The advanced aluminum space frame underpinning the Fisker Karma incorporates new levels of rigidity and strength that will give the world’s first premium plug-in hybrid electric vehicle world class ride and handling characteristics. It debuts at the Geneva Motor Show on March 2-14.
Fisker Automotive’s engineering team designed the Karma’s space frame around the vehicle’s unique QDRIVE¨series-hybrid powertrain, which includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged ECOTEC¨ engine/generator set, a lithium-ion battery pack from A123 Systems, and a rear-mounted 403 horsepower traction motor assembly.
Though it forms the foundation of a large sedan, the Karma space frame’s rigidity is exceptional even when compared to modern sports cars. By utilizing 5,000 and 6,000-Series aluminum alloys and a unique extrusion intensive architecture, Fisker engineers achieved the best balance between weight and size. Valmet Automotive will assemble the space frames at its state of the art facility in Uusikaupunki, Finland.
“Our top priorities when we designed the Karma’s aluminum space frame were that it have extremely high torsional rigidity and could be easily modified to accept Karma model variants,” explained Henrik Fisker, CEO, Fisker Automotive. “We benchmarked some of the world’s best cars to create an all new space frame that will deliver an exhilarating experience behind the wheel.”
A tunnel running down the car’s centerline acts as the Karma’s backbone. It not only houses the battery pack but acts as a torque tube connecting front and rear sections. For optimal strength the Karma’s space frame is joined with 79 meters of precision CMT MIG welds and 1,058 self-piercing rivets.
The result is an industry-leading space frame that provides a solid foundation for the Karma. Few cars match its statistics: Static torsional rigidity – the amount the space frame resists twisting forces when entering a ramp at an angle, for example – measures more than 33,000 Newton meters-per-degree (Nm/deg). Static bending rigidity – the amount the space frame resists flexing forces as the car enters a ramp straight on, for example – measures more than 23,000 N/mm. Dynamic stiffness – the space frame’s resistance to resonant vibrations like those felt when driving over a sharp bump or rough road surfaces is also world class.
The Karma’s space frame also provides the utmost in occupant safety and exceeds global crash protection standards. Front impact protection starts with a patent-pending, multi-cell tempered aluminum “crush” box that displaces high-impact energy away from passengers. Its unique design allows it to be easily replaced, reducing repair costs that could lower insurance premiums.
Dual Phase 600-Series steel reinforced components in the doors and B-pillars provide substantial side impact protection. And the lithium-ion battery’s location in the center of the car puts it farthest from impact areas.
Fisker Automotive’s Karma is the world’s first premium Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV). By 2012, the four-door Karma will be followed by two variants and a second line of lower cost, high-volume premium green automobiles.
For more information about the Fisker Karma, please visit www.fiskerautomotive.com