Fisker Automotive Inc. and Quantum Technologies have begun initial vehicle testing and fine tuning of the battery software management system for the Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid production car.
Three Fisker Karma prototypes have been built and are undergoing testing for the electric powertrain developed by Quantum Technologies. Concurrently, the Fisker Automotive engineering team is working on crash test simulation. Additional validation and certification of the vehicles will be performed over the coming months.
In sport mode, the Fisker Karma will offer a continuous top speed of 125 mph (200 km/h). Electric only, or stealth mode, is capped at 95 mph (150 km/h). Preliminary testing of the lithium-ion battery that powers the car has indicated a life expectancy of more than 10 years.
Configured to meet the demands of today’s driver, the Fisker Karma’s proprietary design allows consumers to drive the car emission free for up to 50 mi. (80 km) a day provided the car is charged every evening. With more than 80% of daily commuters driving less than 50 mi. a day, consumers who drive the Fisker Karma could conceivably need to refuel the car only once a year.
“We are very excited about the initial test results of the Fisker Karma prototype,” said Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Automotive. “The vehicle dynamics and fuel economy have performed better than expected and we remain on target for our fourth quarter 2009 initial delivery.” The company has received more than 500 orders since the car’s debut at the North American International Auto Show in January.
Fisker Automotive
www.fiskerautomotive.com
Qualcomm
www.qualcomm.com