Alternative Power

Furthering their investment in the capabilities of alternative power, the U.S. Army has signed a contract with Quantum, an alternative energy company, for the development of a diesel hybrid electric version of their "Aggressor" vehicle.

 

Quantum's Aggressor is an alternative Mobility Vehicle (AMV) that utilizes fuel cells for use off-road, for the U.S. Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development and Engineering Center (TARDEC), National Automotive Center (NAC).

 

The contract for the AMV program, valued at $4.88 million, is set up to provide a new vehicle, based off of the evaluation and testing from the U.S. Army's use of Quantum's Aggressor vehicle.

 

According to a recent news release, the development of the new AMV will provide the U.S. Army with a cost effective solution, as fuel cell technology continues to be developed and will, "focus on a JP-8 fuel-compatible diesel internal combustion engine based, battery dominant, series hybrid electric system."

 

Commenting on the new vehicle to be developed, Alan Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum said, "The vehicles silent watch capability, high performance acceleration, extended range, and exportable power provide significant advantages for the US Army in communications, surveillance, targeting, and reconnaissance missions. We believe that this vehicle and Quantum's innovative hybrid drive train will also be very well-suited for other commercial applications, including homeland security, border patrol, park service operations, and light-duty automobiles."

 

Before the vehicle is put into final configuration it will be tested and evaluated via prototypes for its supportability, mission suitability, performance objectives and guidance. Project management and support will be provided by Alion Science and Technology Corporation.