The company expects to fulfill testing requirements, begin production and make initial customer deliveries before the [...]]]> IRVINE, CA – May 28, 2010: Fisker Automotive today closed on an additional $35 million of private equity to conclude a $189M round of funding that enables the American car company to launch its Karma premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle.

The company expects to fulfill testing requirements, begin production and make initial customer deliveries before the end of the year. Full production will ramp up in first quarter 2011.

The close — inclusive of $115 million Fisker Automotive announced it had secured access to in January — comes ahead of schedule to meet funding commitments associated with a $528.7 million U.S. Department of Energy loan that will support the development of two lines of plug-in hybrids.

Since being established in August 2007 Fisker Automotive has raised more than $300 million in private equity.

Designed and engineered in California, the Karma, a stylish plug-in hybrid sedan, will be sold in global markets. A demonstration model is currently touring the company’s 45 U.S. retail locations.

Development of the Karma enables Fisker Automotive to create a second, lower-priced line of plug-in hybrids, currently code-named Project NINA, that will be built in a former GM assembly plant in Wilmington Delaware.

Full details are below in the press release from the Department of Energy.

[Add your thoughts in our Fisker forum]

Press Release

Department of Energy Announces Closing of $529 Million Loan [...]]]> Great news! The United States Department of Energy has finalized its loan to Fisker Automotive for the development and production of the Fisker Karma and Nina model lines.

Full details are below in the press release from the Department of Energy.

[Add your thoughts in our Fisker forum]

Press Release

Department of Energy Announces Closing of $529 Million Loan to Fisker Automotive

Manufacturing at Shuttered Delaware GM Plant Expected to Create Over 2,000 Jobs

Washington, DC – The Department of Energy announced today the closing of a $528.7 million loan with Fisker Automotive for the development and production of two lines of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV).  The loan will support the Karma, a full-size, four-door sports sedan, and a line of family oriented models being developed under the company’s Project NINA program.

“The story of Fisker is a story of ingenuity of an American company, a commitment to innovation by the U.S. government and the perseverance of the American auto industry,” said Vice President Joe Biden.  “The Boxwood Plant is opening again, employing workers in Delaware, and is serving as a roadmap for all we can accomplish if everyone works together.   Thanks to real dedication by this Administration, loans from the Department of Energy, the creativity of U.S. companies and the tenacity of great state partners like Delaware – we’re on our way to helping America’s auto industry reclaim its top position in the global market.”

Fisker, a startup based in southern California, expects to manufacture the Karma and Project NINA lines at a recently shuttered General Motors factory in Wilmington, Delaware.  Fisker anticipates that it will employ 2,000 American assembly workers.  Industry experts expect that domestic parts suppliers and service providers also will increase employment substantially.

“Not only will the Fisker projects contribute to cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions, these plug-in hybrid cars will help put American ingenuity at the forefront of automotive design and production,” said Secretary Chu.  “And they will bring innovative cars to the market place while putting American workers back on the job,” Secretary Chu added.

Fisker’s plug-in hybrid products will be among the first to market and will help to accelerate the introduction of fuel-saving electrified vehicles in the U.S. When full production is reached in 2015, Fisker estimates annual sales at up to 115,000 vehicles. Combining Fisker projected sales volume with the expected sales volume of the Nissan Leaf and the Tesla Model S, sales of electric and PHEVs funded with DOE ATVM loans could exceed 300,000 annually.

Initially, Fisker Automotive will use the proceeds of the loan for qualifying engineering integration costs as it works with primarily U.S. suppliers to incorporate components into the Karma’s design.  The engineering integration work will be conducted in Irvine, California, where engineers will design tools and equipment and develop manufacturing processes.  The Karma is scheduled to appear in showrooms in late 2010. The second stage will involve the purchase and retooling of the former GM plant to manufacture the Project NINA line of PHEVs, which is expected to begin rolling off the assembly line in late 2012.

Fisker automobiles are driven by electric motors that get their power from a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, or, when that is depleted, by a generator driven by an efficient gas-powered engine.  The Karma and Project NINA models will have an all-electric, tailpipe-emission-free range of 40 to 50 miles on a full charge, more than most Americans drive each day.  The battery can be charged at home overnight.  Using gas and electric power, Fisker plug-in hybrids are expected to have a cruising range of up to 300 miles.

The Department of Energy’s Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program supports the development of advanced technology vehicles with improved fuel efficiency which help reduce the nation’s dependence on oil. This is the fourth loan arrangement signed by DOE with an advanced technology vehicle manufacturer.

Fisker Automotive has announced plans to bring the Karma to Fisker retailers across North America.

While Fisker isn’t offering any ride or driving opportunities on the tour, current plans intend for customer deliveries to begin early 2011. 1600 deposits have been placed on the [...]]]> If you have not already seen a Fisker Karma, now is your chance.

Fisker Automotive has announced plans to bring the Karma to Fisker retailers across North America.

While Fisker isn’t offering any ride or driving opportunities on the tour, current plans intend for customer deliveries to begin early 2011. 1600 deposits have been placed on the Karma so far.

The two-month program begins on April 27 and will bring the stylish Karma to 42 cities in 26 states and 3 Canadian provinces.

“This tour provides local retailers the opportunity to introduce the beautifully styled and environmentally friendly Karma to their customers and potential prospects,” said Marti Eulberg, Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing at Fisker Automotive. “Fisker Automotive has established a network of proven retailers that will deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction.”

Plan on attending the tour? Join the discussion in our Fisker forum.

Intended Fisker Karma North American Retail Tour Schedule
(check with local retailers for exact times and dates)
4/27 Irvine, CA — Depart Fisker Automotive
4/28 Las Vegas, NV – Gaudin Automotive
5/1 San Antonio, TX – Barrett Holdings
5/3 Austin, TX – Roger Beasley Highline Group
5/4 Houston, TX – McDavid Auto Group
5/5 Fort Worth, TX – Frank Kent Motor Co.
5/6 Plano, TX – McDavid Auto Group
5/7 Tulsa, OK – Don Thornton Cadillac
5/10 Huntsville, AL – Century Automotive Group
5/11 Atlanta, GA – Classic Cadillac
5/13 Tampa Bay, FL – Elder Automotive Group
5/14 West Palm Beach, FL – Palm Beach Motor Cars
5/15 Miami, FL – Warren Henry Automobiles
5/17 Orlando, FL – Fields Auto Group
5/19 Winston Salem, NC – Flow Companies
5/20 Greenbelt, MD – Capitol Cadillac
5/21 Fairfax, VA – Ted Britt Auto Group
5/22 Wilmington, DE – Union Park Automotive
5/24 Langhorne, PA – H.A. Ott Motor Cars
5/25 Paramus, NJ – Bergen Jaguar
5/26 Great Neck, NY – Jaguar Great Neck
5/27 Greenwich, CT – Miller Motor Cars
5/28 Norwood, MA – Jake Kaplan’s Ltd.
6/1 North Olmsted, OH – M2 Motors, Inc.
6/2 Grand Blanc, MI – Serra Automotive
6/3 Toronto, ON – Dilawri Group
6/7 Glencoe, IL – Fields Auto Group
6/8 Schaumburg, IL – Patrick Dealer Group
6/9 Neenah, WI – Bergstrom Corp.
6/10 Minneapolis, MN – Borton Automotive
6/12 Saint Louis, MO – Plaza Motor Group
6/15 Denver, CO – Rickenbaugh
6/18 Calgary, AB – Dilawri Group
6/21 Centerville, UT – Hadley Auto Company
6/24 Vancouver, BC – Fields Auto Group
6/25 Bellevue, WA – O’Brien Auto Group
6/26 Portland, OR – Ron Tonkin Family of Dealerships
6/27 Marin, CA – Price Family Dealerships
6/28 Sacramento, CA – Price Family Dealerships
6/29 Silicon Valley, CA – Price Family Dealerships
6/30 Santa Monica, CA – Sullivan Luxury Cars
7/3 Irvine, CA, Orange – Shelly Automotive Group
7/5 San Diego, CA – Marvin K. Brown Auto Group

Join the voting in our Fisker Karma Forum.

[Add your thoughts in our Fisker Karma Forum]

Fisker Automotive Press Release

IRVINE, CA – February 17, 2010: The advanced aluminum space frame underpinning the Fisker Karma incorporates new levels of rigidity and strength that will give the world’s first premium plug-in [...]]]> Images of the Fisker Karma space frame are expected to be publicly released in early March.

[Add your thoughts in our Fisker Karma Forum]

Fisker Automotive Press Release

IRVINE, CA – February 17, 2010: The advanced aluminum space frame underpinning the Fisker Karma incorporates new levels of rigidity and strength that will give the world’s first premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle world-class ride and handling characteristics. It will debut at the Geneva Motor Show March 2-14, 2010.

Fisker Automotive’s talented and experienced engineering team designed the Karma’s space frame around the car’s unique Q-DRIVE® series-hybrid powertrain, filing for multiple patents in the process. Q-DRIVE® consists of a 2.0-liter turbocharged ECOTEC® engine/generator set, a lithium-ion battery pack from A123 Systems, and a rear-mounted 403hp traction motor assembly.

Though it forms the foundation of a large sedan the Karma space frame’s rigidity is exceptional even when compared to today’s sports cars. By utilizing 5,000- and 6,000- series aluminum alloys and a unique extrusion-intensive architecture, the Fisker engineering team achieved the best balance between weight and size.

“Our top priorities when we designed the Karma’s aluminum space frame were that it have extremely high torsional rigidity and could be easily modified to accept Karma model variants,” explained Henrik Fisker, CEO, Fisker Automotive. “We benchmarked some of the world’s best cars to create an all-new space frame that will deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel.

A super-structural tunnel running down the car’s centerline acts as the Karma’s backbone. It not only houses the battery pack but acts as a torque tube connecting front and rear sections. For optimal strength the Karma’s space frame is joined with 79 meters of precision CMT MIG welds and 1,058 self-piercing rivets. Each technique is used independently only where necessary to ensure top quality and durability.

The result is an industry-leading space frame that provides a solid foundation for the Karma. Few cars match its statistics: Static torsional rigidity – the amount the space frame resists twisting forces when entering a ramp at an angle, for example – measures more than 33,000 Newton-meters per degree (Nm/deg). Static bending rigidity – the amount the space frame resists flexing forces as the car enters a ramp straight on, for example – measures more than 23,000 N/mm. Dynamic stiffness – the space frame’s resistance to resonant vibrations like those felt when driving over a sharp bump or rough road surfaces — is also world class.

Priority: Safety

Thanks to intelligent engineering solutions the Karma’s space frame also provides the utmost in occupant safety and exceeds global crash protection standards. Front impact protection starts with a patent-pending, multi-cell tempered aluminum crush box that displaces high-impact energy away from passengers. Its unique design allows it to be easily replaced, reducing repair costs that could lower insurance premiums. Dual Phase 600-Series steel reinforced components in the doors and B-pillars provide substantial side impact protection. And the lithium-ion battery’s location in the center of the car puts it farthest from impact areas.

Valmet Automotive will assemble the space frames at its state-of-the-art facility in Uusikaupunki, Finland.

*Over 120 event photos below*

On Wednesday, Fisker Buzz was on the scene at Fisker Santa Monica to witness the unveiling of the Karma at an exclusive preview event.

As attendees arrived and checked in, the Karma sat draped in the showroom while those [...]]]>

Fairuz Jane Schiecht - Color and Material Design Manager for the Fisker Karma

*Over 120 event photos below*

On Wednesday, Fisker Buzz was on the scene at Fisker Santa Monica to witness the unveiling of the Karma at an exclusive preview event.

As attendees arrived and checked in, the Karma sat draped in the showroom while those present enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres served in the outside lounge. Shortly after, we were invited inside where a DJ played music.

The Karma’s unveiling began with a speech from Marti Eulberg, Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing for Fisker Automotive. She explained the meaning behind the Fisker logo — the orange at the top symbolizes the sun setting into the blue of the Pacific ocean while the two silver stripes represent the two founders of the company. She then moved on to identify all present who had a hand in the car’s development.

To a round of applause, the sheet was pulled back and the Karma’s sensual shape was exposed. The crowd swarmed the car for a closer glimpse.

While waiting for the crowd to die down, we had a chance to speak with Fairuz Jane Schiecht — Manager of Color & Material Design. You could genuinely feel her dedication and enthusiasm for this extraordinary car and company. She mentioned how the car is crafted with an environmental focus known as “Eco Chic”. From the environmental impact analysis of the batteries, to the Karma’s use of many post consumer recycled materials, to the two eco-friendly interior design models offered to Fisker dealers, it’s clear Fisker has comprehensively studied its environmental impact.

Gathering feedback from others present, some expected the car to seem more spacious. While we found both the front and back seats comfortable, some felt the outside of the car made the car look larger than it really is. Space-concerns aside, the interior materials are top-notch. The leather seats for example are made from cows that are never branded and fed only natural grains. Yet for those inclined, an animal-product free interior will be offered. Running through the middle of the cabin is a large center console which conceals the batteries. The dash features a simple layout with only three buttons: one to lock the doors, one for the hazards, and one to open the glove box. Below these is a large touch screen interface which displays vehicle data and allows the adjustment of the radio, climate, and navigation systems. Unfortunately, the system was incomplete and wouldn’t allow us to dig too deep. Sitting in the driver’s seat I was greeted by three LCD screens. The left one shows the current gear and speed while the right displays the current status of the battery and gas tank. The center screen outputs the estimated range. The gear selector is an unconventional design. It looks like your standard selector except for the fact that it doesn’t  move — the button you would normally push to engage the transmission actually starts the car. To select a gear you move a small switch on the edge instead.

The event was a fantastic opportunity to meet several Fisker employees who’ve contributed to making the Karma much more than a show circuit special. While the car shown was still technically a pre-production car with some unfinished elements, there is no denying the Karma’s striking appeal and revolutionary green credentials.

In the future, we look forward to driving a finished, series production Karma.

Until then, check out our massive gallery below and add your thoughts in the forums.

Much thanks to Fisker Santa Monica and LAcarGUY for organizing this event!

– Josh T. Bernstein for Fisker Buzz

[View with PicLens]

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Dear Fisker Automotive Customer,

We have just published the technical specifications of your Fisker Karma.  We [...]]]> While this letter is from January, which is before Fisker Buzz existed, we figured it’s better late than never to share this letter sent to prospective Karma buyers. Useful information to those looking to learn more about the Fisker Karma below:

—

Dear Fisker Automotive Customer,

We have just published the technical specifications of your Fisker Karma.  We know this communication will continue to build excitement and interest for the months to come…

With a base price of $87,900 (USD), the Fisker Karma is scheduled to begin delivery in November, 2009.  Featuring the proprietary Q-Drive powertrain, the Fisker Karma will have an all-electric range of 50 miles (80km).  After the all electric 50 miles, the gasoline engine turns a generator to charge the lithium ion battery.  Once the 50-mile electric range has been exceeded, the Fisker Karma can be used as a normal hybrid vehicle.  With this balance of electric and gas range, Fisker Automotive estimates that most Karma drivers who charge the Karma overnight and commute less than 50 miles per day will be able to achieve an average fuel economy of 100 mpg (2.4L/100km) per year….

To optimize cooling and aerodynamics, the exhaust pipe from the ICE engine is routed directly out behind the front wheels.  A small functional side vent will release the hot air when the ICE engine is turned on. The Fisker Karma also features a complete flush B-pillar.  The B-pillar is a safety feature and already fulfills the proposed 2012 rollover protection safety regulations…

The vehicle’s ride and handling is decisively sporty and includes very responsive steering.  The Karma’s long wheel base, wide track and low center of gravity provide excellent cornering and stability at highway speeds.

The innovative powertrain, Q-drive, utilizes a large, powerful lithium ion battery and a powerful 2-liter direct injected turbo-charged 4-cylinder gasoline engine developing 260 hp, which enables the Karma to achieve a continuous top speed of 125 mph and a 0-60 of 5.8 seconds.  The large powerful lithium ion battery provides 22.6 kWh, which has unique control software.  The two powerful electric motors deliver a combined 408 hp.

Additional features of the Karma include:

Karma Powertrain “Q Drive”

Powertrain Overview Description

The Karma powertrain is a high performance, high efficiency, plug-in hybrid electric system comprised of three electric machines, three inverters, a turbo-charged 2.0 L high-feature DI gasoline engine and an advanced Lithium-ion technology battery pack. This hardware combination coupled with the innovative Q-Drive control system provides for a unique driving experience where energy, power, feel, and fuel economy are optimized to satisfy driver demands.

Energy Storage System

The energy storage system incorporates an advanced lithium-ion chemistry battery pack with integrated control and safety systems that ensure safe and powerful operation throughout the operating life. The system has a maximum storage capacity of 22.6 kW-hrs and is capable of delivering a peak electric power of 200 kW (500 Amps at 400 Volts) throughout the charge depleting range of operation.   The Advanced Lithium Power battery pack has been designed for the rigorous requirements of the automotive environment, and is a full “plug and play unit” utilizing all advanced vehicle communications software. The battery pack uses inherently safe cell chemistry and has been designed with multiple levels of software and hardware features to ensure optimal performance while providing the highest levels of safety features.

Powertrain Electric Traction

The power dense dual motor traction drive is capable of delivering a peak output mechanical power of 300 kW (408 hp) and a peak torque of 1300 Nm (959 Ft-lb) to the input of the differential. In Sport mode this provides for a high performance luxury sport sedan acceleration time of 0 to 60 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than 6 seconds. The sustained (electronic limited) top speed is 125 mph (200 km/h).

Karma Powertrain Operating Modes

Stealth

Stealth is the default mode of operation. In this mode of operation the Q-Drive continuously optimizes the system performance and efficiency around fuel economy and electric operation. The high efficiency traction system and stable battery pack operating characteristics provide for full no-compromise electric performance on the urban driving schedule. The total achievable all electric range of greater than 50 miles is realized while in Stealth mode. In this mode the maximum vehicle speed will be limited to 95 mph with slightly limited acceleration. When electric mode is exited, the charge sustaining low energy threshold has been reached. The Q-Drive system then transitions to HEV operation. In HEV mode, the Q-Drive still optimizes fuel economy.

Sport

Sport is a driver selectable feature allowing for enhanced vehicle performance operation. This mode takes full advantage of the peak traction system performance capability and delivers the peak on-demand power and torque in order to achieve a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 125 mph. At anytime the driver can switch between stealth and sport modes.  Should the driver wish to change back to Stealth mode, the Q-Drive will transition the vehicle operation to the Stealth mode low energy operating threshold.

HEV

When in HEV or charge sustaining mode the Q-Drive control system operates the vehicle very much the same as a normal strong hybrid. This includes deceleration engine shutdown, zero speed engine-off, electric launch and auto-start capability, and charge sustaining while maintaining charge balancing throughout the customer drive cycle. When the driver is in Sport mode, the Q-Drive automatically transitions to the charge sustaining mode at a higher SOC level than when in Stealth mode. This ensures that sufficient energy is available to support driver demands. Should the driver transition from Stealth to Sport while in HEV mode; the Q-Drive will restore the higher low-energy threshold. This provides for a high performance, on-demand, no-compromise, vehicle operation.

Fuel Economy & Energy Recovery

The Q-Drive system in all modes of operation works synchronously with the regenerative braking system and optimizes the energy recovery around driving conditions, driver demands for downhill simulated engine braking, vehicle speed, and road conditions.

Exterior Design

Eco Chic

Low, wide and coupe-like in profile, sensually sculpted surfaces mix with dramatic and powerful proportions to give the Fisker Karma a “look” all its own. The Karma’s dynamic stance is just as much a thing of beauty as it is a result of the car’s proprietary technical layout. Standard 22-inch light alloy rims at all four corners make Karma a world-leader in the wheel to body relationship. Form and function go hand in hand at Fisker.

Furthermore, innovative and functional design features such as side-mounted charging indicators, state-of-the-art LED-Xenon lighting, unique external-mounted speaker covers and a one-piece solar glass roof work in harmony to express the new design aesthetic that is Eco-Chic.

The exterior design of the production Karma is instantly recognizable and makes no compromises, with only minor changes from the 2008 Karma show car.

Headlamps/Tail lamps

The Karma headlamp combines a Bi-Xenon main lighting module with state-of-the-art LEDs making it one of the most energy-efficient headlamps ever offered. The distinctive bezel design is yet another example of the new Eco-Chic aesthetic.

The tail lamp features are state-of-the-art LEDs for low energy consumption.

Technical Specifications

Solar Roof

The Fisker Karma is unique in having the world’s largest continuous formed glass solar roof panel on a car. The splayed solar cell array maximizes solar ray absorption under various lighting conditions. The graphic accent that runs between the solar cells gives the solar roof a unique and futuristic appearance.
Solar Roof Functionality

The Karma solar energy system converts radiated power from the sun into stored electrical energy. All energy gained from the sun supplants that of the batteries and fuel, effectively increasing the electric range of the Karma.
Solar Power Modes

During vehicle on mode and accessory mode, the electrical system will use all available solar power. For vehicle off mode, the driver may choose from 3 solar power strategies…

1. Auto-the Karma will use the solar power for optimal benefit and focus on system efficiency and reduced costs, including energy and longevity. The Karma will use this default strategy unless the driver selects otherwise, and the Karma resets to this strategy after each power-on.
2. Climate-the energy management system will utilize the solar power to ventilate the passenger compartment and reduce the effects of radiant heating. The driver can select this option from the solar menu.
3. Charging-the Karma will store as much energy as possible from solar power. The driver can select this option from the solar menu.

System Architecture

The solar system architecture consists of a the solar panel and power conditioning devices which manage the power delivered utilizing maximum power point (MPP) tracking. The solar panel is comprised of 4 electrically separate zones, each consisting of 20 cells in series. Each of the 4 zones incorporates MPP tracking to maximize power output for various solar radiation angles and partial shading conditions.

As a subsystem, it serves as an integral part of the vehicle onboard energy management strategy to continuously optimizes and manage on board vehicle energy.
Technical Specifications

* 0.5 kWh/day
* 130 W

Charging Port

* Locking charging port with lid for 110V and 220V charging on driver’s side rear quarter panel (analog to fuel filler on passenger side)

High-Performance Space-Frame Body Structure

Embodied in the Fisker Karma is a high-performance light-weight aluminum space-frame – developed by the most experienced body structure engineers in the automotive industry.  The Karma aluminum spaceframe fulfills high stiffness targets for bending and torsion while fulfilling all current crash standards.  The strong aluminum spaceframe allows the driver of the Fisker Karma to experience a new level of body rigidity and damping.  The resulting steering feel and the driving dynamics will be unmatched in the 4-door sports sedan class.

The side glass “DLO” appears as one smooth, unbroken curved surface that incorporates a flush b-pillar.  Due to the strong b-pillar, the Fisker Karma easily fulfills the proposed 2012 rollover protection rules.

Vehicle Architecture

The Fisker Karma’s vehicle architecture layout features the lithium ion battery packaged into the tunnel enabling a very low center of gravity in the middle of the vehicle – perfect for best driving dynamics and safety.  A further advantage of this architecture is the completely closed and rigid body shell that surrounds the driver and the passengers between the front and the rear of the vehicle.

Interior

The final production interior will be unveiled in Detroit at the NAIAS on January 15, 2009.

Chassis – Suspension:

Designed to match the unique driving experience of the Fisker Karma’s electric driveline, the suspension system balances attributes of a grand touring sedan with the fun-to-drive characteristics of a legitimate sports car.  Using a systems integration approach to the complex tradeoffs of an all new plug-in hybrid platform, engineers were able to meet rigorous functional targets that are competitive with other luxury sports sedans.  The design result takes advantage of Karma’s low center of gravity, wide track, and long wheelbase to deliver a unique driving experience with a blend of response and comfort.

Both front and rear suspensions feature a “short long arm” (SLA) architecture with a short spindle height.  Similar to that found in many sports cars, the compact package of the SLA suspension is compatible with Karma’s low overall hood height and a dramatic rear end styling.

All suspension components including control arms, knuckles and sub frame are made from lightweight cast aluminum.  The liberal use of aluminum in many chassis components reduces the overall weight, including un-sprung weight, to improve agility and ride performance.

The Karma is controlled at each of four wheels with mono-tube shock absorbers that are specifically tuned to improve the level of roll damping, giving a sense of flat cornering with little body roll.  The rear shock absorbers are load-leveling, so the vehicle maintains it showroom stature at any loaded condition.

Fundamental to the driver interface, the steering is a hydraulically power-assisted rack and pinion.  The hydraulic power unit is electrically driven and tuned for optimum steering feel with a programmable servo assist feature.  Steering ratio is 14 to 1, with 2.7 turns lock-to-lock giving remarkable steering responsiveness.  Specific focus has been also been given to balancing highway responsiveness with reduced parking efforts, giving a sense of an overall smaller and more nimble vehicle.

Brake Actuation System

* Electro-hydraulic brake boost unit with integral chassis control functions:
o
+ Brake proportioning
+ ABS
+ Traction control
+ Stability control
+ Electrically regenerative brake blending with friction braking

* Parking Brake
o Electrically actuated parking brake, bi-directional switch operation

Chassis – Wheels and Tires

* Tires
o Front:  245/35R22 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 with optimized rolling resistance
o Rear:  265/35R22 Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 with optimized rolling resistance

Overall Vehicle Specifications

* Acceleration (’sport’ mode)
o 0-60 miles/hour                  =  5.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 6 seconds)
o Top speed (continuous)  =  125 miles/hour (200 km/h)

* Weight
o curb weight                          =  4,650 lbs

* Range
o Electric Only Range =         50 miles EPA city cycle
o Total Range =                        Over 300 miles

* Exterior Dimensions
o Overall Length =               4987 mm
o Overall Width =                 1984 mm
o Overall Height =                1330 mm
o Front Overhang =            913 mm
o Rear Overhang =              914 mm
o Wheelbase =                      3160 mm
o Front Track =                      1689 mm
o Rear Track =                        1720 mm

Power-Train Specifications:

* Rear Wheel Drive
* Performance:
o Stealth Mode              =          max 95 mph – battery only
o Performance Mode     =          max 125 mph – (ICE & battery-combined)
o Drive Motor(s) Power =          2 x 150 kW (408 hp)
* Battery Size
o Dimensions                 =          1870 mm L x 205 mm W x 360 mm H
o Energy Capacity         =          22.6 kW hours
* ICE Power-Train                     =          2.0 Liter DI Turbo Ecotec
* Exhaust System Location       =          Engine Bay
* Transmission                           =          Not Required

About

The Fisker Karma will be assembled by Valmet Automotive in a highly automized assembly facility.  Valmet Automotive is currently producing the Porsche Boxster and Porsche Cayman.  The first Fisker Karma will be delivered to customers in November 2009.  Yearly volume is anticipated to reach 15,000 cars per year.

A total of 40 retailers for the U.S. will be established by October 2009.  Fisker Automotive will announce 20 of their Retailers in January 2009.  European pricing will be announced at the International Geneva Motor Show in March, 2009.

Fisker Automotive, Inc.

Fisker Automotive is a privately owned car company with Henrik Fisker as the CEO. Fisker Coachbuild, LLC will be the exclusive design house for Fisker Automotive through the entire range of product development. The company has backing from Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, Palo Alto Investors and Qatar Investment Authority.

[Forum Discussion]

FISKER KARMA EMISSIONS, ECONOMY ESTIMATED AT 83G CO2/KM, 3.5L/100KM

Stylish plug-in hybrid sedan cleaner, more efficient than today’s best

Full press release below.

IRVINE, CA – September 8, 2009: The Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid electric vehicle will emit just 83g CO2/km and have an economy rating of 3.5L/100km, according to SAE methodology measuring emissions for plug-in hybrids.

Making [...]]]>

[Forum Discussion]

FISKER KARMA EMISSIONS, ECONOMY ESTIMATED AT 83G CO2/KM, 3.5L/100KM

Stylish plug-in hybrid sedan cleaner, more efficient than today’s best

Full press release below.

IRVINE, CA – September 8, 2009: The Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid electric vehicle will emit just 83g CO2/km and have an economy rating of 3.5L/100km, according to SAE methodology measuring emissions for plug-in hybrids.

Making its German debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, the four-door Karma will be one of the cleanest, most fuel-efficient cars in the world, but will still offer world-class style and performance.

Calculations developed by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) estimate carbon dioxide output will be less than that of today’s cleanest production cars and 75 percent less than that of competing vehicles, on average. SAE is an internationally recognized organization of experts that help drive government automotive policy.

Some 941 million liters (248 million gallons) of gasoline could be saved and 2.3 million metric tons (2.5 million US tons) of CO2 offset from sales of 15,000 Karmas per year through 2016. Still, with 403hp and more torque than many supercars, 0-100km/h (62mph) takes about six seconds and maximum speed is 201km/h (125mph).

“The Fisker Karma is the future of driving,” said Henrik Fisker, CEO. “It proves we can drive environmentally responsible cars without sacrificing the emotional things that made us fall in love with cars in the first place.”

Fueling the Karma could cost just €0.02/km ($0.03/mile), consuming as little as 21 kilowatt hours per 100km in its electric-only Stealth mode, according to SAE methodology. However, a real-world annual average would be closer to €0.05/km ($0.07/mile) based on a mix of Stealth and Sport (gasoline) mode use. Actual economy and emission results will vary depending on individual driving habits and usage requirements.

In Stealth mode — engaged on demand via steering wheel-mounted paddle switches — the Karma can be driven into the growing number of traffic-restricting Low Emissions Zones (LEZ) across Europe. Some 70 cities and towns in eight European countries have opted for LEZs, including Berlin, Stuttgart, London and Amsterdam.

The Karma will be the first production Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) when it goes on sale in 2010. Its exclusive Q-DRIVE® powertrain is expected to deliver an emission-free 80km (50mi) per full charge of its 22kWh/200kW Lithium-ion battery, and a total extended range of more than 480km through the use of its gasoline powered engine/generator.

Fisker Automotive is poised to benefit immensely as support from countries around the world for clean vehicles increases. For example, the US has announced its intention to put 1 million plug-in hybrid cars on its roads by 2015. Germany recently unveiled an action plan to have 1 million electric cars on its roads by 2020. Japan wants electric vehicles to make up half of all vehicle sales within a decade.

ABOUT FISKER AUTOMOTIVE, INC.

Fisker Automotive is a privately owned, premium American car company with a vision to lead the automotive industry into the next-generation of automobiles with high-end design expertise and eco-friendly powertrain technology. Global headquarters are in Irvine, California, USA.

The company was created in 2007 to leverage the design capabilities of Fisker Coachbuild, LLC, founded by auto design veterans Henrik Fisker and Bernhard Koehler, and the PHEV powertrain capabilities of Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ-QTWW), a major Tier 1 supplier of clean vehicle technologies to the automotive OEMs. Previously, Fisker, CEO, was design director for Aston Martin and president and CEO of BMW’s DesignworksUSA. Koehler, COO, led design operations at Ford, Aston Martin and BMW.

Fisker Automotive’s first car is the Fisker Karma, the world’s first production Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). The four-door Karma will be followed by two variants and a second line of lower cost, high volume premium green automobiles by 2012.