Fisker reveals new all-electric SUV concept, first of three affordable EVs to come

Here’s the very latest news on the electric vehicle front and it’s a Fisker. Fisker Inc, designer and manufacturer of some of the world’s most desirable electric vehicles, breakthrough automotive technology and advanced mobility solutions, has released early details on a snazzy new all-electric SUV design, priced below US$40,000 (Rs 25.26 lakh) and set to launch in the second half of 2021.

Fisker's announcement comes just four days after the unveiling of the Tesla Model Y, a new seven-seat electric SUV with a range of up to 300 miles / 480 kilometres.

Like the Model Y, the as-yet-unnamed Fisker will be priced from less than $40,000 in the US. It features what the firm calls “captivating design touches that have been traditionally reserved for supercars in the past”.

The luxurious SUV is the first in an upcoming line-up of three affordable all-electric vehicles created by renowned American automotive industry designer, Henrik Fisker.

The futuristic, muscular all-electric SUV, which bears clean surfaces and a dramatic shape, will be available in four-wheel drive with two electric motors – one at the front and one at the rear. It will come standard with an extended range (target of approximately 300 miles / 480 kilometres), enabled by an enhanced +80 KWh lithium-ion battery pack. The company says more details will be released closer to launch.

Set at a base price below US$40,000 (Rs 25.26 lakh), the final pricing and a drivable prototype are expected to be revealed by the end of 2019. Fisker Inc is currently finalising the selection of a facility, located in the USA, to produce the all-electric SUV.

The affordable mass market e-SUV features captivating design touches that have been traditionally reserved for supercars in the past. Some highlights include a small, centre high-mounted radar – behind glass – that replaces a traditional grille no longer a necessity on an EV; a parametric pattern dominates the lower front, where air cooling is directed only as needed and lower body aerodynamic features.

High-tech user experience
The new electric SUV concept offers a high-tech user experience. According to the company, “With the touch of a button, an extended open-air atmosphere will be made possible without compromising the rugged and safe structural integrity of an SUV. The vastly spacious interior is complemented by a modern aesthetic and high-quality materials. Dashboard features will include a large heads-up display and a unique, intuitive user interface that will control some of the latest emerging in-vehicle technologies.”

Fisker, which is set to sell directly to consumers, is also working on a nationwide (USA) concierge service model for a superior user and maintenance experience. The company will begin accepting early deposits closer to the start of production.

Henrik Fisker: "We’re now excited to be introducing a vehicle that truly reinvents the SUV. At an affordable price point, starting below $40,000."

First of three new EVs
The new electric SUV is the first of three all-new, mass market vehicles. According to Henrik Fisker, chairman and CEO of Fisker Inc, “Our team set out on a mission to create an affordable EV that’s more exciting and emotion-stirring than what the market has been offering. We’re now excited to be introducing a vehicle that truly reinvents the SUV. At an affordable price point, starting below $40,000, we’re delivering a desirable, luxuriously rugged and green vehicle – complete with unique new experiences and technologies – that’s accessible to people across the USA and the world. While other manufacturers have introduced beautiful, high-performance electric cars with high price tags, the real race is about who can deliver a truly high-volume, affordable, yet desirable EV – produced through a unique, profitable business model.”

He added, “The Fisker team is thrilled to be playing a leading role in that revolution. The future success of EVs relies on creating an emotional connection with the consumer – in addition to longer range and more practicality for the wider market. Our affordable SUV will be powered by an enhanced +80 KWh lithium-ion battery pack that pushes the limit – with a range of close to 300 miles. At the same time, we’re investing heavily into next-generation technologies, highlighted by our patented Fisker Solid-State Battery technology. Our team of scientists has been working tirelessly within our in-house labs, with remarkable results to date as we move toward vehicle testing with partners next year. We believe that super luxury vehicles must offer the absolute latest in emerging technologies. Our flagship, low-volume EMotion luxury electric sedan will be the first model to feature Fisker Solid-State batteries, targeted to deliver more than 500 miles / 800 kilometres of range with a single, quick charge.”

Also read: Interview with Henrik Fisker: ‘We’re keen to set up a tech centre in India, a battery factory and vehicle assembly too.’

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