Future Fisker Vehicle May Be "Step Above" Volt and Model S

"One of the future products we have is something that is significantly less than what will be on the market first," said Fisker spokesman Russell Datz. "It may be a step above [the Chevrolet Volt and Tesla Motors Model S], but it's hard to say right now."

Datz said the vehicle is unnamed at this point and will not be displayed at any auto shows in the coming year.

Fisker made a veiled reference to the vehicle in an announcement on Monday that it will receive an additional $85 million for the development of plug-in hybrid cars from venture capitalists, including New York-based Eco-Drive [Capital] partners, a European-American investment consortium and Kleiner Perkins Caufield and Byers, an early Fisker investor.

"Future plans include a lower-cost vehicle," Fisker said in a statement accompanying the financial update.

Datz said that thus far, 1,300 people have put down $5,000 on the Karma. He said California is "by far our largest depositor base." Fisker will not disclose the names of depositors, but Datz said, "There are some heavy hitters there.

"We've had interest from some actors, even politicians," he said. The number of depositors is significant, given that no consumer has been allowed to test-drive a Karma at this point.

Fisker will show off another version of the Fisker Karma S convertible concept at the 2009 New York Auto Show. That one has a black exterior and a different interior scheme.

Inside Line says: Fisker is working on expanding its lineup. But it's not saying whether the newest addition will have a yoga-esque name. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent