It would appear that Fisker likes BMW’s new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine as much as we do. The small, California-based manufacturer that currently sources Ecotec four-cylinders from General Motors for the new Karma has just entered into an agreement with BMW to buy turbocharged four-bangers for its next generation of vehicles.
Those future models, which are dubbed “Project Nina” will be built at a recommissioned GM factory in Delaware next year, with Fisker aiming for sales in 2013. A preview of Nina may even appear at this month’s Frankfurt auto show. When the factory turns on its lights, the first vehicle rolling down the line will be a midsize sedan with the BMW engine serving as a range extender for an electric motor.
To make the partnership operate smoothly, Fisker recently set up a European office in Munich, where representatives should find it easy to communicate with their BMW counterparts. It should also help Fisker meet its goal of a global sales split with 40 percent of cars going to Americans, another 40 to Europeans, and the remaining 20 percent to the Asian market.
We think this is probably a smart deal for the small startup manufacturer. The Karma’s Ecotec engine is great for power, but only so-so when it comes to efficiency and disappointing in terms of refinement. If the company intends to stand behind its “Uncompromised Responsible Luxury” tagline, a fleet of vehicles running around with BMW engines is a good step forward.
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