Fisker to Reveal Production Karma Plug-In Hybrid in Detroit

Fisker Automotive has released more information about its luxury plug-in hybrid sedan, the Fisker Karma. A production-ready version of the model will be unveiled Jan. 15 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Fisker also released this teaser photo, which shows only minor variations from the concept Karma revealed at last year’s auto show. Revisions not shown include a larger front grille and lower intake. The onboard generator — turned by a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder also used on GM’s Cobalt SS — gets an unusual exhaust pipe behind the front wheels.

Everything else stays the same. Fisker says the plug-in hybrid has a 50-mile electric driving range with its lithium ion batteries — similar to the Chevy Volt. The Karma sports 22-inch alloy wheels, fuel-efficient bi-xenon LED headlamps and a solar-panel roof.

Pricing starts at $87,900, which could be considered low for such a high-tech beast; it’s lower than the $100,000-plus Tesla Roadster. Fisker says it intends to make 15,000 Karmas a year in Uusikaupunki, Finland. If you want one, expect to wait in line: The Karma has backordered sales that will last until mid-2010.