Karma offers EREV conversion opportunities in larger vehicle platforms – like pickup trucks.
Karma at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show showed not only its new models (Revero GTS and SC2 concept), but presented also its business strategy, which includes the use of EREV extended range powertrain technology in a wide range of vehicles beyond light-duty passenger cars.
As a first example, the company teased a pickup truck (we are getting plenty of those these days). It’s quite conventional (compared to the Tesla Cybertruck for sure), but also looks futuristic.
In the case of Karma, the idea is to demonstrate the possibility of supplying EREV tech for other manufacturers, who would be interested in producing larger vehicles with a plug-in hybrid powertrain (most likely series-hybrids with battery packs big enough for a decent EV range).
“Karma’s EREV Conversion Project
Karma also announced its plan to demonstrate the flexibility of its EREV extended range powertrain technology through a conversion “proof of concept” project developed at its Global Headquarters in Irvine, Calif. The EREV conversion project will prove the viability of EREV systems across a wide range of vehicles beyond light-duty passenger cars and will demonstrate what Karma Technology can do for other companies.”
Karma CEO Dr. Lance Zhou said:
“Extended-range powertrains represent a smart alternative to full battery systems, especially in larger vehicles used by businesses and fleets,”
Karma Group intends to work on two powertrain options simultaneously:
…and offer engineering expertise, design and customization center to others:
Karma Group is comprised of:
- Karma Automotive – Creates luxury electric vehicles and builds Karma’s existing value chain.
- Karma Technology – Develops technology for Karma vehicles and sells its engineering expertise to others.
- Karma Design – Drives a clear design identity unique to Karma Automotive and sells design services to others.
- Karma Innovation and Customization Center – Builds Karma vehicles, grows the company’s customization capabilities and provides contract manufacturing opportunities.
- Karma Capital – Invests in technology companies and establishes key partnerships to help speed product development.
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