Detroit show: Fisker summons The Force 1
BY TIM NICHOLSON | 14th Dec 2015
Dubbed The Force 1, the new model from the founder of Fisker Automotive will break cover on January 12, with pricing kicking off from a lofty $US300,000 ($A418,000). A release from Henrik Fisker Design says that the car is “the only American sportscar in this category.”Little else is known about the mystery car at this stage, but the company said it uses a front/mid-engined, rear-drive layout matched with either a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic with paddle shifters, and it will feature “amongst the world’s highest output natural aspirated engine in a road car,” according to the release.
The Force 1 is “an American take on a super sportscar” that will feature sculpted styling, 'Ultra Thin Ventilated' laser blade tail-lights, and a premium cabin that seats two.
All versions will be fitted with an active suspension set-up, while a “limited edition” auto version will feature an all-carbon-fibre body, riding on 21-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero tyres.
Fifty units will be produced in Michigan from April next year. The car has been in development for most of the second half of 2015 alongside “an acclaimed American race car driver and his team”.
The donor car is unknown at this stage, but some publications are suggesting it could be based on the Chevrolet Corvette.
Mr Fisker said there was still space in the market for such a car like The Force 1 despite competition form other established boutique builders, such as Hennessey, Spyker, Morgan, and the soon to be resurrected TVR.
“I believe there is room in the market for a daily driver that embodies all the attributes of the best track racing car, and the comfort of a luxurious sportscar.” he said. “Extreme power, great aesthetics and pristine handling make for a superior ride in Force 1, an American Super Car.”The Danish designer and businessperson co-founded Fisker Automotive in 2007 and set about developing and producing the Fisker Karma, a high-end plug-in hybrid electric GT.
Production ceased in 2012 because of financial difficulties, and the company went bankrupt before being purchased by Chinese parts-maker Wanxiang Group in early 2014.
In mid-2014 Mr Fisker set up Henrik Fisker Design and since then, the new company has produced a number of sportscar concepts, including the 541kW Galpin Fisker Ford Mustang Rocket which made its debut at last year's Los Angeles motor show.
