Karma Automotive is making a dramatic statement with its latest creation – the seductive Amaris coupe, featuring upward-pivoting “swan doors” and a revised strategy that embraces hybrid technology amid changing market demands. The California-based, Chinese-owned luxury carmaker has revealed this sleek two-door model as part of its evolving product lineup, targeting production for late 2026.
The Amaris represents Karma’s continued evolution from its Fisker origins, while making a definitive pivot in its powertrain strategy. Originally planning to focus on fully electric vehicles, Karma has instead embraced what it calls EREV (Extended Range Electric Vehicle) technology across its upcoming models, citing market realities in the premium segment.
“Karma Automotive remains at the forefront of EREV powertrains, and believes now more than ever that the freedom of refueling either with gasoline or electricity is ideally suited to the marketplace,” explains Marques McCammon, President of Karma Automotive. The company is positioning its vehicles to deliver “exceptional EV torque and performance paired with worry-free cruising range, a combination that only EREV can deliver.”
The Amaris shares its aluminum spaceframe architecture with the upcoming Gyesera sedan, which itself evolved from the Revero—a modern interpretation of the original Fisker Karma from 2011. However, the Amaris distinguishes itself with a dramatic coupe profile featuring numerous head-turning design elements that push it beyond mere derivative status.
Most notable are the massive swan doors that pivot upward rather than swinging outward, creating a theatrical entrance for occupants. The coupe’s silhouette presents a generous dash-to-axle ratio, sculpted character lines, and muscular fenders that subtly echo Aston Martin’s design language. The overall effect is both refined and aggressive, with a sloping roofline flowing into a distinctive rear treatment.
Distinctive design touches include “Americana-inspired” side-exit exhausts positioned just behind the doors, adding both visual drama and what promises to be an evocative soundtrack. The bodywork combines carbon fiber and aluminum construction, riding on new 22-inch forged aluminum wheels with an intricate design Karma has named “Constellation.”
Under the sleek exterior lies Karma’s revised powertrain strategy. While specific output figures weren’t disclosed, the company confirms the Amaris will utilize a turbocharged four-cylinder BMW engine as a generator—larger than the 1.5-liter three-cylinder currently employed in the Revero. This represents an upgrade from the current PHEV system that produces 536 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors.
Performance numbers are impressive, with Karma claiming a 0-60 mph time of just 3.5 seconds—seven-tenths quicker than its estimate for the 590-hp electric Gyesera and a full second faster than the current Revero sedan. Top speed is projected at 165 mph (266 km/h), firmly establishing the Amaris in performance car territory.
Karma’s Revised Product Timeline
Karma’s announcement includes significant revisions to its product roadmap, reflecting what the company describes as “changes in the near-term market demand for EVs,” particularly in premium segments.
| Model | Original Plan | Revised Plan | Powertrain Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gyesera | Electric-only launch in 2024 | EREV powertrain with revised styling for 2025 | From BEV to EREV |
| Amaris | Not previously announced | Production start in Q4 2026 | New EREV model |
| Kaveya | Electric flagship coupe for 2026 | Delayed to 2027 | Likely remains BEV |
| Ivara GT-UV | Crossover due 2027 | Remains on schedule for 2027 | EV or PHEV options |
These changes reveal Karma’s strategic adjustment to market conditions, with the company delaying purely electric models while prioritizing its extended-range hybrid technology. The Gyesera sedan will now feature a range-extender setup rather than being fully electric as originally announced, and will succeed the current Revero in the lineup by late 2025.
While Karma hasn’t disclosed complete details on the Amaris’ interior or range specifications, the coupe’s reveal provides clear insight into the small manufacturer’s direction. With production volumes reportedly in the hundreds annually, Karma remains a niche player but one with distinctive offerings in the luxury market.
The Amaris draws inspiration from the previously shown Kaveya concept, though interestingly, it will reach production before its inspiration. The company continues to evolve its distinctive design language, maintaining the voluptuous, flowing forms that have characterized its vehicles since the original Fisker Karma, while incorporating more aggressive, contemporary details.
For affluent buyers seeking exceptional design with the flexibility of hybrid technology, the Amaris presents a compelling alternative to mainstream luxury offerings. Karma’s commitment to EREV technology suggests the company has found its niche amid the broader industry’s electric transition, providing performance with the practicality of dual fuel sources.
