Fisker Karma

Fisker Automotive has apparently decided that 260 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque should be plenty of power to recharge some batteries. The 260 HP engine will be provided by  General Motors in the form of its 2.0L direct injected and turbocharged Ecotec four cylinder engine.  This engine is an excellent motor, but though 260 HP is probably overkill for this particular application.

From Fisker’s perspective overkill is desirable to something that doesn’t quite meet the needs of the batteries since that powerful engine should be able to recharge the Fisker Karma’s lithium ion batteries at a brisk pace. The faster the internal combustion engine can charge up the battery pack, the quicker the car can revert back to its native electric-only operation.  Plus, that engine is a relatively light chunk of alloy, so the Karma’s motor shouldn’t be burdened by the gasoline-fed boat anchor too horribly under electric power.