Quantum is launching a plug-in conversion of the Ford F150 that will get 35 miles on battery power.

Who says big can’t also be green?  A new plug-in hybrid Version of the Ford F150 Pickup Truck might argue otherwise.

The truck is the work of Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc., the company that is also providing a plug-in hybrid powertrain for the new Fisker Karma, which comes to market later this year.

“We believe this vehicle fills an important niche for fleet customers desiring a largely electric pick-up truck with extended range capability,” said Alan Niedzwiecki, CEO Quantum Technologies.

Quantum’s plug-in hybrid version of the F150 isn’t targeting the average personal use or small business customer, but rather aims at demanding large fleet operators. The vehicle will be capable of matching the performance of the conventional F150 vehicle while achieving substantially higher fuel economy and producing lower emissions, Niedzwiecki said.

The PHEV F150 uses Quantum’s new “F-Drive” hybrid system which will have a 35 mile electric range before shifting to a more conventional gas-electric hybrid mode where it can continue for a total range of over 400 miles before needing to plug in or tank up.

The Quantum “F-Drive” hybrid system is being offered in 2WD and 4WD versions. To meet the requirements of fleet customers, the F-Drive has been integrated in the F150 vehicle such that there is no loss of cabin or cargo bed space, and the hybrid version maintains the conventional F150’sfull ground clearance, Niedzwiecki said.

Quantum is a fully integrated alternative energy company, and was considered a major player in hydrogen propulsion, developing some of the market’s most advanced H2 storage systems.  But with momentum moving from fuel cell technology to battery power, Quantum has shifted focus, as well and is now positioning itself, more broadly, as one of the major players in advanced propulsion systems, energy storage technologies, and alternative fuel vehicles.

Its focus on fleets is no surprise.  As TheDetroitBureau.com has frequently reported, industry analysts believe that fleet buyers will likely add major momentum to the push for battery power since they have more defined routes and are more focused on operating costs than personal vehicle owners.