Quantum’s Diesel Hybrid Highlighted by US Army at Detroit Auto Show

By Dena Cassella January 15, 2010

quantum-diesel-hybrid — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The U.S. Army Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) proudly displayed Quantum’s Clandestine Electric Reconnaissance Vehicle (CERV) all-wheel-drive diesel hybrid electric vehicle at the Detroit Auto Show today. The CERV was jointly designed by Quantum and TARDEC’s National Automotive Center (NAC) with funding support from the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Quantum says the vehicle was designed for quick-paced mobility operations such as reconnaissance, surveillance and target designation.

The CERV pairs Quantum’s 2nd generation advanced all-wheel-drive diesel hybrid electric powertrain (Q-Force) with a light-weight chassis to produce a torque rating that exceeds 5,000 foot-pounds, allowing the unit to maintain speeds of 80 miles per hour and climb 60 percent grades. The vehicle reduces fuel consumption by up to 25 percent compared with other conventional vehicles of a similar build and size.

“We are excited to have the opportunity to support the US Army by providing advanced hybrid vehicles such as our CERV which demonstrate the exceptional performance, efficiency, and reliability of our Q-Force system,” said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum. “Hybridization of the largest fleet in the world would put the best tools in our troop’s hands while greatly reducing emissions and dependence on foreign petroleum. Using 25% less fuel will also substantially reduce the number of resupply vehicles, eliminating the need to put these people in harm’s way.”

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