Driving the Fisker Karma - a photographic review by VCheng

[FiskerFan]

As an investor in Fisker, I had the opportunity to visit the company's headquarters in CA and drive the Karma. Amazing design and technology. Wait until the world sees the Nina. Since I signed a confidentiality agreement, I cannot share details. All I can say is wow! The Sunset (convertible) is stunning as well.

[VCheng]

As an investor in Fisker, I had the opportunity to visit the company's headquarters in CA and drive the Karma. Amazing design and technology. Wait until the world sees the Nina. Since I signed a confidentiality agreement, I cannot share details. All I can say is wow! The Sunset (convertible) is stunning as well.

The Karma has potential for sure, but they do need to fix the drone from the engine to compete in this price category. Otherwise, it may not do as well in the marketplace as its technology deserves.

There are other minor niggles as well, but I withholding assessment until i drive a production car rather than a prototype.

[speedster_101]

Nice review VCheng.
Whats the top speed you achieved?

[VCheng]

The 2 litre engine does charge the batteries as well. But it's there more as a band-aid for range rather than for being used at all times. It's primarily an electric vehicle that is supposed to be charged at night. Assuming that you never run over the range, you won't fire up the petrol engine.

A couple of comments for VCheng:

1. The paint appears to be a deep blue rather than black, or maybe it's just got blue metal flake?
2. The engine is out of a Pontiac Soltice isn't it? The piping looks a wee bit pre-production, I think they'll cover everything up with covers to make it less visible.
3. About the rear of the cabin, it doesn't feel claustrophobic I hope? The high centre console with the high window line make me think of that.
4. About the perceived performance that you noted. Electrics have better roll-on acceleration times than their petrol-powered counterparts. They haven't got better 0-60 since they've only got one gear. Think of the vehicle as if it had a huge diesel engine but only 6th gear. You won't get any tire burning acceleration, but you will get seamless acceleration higher up in the speed range.
5. I wish I could have a go in one too. I'd be able to pick up a bunch of cues for work
6. Lastly, thanks a million for sharing your run in such detail, I really did learn a lot about it.

1. The car was black, but the bluish hue of the cloudy sky plus some dust creates the impression you mention.

2. The car was a prototype. I am sure they will tidy the engine bay a little bit further. The engine is indeed sourced from GM.

3. I sat in the back only when the car was still, so I cannot say. It is pretty comfortable in the back, save for headroom for taller people. They really need to consider contouring the roof panel over the rear seats to add a touch more headroom. The console and the windowline were acceptable to me.

4. The seamlessness of the acceleration was very enjoyable, as well as a distinct lack of drama with no crescendo in the engine noise. The midrange torque is mind boggling. This car will never have a problem with mountain grades.

5. Production cars are expected at this dealership in a few weeks, and I am on the list for a detailed test drive. Come on over then and we can do it together.

6. You are welcome!

[VCheng]

Nice review VCheng.
Whats the top speed you achieved?

The car is limited to 95 mph in Stealth mode, and 130 mph in Sport mode.

As all of PW knows, I NEVER exceed the speed limit!

[murtaza_murti]

Nice photography

[speedster_101]

The car is limited to 95 mph in Stealth mode, and 130 mph in Sport mode.

As all of PW knows, I NEVER exceed the speed limit!

Good speed for an electric vehicle.
What is the difference between these two mods?
In sports mode, the car is running on gasoline?

[VCheng]

Good speed for an electric vehicle.
What is the difference between these two mods?
In sports mode, the car is running on gasoline?

Stealth mode uses battery power only, and Sport mode uses both battery and generator power, with the engine switching on and off as needed.

[ToofaneBatameezi]

VC: That was awesome. This is the only EV out there that has kept me from abandoning my hope in EVs.

However, FiskerFan and VC, please for the love of God ask them to delete the front grille with something more gracious to the body flow.

[FiskerFan]

Toofane,

I share the same opinion. Like I said in my previous post, wait until you see the Nina.

[Carsrus]

I find that hideous watermark absolutely hilarious. I've worked with a few photographers, but I've never seen one bent on destroying his images with an in-your-face watermark. I always thought they were suppose to be inconspicuous...

[KamranAslam]

The 2 litre engine does charge the batteries as well. But it's there more as a band-aid for range rather than for being used at all times. It's primarily an electric vehicle that is supposed to be charged at night. Assuming that you never run over the range, you won't fire up the petrol engine.

6. Lastly, thanks a million for sharing your run in such detail, I really did learn a lot about it.

@Sami: Nice to you posting after a long time, this means you are around but with no post ...... Again.. you Diesel Guy Best of Luck with your plans

any plans to visit home ?

[Bombaywalla]

I love the proportions and the intricate detailing and graphics on this one. They've put in a ton of effort overall, though I think the front could be better.

Excellent photos, VCheng.

[ToofaneBatameezi]

Toofane,

I share the same opinion. Like I said in my previous post, wait until you see the Nina.

The name is quite intriguing. Ill definitely look out for it.

[VCheng]

The Fisker Karma has received EPA approval at 32 miles of EV range, and 20 MPG combined with gasoline power.

Disappointing news, to say the least.

For $100k, there are so many better alternatives that this car runs the risk of being a marketing failure, unless real world performance is much better and out the door pricing is much lower.

[sami_voodoo]

The Fisker Karma has received EPA approval at 32 miles of EV range, and 20 MPG combined with gasoline power.

Disappointing news, to say the least.

For $100k, there are so many better alternatives that this car runs the risk of being a marketing failure, unless real world performance is much better and out the door pricing is much lower.

Let me see... This? Or an A8 TDI, S400CDI, or Jag XJ Diesel?

[VCheng]

Let me see... This? Or an A8 TDI, S400CDI, or Jag XJ Diesel?

That is just the beginning of the choice list!

As a fashion or greenie statement, this car might work, but that means it is a niche vehicle and a likely flop.

[Automotorsport_Lover]

Awesome thread! gud review!
For me theres too much chrome here n there.. i was thinking how dirty the interior wud look with a lot of finger print marks here n there? and interior also seems to be one which is difficult to keep clean and polished...
Nice curves though..! nice car!

[VCheng]

The interior seemed very well done, a bit minimalist, but otherwise very nice. It should be no more to keep clean as any other high end car, I would think.

[sami_voodoo]

This car with a twin-turbo V6 (an Ecoboost?) and an 8-speed ZF box would've made more sense. But, Porsche has that end covered I would think.