Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid: new photos

Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid

The upcoming Fisker Karma premium PHEV sports sedan is so far one of the most awaited performance vehicles featuring an alternative drive. Of course, a new set of photos is always a welcome development.

Powered by an advanced plug-in hybrid system, the car may be used as a pure electric vehicle while driving in the city, and will turn on its internal combustion engine only on the highway.

Fisker Automotive plans to start shipping the Karma by the end of next year

Equipped with a pack of lithium-ion batteries and a set of optional solar panels on its roof, the Karma will be able to travel around 50 miles (80.5 kilometers) on a single charge. Although the numbers don’t sound really impressive, these are good enough for an average daily commuter not to spend a single dime on gasoline.

For longer travels, there is a 2.0-liter Ecotec direct-injection turbo engine.

Also powering the performance-oriented 2007 Pontiac Solstice GXP and the Chevrolet HHR SS, it can produce about 260hp and 260lb-ft of torque making the Karma a nice sports car with a 0-60mph acceleration time below six seconds and a top speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).

If everything goes as planned (and nothing goes as planned in times like these), the Fisker Karma will be produced in Finland by Valmet Automotive that currently manufactures the Porsche Cayman and Boxster sports cars.

The production-version Karma is expected to sell at a price of $87,900.

Photos: Fisker Automotive

See also: Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid: Europeans will get one, too