*Update - the Fisker Karma is currently dead. From Wikipedia: "
After missing its initial late 2009 launch, and after the launch was rescheduled several times, the first deliveries took place in the U.S. in late July 2011,[8][9][10] and deliveries to retail customers began in November 2011.[6] Since December 2011 pricing in the U.S. starts at US$102,000 for the basic model, and US$116,000 for the top model.[11] Around 1,800 units were delivered in North America and Europe through December 2012.[12]
Production was suspended in November 2012 due to financial difficulties,[13] with about 2,450 Karmas built since 2011.[12] After furloughing its US workers in late March, 2013,[14] Fisker has hired a law firm to prepare for a possible bankruptcy.[15]"
The Karma is a plug-in hybrid that looks like any other sports car.
From the Extreme Tech Karma test drive:
"The Karma is what’s called a series hybrid, meaning the power is always delivered by electric motors. There are two 201-hp electric motors just ahead of the rear wheels. The gasoline engine under the hood spins a generator that sends electric power to the rear motors. It’s the same way a diesel locomotive works, only faster acceleration, just over 6 seconds to 60 mph, about 1.5 seconds slower on electric power alone. Various testers have found mileage with the gasoline engine running to be around 25 mpg. With a tank of less than 10 gallons and only 20-40 miles of battery charge, you’re looking at a highway range of around 300 miles. Recharging the battery pack runs 16 hours on household current, about a third of that with a 220-volt charger. There is a solar panel embedded in the roof to aid charging; it presents a stunning visual to passersby — “Whoa! That’s environmental!” — and a modest gain in battery range."
