Clean Green Cars: Fisker gives Quantum $10.2 million contract for powertrain development

Fisker gives Quantum $10.2 million contract for powertrain development

Fisker Karma - Click above for high-res image gallery

Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies has been working with Fisker Automotive ever since the latter company started its efforts to be build a luxury plug-in hybrid a couple of years ago. Quantum has been largely responsible for the creation of the plug-in series hybrid/extended range EV powertrain. Fisker and Quantum have just signed a $10.2 million deal to cover the next phase of development for the powertrain. This Phase III development will cover the production validation of the Karma drivetrain. Valmet will start building final pre-production versions of the Karma late this year and customer vehicles by the middle of next year.

This final validation will include hot and cold weather, high altitude and durability testing. The powertrain consists of a lithium ion battery pack with a 50-mile range, electric drive motors and a turbocharged and direct injected GM EcoTec four cylinder that acts as a range extender.

Gallery: Fisker Karma