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Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Fisker Karma - Electric Luxury and Performance Cars

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

The Fisker Karma is a pure series hybrid, driven by a pair of 120 kW (161 hp) electric motors that get their power from a 20 kWh lithium ion battery supplied by A123 Systems. The battery pack runs down the center of the car, between the pairs of left-hand and right-hand seats, preventing a rear bench and seating four rather than five passengers. Once the battery is depleted, or when the driver presses the "Sport" mode button, the front-mounted 260-hp, 2.0-liter Ecotec four-cylinder direct-injected and turbocharged gasoline engine switches on to power a generator that sends electricity directly to the drive motors.
The engine is sourced from General Motors. Unlike the Chevrolet Volt, the Karma's engine is mated with a generator to provide an electrical connection to the motors and also recharge the batteries, and as such the electric motors are the only mechanical driving force connected to the wheels. However, in all-electric mode, the Karma is around half as efficient as the Volt. The proprietary Q-Drive hybrid drive train is supplied by Quantum Technologies, which operates in a joint venture with Fisker Coachbuild known as Fisker Automotive. The Karma's curb weight is 5,300 lb (2,400 kg).

The Karma includes as standard a solar paneled roof manufactured by Asola Advanced and Automotive Solar Systems GmbH, a Quantum Technologies affiliate, not only to aid in the recharging of its lithium-ion batteries but also to aid the cabin climate control system. The solar roof is capable of generating a half kilowatt-hour a day and is estimated to provide up to 4 to 5 miles (6.4–8.0 km) of additional range a week assuming continuously sunny days. Additionally, the car will offer a set of solar panels for the garage/house which may charge the Karma without the benefit of conventional electrical sources (e.g. 'off the grid').

The Karma's two 201 brake horsepower (204 PS) motors produce 1,300 newton metres (960 lbf·ft) of torque. The Karma features a 125 mph (201 km/h) top speed and is capable of reaching 60 mph (97 km/h) from a standstill in 6.3 seconds.

The base model features an 'eco-friendly interior', including salvaged/reclaimed lumber. Optional leather seating is available, but it will use much more of the cow hide than would customarily be found on luxury models; hides with scratches and other marks (which should not affect functionality) will be used.

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

Fisker Karma
Fisker Karma

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