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Home | Auto Shows | Detroit Auto Show | Fisker Unveils 2010 Karma Plug-In Hybrid and Convertible Karma S Concept

Fisker Unveils 2010 Karma Plug-In Hybrid and Convertible Karma S Concept

12 January, 2009 04:53:00

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Fisker Automotive, Inc., has unveiled its first production car -- the 2010 Fisker Karma â€“ at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

With a starting price of $87,900 ($80,400 after US government tax credits), 1,000 orders for the 100 mile-per-gallon luxury plug-in hybrid have been received since the prototype debuted at the 2008 NAIAS. Karma deliveries are scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of 2009 through the Fisker Automotive Retail network.

The four-door, four-seat Karma fuses the traditional and timeless styling of veteran auto designer and Fisker Automotive CEO Henrik Fisker, with Quantum Technologies' clean Q-DRIVE® plug-in hybrid powertrain to become the world's first luxury plug-in hybrid car.

Alongside the production version of the Karma sedan at the Detroit auto show, Fisker debuted the second model to join the Karma range.

The Karma S (for Sunset) concept is spawned from the same aluminum spaceframe that underpins the sedan, but loses a set of doors. A retractable hardtop covers the four-passenger interior.

Fisker's electric Q-Drive powertrain will also propel the Karma S when it goes on sale sometime in 2011. The Q-Drive that promises a range of 50 miles on a single charge of its lithium-ion battery pack in the sedan.

Exclusive to Fisker Automotive, Q-DRIVE® provides the best combination of power, efficiency and low emissions. The system is comprised of two 201hp electric motors powered by an advanced lithium-ion technology battery pack. A generator attached to a 260hp turbocharged 2.0-liter Ecotec® direct injection (D1) gasoline engine provides extended range capabilities.

Q-DRIVE® features two operating modes: Stealth Mode and Sport Mode. In electric-only Stealth Mode, drivers can travel emission free for up to 50 miles on a full charge from any 110-, 220- or 240-volt electric outlet. A total range of up to 300 miles is estimated in Sport Mode, which utilizes the efficient Ecotec® gasoline engine to turn a generator that powers two electric motors on the rear differential. A fully charged Karma can achieve an annual average of more than 100 miles per gallon.

With a top speed of 125 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, the Karma is the world's first true premium plug-in hybrid sports sedan. The Karma's low center of gravity and performance oriented, A-arm suspension system offer a world class driving experience. Tall, wide tires deliver immense lateral grip while electrohydaulic disc brakes provide effortless stopping power.

Karma's exterior design features the continual flow of sculpture and dramatic proportion that is signature Fisker style. A low, wide stance and raised front fenders offer the driver a unique view of the car's design. Modest changes from the original Karma prototype include an enhanced upper grill and an enlarged lower intake for improved airflow. A new aerodynamic diffuser under the rear bumper helps cool the electric drivetrain. Instantly recognizable, the Karma also benefits from having the world's largest continuously formed glass solar panel roof on a car – an industry first and a standard feature on all Karma sedans.

Karma's instrumentation and controls focus on ease of use. Embedded in the layered EcoGlass™ center console is a 10.2-inch touch sensitive screen controlling HVAC, audio and other vehicle systems. LCD gauges behind the steering wheel provide display critical information like battery charge and vehicle speed.

Karma buyers will choose from three trim levels: EcoBase™, EcoSport™ and EcoChic™. The most advanced sustainable material series, EcoChic™, is based on an animal-free approach that still offers a luxurious environment. Leather is replaced by 100% Bamboo Viscose, a soft hand textile, while EcoGlass™ trim frames authentic fossilized leaves. Karma's EcoSport™ series incorporates hand-wrapped premium leather using a 100% sustainable manufacturing strategy, which minimizes the number of hides required and highlights natural markings.

To meet production goals, Fisker turned to specialty builder Valmet Automotive in Finland. Delivery of the more than 1,000 pre-ordered Karmas will begin this year. To commemorate initial production, the first 99 examples will be trimmed to match both interior and exterior specifications of the Karma prototype originally showcased at the 2008 NAIAS. Each will feature a personalized plaque with a designated car number and signature from Henrik Fisker.

Also at the heart of defining the future is Fisker's retail network. A selective process to support initial deliveries is underway and interest from established dealers is high. Customers can expect a high level of service from retail partners that share their environmental and energy values.

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