Powered by Quantum Technologies’ Q-DRIVE(R), the 100-mpg Karma combines the best in power, eco-friendliness and style
IRVINE, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Fisker Automotive, an affiliate of Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (Nasdaq: QTWW), unveiled its first production car — the 2010 Fisker Karma — and its plug-in hybrid, hardtop convertible concept — the Fisker Karma S — at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit this week. The NAIAS continues through next week with the public car show running January 17-25, 2009.
Fisker Automotive, a new American manufacturer of premium green automobiles, has received in excess of 1,000 orders for its Fisker Karma since the prototype debuted at the 2008 NAIAS. The Karma, a 100-mile-per-gallon, luxury plug-in hybrid sports sedan, fuses the traditional and timeless styling of veteran auto designer and Fisker Automotive CEO, Henrik Fisker, with Quantum’s lithium-ion based Q-DRIVE(R) plug-in hybrid powertrain to become the world’s first luxury plug-in hybrid car. Deliveries of the Karma, with a starting price of $87,900, are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2009 through the Fisker Automotive Retail network.
Also unveiled this week was the open-air Fisker Karma S concept which is a four-seat, plug-in hybrid, hardtop convertible that shares its aluminum spaceframe architecture and the Q-DRIVE(R) powertrain with the Fisker Karma sports sedan.
Like the Fisker Karma, Karma S is designed and engineered by Quantum Technologies exclusively for Fisker Automotive and powered by Quantum’s Q-DRIVE(R), which provides 50 emission-free miles on a single charge to its lithium-ion battery pack and up to 403hp from two electric motors. The power retractable hard top, a first for Fisker, glides neatly into the trunk and a unique design language sets the Karma S concept apart.
Both the Fisker Karma and the Karma S concept embody Fisker’s belief that driving style and performance need not be compromised for environmental friendliness and efficiency.
“Our objective is to create a singular design language and heritage around our state-of-the-art Q-DRIVE(R) powertrain,” said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. “The Karma S is an extension of the Fisker Automotive product range of eco-conscious automobiles and sets the tone for our future.”
Q-DRIVE: POWERFUL TECHNOLOGY
Exclusive to Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE(R) provides the best combination of power, efficiency and low emissions. The system is comprised of two 201hp electric motors powered by an advanced lithium-ion technology battery pack. A generator attached to a turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec(R) direct injection (D1) gasoline engine provides extended range capabilities.
“More than 75 percent of America’s 200 million drivers travel less than 50 miles per day. With Q-DRIVE(R), the Karma can do that without using a drop of gas. This proprietary powertrain will provide a base for all future model derivatives from Fisker Automotive,” said Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies.
Q-DRIVE(R) features two operating modes: Stealth Mode and Sport Mode. In electric-only Stealth Mode, drivers can travel emission free for up to 50 miles on a full charge from any 110-, 220- or 240-volt electric outlet. A total range of up to 300 miles is estimated in Sport Mode, which utilizes the efficient Ecotec(R) gasoline engine to turn a generator that powers two electric motors on the rear differential.
With over 60% of the public driving less than 50 miles per day, a fully charged Karma can achieve an annual average of more than 100 miles per gallon. With a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the Karma is the world’s first true premium plug-in hybrid sports sedan. The Karma’s low center of gravity and performance-oriented, A-arm suspension system offer a world class driving experience. Tall, wide tires deliver immense lateral grip while electrohydraulic disc brakes provide effortless stopping power.
LUXURY AND STYLE
Karma’s exterior design features the continual flow of sculpture and dramatic proportion that is signature Fisker style. A low, wide stance and raised front fenders offer the driver a unique view of the car’s design. Modest changes from the original Karma prototype include an enhanced upper grill and an enlarged lower intake for improved airflow. A new aerodynamic diffuser under the rear bumper helps cool the electric drivetrain. Instantly recognizable, the Karma also benefits from having the world’s largest continuously formed glass solar panel roof on a car — an industry first and a standard feature on all Karma sedans.
“From initial concept to final production, it is important for Fisker to maintain a singular design language and to keep the integrity of the original design, inside and out. Extreme proportions, beautiful sculpture and earth-friendly materials are key elements that set the Karma apart,” said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. “An inspiring drive is also an important and crucial element. Our hope is that the Fisker Karma will create a new segment of eco-friendly transportation and will become the most desirable plug-in hybrid sports sedan available.”
A desirable car of any kind requires an inviting cockpit. Fisker’s interior design team focused on sustainable design held accountable to the environment. Inspiration from nature’s timeless beauty and the quality of classic design composition provided immense inspiration. Karma’s Sustainable and Accountable Design is reflected in the use of reusable materials enhanced with modern technology. For example, wood trim is sourced from non-living trees: ‘Fallen Trees’ that have succumbed to age; ‘Rescued Trees’ burned in forest fires; and ‘Sunken Trees’ lying in American lake bottoms.
Karma’s instrumentation and controls focus on ease of use. Embedded in the layered EcoGlass(TM) center console is a 10.2-inch touch sensitive screen controlling HVAC, audio and other vehicle systems. LCD gauges behind the steering wheel provide display critical information like battery charge and vehicle speed.
“The Karma’s material philosophy balances sensuality and accountability,” said Fisker. “We have gone to great lengths to use only environmentally conscious, classic automotive materials that support a commitment to our eco initiatives. At Fisker Automotive we are trying to inspire change for the better Karma buyers will choose from three trim levels: EcoBase(TM), EcoSport(TM) and EcoChic(TM). The most advanced sustainable material series, EcoChic, is based on an animal-free approach that still offers a luxurious environment. Leather is replaced by 100% Bamboo Viscose, a soft hand textile, while EcoGlass(TM) trim frames authentic fossilized leaves. Karma’s EcoSport(TM) series incorporates hand-wrapped premium leather using a 100% sustainable manufacturing strategy, which minimizes the number of hides required and highlights natural markings.”
About Quantum
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc., a fully integrated alternative energy company, is a leader in the development and production of advanced propulsion systems, energy storage technologies, and alternative fuel vehicles. Quantum’s portfolio of technologies includes advanced lithium-ion battery systems, electronic controls, hybrid electric drive systems, hydrogen storage and metering systems, and alternative fuel technologies that enable fuel efficient, low emission hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric, fuel cell, and alternative fuel vehicles. Quantum’s powertrain engineering, system integration, vehicle manufacturing, and assembly capabilities provide fast-to-market solutions to support the production of hybrid and plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered hybrid, fuel cell, alternative fuel, and specialty vehicles, as well as modular, transportable hydrogen refueling stations. Quantum’s customer base includes automotive OEMs, dealer networks, fleets, aerospace industry, military and other government entities, and other strategic alliance partners.
More information can be found about Quantum’s products and services at http://www.qtww.com
Quantum is a member of the Russell 2000(R) and Russell 3000(R) indexes.
About Fisker
Fisker Automotive is a privately owned car company with Henrik Fisker as the CEO. Fisker Coachbuild, LLC will be the exclusive design house for Fisker Automotive through the entire range of product development. The company has backing from Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Palo Alto Investors and Qatar Investment Authority.
More information can be found online at www.fiskerautomotive.com .
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements in this document regarding future financial and operating results, future growth in customers and development programs, the development and commercialization of hybrid vehicles, hybrid vehicle specifications, new or expanded customer contracts, the commitment of suppliers and other entities to the Karma vehicle program, future opportunities for Quantum, and any other statements about the future expectations, beliefs, goals, plans, or prospects expressed by management constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including but not limited to statements containing the words “will,” “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates,” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. There are a number of important factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements, including: variations in pricing, engineering and material costs, development costs, other general costs and expenses; other new model platforms; the ability to retain key personnel; the Company’s ability to successfully execute its business strategies; growth of the hybrid vehicle market; the levels of commitment by OEMs, governments and other entities to the commercialization of hybrid and alternative fuel technologies; our dependence on a concentrated number of customers for a substantial majority of our revenues; the timing of product cycles for our OEM customers; delays in the development of a commercial market for our products; our reliance on a limited number of suppliers for raw materials used in our products; shortages of raw materials; competitive conditions in the industry; business cycles affecting the markets in which the Company conducts business; and economic conditions generally. Additional factors may be found in Quantum’s Form 10-K for the year ended April 30, 2008 and in the other documents filed by Quantum with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, opinions, and expectations of the Company’s management as of the date of this press release, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update its forward-looking statements if those beliefs, opinions, expectations, or other circumstances should change.
At the Company:
Dale Rasmussen
Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc.
Investor Relations
Email: DRasmussen@qtww.com
1-206-315-8242
Investor Relations:
RedChip Companies, Inc.
Dave Gentry
1-800-733-2447, Ext. 104
Or,
Jon Cunningham
1-800-733-2447, Ext. 107
info@redchip.com
