BMW To Supply Powertrain Components To Karma Automotive

Karma Automotive, formerly known as Fisker, has announced that it is partnering with BMW to ensure its vehicles are built with the highest quality parts. BMW will supply Karma with its latest powertrain components, including high voltage battery charging systems and a wide range of hybrid and EV systems.

The press release indicated that Karma will integrate the first BMW components into its plug-in hybrid flagship vehicle, which will be relaunched in 2016. The next generation of vehicles that are already in development will utilize more of BMW’s powertrain technology.

“The Wanxiang Group is giving Karma Automotive the opportunity to bring a stunning car back to the market, and the partnership with BMW and their outstanding track record is a great fit for the future,” said Karma CEO Tom Corcoran. “We will continue to develop beautiful cars with the latest cutting edge hybrid and EV technology.”

The California-based company changed its name to Karma after its unsuccessful previous incarnation as Fisker, when it failed to repay $139 million in U.S. government loans and ultimately filed for bankruptcy. The new branding, combined with financial backing from Chinese billionaire Lu Guanqui, may allow the company to succeed in its relaunch next year.

Karma’s chief operating officer, Jim Taylor, says this initial deal with BMW could lead to a larger collaboration in the future.

“Carmakers buy parts from other carmakers, especially in expensive areas like powertrain technology,” Taylor said. ” As we launch the vehicle under the new name Karma, using BMW components will be a big help to the brand.”

Bernhard Koehler, Karma’s co-founder, has high expectations for the prestige that its partnership with BMW may provide. “I’m personally excited and incredibly proud we will be integrating the sophistication, integrity and character of the BMW powertrain into our own,” he said. “Karma Automotive products, and ultimately our customers, will be the greatest benefactors of this fantastic relationship.”

It will be interesting to see whether or not BMW’s involvement will help Karma to succeed this time around when it relaunches its luxury hybrid plug-in vehicle in 2016.