- After several delays, production of the Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid began Tuesday at the Valmet Automotive plant.
- The first cars reportedly are earmarked for Fisker dealers in the U.S. and Europe to use as demonstrator models, with retail customer deliveries to begin later in the year.
- The Karma originally was to have gone into production in 2010.
UUSIKAUPUNKI, Finland — After several delays, production of the Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid began Tuesday at the Valmet Automotive plant here. Valmet also builds cars under contract to Porsche.
The Karma originally was to have gone into production in 2010. Priced initially from around $88,000, the starting sticker was bumped late last year to $95,900 for the standard Karma, $103,900 for the Eco Sport version and $108,900 for the high-line Eco Chic model.
According to Ward's Auto, the initial production run at Valmet is targeted for Fisker dealers in the U.S. and Europe to use as demonstrator models. The Web site said the first retail deliveries to customers will begin later this year.
At the 2010 Paris Auto Show last fall, company founder Henrik Fisker said the firm plans to expand its range of plug-in hybrids to six models by 2015 and is considering an initial public offering of stock after the Karma goes on sale in 2011.
A company spokesman this week said Fisker hopes to build 7,000 cars this year with Valmet.
Inside Line says: It's still not certain when the first customers will receive their Karmas. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »
jscheel66 says:
12:11 PM, 05/02/2011
There not going to make any money unless they sell cars. Don't you think thats what there going to do?
05stangdriver says:
02:19 AM, 03/24/2011
I'd be curious to hear from anyone who has a deposit down on one of these.
"Good news, sir or madam, we're about to begin production of the Fisker Karma. Unfortunately, we're not going to build YOUR car yet. Sucks to be you, I guess."
It's still vaporware until there's one in the hands of an actual consumer and driving in traffic.
jm1212 says:
11:54 AM, 03/23/2011
I am very excited for this vehicle.
lostboyz says:
09:09 AM, 03/23/2011
simply stunning car
lost_in_tx says:
08:16 AM, 03/23/2011
Looks a little like Guy Fawkes here.