The Fisker Karma Plug-in Hybrid made its public driving debut over the weekend, just 19 months after being introduced as a concept vehicle. A prototype of the 403hp full size sedan reached speeds in excess of 100mph, utilizing both Sport (hybrid) and Stealth (electric only) modes around Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca during the Rolex Monterey Historic Automobile Races.
Fisker Automotive co-founder and COO Bernhard Koehler was driving. California-based Fisker Automotive is developing the Karma to be the first production Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). The Karma proves fuel-efficient vehicles can still generate the passion and excitement that made people fall in love with cars in the first place. Although the Fisker Karma can reach 60mph in six seconds and a top speed of 125mph it can also ambien achieve well over 100mpg. Carbon emissions are also much lower than today’s hybrids. “This demonstration represents a significant milestone for Fisker Automotive and PHEV technology,” said CEO Henrik Fisker. “The future of clean cars is bright.” Fisker Automotive is scheduled to start customer deliveries in summer 2010. The Karma has a range of 50 emission-free miles on a full charge of its Lithium-ion battery, and a total range of 300 miles thanks to an on-board generator turned by traditional but efficient 260hp, four-cylinder gasoline engine. Combined with two powerful electric motors, these components make up the Q-DRIVE® powertrain exclusive to all Fisker automobiles. Q-DRIVE® delivers the ultimate combination of performance, range and efficiency.