Fisker Releases New Photos of its 408HP Karma Hybrid Sports Sedan

These are the first official photos of the production-ready Fisker Karma hybrid sports sedan that will make its world debut at the Detroit Show in January. Compared to last year's prototype model -see here, very few details have changed with the Karma retaining its sensual 4door-coupe styling. Up front the production model features an upper grill that is graphically enhanced while the lower air intake has been enlarged to allow for more airflow. Also, underneath the rear bumper, an aerodynamic diffuser includes the integration of a cooling cover for the electric drivetrain.

"We are very excited to be bringing the Fisker Karma back to NAIAS," said Fisker Automotive CEO Henrik Fisker. "In the year since we debuted the Karma, the reception we've received has been tremendous. I'm proud to announce at this time that we are already sold out on the car until mid-2010."

The Karma is equipped with a hybrid powertrain called "Q-Drive", originally developed by Quantam Technologies as a confidential project for the US military's Delta Force. The Q-drive powertrain utilizes a large, powerful lithium ion battery and a GM-sourced 2.0-liter direct injected turbo-charged 4-cylinder Ecotec gasoline engine developing 260 HP. The two electric motors deliver a combined 408 HP.

The system works in a similar way with the one found in GM's Volt Hybrid with the Karma having 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.

Fisker 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. As for performance, the Karma can achieve a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h) and a 0-60mph sprint in 5.8 seconds (0-100 km/h in 6.0 sec).

The Fisker Karma will be assembled by Valmet Automotive in Finland with yearly volume anticipated to reach 15,000 cars per year. According to the California-based company, the Karma will carry a base sticker of $87,900 in the States with first deliveries scheduled to begin delivery in November 2009. European pricing will be announced at the International Geneva Motor Show in March, 2009.