610-hp Fisker roadster to bow at Frankfurt

Remember that new exotic promised a few months ago by former Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker (AW, April 11)? Here’s our first look at the Tramonto from Fisker Coachbuild, a limited-edition 610-hp roadster capable of 0-to-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. It debuts in September at Frankfurt, along with another Fisker model due in 2006.
source: autoweek

Fisker Tramanto/Latigo

Henrik Fisker, known for designing the BMW Z8 and Aston Martin DB9, among many others, has started Fisker Coachbuild. Fisker starts with a Mercedes SL 55 AMG or BMW 6 Series, and puts his own body panels on it and his own interior in it. He partners with an established tuner for the engine and suspension upgrades and he simply bolts on the body panels of his own design onto the car. The Tramonto, shown in Frankfurt, is based on the SL 55 AMG. Underhood is a 610-hp supercharged 5.5-liter V8, good for a claimed 0-60 time of 3.6 seconds and top speed of 202 mph.

Based on Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG and BMW 6 Series 650Ci Coupe

Fisker Coachbuild announced its first two coachbuild designs at the Frankfurt International Auto Show. The Fisker 2006 Tramonto– a thrilling two-seat convertible sports car delivering 610 horsepower with top speeds of 202 mph, and the Fisker Latigo CS – an uncompromising and elegant coupe delivering up to 550 horsepower.

Since the focus of Fisker Coachbuild is to create cars for the true automotive enthusiast, we have developed a company where the production process is built around the design – to blend emotion and performance more harmoniously than ever before. Production will commence in April 2006.

The Fisker Coachbuild 2006 Tramonto is a sculpted statement of exotic, two-seat, open-air motoring. Beneath the skin, the engineering excellence of what its base architecture once was – a Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG – remains. The myriad Mercedes-Benz technological innovations, from the power-retractable hardtop to Active Body Control (ABC), remain untouched – as do safety systems, including crumple zones and airbags. At the same time, the Tramonto has become something much more, and the differences go beyond what meets the eye.

The stance is wide and low. Ground hugging. The lines flow smoothly from start to finish – unbroken in signature Fisker style. The overall look conveys movement, speed and power, whether the retractable hardtop is secured for foul-weather driving or stowed for drop-top motoring. Compared to its original platform, the Tramonto is reproportioned with a shorter back end, a longer-looking hood line with a pronounced power dome, and no visual bumpers. It is poised, balanced and exquisite. From any angle, the message is uncompromisingly beautiful. Unmistakably Fisker.

“We are thrilled that we have been able to follow our gut feelings with Fisker Coachbuild. We have put all of our experience, energy and passion towards delivering cars that speak straight from the heart,” explains Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Coachbuild. “For Fisker Coachbuild, it is all about emotion and design excellence”.

Competition-proven materials and technology grace the base engine with a coveted combination of performance and reliability. Handcrafted by a dedicated AMG technician, the 5.5-liter, 24-valve V8 features forged aluminum pistons, a precision-balanced crankshaft and an ultra-efficient liquidto-air intercooler delivering 493 bhp and 0-60 in 4.5 seconds. For those who crave even more performance, the Performance Plus package is also available. Fisker Coachbuild has teamed with Kleemann, the world’s leader in Kompressor (supercharger) technology for Mercedes-Benz, to create the Fisker/ Kleemann 610-bhp supercharged 5.5-liter V8 which delivers a 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

Exotic. Uncompromising. Sporting, elegant and compelling. The BMW 6 Series 650Ci Coupe provides the base vehicle architecture for the Fisker Latigo CS. The signature Fisker touch brings a new gravitas and balance to the luxury sports coupe – it is understated sporty elegance at its best. As in the Tramonto, all electronic, telematic and safety systems remain untouched – and every vehicle option is yours to choose from.

The Fisker Latigo is currently nearing production status, so final technical details are still in flux. Engine specifications call for a standard 32-valve, 4.8-liter V8 pumping 367 horsepower, and an optional V10 that generates over 550 horsepower if you choose a BMW M6 as your base architecture.

This is design that is felt as well as seen. In the lines of the car, there is tension – like an arrow pulled back in the bow. The C-pillars have been redesigned to flow in a more sculptured manner, sitting solidly over the rear wheel. Front and rear dimensions have both been shortened, and a sculptured power dome highlights the hood. Overall, these brilliantly balanced proportions lend a solid, unmistakable presence to the Latigo CS – while advanced aerodynamic sculpting creates a shape that is virtually invisible to the air.

Production of both designs will be limited to 150 apiece, so sightings of the 2006 Fisker Tramonto and 2006 Fisker Latigo CS will always be a rarity. Production will commence in April 2006 – just over one year after the company opened its doors –enabling enthusiasts across the globe to experience coachbuild redefined.

Fisker Coachbuild Redefined

Welcome to Fisker Coachbuild, founded by Henrik Fisker and Bernhard Koehler. For many years, these two gentlemen had the rare opportunity to take part in creating truly legendary automobiles: timeless sports cars that inspire awe and admiration. Fisker and Koehler worked for renowned car companies like BMW, Ford and Aston Martin. And, like many entrepreneurs before them, there came a point when they realized that together, they could take it one step further. The dream was to follow their gut feelings – to put all their experience, energy and passion towards delivering cars that speak straight from the heart.

“To bring a car to market that true automotive enthusiasts can drive and enjoy, we have created a car company where the production process is built around the design – to allow emotion and performance to blend more harmoniously than ever before,” describes Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Coachbuild.

“In Fisker Coachbuild, we have created something truly special. Not simply a new car company, but a new vision for what an exotic, high-performance, coachbuilt car can be,” explains Bernhard Koehler, COO of Fisker Coachbuild. “We have combined extraordinarily beautiful design with existing world-class engineering to deliver a final product without compromise.”

Fisker Coachbuild sports cars are created with a singular design language: instantly recognizable as a Fisker creation, inside and out. They are of the highest quality: created with only the best materials. They are exclusive: each model will be built in strictly limited numbers. And they are thrilling: already beginning life as a premier sports car, then raised to new heights of exotic at Fisker.

History in the Making

Fisker and Koehler are bringing back one of the world’s greatest hand-crafted experiences in car design – coachbuilding. They are crafting an automotive line-up that will redefine automotive performance, elegance, luxury and exclusivity.

The two teamed up with a small group of international investors to bring the Fisker Coachbuild experience to life. A workshop was rented, a handful of craftsmen hired, and production of the Fisker Tramonto and Latigo CS was up and running.

A sports car from Fisker Coachbuild is entirely new – and so is the way it is created. Our streamlined production process allows us to deliver an expertly finished, hand-crafted vehicle in a fraction of the time historically associated with coachbuild. Our super-luxury sports cars will still offer all the technology, safety and reliability of their original platforms. It is an unprecedented combination.

Everywhere you look, the design speaks of exclusivity and performance. Interior and exterior surfaces reflect the Fisker DNA. Interior fit and finish are distinctive, and every body panel is crafted to our exact specifications. Everywhere you touch, the finest materials touch back. Glove-soft leather graces the interior; aluminum and carbon-fiber panels define the body. A deep, lustrous finish highlights every curve, in every color offered by the original manufacturer, plus a palette of exclusive Fisker colors. It’s only fitting, because a Fisker is a step above what any manufacturer offers to enhance their own vehicles, and a move beyond what an aftermarket tuner alone can deliver.

Design Excellence

Design by committee? There is no committee. There is only Henrik Fisker, the designer. And it shows in every curve. Every line. Every elegant proportion. Every element of the car is a singular work of art. Timeless. Muscular. Dynamic and extremely high quality. The adjectives can pour forth but words pale beside the experience of Fisker Coachbuild.

One glance at the new car’s muscular lines, and its clear that the roots lie clearly in the Fisker signature style. The Fisker Coachbuild grille takes its place in the pantheon of enduring automotive designs. Its inspiration: a jet aircraft skimming the surface, the F/A 22 Raptor – bold and powerful, with limitless possibilities.

To bring those designs to life, a new development process has been created by operations chief Bernhard Koehler. By moving efficiently from sketches to three-dimensional styling and clay modeling, Fisker Coachbuild is able to bring details into focus early on in the design process. State-of-the-art digitizing and scanning technology helps ensure proper design proportions. Final-stage design involves crafting a full-sized feasibility model before we proceed to tooling production.
Indeed, Henrik Fisker and Bernhard Koehler are redefining one of the greatest experiences in automotive design – coachbuild – for the 21 st century.

2006 Fisker Tramonto

A sculpted statement of exotic, two-seat, open air motoring

Together, Henrik Fisker and Bernhard Koehler are building on one of the world’s greatest handcrafted experiences in car design – coachbuilding. They are crafting a line of automobiles that will redefine automotive performance, elegance and exclusive luxury.

Earlier this year, Fisker and Koehler recruited a small group of international investors to bring the Fisker Coachbuild experience to life. A workshop was rented…a handful of craftsmen hired…and production of the Fisker Tramonto and Latigo CS turned from dream to reality.

The Fisker Coachbuild 2006 Tramonto is a sculpted statement of exotic, two-seat, open-air motoring. Beneath the skin, the engineering excellence of what its base architecture once was – a Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG – remains. The myriad array of Mercedes-Benz’s finest technological innovations, from the power-retractable hardtop to Active Body Control (ABC), remain untouched – as do safety systems, including crumple zones and airbags. At the same time, the Tramonto has become something much more, and the differences go beyond what meets the eye.

Tramonto Exterior Design

The stance is wide and low. Ground hugging. The lines flow smoothly from start to finish – unbroken in the signature Fisker style. The overall look conveys movement, speed and power, whether the power retractable hardtop is secured for foul-weather driving or stowed for open-air motoring.

Compared to its original platform, the Tramonto is reproportioned with a shorter back end, a longer-looking hood line with a pronounced power dome, and no visual bumpers. It is poised, balanced, sculptured…and exotic. From any angle, the message is uncompromisingly beautiful. Unmistakably Fisker.

Take a casual glance at the new car’s muscular lines. Gaps between body panels are tight and uniform. Aluminum and carbon fiber – materials that befit an exotic sports car – make up the body panels. Steel is used judiciously, to enhance structural rigidity.

All Fisker Coachbuild models will have an all-new exterior design and re-designed interior expressing a distinctive Fisker Design DNA. Each Fisker car will also have a recognizable face. The grille design was inspired by highly sophisticated aircraft designs, such as the F/A-22 Raptor. The Fisker Tramonto’s stunning front silhouette is similar to this sleek jet aircraft, with the large center opening tying into the fuselage and the two wings expanding from the mouth. Distinctive, indeed.

Exterior details to take note of include:

-Anodized aluminum wire mesh grille with the incorporation of the two bars from the
-Fisker Coachbuild logo (also available with black powder coating)
-Black powder coated aluminum mesh on the lower front spoiler
-Fog lights inset with carbon fiber bezels in the lower front spoiler
-LED indicator integrated into the wire mesh grille design
-Power dome design incorporating a race-inspired, 1,500-degree heat shield on the interior polished carbon fiber hood surface
-Anodized aluminum wire mesh side vents with chrome finish surrounds
-3-Dimensional milled aluminum and hand painted badges
-Dynamic design sculpture of the wheel lip coming out of the body
-Lightweight, purpose designed 5-spoke, 3-piece 20” wheels
-Retractable hard top
-Existing door handles integrated into body design to retain the retractable hard top mechanism
-Carbon fiber rear diffuser
-Purpose designed integrated tail lamps and polished chrome exhausts

As the design of each detail evidences, the focus of the Fisker Coachbuild is unwavering. One look at the grille and you will see the finest quality materials – from the front indicator LED incorporated into the aluminum wire mesh grille to the wire mesh side vents, both complete with aluminum surround and chrome finish. These expressions of true craftsmanship are seen on every part of the TRAMONTO’s exterior, back to its stunning tail lamp and exhaust design.

Tramonto Interior Design

Interior design is as crucial as the exterior – after all, it is here that driver and machine become one. To bring the Fisker Coachbuild design to life, we have teamed with Distinctive Industries, the American-based leather interior experts. All seat and fascia surfaces are expertly hand trimmed and hand stitched, in a selection of super-premium, soft yet durable Italian leathers. Milled aluminum highlights the center console, and aluminum details accent the switch gear – joining with leather to form the strong Fisker logo bars on the gear shift knob. The multifunction steering wheel is a Fisker original, with built-in sound system controls. Thoughtful, functional touches include improved cell phone storage and an analog clock.

Other signature treatments include:

-Milled aluminum-finished caps on seat positioning switches
-Gear shift with aluminum and leather textures incorporating the Fisker logo
-Hand-stitched leather four-spoke steering wheel
-Fisker-enhanced shift paddle design
-Enhanced graphics on instrument panels
-Improved cell phone storage space
-Aluminum door sill plaques engraved with Fisker Coachbuild, which sits on the polished carbon fiber sill panel
-Analog clock which sits in an aluminum bezel
-Contoured sports seats covered in soft quality leather both front and seat back
-Single piece milled aluminum center console with unique numbering sequence

Fisker based the interior design on a basic cockpit theme. It combines sporting character with high levels of hand craftsmanship, unique characteristics and luxurious comfort. Open the Tramonto’s door, and one of the first expressions of true design you’ll notice is the sill plaque with an aluminum Fisker Coachbuild lettered plaque sitting upon a fine piece of carbon fiber.

Installed as a complete assembly, the center console makes a new signature statement. The unit construction demonstrates rare aesthetics in the aluminum caged design. It also features a symmetrical look into which the controls and switches are integrated. The instrument cluster retains the three main gauges with Fisker accents.

“There is a unique sense of intimacy with the interior design through the use of natural materials,” expresses Henrik Fisker, CEO of Fisker Coachbuild. “Close attention to detail ensures a high quality fit, finish and feel.”

The cabin experience is rounded out with such technical niceties as the standard COMAND system with DVD navigation, and the digital Bose® Cabin SurroundTM sound system. This audio tour de force features multichannel architecture, utilizing eight speakers and 5.1-channel Bose CenterpointTM signal processing to generate a 360º field of sound. And Bose AudioPilotTM digitally compensates for unwanted ambient noise, to maintain clarity with no perceptible change in volume.

You can also choose from the long list of SL 55 AMG options, such as the Hands-Free Communication System, Keyless Go, Distronic adaptive cruise control, Parktronic sensors front and rear, a Panorama roof for an expansive view of the sky even when the top is up, and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Any and all options are available when you select your original vehicle – and all will be there for you when the transformation to Fisker Tramonto is complete.

At the touch of a button, the class-leading power retractable hardtop transforms the Tramonto from coupe to roadster in just 16 seconds. And even with the hardtop retracted, the trunk is still spacious enough for two golf bags.

“Aside from the state-of-the-art engineering that is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz, we know that people like convenience…and with the base architecture you get that, plus the exclusivity with owning one of 150 designs,” explains Cristina Cheever, Vice President, Marketing and Communications for Fisker Coachbuild.

Tramonto Performance

At Fisker Coachbuild, design excellence is met with equal parts performance mastery. Fisker automobiles will offer nimble and athletic performance. Competition-proven materials and technology grace the base engine with a coveted combination of performance and reliability. Handcrafted by a dedicated AMG technician, the 5.5-liter 24-valve V8 features forged aluminum piston, precision-balanced crankshaft and ultra-efficient liquid-to-air intercooler delivering 493 bhp and a 0-60 in 4.5 seconds.

Performance Plus package

For those who crave even more, the Performance Plus package is also available. Fisker Coachbuild has teamed with Kleemann, the world’s leader in Kompressor (supercharger) technology for Mercedes-Benz, to create the Fisker/Kleemann 610-hp supercharged 5.5-liter V8 with a 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. The performance starts with custom-made ECU program, redesigned pulley wheel and Super Sport Camshafts, to maximize engine output. Enlarged stainless steel tubular exhaust headers, down pipes and 70 mm dual exhaust system with four steel cats allow for freer breathing…a system which is further enhanced with Kleemann 120-cell metal catalysts for maximum performance gain.

All of these modifications result in rewards that range from the concrete to the visceral. The supercharged engine produces over 650 lb-ft of torque and 610 hp, delivering a 0-60 time of 3.6 seconds and smooth power throughout the entire operating range. And while it cannot be quantified, the music of the Fisker/Kleemann engine produces some strong feelings of its own.

Power delivery is controlled through a 5-speed AMG SpeedShift transmission, with Fisker-modified aluminum paddle-shift controls for manual-style shifting. The adaptive, automatic transmission monitors driving style and adjusts shift patterns accordingly.

“This is one of the most technically advanced powerplants ever undertaken by Mercedes-Benz with AMG-enhanced dynamics,” notes Bernhard Koehler, COO Fisker Coachbuild. “We wanted to offer a little something more to those that may just have to have it.”

Tramonto Dynamics

To thoroughly enjoy the power and performance of the Tramonto, a class-leading suspension and braking system are absolutely essential. The independent suspension is 4-link in the front / 5-arm multilink in the rear, optimized with an AMG-enhanced version of Active Body Control (ABC) that continually adjusts each wheel’s suspension in response to road conditions and driving style. Electronic Stability Control (ESP) imparts even greater levels of handling confidence. Rack-and-pinion steering features vehicle-speed sensitive power assist with integrated hydraulic damper.

Stopping power is provided by standard AMG-enhanced 4-circuit electrohydraulic brakes, or by the Kleemann High-Performance Brake system as part of the Fisker Performance Plus Package. The Kleemann system represents a major advance in brake technology, setting new standards for response, fade resistance, stability and long-term endurance. Massive disc pads provide nearly 85% greater area compared to other high-performance pads, and an innovative design allows for very high and consistent friction coefficients during deceleration, regardless of weather.

The Kleemann High Performance Brake system features fully floating, directional, ventilated front discs front and rear. 15" (380mm), 8-piston calipers front; 13" (330mm), 4-piston calipers rear. The system is fully compatible with Mercedes-Benz Sensotronic Brake Control, Anti-lock Braking System and Brake Assist.

The Fisker Tramonto boasts high-style, lightweight alloy five-spoke, three piece 20" wheels with high-performance tires. The wheel lip design is sculptured with sensibility, as an organic extension of the body.

Drawing upon decades of the founding partners’ expertise, Fisker Coachbuild has sculpted aggressive aerodynamics directly into the form of the Tramonto, without the need for bulky fins or spoilers. Modeling and testing by 3D Configuration experts at REALADI and their collaborative networking confirm resultant airflow.

Never before have there been automobiles like the Fisker Tramonto or Fisker Latigo CS, and there will only ever be 150 of each. And while owning a Fisker will be a singular privilege, so too will be the experience of acquiring one.

2006 Fisker Latigo CS

A Compelling Statement of Elegance

Uncompromising. Distinctive. Compelling. The BMW 6 Series 650Ci Coupe provides the base vehicle architecture for the Fisker Latigo CS. Signature Fisker cues bring a new gravitas and balance to the luxury sports coupe – it is understated elegance at its best. As in the Fisker Tramonto, all electronic, telematic and safety systems remain untouched from the original manufacturer, and every original vehicle option is available.

The Fisker Latigo CS is currently nearing production status, so final technical details are still in flux. Engine specifications call for a standard 32-valve, 4.8-liter V8 pumping 367 horsepower, and an optional V10 that generates over 550 horsepower if you choose a BMW M6 as your base architecture.

The Latigo CS Design

The Latigo CS evidences signature Fisker style, with details that can only be done by hand. “Hand craftsmanship is at the forefront of this coachbuild design. Coachbuilding is an art form,“ explains Henrik Fisker, CEO Fisker Coachbuild. “We can deliver what many auto enthusiasts have been seeking – attention to detail which complements the already proven performance.”

Fisker Coachbuild works with a hand-picked team of classic car body builders, wheelers, panel beaters, wing makers, and fender manufacturers who are highly skilled in their work with aluminum, steel, stainless steel, carbon fiber and magnesium alloy.

“Henrik and I have a long, proven history of partnership in various capacities and companies,” notes Bernhard Koehler, COO of Fisker Coachbuild. “That, combined with the talent, dedication and hard work of every member of our team, has enabled us to bring these cars to life in just 9 months.”

This is design that is felt as well as seen. The lines of the car bear a tension – like an arrow pulled back in the bow. C-pillars have been redesigned to flow in a more sculptured manner, sitting solidly over rear wheels. Dimensions front and rear have been shortened. A sculptured power dome highlights the hood. Overall, brilliantly balanced proportions lend a solid, unmistakable presence to the Fisker Latigo CS, while advanced aerodynamic sculpting creates a shape that is virtually invisible to the air.

Exterior detail highlights include:

-Low ground-hugging stance
-Lightweight, high-strength carbon fiber and steel define the outer shape
-Sculptured power dome highlights the hood
-Slim, beautifully proportioned head lamps tie together the strong front graphic
-Fog lights inset with carbon fiber bezels on the lower front spoiler
-Fisker family resemblance with distinctive, black powder-coated grille (also available in anodized aluminum)
-3-dimensional milled aluminum and hand painted badge
-Side indicators set in a chromed aluminum bezel
-Clean, unbroken lines
-Carbon fiber rear diffuser sits above twin stainless steel round exhausts
-Integrated rear bumper design creates a sculptured look and feel
-C-pillars are designed to sit proportionally correct over rear wheels
-Lightweight, purpose-designed, 10-spoke, 3-piece 20” wheels

Fisker Latigo CS Interior

Inside the Fisker Latigo CS you see the true art form of custom coachbuild craftsmanship. Interior fit and finish are distinctive. The touch of the finest materials can be felt everywhere. And sumptuous, hand-stitched leather surrounds.

Fisker Coachbuild has partnered with Distinctive Industries, the American-based leather interior experts, to produce a high-performance, high-luxury environment that is deceptively spacious. Every technological feature remains intact, including the home-theater quality Logic7 audio system and the optional heads-up display.

The creature comforts of the base architecture are all still available – and then some. A myriad of hand-crafted upgrades creates a new level of luxury you’ll be sure to notice.

“The focus was on creating an environment that customers will appreciate as both a powerhouse and a sanctuary,” says Cristina Cheever, Fisker Coachbuild’s Vice President, Marketing and Communications.

“The experience is organic, and that includes top-quality materials with a natural feel.”

Interior detail enhancements include:

-Spacious, high-performance and high-luxury environment
-Aluminum sill plaques engraved with Fisker Coachbuild, which sit on the polished carbon fiber sill panel
-Soft, hand-stitched leather throughout the car, including seat backs
-Hand-stitched three-spoke steering wheel
-Unique numbering system on an aluminum plaque atop center console
-Hand-stitched leather headliner
-Sun roof cover lined with Alcantara leather
-Milled aluminum accents on the sun visor around the vanity mirror
-Milled aluminum enhancements to the BMW “iDrive” components
-Gear shift knob with aluminum and leather incorporates aluminum Fisker logo
-Driver-facing center console design

Production commences in April, just about a year after the company began, and will be limited to 150…so sightings of the 2006 Fisker Latigo CS will always be a rarity.

Fisker Pricing

2006 Fisker Tramonto

Mercedes Benz SL 55 AMG Base Model $125,775*

Fisker Coachbuild $128,000

Price: $253,775

Performance Plus Package $ 43,000

Price as tested: $296,775

2006 Fisker Latigo CS

BMW 650Ci Base Model $ 69,900*

Fisker Coachbuild $ 128,000

Price: $197,900

Performance Plus Package TBA

Price as tested: $197, 900

*Actual base architecture prices may vary by dealer.

=Bill Hook
BMW missed out by not hiring this guy.