IRVINE, Calif. --- Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc. has been awarded a contract to develop a hydrogen-fueled Ford Escape Hybrid vehicle for the U.S. Army National Automotive Center (NAC). Under this contract, Quantum said, the company will evaluate different hydrogen fuel system configurations, considering the feasibility of bi-fuel (switchable between gasoline and hydrogen) and dedicated hydrogen systems. Quantum will develop an advanced hydrogen storage system, fuel injection system, and electronic controls required for the Hydrogen Escape Hybrid. The work will be conducted by Quantum at its Advanced Vehicle Concept Center in Lake Forest, Calif. This Hydrogen Escape Hybrid contract complements the Mobile Hydrogen Infrastructure program, which is funded in this year's Department of Defense budget, the company said. The overall objective of the MHI program is to demonstrate the capability of Quantum's HyHauler Plus transportable hydrogen refueling stations to meet demand as hydrogen and fuel cell technologies are deployed throughout the military. This demonstration program includes supporting the deployment of hydrogen internal combustion engine administrative vehicles, including the Hydrogen Escape Hybrid, as well as fuel cell vehicles. "We are pleased that our successes with the Aggressor high-performance fuel cell hybrid off-road vehicle, the hydrogen hybrid Prius, and the HyHauler Plus transportable hydrogen refueling stations have led to new opportunities," said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, president and CEO of Quantum.