Quantum Granted Key Patent Related to Natural Gas Fuel Systems

LAKE FOREST, Calif., Jan. 23, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: QTWW), a leader in natural gas, alternative fuel systems and clean propulsion vehicle technologies, today announced that it has received official notification from the United States Patent and Trademark Office that the company has been issued a key patent covering pressure and flow management for on-board gaseous fuel storage systems.

This newly granted patent, U.S. 8,322,357, claims, among other things, a bi-directional fuel system comprising a fuel storage tank, a regulator, a check valve between the storage tank and the fill line and configured to allow flow into the storage tank; and a distal pressure delayer having an inlet connected to the fill line and an outlet connected to the tank valve. The innovative pressure delayer provides important safety features to protect the various components during rapid natural gas refueling and consumption conditions.

"We continue to innovate and enhance our fully-integrated advanced natural gas fuel systems that incorporate our industry-leading Q-Lite™ ultra-lightweight storage tanks," said Brian Olson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quantum. "We have a strong and innovative record in system engineering and integration as demonstrated by successful launches of advanced natural gas vehicle production platforms."

Over the past 12 months Quantum has been granted a number of patents pertaining to pressurized fuel system and storage technology, adding to Quantum's portfolio of proprietary and protected technologies. Quantum's intellectual property portfolio includes in excess of 60 patents (issued and pending) related to natural gas and hydrogen storage and metering systems and refueling and hybrid electric drivetrain systems.

Quantum currently produces the lightest and highest capacity natural gas and hydrogen on-board storage systems in the world. Developed at Quantum's technology campus in Lake Forest, California, Quantum's advanced natural gas storage systems provide dramatic weight reduction, increased fuel storage capacity, and the capability to quickly integrate these systems. Quantum combines nearly 20 years of system integration experience with strong expertise in software, calibration, fuel system integration, emission and durability testing, validation, and manufacturing capabilities.

About Quantum:

Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. is a leader in the development and production of natural gas fuel storage and system technologies, alternative fuel vehicles, and advanced vehicle propulsion systems. Quantum's portfolio of technologies includes natural gas and hydrogen storage and metering systems, electronic and software controls, hybrid electric drive systems, and other alternative fuel technologies and solutions that enable fuel efficient, low emission natural gas and hybrid, plug-in hybrid electric and fuel cell vehicles. Quantum's powertrain engineering, system integration, vehicle manufacturing, and assembly capabilities provide fast-to-market solutions to support the production of natural gas, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered hybrid, fuel cell, and specialty vehicles, as well as modular, transportable hydrogen refueling stations. Quantum's customer base includes automotive OEMs, fleets, aerospace industry, military and other governmental agencies, and other strategic alliance partners. Quantum's wholly owned subsidiary, Schneider Power Inc., and affiliate, Asola Solarpower GmbH, complement Quantum's alternative and renewable energy presence through the development and ownership of wind and solar farms, and the manufacture of high efficiency solar modules for traditional and automotive applications. Quantum is headquartered in Lake Forest, California, and has operations and affiliations in the USA, Canada, Germany and India.

Forward Looking Statements:

This press release contains forward looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements included in this report, other than those that are historical, are forward-looking statements and can generally be identified by words such as "may," "could," "will," "should," "assume," "expect," "anticipate," "plan," "intend," "believe," "predict," "estimate," "forecast," "outlook," "potential," or "continue," or the negative of these terms, and other comparable terminology. Various risks and other factors could cause actual results, and actual events that occur, to differ materially from those contemplated by the forward looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update the information in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events.

More information can be found about the products and services of Quantum at http://www.qtww.com/ or you may contact:

Brion D. Tanous  
Principal, CleanTech IR, Inc.   
Email: [email protected]      
310-541-6824

SOURCE Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc.