Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle Displayed at Indy 500

Seems like the Army is concerned about fuel efficiency, but probably not for the same reasons as the rest of us based on the Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle that was displayed at the Indianapolis 500.

The Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle is a newer generation stealth vehicle that incorporates Quantum's Q-Force all-wheel drive diesel hybrid-electric technology and a light-weight chassis to produce a torque in excess of 5,000 foot-pounds. The unit has a top speed of 80 mph and climbs 60 percent grades, while reducing fuel consumption by up to 25 per cent compared with conventional vehicles of comparable size.

The Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle is going to need to be quick because, based on the accompanying photo, soldiers sure look exposed while fighting from it. Looks like the gun mounted to it can do some serious damage.

Military forces are concerned about fuel efficiency not because they are turning environmentally aware all of the sudden. Nor are they trying to save money because – and this is not a political statement – the military is not known for its desire to save money.

Rather, the fuel efficiency of the Clandestine Extended Range Vehicle is important because it allows the vehicle to carry out missions further from its home base. Say, for example, it used to be able to carry out 100-mile roundtrip missions. Well, now it can trek for 125 miles roundtrip.

Another advantage to increased distance is the fact that basic fuel stocks will last that much longer if efficiency is more of a focus. Moving fuel into a war zone is hazardous, which means devoting precious resources to convey protection that could be better served fighting the bad guys.

The U.S. Army labeled the CERV, developed by Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (Nasdaq: QTWW), as one of the "greenest technologies" and demonstrated how its advanced hybrid electric powertrain developed by Quantum and TARDEC saves taxpayer dollars and soldiers' lives.

In support of the U.S. Army's drive for energy efficiency, Quantum developed the Military Aggressor, a first generation fuel cell hybrid electric alternative mobility vehicle (AMV) several years ago. This high performance vehicle was designed for quick-paced mobility operations such as reconnaissance, surveillance and target designation. The CERV is a newer generation stealth vehicle.

In a recent press release, TARDEC NAC Director Paul Skalny noted, "In keeping with the Nation's interest in fuel efficiency, renewable power and energy security, TARDEC is fully engaged in ambitious programs that push development of hybrid electric vehicles for U.S. military use. Having CERV at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway – the proving ground from which both the defense and automotive industry have learned so much – is a solid indicator of where this technology can go."

By the way, TorqueNews.com salutes our military personnel and especially honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in serving the United States as well as our allies who have laid down their lives fighting along side of our troops. Thank you.