Fisker Hybrid Luxury Sports Car

 “Those were American cars that ruled the road,” he says at an Italian restaurant in Los Angeles.

While the 48-year-old Dane previously designed cars for Aston Martin and BMW, it takes a Grand Canyon-sized leap to start a car company. He co-founded Fisker Automotive Inc. in 2007.He showed the Fisker Karma concept a year later. It’s meant to be unpredictable, surprising, fast and sexy with an environmental twist. The hybrid can run in all-electric mode or in tandem with a small gasoline engine. It’s now on sale, stuffed with eco-conscious technology.

It’s easy to get swept up in Fisker’s vision. I just wish I liked the car better.

As a luxury sports sedan, the Karma (starting at $103,000) swims with slick sharks. Competitors include the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid ($96,000), the BMW (BMW) Active Hybrid 750i ($97,900), the $130,800 Maserati Quattroporte and even the $210,000-plus Aston Martin Rapide.The Karma looks exotic. Its generous proportions hover somewhere between the voluptuousness of a 1960s Italian exotic like a Maserati and the over-ripeness of a 1970s Corvette.  Low and long, it has oversized, flared fenders and rides on fat 22-inch wheels. The only exterior misfire is the ridiculous grill, which is shaped like a French waiter’s pencil mustache, straight out of a Bugs Bunny cartoon.

Karma Compromise

Fisker argues the Karma’s major selling point is its blend of sportiness and green credentials. I’m not convinced. Luxury consumers don’t like compromises, and the Karma is full of them.

The car works similarly to the Chevy Volt. It can run on all-electric power from a lithium-ion battery pack in what Fisker calls “stealth mode.” Most drivers will get more than 30 miles of range this way. Plug the car into a 220-volt outlet every night for a six-hour recharge, and you’ll use little or no gasoline on short commutes.It has a 2.0-liter, turbocharged gasoline engine, which turns on when the batteries are depleted, or when the driver wants more oomph. Simply turn it to sport mode.

The 260-horsepower engine powers a generator, which in turn recharges the batteries on the go. While this eliminates range limitations, it also hurts the Karma’s official Environmental Protection Agency numbers. The EPA gave it a 52 miles-per-gallon equivalence in all-electric mode and only 20 mpg when running fully on gas.

Reliability Issue

This new technology comes with its own set of issues. These may include reliability. Consumer Reports said its Karma, which it bought, broke down. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that four out of five shipped to one dealership had software glitches almost immediately.

I experienced nothing like that. But the meshing of systems is often noisy and harsh, with unaccounted-for noises and vibrations. This happens almost entirely when the gas engine is on, and in a luxury ride it’s unacceptable. In slow traffic, the car has a tendency to shudder as you creep along. Mash the accelerator and the gasoline engine announces itself rudely. And no, that’s not the sexy whine of an inline six-cylinder nor the roar of a V-8. That’s the same cheap sound you’ll hear in small economy cars. (The engine is sourced from General Motors. (GM))

Heavy Motors

Nor is the car especially fast. Combined power from the motors is a claimed 403 horsepower and 959 pound-feet of torque. That should translate into sonic speeds, except the heavy batteries and additional equipment weigh the car down. At some 5,300 pounds, it’s heavier than some SUVs.The company says it will do 0-to-60 miles per hour in 6.3 seconds using sport mode and 7.9 in all-electric. BMW’s hybrid 7 Series makes it in 4.7.Yet I much preferred the car in all-electric mode. The lack of noise makes it feel quicker off the line and you get the genuine sense that you’re driving something special -- an exotic electric car.

The Karma corners flatly and neatly, with virtually no body roll. Snap around curves and accelerate cleanly into short straight-aways, and stealth mode is rewarding. The sci-fi sensation is enhanced by two exterior speakers that emit an odd whirring noise at low speeds to alert pedestrians.

Idiosyncratic Interior

Interior options are idiosyncratic. Buyers can opt for an “EcoSport” leather interior that raises the sticker price to $109,000 or the $116,000 “EcoChic” option which eschews animal products in favor of recycled or reclaimed materials.

When I drove one of the latter, it sported an upholstered dash that made me feel I was motoring around town in a tweed suit. Odd, but in a conversation-starting way.

SCION PRICES FR-S SPORTS CAR LOW TO LURE YOUNG BUYERS

When Scion unveiled the sexy, sweet little sports car that will become the centerpiece of the brand, it said it would cost less than $30,000.

But we doubt anyone expected the starting price for the 2013 Scion FR-S to be this low: $24,200, plus $730 delivery fees. That's with the six-speed manual transmission, which is how we expect a lot of the brand's young customers will want it. With the six-speed automatic, the price is still only $25,300.We don't normally gush --at least to this degree -- but Scion, Toyota's bargain brand for twenty something’s needs a turnaround vehicle. And this one could be it. That price wil put in reach of a lot of buyers who otherwise might turn to a Hyundai Veloster, Honda CR-Z, Kia Soul or other youth-oriented vehicle. The Scion goes on sale within weeks.

"Scion's goal was to create an affordable sports car that true driving enthusiasts could enjoy," said Jack Hollis, a Toyota vice president in charge of Scion, in a statement. "We accomplished that goal with the FR-S starting under $25,000." Hollis calls it "a total home run."

FR-S stands for front-engine, rear-wheel drive. The S is for Sport.

To further attract younger customers, the FR-S will come with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer audio system. It will have HD Radio and Bluetooth for the gadget-inclined.

SCION ANNOUNCES PRICING FOR ITS 2013 FR-S SPORTS CAR

ORRANCE, Calif., March 22, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Scion today announced pricing for its 2013 FR-S compact rear-wheel drive sports car. The FR-S starts with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $24,200 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, and $25,300 when equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that features paddle shifters and rev-match technology. The high-performance coupe is the fifth model to join the Scion family and will go on sale this spring.

"Scion's goal was to create an affordable sports car that true driving enthusiasts could enjoy," said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. "We accomplished that goal with the FR-S starting under $25,000...a total home run! Add in Scion's complimentary Scion Service Boost, our no-haggle no-hassle Pure Price, and Scion's network of about 1,000 dealers, and the FR-S is a grand slam."The FR-S, which stands for Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive, Sport; is Scion's definition of an authentic rear-wheel-drive sports car with exceptionally balanced performance and handling, compelling style, flexible utility and surprising fuel efficiency.The FR-S is a true "scion," born into a lengthy history of Toyota performance cars and motorsports. During planning and development, it was most inspired by the AE86 generation of the Corolla, better known as the Hachi-Roku, meaning "8-6" in Japanese. The AE86 was a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe that was lightweight and well balanced, making it a solid choice for driving enthusiasts.

Inspired by the AE86, the FR-S is designed around the core goal of achieving "Pure Balance." The balance begins with the strategic use of the world's only flat boxer engine in a front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration. The engine's compact size and flat shape allow it to be mounted mid-ship and extremely low, giving the car a dynamically favorable front-to-rear weight ratio of 53:47 and a low center of gravity comparable to some exotic supercars.

The FR-S's 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is the result of a joint development between Toyota and Subaru. The partnership begins by combining Subaru's newly developed, horizontally opposed engine and Toyota's cutting edge D-4S injection system that incorporates both direct and port injection. The D-4S system, partnered with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, results in an impressive 200 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque.

The flat-four mates with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual offers quick, precise shifts with a short-throw; while the automatic features aggressive up shifts and sporty rev-matched down shifts that are initiated by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Power is transferred to the pavement via a standard Torsen® limited-slip differential.

The idea of "Pure Balance" is further realized by the FR-S's lightweight design and compact size. The combination allows the car to be quick and nimble into and out of corners, with dynamic maneuverability and confident handling. The coupe's weight is kept to a minimum by utilizing a lightweight aluminum hood, a solid roof, and by featuring a trunk design instead of a hatchback.

The FR-S's low weight is matched with a dynamically tuned suspension setup consisting of MacPherson struts up front and a double wishbone system in the rear. Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels and ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four corners.

Powerful Exterior Design

The fierce exterior of the FR-S is a solid reflection of its inner power. The profile, inspired by the Toyota 2000GT, reveals a hood and roof-line that is remarkably sleek and low, giving it an aerodynamic shape that channels air cleanly over to the top. The low stance continues to exaggerate the coupe's menacing face, which is made up of sharp lines, a wide mouth and angular headlights that house the projector-beam halogen lamps. The aggressive front fenders protrude upward and boast the iconic '86' piston emblem, which highlights the car's AE86 heritage as well as its unique new boxer engine. The rear fascia sits low and wide, with aerodynamic lower treatments that surround the sporty dual exhaust system. LEDs illuminate the edgy taillights, while center-mounted backup lights finish the muscular design.

The FR-S will be available in seven colors including Raven, Asphalt, Hot Lava, Argento, Ultramarine, Firestorm and Whiteout.

Performance-focused Interior

The FR-S's interior includes a 2+2 seating configuration that is designed with both form and function in mind. The front seats feature deep bolsters and are mounted extremely low and are comfortable yet assertive, while the rear seat folds down flat, creating flexible space. The car will come standard with FR-S badged floor mats. The large center-mounted tachometer is the focus of the three-gauge cluster and features a programmable shift-indicator, informing the driver of the engine's vitals. Speed is monitored by both digital and analog gauges. The FR-S features a sporty leather-trimmed steering wheel that has both tilt and telescopic adjustment.

The FR-S will come standard with an eight-speaker AM/FM/CD/USB 300-watt maximum output Pioneer(TM) audio system. Standard features also include HD Radio(TM) technology and Bluetooth® connectivity that allows both hands-free phone connection as well as streaming audio capability.

Sports Car Performance with Excellent Safety Features

FR-S comes standard with six airbags, including dual-stage advanced driver- and front-passenger airbags, front-seat-mounted airbags and side-curtain airbags.

Like all Scions, FR-S features the Star Safety System that includes Traction Control (TRAC), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Brake Assist (BA), an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $730 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

Warranty and Complimentary Scion Service Boost

Like all Scion models, the FR-S is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The FR-S will come standard with Scion Service Boost, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and two years of 24-hour roadside assistance.

STRONG DOLLAR, YEN MAKE CARS MORE EXPENSIVE IN SAUDI ARABIA

Appreciation of the dollar and the Japanese yen against euro and other major currencies in recent months has made American and Japanese vehicles more expensive in the Saudi market. This subsequently has forced many customers to abandon their plan to buy a new car and instead own a used one. Some experts in the local automobile market have pointed out that a customer needs to spend at least SR 70,000 for a new car. According to a local newspaper report, prices of vehicles, especially US-made cars, are expected to witness further increase during the current year. They attribute this mainly to a strong dollar against a basket of other currencies. However, Ali Alireza, CEO of Haji Hussein Alireza Company and head of the automobiles committee at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), discounted any possibility for further increase in car prices in the local market.Faisal Abu Shousha, head of the National Committee for Automobile Agents at the Council of Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry, told Arab News that variation in the value of major currencies plays a major role in determining prices of vehicles. "Appreciation of the dollar and the yen has resulted in raising prices of vehicles made in the United States and Japan. Similarly, euro's depreciation has affected prices of vehicles made in Europe," he said. According to Abu Shousha, there are several other factors that have contributed to rising prices of vehicles. These include rising fuel prices, use of highly advanced technologies in manufacturing vehicles, and making available accessories and extra fittings for luxurious services for new car models. At present, prices of vehicles have registered an increase of five percent.

He denied reports that there is a union of automobile agents to prevent a fall in prices of new vehicles. "The element of competition in attracting consumers is the factor that governs the market. All agents are trying hard to attract a major segment of customers at a time when the local market is witnessing huge inflow of vehicles made in South Korea and China," he said, adding that these vehicles are much cheaper compared to vehicles made in the United States, Japan and Europe.

A steady increase in prices of vehicles in the local market has forced several customers, especially youths, to own a car under installment system. Abdul Karim Saleh, a Saudi young man working in the private sector, told Arab News that this is the only option in front of him to own a car even though the monthly installment consumes a major chunk of his salary. According to a Business Monitor International report, there has been a 30 percent growth in automobile sales in the Kingdom over the last three years. The number of vehicles in the Saudi market, which is the largest in the Middle East, shot up from 676,000 to 880,000 during the period. The simplified credit facilities and bank financing have contributed substantially in strengthening the purchasing power of automobile customers in the Kingdom. The report also showed that nearly 70 percent of automobile sales in the Kingdom are based on credit facilities and loans.

BEING "NUMBER ONE" TOYOTA WON'T OFFER LOW-END CARS

TOKYO, March 22 (Reuters) - Toyota Motor has no intention of offering ultra-cheap cars to boost sales in emerging markets and will keep its focus on customers who expect a certain level of reliability, the company's president, Akio Toyoda, said on Thursday.

Toyoda's comments come days after rival Nissan Motor announced the revival of the Datsun brand to target buyers in the lowest and sizeable end of developing markets, while a German magazine reported Volkswagen was also planning a similar move.

"We are a full-line car maker," Toyoda told a small group of reporters in Tokyo.

"But to grow sustainably, we need to make a certain level of profit on cars, no matter how big or small they are. Does Toyota have the ability to make cars for 500,000 yen ($6,000) like Tata Motors? I don't think so," he said, referring to the Indian automaker famed for developing the world's cheapest car, the Nano, whose sales have fallen short of targets.

"When we think about what customers value in our cars, it's reliability," Toyoda said, adding that was evident in the popularity of used Toyota cars in many Asian countries.

"We won't risk sacrificing quality simply to meet a certain price range."

As demand becomes saturated in the developed world, global automakers are eyeing low-cost cars to drive sales growth, especially among first-time buyers moving up from motorcycles and used cars in emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China.

Toyota has taken small steps to target that base, starting with the made-for-India Etios model. But analysts have said the starting price, of just under 400,000 rupees ($7,800) for the lowest-grade hatchback version, was still too high to challenge cut-price stalwarts such as Maruti Suzuki.

Nissan, meanwhile, is counting on Datsun to tap a price range uncharted by global automakers as it aims to join Toyota, General Motors and Volkswagen at the top of the sales charts with French partner Renault.

In contrast, Toyoda said he wanted Toyota to put its energy into developing products for the middle- to upper-class where its strengths lie, even if that meant playing in only a fraction of big, emerging markets.

"China has 1.4 billion people, but we don't have to target all 1.4 billion," he said. "We'll target perhaps 200 or 300 million of that - but that's about the size of the whole U.S. market. It's huge."

While GM and Volkswagen fight it out for sales dominance in China and the rest of the world, Toyoda said he wanted Toyota to strive for industry leadership in other ways, much like GM did by developing the industry as the biggest car maker over more than 70 years.

"Until we overtook them (in 2008), GM was number one, uninterrupted since the 1930s. During that time, it helped the industry develop and created a culture of cars. That's the kind of company that deserves to be the industry leader," he said

"Going forward, I think there will be a lot of shuffling around among the top five or seven. But for the crown to really mean anything, I don't want to use it as a motivational tool," he said, repeating his warning that unchecked sales growth had played a role in Toyota's quality crisis a few years ago.

Toyota fell to third place in global vehicles sales behind GM and Volkswagen last year, hit by the disruption that followed the earthquake and tsunami disaster.

Toyota Motor has no intention of offering ultra-cheap cars to boost sales in emerging markets and will keep its focus on customers who expect a certain level of reliability, the company's president, Akio Toyoda, said on Thursday.Toyoda's comments come days after rival Nissan Motor announced the revival of the Datsun brand to target buyers in the lowest and sizeable end of developing markets, while a German magazine reported Volkswagen was also planning a similar move.

"We are a full-line car maker," Toyoda told a small group of reporters in Tokyo.

"But to grow sustainably, we need to make a certain level of profit on cars, no matter how big or small they are. Does Toyota have the ability to make cars for 500,000 yen ($6,000) like Tata Motors? I don't think so," he said, referring to the Indian automaker famed for developing the world's cheapest car, the Nano, whose sales have fallen short of targets.

"When we think about what customers value in our cars, it's reliability," Toyoda said, adding that was evident in the popularity of used Toyota cars in many Asian countries.

"We won't risk sacrificing quality simply to meet a certain price range."

As demand becomes saturated in the developed world, global automakers are eyeing low-cost cars to drive sales growth, especially among first-time buyers moving up from motorcycles and used cars in emerging markets such as Brazil, Russia, India and China.