The US Army is launching a diesel-electric hybrid powered version the Aggressor – an off-road Alternative Mobility Vehicle (AMV). “Aggressor” was developed by Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ:QTWW) under a U.S. Army’s Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC) and the U.S. National Automotive Center (NAC) program. The Aggressor was designed as high performance light-duty off-road hybrid vehicle powered by hydrogen based fuel cell. TRADEC contracted Alion Science and technology Corporation to manage the program. Quantum was awarded the $4.88 million development contract for the propulsion system.
The second-generation AMV will be based on feedback from the U.S. Army’s testing and evaluation of the Aggressor. Its propulsion system will comprise a battery dominant, series hybrid electric system, charged by JP-8 fuel-compatible diesel internal combustion engine. This system is considered to be a cost-effective near-term solution as fuel cell technology matures. “We believe that the AMV program offers an innovative solution as a long-range reconnaissance vehicle that fills a technology gap for the U.S. Army in its national defense efforts while reducing its fuel logistic burden,” said Alan Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum. The vehicle’s silent watch capability, high performance acceleration, extended range, and exportable power provide significant advantages for the U.S. Army in communications, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance missions.
