RSS Opinion: Fisker's Farewell

[Ringo64]

Filed under: Fisker

Not The First, Nor The Last Dreamer To Fail

Like DeLorean and Preston Tucker before him, Fisker underestimated the amount of capital it takes.

The departure of Henrik Fisker from his self-named car company adds yet another name to the list of dreamers who thought they could be successful automakers.

Whether or not he goes down in history a Gaston Chevrolet or John DeLorean depends on the current managers at Fisker, with whom Henrik cited as having irreconcilable differences over the future of the hybrid luxury car company.

This is not to say that Fisker's dream is doomed, but the company he founded faces a number of severe challenges to its survival as an independent make.

Like DeLorean and Preston Tucker before him, Fisker underestimated the amount of capital it takes to be in the business. While the business model of having a supplier, in this case, Finland-based Valmet, building a high-priced limited-edition car had merit, in execution Fisker fell short of the mark of meeting expectations. It took far longer than anticipated to bring the Karma to market. Quality problems, issues with battery supplier A123 and the port disaster during Hurricane Sandy that destroyed 300 cars dogged the company.

Matt DeLorenzo is the former editor-in-chief of Road & Track and has covered the auto industry for 35 years, including stints at Automotive News and AutoWeek. He has authored books including VW's New Beetle, Chrysler's Modern Concept Cars, and Corvette Dynasty.

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Fisker's Farewell originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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