Fisker: A Potential Star or an Idea in Need of Reworking?

Since its introduction, the Fisker Karma has not had an easy time. Plagued by reliability issues, owners are irritated and the Company is spending a lot of money engineering solutions and paying for warranty work. Unfortunately, the Company is having a hard time expanding its range due to funding issues. 


While their advanced "eco-friendly" drivetrain still has to be proven, their car does have some very strong underlying elements. As most would agree, the Karma is incredibly good looking. This is not surprising, considering Henrik Fisker's handsome past achievements. With Mr. Fisker's expertise, this is a very strong  point for the company. This distinctive design can also be seen in other Fisker concepts and their planned second model, the Atlantic.


Another less noticed strength is the aluminum space-frame. Stripped of other components, the frame itself is light weight for its size. More impressive is its extremely high rigidity. This gives more composure and less vibrations when traveling over rougher roads. A stiff platform also helps improve handling. The Karma's architecture is planned to be shared with other Fisker models, therefore these same traits apply.


Remove all of the weight adding components which include the batteries, generators, solar panels, and electronic wiring associated with these complex components and you have a very good underlying car. While doing that though, you change the identity of Fisker. You no longer have the high end "eco-car" image that is the backbone of the Fisker brand, but instead a beautiful sport sedan or GT. Fisker could have been a serious competitor for Maserati and Aston Martin. Making it more attractive as the price is significantly less. Further, with a more traditional powertrain, the Fisker would have been more reliable. 


Without the alternative propulsion, Fisker as a brand would be much more secure right now and have a clearer future. For the enthusiast looking for a hardcore sports sedan, or another great dynamically capable, but comfortable four seater, the Fisker would be a great car. Unfortunately, a small start up brand creating a new segment is highly risky. Will Fisker be a missed opportunity or a revolutionary automaker?