Production Fisker Karma Confirmed for Detroit

Finally, a bit of good news for the North American International Auto Show. In spite of the growing exodus of manufacturers from Detroit's January show, Fisker Automotive has confirmed that it will debut the production version of the Karma plug-in hybrid at the show as scheduled.

The aluminum and composite body is stretched over an aluminum space frame, and sports only minor design tweaks from the striking, curvaceous concept sedan shown last year. A larger grille, side-vent exhaust for the combustion engine, and a flush-mounted B-pillar comprise the bulk of the changes that have been added to the Karma, enhancing its safety and the cooling for its gasoline engine. The four-passenger production interior will be revealed at the show for the first time.

The Fisker Karma's turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine produces 260 horsepower, and coupled with the large 22.6 kWh Li-Ion battery is good for a reported 5.8-second 0-60 run, a 125-mph top speed and a combined 408 horsepower. The Karma has a 50-mile full-electric range, and the potential to average 100mpg.

Deliveries of the Karma are scheduled to start in November 2009. Pricing has been set at $87,900 and Fisker Automotive reports that the production run is sold out through mid-2010.