Fisker Karma S Concept Officially Unveiled

Even though we all know that building green car is somehow like a trend in today's automotive industry, some plug-in hybrids manage to cause quite a buzz when they first arrive in the market. And the best example is given by the long-awaited Karma S plug-in hybrid hartop convertible concept which was today unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show held in Detroit. The four-seat vehicle is, just like the other models designed by the American automaker, particularly focused on CO2 emissions but without neglecting driving style and engine performance.

To give you an idea about what to expect from this convertible, the newly-debuted model incorporates the advanced Q-DRIVE powertrain, designed and engineered by Quantum Technologies especially for Fisker Automotive, as the American automaker said in a statement.

The aforementioned system provides an operating autonomy of approximately 50 miles, with zero fuel consumption and zero CO2 emissions. The lithium-ion battery pack powers two electric engine units that are capable of developing as much as 403 horsepower. Quite impressive for an electric vehicle, isn't it?

One of the most attractive attributes of the new concept is the retractable hard top, Fisker explained, which is a fist for the American automaker. “The power retractable hard top, a first for Fisker, glides neatly into the trunk and a unique design language sets the Karma S concept apart,” it explained in a public statement.

“Our objective is to create a singular design language and heritage around our state-of-the-art Q-DRIVE powertrain,” said Fisker Automotive, Inc. CEO Henrik Fisker. “The Karma S is an extension of the Fisker Automotive product range of eco-conscious automobiles and sets the tone for our future.“