Argomenti trattati
Karma Automotive introduces the Amaris series plug-in hybrid coupe
On Thursday, Karma Automotive took the wraps off its latest creation, the Amaris series plug-in hybrid coupe, during the inaugural Create Karma product showcase in Irvine, California. This event marks a significant milestone for the company as it seeks to carve out a niche in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.
A strategic pivot in electric vehicle offerings
Initially, Karma was gearing up to introduce the fully electric Kaveya coupe by 2026. However, shifting market dynamics and demand fluctuations in the luxury electric vehicle sector have prompted the company to delay this model’s launch until 2027. In the interim, the Amaris will fill this gap, with a market debut scheduled for late 2026. Additionally, an electric SUV named Ivara is also slated for release in 2027, showcasing Karma’s commitment to expanding its lineup.
Innovative design and performance capabilities
Unlike the Kaveya, which is built on a newly developed electric vehicle platform designed to deliver over 1,000 horsepower, the Amaris will utilize a modified version of the platform from the Revero sedan, Karma’s current offering. This approach not only accelerates the Amaris’s development timeline but also capitalizes on the technological foundation laid by the original Fisker Karma from a decade ago.
Updates on the Gyesera electric sedan
In related news, Karma also announced that the previously unveiled Gyesera electric sedan will now debut as a series plug-in hybrid. This model will feature updated styling and is expected to launch later this year, replacing the Revero, which has been in circulation since the 2017 model year. Marques McCammon, Karma’s president, emphasized the blend of exceptional torque and performance that these plug-in hybrids will offer, allowing for a unique driving experience without compromising on range.
Understanding series plug-in hybrid technology
Series plug-in hybrids, often referred to as extended-range electric vehicles, are equipped with electric powertrains. However, they utilize smaller batteries compared to conventional electric vehicles. Instead of relying solely on battery power, these hybrids employ a gasoline engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery. This engine can also provide power directly to the electric motor during demanding driving conditions, enhancing performance significantly.
Powertrain details of the Amaris
For both the Amaris and the Gyesera, Karma plans to incorporate a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to function as the generator. This is a departure from the turbocharged three-cylinder engine found in the Revero, which currently produces a peak output of 536 horsepower through two electric motors at the rear. The Revero’s 28-kilowatt-hour battery provides an estimated range of 80 miles on electric power alone. While specific details regarding the Amaris’s powertrain remain under wraps, the company has announced impressive performance metrics: the coupe is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under 3.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 165 mph.
Looking ahead: Pricing and production details
Karma has yet to disclose pricing or delivery timelines for the Amaris and Gyesera models. However, production will take place at the company’s facility in Moreno Valley, California, ensuring that these innovative vehicles are manufactured with a focus on quality and performance.