Green Cool Hip

Henrik Fisker whose renowned design already includes the BWM Z8 and the Aston Martin DB9 and the V8 Vantage, was part of the team working on the original design for the Tesla.  He has since left Tesla Motors, faced a lawsuit accusing him of stealing trade secrets from the company and launched its own Hybrid called the Fisker Karma.

After leaving Tesla Motors, Henrik Fisker started Fisker Automotive whose first model is called the Fisker Karma.  While the Karma is a hybrid and not a fully electric powered car like the Tesla models, it’s still ahead of the curve when compared with other available hybrid vehicles.

Image 1 - Fisker Automotive

Much like the Tesla, the Karma is a plug-in hybrid with a battery that can be recharged on a standard 110 volt outlet.  The first 50 miles one drives is completely on battery power.  After that, the Karma switches to balancing gasoline and electric power for the remainder of the trip, just like a regular hybrid.

But what’s really cool and different about this hybrid is that its roof can be equipped with a solar panel that recharges the battery while driving, and provides cooling for its cabin even while the car is parked.

Image 2 - Fisker Automotive

The Karma does not stop being eco-friendly in its powertrain.  Materials used throughout the car are carefully chosen to be as green as possible.  Wood trim throughout its interior is made from dead wood, its ecoglass from recycled sand and the EcoChic model uses an animal-free approach.

Image 3 - Fisker Automotive

Now, one would think all this green technology comes at the expense of performance.  But, with performance numbers such as 0 to 60 mph in 6 seconds and a top speed of 125mph, this daily driver screams good karma all over.