Karma Automotive Unveils the Amaris Plug-in-Hybrid Coupe
It’s easy to overlook Karma Automotive. This small, California-based automaker, stemming from the Fisker Automotive bankruptcy, produces a limited number of cars annually, but the vehicles are undeniably striking. Now, Karma is making waves again with the Amaris, a new plug-in-hybrid coupe.
The Amaris shares design elements with the Revero (formerly GS-6) and the electric Gyesera sedan unveiled in March of the previous year. The Amaris and Gyesera models are actually built on an all-aluminum spaceframe which evolved from the Revero’s architecture, which itself was a transformation of the original Fisker Karma.
Despite its modern underpinnings, the Amaris is a head-turner. It features a swept-back cabin with smooth surfaces complemented by sharp lines on the bumpers and door edges. Karma indicates the doors will open upwards, providing easy cabin access, though interior details are still under wraps. The coupe rides on eye-catching 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and the body is constructed from a combination of carbon fiber and aluminum. Side-exit exhausts add another element of flair.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Amaris sports a range-extender setup described as a “more powerful, next-generation” version of the current system. While specific details remain scarce, Karma has confirmed the gas-powered generator will be powered by a larger, turbocharged inline-four engine supplied by BMW. The current setup utilizes a BMW-sourced turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, paired with a battery powering two electric motors which generate 536 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque.
Karma estimates the Amaris will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in a brisk 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 165 mph. That’s significantly quicker than their estimate for the 590-hp electric Gyesera and a full second faster than the Revero sedan’s claimed time. Range figures for the plug-in-hybrid coupe haven’t been disclosed.
Future Plans
The Amaris’s design draws inspiration from the Kaveya coupe shown in 2023, but the Amaris will be the first to market. Karma also clarified production timelines: The stylish Kaveya, originally slated for this year, has been pushed to 2027. The Gyesera, initially revealed in early 2024, was intended to launch by the end of last year with a fully electric powertrain but will now be a range-extender model, and will launch by the end of 2025. Karma cites “changes in the near-term market demand for EVs” as the reason for this adjustment to its plans.
Karma also confirmed the Gyesera will succeed the Revero, seemingly putting the electric version on hold. Production of the Amaris is scheduled to commence in the fourth quarter of 2026.
