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Fun fact for you, Wizard: From 2017 - 2023, I worked for the manufacturer of the Karma Hybrid gas tanks, and it was the FIRST double-molded gas tanks produced in the world, and I was there to see be a part of it. Also fun fact, Karma placed a huge order for the tanks, ran into some serious financial troubles, took three deliveries from us, and when I left in 2023, we still a couple hundred of their very expensive gas tanks just sitting in out warehouse waiting for disposition. We made them in Indiana, the same plant that made tanks for Corvette/XLR, Ford GT, P42, H61Be, CUSW, Civic, RU, J34a, and TGVA. Those are platform names. All had their own intricacies, but the Karma topped them all. My understanding was that it was a change or supposed to be for a redesign.
Interesting how Fisker is maybe one of the very few manufacturers who actually did what all the concept car drawings have - a relatively low chassis on a huge wheels. That is mostly why the car looks so good in person. I've seen 2 Karmas rolling around where I live - they are amazing for their age.
The styling was nice and appears to be a well built car but the drivetrain idea was really stupid. For starters, somebody spending $100k plus for a car isn't worried about fuel economy enough to want a hybrid. Secondly, the over complication and sheer weight bite into the majority if fuel savings this car might have experienced over a traditional combustion power train. They would have been better off going true EV at that point considering they had the styling going for them over Tesla.
It’s the name of an auto designer who started a car company, as the Wizard tells us. Doug De Muro almost had a sexual experience when he discovered that the Fisker Ocean also has a solar array on the roof.: he thought it was brilliant! I thought that Doug must be stupider than any food animal I’ve ever eaten, including oysters. Any reasonable person would realize that those tiny solar panels are worse than useless, because they’re just one more thing to break.
I feel ya on the sleeping my guy. Diagnosed with insomnia a few years back and has been an absolute STRUGGLE finding the proper balance of meds, diet, bed, everything. And heavily affects my daily life. Basically scheduling is key, I have to be in bed at a certain time, take meds at certain times, no late night snacking, plus if my sleep gets off it throws every freaking thing else off. Glad you’ve addressed your issues and hope it stays under control for ya!!
There is a used car dealership near my home and for some random reason, they have about a dozen of these things and have for years. No one wants them 😂
@@petrosaguilar8916 I agree. The engine makes no sense for the car. It was a bad decision. A Honda or Toyota would’ve even been better. Nowadays the lower-end Mercedes use a Nissan 4cyl! Lotus uses Toyota, Ariel Atom Honda, etc.
@@petrosaguilar8916 The engine is fine as it's a single-RPM generator. For that, considering it has no transmission attached to it, it's decently reliable. Ecotech and Ecoboost engines actually make great generators.
The vehicle is actually incredibly well thought out and designed, despite the silly initial price. When ( not if ) the blower motor or heater core goes out on my Mustang, it's a full dash removal to get to.
My son works in a small collision shop, his boss bought one of these a few years ago. He had it for about a little more than a year, had his fun with it then sold it. I must say it is a cool looking car.
curiously the car is also built in Finland, where Fiskars scissors come from. (not built in the same city for all I know, nor are they related in any way)
@@Hipas_Account Yes, the scissor manufacturer is in Espoo, nr Helsinki, and Valmet, who built the Fiskar Karma, are in Uusikaupunki, about 150 miles away from Espoo.
You went up a notch in my estimation because you have a cat and a beautiful one at that. I looked on that mattress website. $1000 for a mattress? Are you kidding me? Regular price $1300. No thanks. That Fisker is one of the neatest looking cars I've ever seen. It's a hybrid hybrid.
@@rz5129 Yeah, and trust me, it's junk at $500. Long gone are the days of a simple Posturepedic. All of the new ones are layers of foams and other materials. Finding a properly supportive mattress is incredibly hard. I've resorted to a futon on a raised platform, myself. But the typical Mattress is indeed now around $800-$1200.
HERE IN CA. WE SAW MANY OF THESE ,THE KARMA, I ALWAYS LOVED THE DESIGN OF IT, TRULY BEAUTIFUL. SOME OF THEMOVIE STARS OWNED THEM, PRETTY EXPENSIVE WHEN NEW THOUGH. COOL ASS CAR THOUGH.
In January I went to look at a 1972 AMC Ambassador station wagon. Arrive and see there are 4 warehouses and some Model T's at the beginning of the driveway before a pristine 58 Caddy, 61 Rambler, and 57 Chevy. Out in front was this black car that I had never seen before. It was a 2102 Fisker Karma. The property was full of cars, older than 1970, awaiting restoration by this professional. Yes, I bought the wagon as it was in fabulous condition.
Interesting, I'm guessing a 50ft tubular carbon fiber pole could be supported by a human standing at a 25 foot fulcrum but unsure what deflection due to gravity would be across the 25 unsupported feet. Hopefully it's possible for you to touch vehicles 25ft away that you don't want with a very expensive 50ft pole.
When the Fisker Company failed, Bob Lutz (ex Chrysler CEO) in 2013 created VLF which was to be Corvette ZR1 engines refitted into the Karma, as a large inventory of unsold cars existed. At least one was made - called the Destino - and it was fast, but the donor Karma was/is a very heavy car. Tested by R&T with positives, but I don't think the venture went far.
I hope it never requires a new battery production stopped in November 2022, the sole supplier filed for bankruptcy after two recalls. Approx 2450 were built A rare car, just pray that you don't require oem only parts.
Normal people wont buy this car. (or most sane ones won't) People like Hoovie or you tubers will buy them. Makes for good content because there will always be something to do.
You can still buy one of these from the successor company, which markets the car as the Karma Revero. It is a Chinese-owned company operating from Irvine, California. One of the interesting things not shown in this video is how cramped the interior is for such a huge vehicle.
I reality, FISKER KARMA conceptually designed the electric car the right way. The job of the gas motor is not to drive the car but to charge the batteries which drive the electric motors. No more wasting hours of time at charging stations only to discover that they don't work in cold weather or that the cables have been cut off and stolen for the copper. In the FISKER KARMA if the batteries run down, the 2.4litre gas motor automatically comes on to charge them up without stopping. It is not very quick, 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds, but that is not the point. I think it carries about 10 gallons of fuel and gets 52 mpg. However, it is heavy 5,300lbs, wide 78inches, and low to the ground inches. Unfortunately, the 2025 CAMRY is just as efficient. Had the CAMRY kept the 8 speed automatic, we would all be happy. 😊
Fisker, oh man…I remember the top gear segment on this. Did not know it was released in 2007, right before I graduated high school and basically the exact moment I started watching Top Gear lol, but I genuinely believe and even thought then that the Karma was ahead of its time. They definitely pushed the solar aspect though as if it did a lot more than it does. They never outright said it would be enough to power the car or even charge it but they definitely didn’t shy away from letting you think that. It’s just another one of those “ There’s a reason this didn’t take off” situations. I have always wondered why car companies don’t make a car with a gas engine, or diesel, that does nothing but power the batteries. Edison, and electric logging truck someone made in Canada I believe, uses that concept. The generator can either charge the semi trucks batteries or provide power for onboard things like the air compressor or things being used in the cabin. It is a diesel motor if I remember right but not a huge gun that would regularly be semi truck.
I love these! I’ve always looked at it as a farrrr better looking and driving first gen Chevy Volt. To my knowledge they’re fairly similar in application, just different implementation and better looking body. They’re PHEV’s in my opinion. At least that’s what I call my dad’s 2nd gen Volt. Also a pretty good car!
I love the styling and concept of these cars. Hybrid is the way to go. Electric daily but no range anxiety. It’s such a shame they went bankrupt. They’re not for the faint of wallet. It also looks a bit like the Aston Martin Rapide.
My brother owns one, they do 50 miles on the battery, so when u around town thats all electric, on the highway u can push on the engine and it does 10km on a liter fuel, its a heavy car. He had some electric issues with it, mostly relais gone bad, to fix that costs $3K at a time.
The idea/power train reminds me a little of the BMW I8, cool looking, in theory a performing hybrid built around a small ICE engine and electric support. Better looking than they performed
I think they look spectacular. But they're infamous for not being reliable. If I had the talent to drop the drive train of a 2d Gen Chevy Volt into one, I do it and call it a day. Props to your sponsor, BTW, I've had a Helix for 5 years and it's still sleeps awesome
These cars were made in southern California. Around 2013 my wife and I were traveling and stopped at the (only) Fisker showroom in Newport Beach. I had read about the Karma and I wanted to see one up close. I found the car to be really innovative and very well styled. The gas-electric feature was very interesting. The interior was comfortable. Those diamond shaped emblems are a feature seen on the interior of the car also. ??? The drive system is a kind of a quasi hybrid system. I was told the company was Chinese financed. Unfortunately, the support and servicing for these cars was very limited making owning one somewhat tricky. I found a place in San Francisco that was “certified” to work on these. I’m glad to see a the 2012 model here in fairly good condition. Fisker has built some inventive cars in the past.
I have a plug-in hybrid with approximately 30 miles of electric range and a 19 gallon fuel tank. It can charge its own battery if needed. I really like it a lot and think it's a much better answer than pure EV. I have solar so I charge it for free and run errands around town.... Then hit the road and fuel up in minutes. The best of all worlds.
I def like the concept behind the Karma; hybrid plus a charge port and even the solar panels. Although how the exhaust would pass, say Virginia's safety inspection could be a problem since it dumps just behind the front wheels.
The first hybrids over 100 years ago were electric vehicles with generators that could extend their range and charge them. So it was common to park it and leave the engine running to charge it, then off you went when you got out of the store/shop. A car like a prius is technically a dual engine car, since you have two power plants operating simultaneously through one transmission. So you sacrifice a bit of efficiency from both systems. IMO, this is the way to engineer a true hybrid - a generator and an electric motor that it feeds, offering the best compromise and efficiency.
3:31 Oh, you fooled us. 😂 is Mrs. WIZARD writing your jokes again? 😅 Gorgeous design, I remember seeing one of these on the road. Unfortunately, it's more of a Karma Fister then a Fisker Karma. I really hope some of these newer car companies can survive long enough to work out the bugs. Really is a beautiful car.
They could have done some things with this. They have a Fisker Ocean (suv) out now. This used a Chevy Ecotec motor. I think the motor from the Chevy Cobalt turbo SS.
The current Fisker company that sells the Ocean and the one that built this car are legally separate, although both started by the same guy. There is a different company called Karma that has the rights to an updated version of this car.
I like how the comment section for this community is often posting exactly what I’m thinking of posting so all I have to do is upvote. Good people here.
I seen a white one in Rohnert Park CA. at Costco about 4 years ago it looked real nice in person i drove all around it because he parked were no one was at.
Kool car. We have had a handful show up at the Auto Auction I work at over the years. As long as any of the recalled issues have been taken care of they seem like they would be pretty nice.
MISS DAISY 😍😍😍. Funny thing is my brothers cat is Named Daisy (Duke), he was gonna name her something else but i suggested naming his pets after the duke family and now he has Boe and Daisy
I saw one around town (Vancouver, Canada) in the early 2010s. The styling reminds me of both Aston Martin and Maserati. I've heard the driveline described as a serial hybrid: engine charges the battery, battery runs the motor(s). The Chevy Volt did the same thing.
i’ve only seen one in person and i had no idea what it was until i looked for days online… it was in washington state and it was actually all beat up and dented…
The weird part of the wipers is that they have the headlight washer fluid extensions. Yes 22s. It does make a small noise when driving for alertness. Small Humm. Lol
Made in Finland, baby! 🍻 Like the Saab 900 Cabrios, Mk1 Porsche Boxters, newer Mercedes A series and Talbot Horizons to name a few. I think this kind of hybrids are the best. Original Chevy Volt/Opel Ampera were cool as heck. Make ICE generator hybrids a thing again. Full electric is just dumb.
Henrik Fisker is the most famous Danish car designer, however less lucky as a car manufacturer. He designed the awesome BMW Z8 and the Aston Martin DB9, being the most famous of his designs and he of course designed his own cars, but the recycled environmentally cars he build, hasn't been well received (Karma and Ocean).
Since Henrik Fisker was involved with designing the Aston Martin DB9 and BMW Z8, 2 incredibly beautiful cars IMO, it’s not surprising that the Karma is very visually appealing to me. Sadly its mechanical/electrical complexity isn’t appealing at all. I love seeing Daisy, she’s a beautiful cat!
A dealership down the road from my house has one of these on their lot. Never knew what it was until this video. Thought it was some weird early 2000s Maserati. Would've never guessed it'd be a hybrid with a 4 cyl.
The fact that the solar panels can help supply the HVAC system, should, in theory, reduce the draw from the batteries for actually getting down the road, thereby *indirectly* adding some range to the vehicle on average over long time periods.
That's a pretty miniscule power offset though. A car consumes around 1.2Kwh per mile, offsetting 50 watts of fan will gain you like a mile every couple recharges.
@@volvo09 How do you know the output of the solar panel? AC and heating systems are a huge draw on EV batteries, especially in extreme conditions of summer or winter. Besides even a 1 or 2% increase over the course of a year is a few hundred miles if you assume 10K miles/yr.
@@mattybrews not too hard to guess it... It's a 10y old solar panel that's about the area of one of my 380w panels, so it is only going to be around 250watts max, likely less. If it doesn't charge the EV battery when stationary it's pretty useless. If it does, then it can add a mile or two max a day when in a sunny spot.
Some of those actually had a diesel generator in the front instead of the gas I like the gas a little more I think it's a little quieter since these are supposed to be quiet electric vehicles
Car Wizard, love your videos. Could you do a video on the GM auto 4wd and cover when to use it, when not to use it, and what causes the most failures. Thanks!
Its operates as a pure EV until its battery capacity drops to a predetermined threshold from full charge. From there, its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range as needed. While running on gasoline at high speeds the engine may be mechanically linked (by a clutch) to a generator set, improving efficiency. Its regenerative braking also contributes to the on-board electricity generation
The first time I saw one was in 2021, and it was parker in front of me (I was picking something up from Best Buy) and the gentleman owning it walked up to it. He told me the value and I almost fainted..... well sort of. It was however sleek and beautiful.
It is an interesting story. Henrik Fisker has tried a couple of times, to do the impossible, create a new car brand. He has worked as designer for various automakers, I think it is BMW primarily. There is a newer, Fisker Ocean car that you can buy now, a few of them are driving in my neighborhood.
Idk about your state but in Pa u wouldn't be allowed to inspect that per our rules. Exhaust has to exit behind rear door, or in front of rear tire so no chance of leak in cab. I was pulled over and argued with cop cause my town car does this. Exit is behind rear door. Corvettes with side exhaust can get away cause of it being a 2 seater.
One of the parents at a local private school had one of these when I was delivering pizzas there like 10 years ago. I've never seen one since and always wondered who bought these things new.
I never understood why they don't just put the charging port behind the license plate like in the 70s. Out of sight and the whole left/right issue becomes moot. As well as it not operating if the main battery is dead.
How does it transfer the power from the engine to the wheels if there is no drive shaft? Does it use the engine as a range extender by constantly charging the battery?
Yep, a rarer type of hybrid. I can't think of many cars that do it this way besides the volt and BMW i3. Every other hybrid I can think of has a transmission.
There’s one that’s been running around in my town for about 15 years. Although it’s been a while since my last sighting. But today I saw a cool Rat Rod and a Lambo Aventador. And the strange thing is, I live in a pretty small city. But for some reason, there are a lot of cool cars in this town. But the Fisker is indeed a strange vehicle. It looks pretty cool from most angles. And a bit strange at others. But I’ve always wondered why Fisker wasn’t able to make their business work. They were at the leading edge of the EV/hybrid market time-wise. Too bad they couldn’t get their house in order. They may of been making some really nice cars by now. I guess the pricing was probably ridiculous and they couldn’t sell enough to really become cost effective. Who knows? But looks like that definitely had a chance. I think they’ve been bounced around from owner to owner with little success. I believe they just released some newer SUV models but were trashed by RUclipsrs. So they’ll probably get sold again or close down.
I think I remember Bieber driving one when they first came out. It could have been all chrome. And the styling reminds me of the 1998 Chrysler Chronos show car.
The Fisker Karma is a hybrid. Fisker saw an opportunity for a luxury sports hybrid well before others. Tesla's EV proved there was a premium electric market. The major manufacturers denied that it existed and put out all sorts of negative press while they attempted to catch up. But old slow companies take forever and often looked at the electric part as an alternate drive train for existing products - dumb. Fisker was well received but had serious quality issues. While they sorted themselves out Tesla became the darling of the EV world and GM succeeded in getting out a small portfolio that drew a line in the sand. It may have just been bad timing, as is too often the case, as the hybrid market is really heating up. I mean no range anxiety and very low gas consumption. Who'd have thought that that much of your fuel was burned just getting up to speed. The battery get you there and then that little 2.0 liter direct injected turbo charged four cylinder gives you cruising power while consuming very little gas. EuroAsian Bob needs to bring in a BMW i8. Then the Wizard will understand.
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Definitely Daisy Approved! 😸
I Thought Fiskers Made Fancy Scissors😮🎉🔆🎇💵🐣🐝🌸
well done to Mrs Wizard in her selecting the sponsorships
Sneaky ad
For sell
Fun fact for you, Wizard: From 2017 - 2023, I worked for the manufacturer of the Karma Hybrid gas tanks, and it was the FIRST double-molded gas tanks produced in the world, and I was there to see be a part of it. Also fun fact, Karma placed a huge order for the tanks, ran into some serious financial troubles, took three deliveries from us, and when I left in 2023, we still a couple hundred of their very expensive gas tanks just sitting in out warehouse waiting for disposition. We made them in Indiana, the same plant that made tanks for Corvette/XLR, Ford GT, P42, H61Be, CUSW, Civic, RU, J34a, and TGVA. Those are platform names. All had their own intricacies, but the Karma topped them all. My understanding was that it was a change or supposed to be for a redesign.
You mean the new company not Fisker?
You're confusing Karma with Fisker.
If you see a Fisker in your rearview there's a 99% chance you are a tow truck driver.
😂😂😂😂😂
Cruel but possibly true
😂😂😂😂
😂😂😂
Hahahah
Interesting how Fisker is maybe one of the very few manufacturers who actually did what all the concept car drawings have - a relatively low chassis on a huge wheels. That is mostly why the car looks so good in person. I've seen 2 Karmas rolling around where I live - they are amazing for their age.
The styling was nice and appears to be a well built car but the drivetrain idea was really stupid. For starters, somebody spending $100k plus for a car isn't worried about fuel economy enough to want a hybrid. Secondly, the over complication and sheer weight bite into the majority if fuel savings this car might have experienced over a traditional combustion power train. They would have been better off going true EV at that point considering they had the styling going for them over Tesla.
@@petrosaguilar8916 Technically it's a range extender EV, not a hybrid.
Its like if a maserati and a saab has sexytime together.
I was thinking rx8 and corvette stingray but she looks damn fine!
Maserati, Saab, and a washing machine. 😁
🤣🤣
Saab asking later why it looks like BMW
Too bad it was a failure because it is a lot better looking than a Volt or a Prius.
it didnt compete with them though seeing as it was 6 figures new
@@lolickypeepee23xdd6DUH!
Or a Tesla.
A much better idea, too.
@@carwashadamcooper1538 Not if you have to pay for that level of over complication.
@@lolickypeepee23xdd6The point is just because it is a hybrid it doesn't have to be ugly.
Fisker sounds like a cat food.🐱
Little Fiskers
Fisker makes garden tools
It’s the name of an auto designer who started a car company, as the Wizard tells us.
Doug De Muro almost had a sexual experience when he discovered that the Fisker Ocean also has a solar array on the roof.: he thought it was brilliant! I thought that Doug must be stupider than any food animal I’ve ever eaten, including oysters. Any reasonable person would realize that those tiny solar panels are worse than useless, because they’re just one more thing to break.
Friskies buffet.
Fiskers...Whiskers. Yeah I can see that.
If I'm not wrong; Henrik Fisker did some Aston designs before starting Fisker Automobiles - hence the 007- look 😉
I feel ya on the sleeping my guy. Diagnosed with insomnia a few years back and has been an absolute STRUGGLE finding the proper balance of meds, diet, bed, everything. And heavily affects my daily life. Basically scheduling is key, I have to be in bed at a certain time, take meds at certain times, no late night snacking, plus if my sleep gets off it throws every freaking thing else off. Glad you’ve addressed your issues and hope it stays under control for ya!!
Insomnia could be a godsend. You can work more. 😂
Umm. He was trying to sell a bed. 😂
There is a used car dealership near my home and for some random reason, they have about a dozen of these things and have for years. No one wants them 😂
The problem is getting a new battery.... good luck!
Where’s the dealer? Maybe I can get a deal on a unique vehicle. I need a long-term retirement project car.
What state ?
The aluminum castings that make up the suspension and structural supports are impressive. No cheap stamped steel components.
I noticed that too yet they used a gm shit engine.
@@petrosaguilar8916 I agree. The engine makes no sense for the car. It was a bad decision. A Honda or Toyota would’ve even been better. Nowadays the lower-end Mercedes use a Nissan 4cyl! Lotus uses Toyota, Ariel Atom Honda, etc.
@@stuffhappens5681 yeah, or a VW diesel. Anything but GM or Hyundai/Kia trash.
@@petrosaguilar8916 The engine is fine as it's a single-RPM generator. For that, considering it has no transmission attached to it, it's decently reliable. Ecotech and Ecoboost engines actually make great generators.
@@plektosgaming i don't trust anything made by GM.
Blower motor is a Corvette item. Easy removal thru the gloebox area.
The vehicle is actually incredibly well thought out and designed, despite the silly initial price. When ( not if ) the blower motor or heater core goes out on my Mustang, it's a full dash removal to get to.
@@plektosgaming Volvo 240's had the dash installed around the blower motor too. Definitely not a quick job like most modern cars.
My son works in a small collision shop, his boss bought one of these a few years ago. He had it for about a little more than a year, had his fun with it then sold it. I must say it is a cool looking car.
Fiskar Garden Scissor execs..."Let's get in on the hybrid automobile craze".
They’d have come up with something better…
curiously the car is also built in Finland, where Fiskars scissors come from. (not built in the same city for all I know, nor are they related in any way)
This is correct Henrik Fiskar is not related to the scissor manufacturers.
@@Williestyle-RobotechxMacross-x*Fisker
@@Hipas_Account Yes, the scissor manufacturer is in Espoo, nr Helsinki, and Valmet, who built the Fiskar Karma, are in Uusikaupunki, about 150 miles away from Espoo.
You went up a notch in my estimation because you have a cat and a beautiful one at that.
I looked on that mattress website. $1000 for a mattress? Are you kidding me?
Regular price $1300.
No thanks.
That Fisker is one of the neatest looking cars I've ever seen.
It's a hybrid hybrid.
Even the cheapest junk mattress at ikea is $500
@@rz5129 ikea is an overpriced place.
@@rz5129 Yeah, and trust me, it's junk at $500. Long gone are the days of a simple Posturepedic. All of the new ones are layers of foams and other materials. Finding a properly supportive mattress is incredibly hard. I've resorted to a futon on a raised platform, myself. But the typical Mattress is indeed now around $800-$1200.
Poor cat person😂
Yay! My first time meeting Daisy the cat!
Daisy is giving the mattress a CAT 🐈 scan 😂
Hahaha😅😂
I know one guy in Russia, who bought the wrecked Fisker and restored it perfectly!
HERE IN CA. WE SAW MANY OF THESE ,THE KARMA, I ALWAYS LOVED THE DESIGN OF IT, TRULY BEAUTIFUL.
SOME OF THEMOVIE STARS OWNED THEM, PRETTY EXPENSIVE WHEN NEW THOUGH. COOL ASS CAR THOUGH.
Also, it's the same operating concept as a diesel locomotive. The gas engine drives an electric motor, which is connected to the wheels
In January I went to look at a 1972 AMC Ambassador station wagon. Arrive and see there are 4 warehouses and some Model T's at the beginning of the driveway before a pristine 58 Caddy, 61 Rambler, and 57 Chevy. Out in front was this black car that I had never seen before. It was a 2102 Fisker Karma. The property was full of cars, older than 1970, awaiting restoration by this professional. Yes, I bought the wagon as it was in fabulous condition.
That Fisker sound reminds me of the "Hypno-Toad" from Futurama.
Another vehicle not to be touched with a 50ft bargepole.
Interesting, I'm guessing a 50ft tubular carbon fiber pole could be supported by a human standing at a 25 foot fulcrum but unsure what deflection due to gravity would be across the 25 unsupported feet. Hopefully it's possible for you to touch vehicles 25ft away that you don't want with a very expensive 50ft pole.
Id pay $5k for one, when it craps out and can't be fixed I can always part the fucker out🤣
in winter it would be weird to see the exhaust coming from the front wheels
"Dude, your car's on fire. You have smoke coming from the front wheels..." that's not smoke....
Unless it WAS smoke, and it was a 455 Toronado... 🤒
When the Fisker Company failed, Bob Lutz (ex Chrysler CEO) in 2013 created VLF which was to be Corvette ZR1 engines refitted into the Karma, as a large inventory of unsold cars existed. At least one was made - called the Destino - and it was fast, but the donor Karma was/is a very heavy car. Tested by R&T with positives, but I don't think the venture went far.
I hope it never requires a new battery production stopped in November 2022, the sole supplier filed for bankruptcy
after two recalls.
Approx 2450 were built
A rare car, just pray that you don't require oem only parts.
Normal people wont buy this car. (or most sane ones won't) People like Hoovie or you tubers will buy them. Makes for good content because there will always be something to do.
@@waterzap99 The world would be a boring place without people like Hoovie
he keeps us ammused and the Wizzard in work.
if it fails, they know who to call - Uncle Rich will be happy to help.
@@Φλωρος-Θωμασου-Ξ5Ξ I hope he has deep pockets, the Wizzard will be planning his next holiday soon.
It's just a toyota prius wanna be
You can still buy one of these from the successor company, which markets the car as the Karma Revero. It is a Chinese-owned company operating from Irvine, California. One of the interesting things not shown in this video is how cramped the interior is for such a huge vehicle.
Yeah but worth it! these guys got the batteries right
Interesting, I'll have to check that out.
I reality, FISKER KARMA conceptually designed the electric car the right way. The job of the gas motor is not to drive the car but to charge the batteries which drive the electric motors. No more wasting hours of time at charging stations only to discover that they don't work in cold weather or that the cables have been cut off and stolen for the copper. In the FISKER KARMA if the batteries run down, the 2.4litre gas motor automatically comes on to charge them up without stopping. It is not very quick, 0-60 mph in about 7 seconds, but that is not the point. I think it carries about 10 gallons of fuel and gets 52 mpg. However, it is heavy 5,300lbs, wide 78inches, and low to the ground inches. Unfortunately, the 2025 CAMRY is just as efficient. Had the CAMRY kept the 8 speed automatic, we would all be happy. 😊
Fisker, oh man…I remember the top gear segment on this. Did not know it was released in 2007, right before I graduated high school and basically the exact moment I started watching Top Gear lol, but I genuinely believe and even thought then that the Karma was ahead of its time. They definitely pushed the solar aspect though as if it did a lot more than it does. They never outright said it would be enough to power the car or even charge it but they definitely didn’t shy away from letting you think that. It’s just another one of those “ There’s a reason this didn’t take off” situations. I have always wondered why car companies don’t make a car with a gas engine, or diesel, that does nothing but power the batteries. Edison, and electric logging truck someone made in Canada I believe, uses that concept. The generator can either charge the semi trucks batteries or provide power for onboard things like the air compressor or things being used in the cabin. It is a diesel motor if I remember right but not a huge gun that would regularly be semi truck.
Pretty cool car. The only strange thing about it is the front grill.
I remember a Fisker dealer opening in Northfield, IL, I would see it on my way to work. The dealer closed maybe 2-3 years later, I wasn't surprised.
I love these! I’ve always looked at it as a farrrr better looking and driving first gen Chevy Volt. To my knowledge they’re fairly similar in application, just different implementation and better looking body.
They’re PHEV’s in my opinion. At least that’s what I call my dad’s 2nd gen Volt. Also a pretty good car!
Their design looked so beautiful to me.
I love the styling and concept of these cars. Hybrid is the way to go. Electric daily but no range anxiety. It’s such a shame they went bankrupt. They’re not for the faint of wallet.
It also looks a bit like the Aston Martin Rapide.
Fisker can pass everything on the road but the repair shops. 😂
My brother owns one, they do 50 miles on the battery, so when u around town thats all electric, on the highway u can push on the engine and it does 10km on a liter fuel, its a heavy car.
He had some electric issues with it, mostly relais gone bad, to fix that costs $3K at a time.
The idea/power train reminds me a little of the BMW I8, cool looking, in theory a performing hybrid built around a small ICE engine and electric support. Better looking than they performed
I think they look spectacular. But they're infamous for not being reliable. If I had the talent to drop the drive train of a 2d Gen Chevy Volt into one, I do it and call it a day.
Props to your sponsor, BTW, I've had a Helix for 5 years and it's still sleeps awesome
Don't worry. It will be back in the shop over and over for additional videos.
I LOVE THE DESIGN FROM THE REAR, OUTSTANDING DESIGN.
These cars were made in southern California. Around 2013 my wife and I were traveling and stopped at the (only) Fisker showroom in Newport Beach. I had read about the Karma and I wanted to see one up close. I found the car to be really innovative and very well styled. The gas-electric feature was very interesting. The interior was comfortable. Those diamond shaped emblems are a feature seen on the interior of the car also. ??? The drive system is a kind of a quasi hybrid system. I was told the company was Chinese financed. Unfortunately, the support and servicing for these cars was very limited making owning one somewhat tricky. I found a place in San Francisco that was “certified” to work on these. I’m glad to see a the 2012 model here in fairly good condition. Fisker has built some inventive cars in the past.
Sorry but fisker karma was build In Uusikaupunki, Finland.
@@anttiahola2746 I was told, by the sales people at the Newport Beach showroom, that the car was built in Southern California??????
@@curtgomesYeah…Fisker was built in Finland.
I have a plug-in hybrid with approximately 30 miles of electric range and a 19 gallon fuel tank. It can charge its own battery if needed. I really like it a lot and think it's a much better answer than pure EV. I have solar so I charge it for free and run errands around town.... Then hit the road and fuel up in minutes. The best of all worlds.
It is a beautiful Car......Thanks Wizard you are awesome my friend.....Congrats on 1.03M Subs
Old F-4 II Pilot Shoe🇺🇸
I def like the concept behind the Karma; hybrid plus a charge port and even the solar panels.
Although how the exhaust would pass, say Virginia's safety inspection could be a problem since it dumps just behind the front wheels.
Fisker. The one car brand that can make the worst Maserati purchase or Range Rover purchase look like financially responsible decisions.
Here in Ontario Canada it is mandatory by law that the exhaust MUST exit after the paasenger compartmentfor obvious reasons!
Well, the car might look rad with side pipes...
The first hybrids over 100 years ago were electric vehicles with generators that could extend their range and charge them. So it was common to park it and leave the engine running to charge it, then off you went when you got out of the store/shop. A car like a prius is technically a dual engine car, since you have two power plants operating simultaneously through one transmission. So you sacrifice a bit of efficiency from both systems. IMO, this is the way to engineer a true hybrid - a generator and an electric motor that it feeds, offering the best compromise and efficiency.
Would love to have gotten the cabin tour on this one.
3:31 Oh, you fooled us. 😂 is Mrs. WIZARD writing your jokes again? 😅
Gorgeous design, I remember seeing one of these on the road. Unfortunately, it's more of a Karma Fister then a Fisker Karma. I really hope some of these newer car companies can survive long enough to work out the bugs. Really is a beautiful car.
What? No tour of the interior? That's the best part!
Yeah that was rather disappointing.
thankfully,she is so annoying.
The karma Rivero GT has a really cool gauge cluster way better than the fisker
Love Mrs Wizard, but came here for “the Wizard”. Prefer to skip her interior review
@@thesultan4030agree
They could have done some things with this. They have a Fisker Ocean (suv) out now. This used a Chevy Ecotec motor. I think the motor from the Chevy Cobalt turbo SS.
Um... BMW i3
The current Fisker company that sells the Ocean and the one that built this car are legally separate, although both started by the same guy. There is a different company called Karma that has the rights to an updated version of this car.
The cat on wizards mattress during the ad is priceless 😂
I like how the comment section for this community is often posting exactly what I’m thinking of posting so all I have to do is upvote. Good people here.
I seen a white one in Rohnert Park CA. at Costco about 4 years ago it looked real nice in person i drove all around it because he parked were no one was at.
This car is full of character, just like you Mr. Wizard (but you are definitely more reliable!). Thanks for the video.
Kool car. We have had a handful show up at the Auto Auction I work at over the years. As long as any of the recalled issues have been taken care of they seem like they would be pretty nice.
MISS DAISY 😍😍😍. Funny thing is my brothers cat is Named Daisy (Duke), he was gonna name her something else but i suggested naming his pets after the duke family and now he has Boe and Daisy
I saw one around town (Vancouver, Canada) in the early 2010s. The styling reminds me of both Aston Martin and Maserati.
I've heard the driveline described as a serial hybrid: engine charges the battery, battery runs the motor(s). The Chevy Volt did the same thing.
i’ve only seen one in person and i had no idea what it was until i looked for days online… it was in washington state and it was actually all beat up and dented…
The weird part of the wipers is that they have the headlight washer fluid extensions. Yes 22s. It does make a small noise when driving for alertness. Small Humm. Lol
Please detail the troubleshooting processes for us to enjoy! What and exciting project! Thanks Car Wizard for the awesome content!
Made in Finland, baby! 🍻
Like the Saab 900 Cabrios, Mk1 Porsche Boxters, newer Mercedes A series and Talbot Horizons to name a few.
I think this kind of hybrids are the best. Original Chevy Volt/Opel Ampera were cool as heck. Make ICE generator hybrids a thing again. Full electric is just dumb.
That yard is way more organized than I'm use to seeing. Drone work was pretty good.
Henrik Fisker is the most famous Danish car designer, however less lucky as a car manufacturer. He designed the awesome BMW Z8 and the Aston Martin DB9, being the most famous of his designs and he of course designed his own cars, but the recycled environmentally cars he build, hasn't been well received (Karma and Ocean).
Since Henrik Fisker was involved with designing the Aston Martin DB9 and BMW Z8, 2 incredibly beautiful cars IMO, it’s not surprising that the Karma is very visually appealing to me. Sadly its mechanical/electrical complexity isn’t appealing at all.
I love seeing Daisy, she’s a beautiful cat!
A dealership down the road from my house has one of these on their lot. Never knew what it was until this video. Thought it was some weird early 2000s Maserati. Would've never guessed it'd be a hybrid with a 4 cyl.
The fact that the solar panels can help supply the HVAC system, should, in theory, reduce the draw from the batteries for actually getting down the road, thereby *indirectly* adding some range to the vehicle on average over long time periods.
That's a pretty miniscule power offset though. A car consumes around 1.2Kwh per mile, offsetting 50 watts of fan will gain you like a mile every couple recharges.
@@volvo09 How do you know the output of the solar panel? AC and heating systems are a huge draw on EV batteries, especially in extreme conditions of summer or winter. Besides even a 1 or 2% increase over the course of a year is a few hundred miles if you assume 10K miles/yr.
@@mattybrews not too hard to guess it... It's a 10y old solar panel that's about the area of one of my 380w panels, so it is only going to be around 250watts max, likely less.
If it doesn't charge the EV battery when stationary it's pretty useless. If it does, then it can add a mile or two max a day when in a sunny spot.
It’s a GM parts bin car, many GM parts were sourced for this car. It uses the same technology as the Chevy volt and the Cadillac ELR
I imagine there's an equally large generator attached to the gas engine. Interesting car, look forward to seeing more on it.
Some of those actually had a diesel generator in the front instead of the gas I like the gas a little more I think it's a little quieter since these are supposed to be quiet electric vehicles
Car Wizard, love your videos. Could you do a video on the GM auto 4wd and cover when to use it, when not to use it, and what causes the most failures. Thanks!
I believe it will be Bad "Karma" to own one David.☺️
Its operates as a pure EV until its battery capacity drops to a predetermined threshold from full charge. From there, its gasoline engine powers an electric generator to extend the vehicle's range as needed. While running on gasoline at high speeds the engine may be mechanically linked (by a clutch) to a generator set, improving efficiency. Its regenerative braking also contributes to the on-board electricity generation
So... it's a plug-in hybrid?
See quite a few in So Calif. 1 was just for sale on CL.............Price was not bad.
I love the look of that car. The side profile just looks amazing.
This car is proof that automotive designers and engineers need each other, this thing was made way more for looks than actual functionality
The first time I saw one was in 2021, and it was parker in front of me (I was picking something up from Best Buy) and the gentleman owning it walked up to it. He told me the value and I almost fainted..... well sort of. It was however sleek and beautiful.
It is an interesting story. Henrik Fisker has tried a couple of times, to do the impossible, create a new car brand. He has worked as designer for various automakers, I think it is BMW primarily. There is a newer, Fisker Ocean car that you can buy now, a few of them are driving in my neighborhood.
Idk about your state but in Pa u wouldn't be allowed to inspect that per our rules. Exhaust has to exit behind rear door, or in front of rear tire so no chance of leak in cab. I was pulled over and argued with cop cause my town car does this. Exit is behind rear door. Corvettes with side exhaust can get away cause of it being a 2 seater.
One of the parents at a local private school had one of these when I was delivering pizzas there like 10 years ago. I've never seen one since and always wondered who bought these things new.
Car wizard hello.
The exhausts come from the engine IN FRONT OF THE REAR WHEELS.
Godspeed. Thank you.
Old Peugeots have the fuel door integrated in the design, looking like there was two. 205 XSi and 306 S16 that I know. Probably more.
I never understood why they don't just put the charging port behind the license plate like in the 70s. Out of sight and the whole left/right issue becomes moot. As well as it not operating if the main battery is dead.
@@plektosgaming maybe in big cities at your small garage you park near the wall, ready to leave. And the distance could avood your car to be charged.
It's a plug in hybrid. Agreed, what a weird car. Having it make a noise like that was likely a genius idea in 2012.
How does it transfer the power from the engine to the wheels if there is no drive shaft? Does it use the engine as a range extender by constantly charging the battery?
Yea
These are one of the few cars that the first time I saw one I followed to find out what it was. Other than the grille it's beautiful.
Seems the gas motor just charges the battery pack? I think the Chevy Volt works like that.
Yep, a rarer type of hybrid. I can't think of many cars that do it this way besides the volt and BMW i3.
Every other hybrid I can think of has a transmission.
There’s one that’s been running around in my town for about 15 years. Although it’s been a while since my last sighting. But today I saw a cool Rat Rod and a Lambo Aventador. And the strange thing is, I live in a pretty small city. But for some reason, there are a lot of cool cars in this town. But the Fisker is indeed a strange vehicle. It looks pretty cool from most angles. And a bit strange at others. But I’ve always wondered why Fisker wasn’t able to make their business work. They were at the leading edge of the EV/hybrid market time-wise. Too bad they couldn’t get their house in order. They may of been making some really nice cars by now. I guess the pricing was probably ridiculous and they couldn’t sell enough to really become cost effective. Who knows? But looks like that definitely had a chance. I think they’ve been bounced around from owner to owner with little success. I believe they just released some newer SUV models but were trashed by RUclipsrs. So they’ll probably get sold again or close down.
I've only seen one of these on the road. Weird, rare car.
I think I remember Bieber driving one when they first came out. It could have been all chrome. And the styling reminds me of the 1998 Chrysler Chronos show car.
Efison Motors do the same thing with their Topsy Electric Truck. It is an electric vehicle wiel a diesel extender.
I saw a Karma Fisker in downtown Norfolk, VA about eight years ago. The only time I saw one in the wild.
Would be interesting to compare energy efficiency of this hybrid design vs. conventional hybrid arrangement.
The Fisker Karma is a hybrid. Fisker saw an opportunity for a luxury sports hybrid well before others. Tesla's EV proved there was a premium electric market. The major manufacturers denied that it existed and put out all sorts of negative press while they attempted to catch up. But old slow companies take forever and often looked at the electric part as an alternate drive train for existing products - dumb. Fisker was well received but had serious quality issues. While they sorted themselves out Tesla became the darling of the EV world and GM succeeded in getting out a small portfolio that drew a line in the sand. It may have just been bad timing, as is too often the case, as the hybrid market is really heating up. I mean no range anxiety and very low gas consumption. Who'd have thought that that much of your fuel was burned just getting up to speed. The battery get you there and then that little 2.0 liter direct injected turbo charged four cylinder gives you cruising power while consuming very little gas.
EuroAsian Bob needs to bring in a BMW i8. Then the Wizard will understand.
@car wizard. can you add a rear exhaust to the car, instead of having it coming from the size behind the front tire?
It's a hybrid but more in terms of diesel electric locomotive as the part beyond pure electric stuff. It's a gasoline-electric-plug-in hybrid vehicle.
Petrol-electric-plug-in hybrid in church of england.
On a nice day with the front windows down, those exhausts behind the front wheels could be an issue, fresh air? I don't think so.
Is this the same Fisker that makes gardening clippers?
That's Fiskars. :D
That cool looking car is bagging for a LS1 swap!
Sell it to Rich Rebuilds he will do it😳
The engine doesn't directly power the drive train
The Karma is one of the best drawn models after 2000.... After the Karma we see all kinds of idiot models appear in the hyper car segment.
The pre-production cars on local highway back in the day were quite a sight 😲