Fisker to open new engineering and development center in Michigan

November 10, 2008 Omar Rana Fisker, Fisker Karma

Fisker announced today that it is opening a new Engineering and Development Center in Pontiac, Michigan. The new 34,000 square foot facility, which is capable of housing up to 200 engineers and designers, will support the development and production of the new Fisker Karma Hybrid.

“The available talent, supplier base and infrastructure in Michigan will help us reach our production goal,” said Fisker Automotive COO Bernhard Koehler. “While Fisker Automotive will continue to be headquartered in Irvine, California, the new facility will allow us the opportunity to collaborate with our Michigan supplier base and have everyone under one roof.”

Fisker said that initial U.S. deliveries of the Fisker Karma will begin in the 4th quarter of 2009. Fisker hopes to sell 15,000 units of the Karma by 2011.

The Fisker Karma Hybrid is capable of traveling 50 miles on electric-power alone with more than 350 miles of total range. The hybrid Q-DRIVE powertrain that is co-developed with Quantum Technologies will allow for an estimated fuel-economy of 100 mpg. 0 to 60 mph is expected in less than 6 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph.