of a Combination Charger/Inverter
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. will use the Energy Commission grant to help it to manufacture and test its Q-Drive, a hybrid powertrain for electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars. Quantum will upgrade its existing facility in the City of Lake Forest with testing equipment, a pilot production line, and ultimately, a high volume production line to produce 36,000 new drivetrains for electric vehicles each year.
Quantum is a co-founder of Fisker Automotive, maker of the Fisker Karma and Sunset, a pair of highly anticipated plug-in hybrid luxury sedans. While Quantum’s new Q-Drive powertrain will be used in up to 15,500 of those electric cars each year, the company is developing a another combination inverter/charger that will be more economical and targeted at a wider audience.
Grant Amount
$1,371,679
Match Funding
Quantum will provide $1,760,000.
Project Participants
Quantum is a California-based supplier of clean propulsion systems, energy storage solutions, and components for the global automotive industry, with experience designing, developing, and manufacturing over 500,000 specialty vehicles, 20,000 alternative fuel vehicle systems, 2,000 hydrogen systems, and hydrogen hybrid electric military vehicles and plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Project Benefits
The state grant boosts manufacturing in Orange County and puts Californians back to work in sustainable, clean-tech industry jobs. The grant will directly create 30 to 40 jobs now, with more to follow if Quantum’s second generation Q-Drive is successful. If it replaces a traditional internal combustion propulsion system, each powertrain should reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 48 percent and gasoline use by 270 gallons per year.
Grant Agreement Number: ARV-10-009