The Fisker Karma, launched in 2011, aimed to revolutionize the automotive industry with its striking design and advanced technology. This plug-in hybrid boasted a 50-mile electric range, powered by a 20.1 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
It featured a front-mounted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol Ecotec engine from GM, producing 260 horsepower (264 metric horsepower). Combined with two electric motors, each delivering 161 horsepower (163 metric horsepower), the total output was 403 horsepower (409 metric horsepower) and 960 pound-feet (1,300 Newton-meters) of torque.
While these specs may not seem impressive now, back in 2011, Karma’s ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 kph) in 5.9 seconds in Sport Mode and reach a top speed of 125 mph (201 kph) was noteworthy.
Despite its promising start, the Fisker Karma faced numerous issues. It was plagued by malfunctions, recalls, fire incidents, and legal battles with Tesla. A government loan freeze, due to unmet milestones, further hampered production.
Only around 2,560 units were built at the Valmet Automotive factory in Uusikaupunki, Finland. Production ceased when A123 Systems, the sole battery supplier, went bankrupt, leading to Fisker’s collapse. High-profile customers like Leonardo DiCaprio and Justin Bieber couldn’t save it from failure.
