KARMA COMES BACK AROUND - AUTOLINE THIS WEEK 2007

EV Channels Review

This Autoline This Week episode from 2007 (though the discussion clearly pertains to the relaunch around 2016) features Jim Taylor, CMO of Karma Automotive, discussing the revival of the Fisker Karma. Taylor emphasizes the stunning design as a key selling point, acknowledging past technical and quality issues that led to Fisker's bankruptcy. The new ownership, backed by Chinese investors, is committed to overcoming these challenges. Production is slated to begin mid-2016 in California, utilizing a reassembled plant from Finland. A significant development is the partnership with BMW for the high-voltage charging system, seen as a crucial validation. While the initial focus is on relaunching the Karma sedan, a broader product portfolio, including the Atlantic and potentially an SUV, is planned. Taylor highlights the unique positioning of Karma in the ultra-luxury, low-volume segment, differentiating it from mass-market EVs and even other high-end brands through its design and plug-in hybrid technology. The company aims for global rollout, with China and Europe following the US launch. A second, higher-volume vehicle in the $50-60k range is also in the pipeline.