Karma Automotive Decides To Buy From BMW

Originally published on EV Obsession.

Back in 2013, sporty plug-in hybrid manufacturer Fisker Karma filed bankruptcy and things were not looking good for the brand. It was purchased by self-made Chinese entrepreneur Lu Guanqiu and has since leased a factory in California for 11 years and changed its name to Karma Automotive.

As part of a September 30th brand reboot, Karma is going all-in on the next version of its flagship car, which is set to be released in 2016 and is tapping BMW to supply key components. From the press release:

“BMW will supply Karma Automotive with their latest powertrain components, including high voltage battery charging systems and a wide range of hybrid and EV systems.”

It will be interesting to see if Karma Automotive will be using just the EV components from BMW or if it goes all-in and utilizes a BMW gas engine for the “range extender” functionality. It had previously utilized a GM motor which has since been discontinued. Either way, this move shows that the new and improved Karma Automotive is taking its next car seriously and stuffing it with quality components.

Co-founder Bernhard Koehler said: “I’m personally excited and incredibly proud we will be integrating the sophistication, integrity and character of the BMW powertrain into our own. Karma Automotive products and ultimately our customers will be the greatest benefactors of this fantastic relationship.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGx1BgHFYnc