Today in Detroit at the Fisker Automotive stand on the show floor, CEO Henrik Fisker unveiled yet another beautiful automotive design. Not only a premium sport sedan but also a green vehicle, the Fisker Karma is scheduled to go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2009 at a starting price of $80,000.
A full plug-in hybrid, the Karma will have a 50-mile range on electric power after an overnight charge. Fisker said more than 60 percent of Americans and Europeans drive less than 50 miles per day.
According to Fisker, the Karma will have zero to 60 mph acceleration in less than 6 seconds, with a top speed of more than 125 mph. The hybrid will also have regenerative braking to capture braking energy.
Q Drive, the cutting-edge plug-in technology developed exclusively for Fisker Automotive by Quantum Technologies, consists of a small gasoline engine powering a generator to create electricity that charges a lithium-ion battery pack. The electric motor drives the rear wheels.
Q Drive will be the basis for future derivative vehicles from Fisker Automotive.
“By combining our efforts with the renowned design talent of Henrik Fisker, we can produce cars that make a difference to the environment — without sacrificing the luxury that accompanies the finest automobiles,” stated Alan Niedzwiecki, the CEO of Quantum Technologies.
Fisker Automotive plans to produce the first 99 versions of the Karma in the same interior and exterior colors shown here at the NAIAS, and each will be numbered and signed by the CEO.
The exterior design employs a continual, sculpted flow and dramatic proportions. The hybrid configuration allowed Fisker freedom with the design, producing the long, low hood and short rear overhang. The wide, full-length center console houses the battery pack, which sits between the axles for optimal weight distribution. Body panels make extensive use of aluminum to keep vehicle weight low
The optional full-length solar roof provides partially self-contained climate control, helping to charge the battery and provide cooling to the interior while the car is parked. Fisker also will offer optional solar panels for home installation, to generate electricity during the day to charge the car at night.
The driver will be able to select between Stealth Drive and Sport Drive modes. Stealth Drive is a quiet economy mode for relaxed, efficient driving. By flipping a second paddle behind the steering wheel, the car will switch to "Sport Drive," which will access the full power of the vehicle.
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