They are suddenly everywhere, whether you are a fan or not—battery powered vehicles, electric and luxury hybrid vehicles. If you find them to be a bit confusing at this phase, you are not alone! Here is a brief overview of how the latest luxury plug-in, the Fisker Karma, operates and generates power.
Fisker Karma
The Fisker Karma generates plenty of karma by being both green and sporty, here is how:
The engine: A 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder is paired with two electric motors creating 403 horsepower. The Karma can run on electricity derived from a lithium-ion battery pack for around 30 miles, using zero fuel and running in what the company calls “stealth mode”. Stealth mode may not be what exotic sports car fans are searching for–it is a far cry from the purr of a Ferrari or Lamborghini. Note: there is a “sport mode” for drivers who want more power–it is the turbocharged gasoline powered engine.
The difference lurks beneath the hood of the Karma
Range details: Plug the car into a 220-volt outlet for a 6-hour charge every 24 hours. This will suffice for short commutes, and after the battery dies the engine kicks in. The engine powers a generator that recharges the batteries en route. While this is convenient, it changes the EPA figures substantially: 52 mpg in all-electric mode and 20 mpg in fuel mode.
Transmission: single gear which some may find dull
The cockpit is a bit simple, but the exterior more than compensates
Need for speed: Do not buy if you have it. The Karma is not exactly a racecar driver’s dream–it timidly approaches the 0-60 marker in 6.3 seconds thanks to sport mode, and 7.9 in electric mode
Overall, the best features of the Karma are its excitingly aggressive exterior and green-friendly components. The downfalls come in the arenas of traditional sports car power and an engine that Simon Cowell would never compliment.
Competitors include: The BMW ActiveHybrid 750i, Maserati Quattroporte, Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera S hybrid.
An overall hit? Comment below!
Post by Imagine Lifestyles Luxury Rentals