Plug-In

Though not as pricey and not as forceful as the Tesla Roadster (Sport Model: $128,500; 0-60 mph in under 4.0 seconds), the Fisker Karma certainly carries the looks and performance of a new breed of “green” status symbols.   Fisker Automotive describes its vehicle has having “The height of a Porsche 911, length of a Mercedes Benz CLS and the width of a BMW 7 Series.” With two electric motors that produce a peak output of 408 horsepower and 959 ft-lb. of torque, the vehicle actually delivers on its first impressions.

The Karma’s electric drivetrain is called the Q-Drive, whose plug-in hybrid technology was developed for Fisker by Quantum Technologies.    This system  can be switched between two modes:  Stealth mode, which is electric only, has a range of 50 miles, and a top speed of 95 mph.  Sport mode, taking advantage of the turbocharged 2.0L gas engine, has an acceleration of 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds, and it can reach a top speed of 125 mph.

The machine comes with the option of a solar-paneled roof  that can help power the electric motors, charge the Karma’s lithium-ion batteries, or provide energy for the interior’s climate control.   Interestingly, Fisker is also offering solar panels for consumers’ houses and garages to provide the theoretical ability to completely charge the Karma “off-the-grid”. Like most hybrids, regenerative breaking will also contribute to keeping the battery charged.

The company has estimated that the average driver will only need to refuel his or her tank once per year, provided they are driving only 50 miles each day.

With a base price of about $88,000, and deliveries expected to go on sale by November 2009, Fisker’s Karma might just be attractive enough for traditional luxury and performance car owners to make the switch to a plug-in alternative.  Car enthusiasts will certainly keep their eyes open for when the vehicle is released, and the everyday driver won’t be able to help but notice when one drives past them.