Production of the Fisker Atlantic Postponed Until 2014

Now the California-based automaker has reportedly put its plans back two years, with production expected to commence in late 2014 or early 2015.

Fisker has had to tackle several major challenges since the launch of its first model, the Karma, earlier this year, including a recall of the car’s battery, as well as two incidents involving fires. The company has also faced a number of key changes at executive level.

A prototype for the Fisker Atlantic was unveiled at the 2012 New York Auto Show. The final car will feature a detuned version of the ‘EVer’ drivetrain found in the Karma, which relies on a small internal combustion engine to charge up lithium-ion batteries that then power a pair of electric motors driving the wheels.

The Atlantic will differ from the Karma in that it will offer the choice of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations. The Karma is only available available with rear-wheel drive.

Speaking at the New York prototype launch, Fisker chairman and design boss Henrik Fisker said that the Atlantic would be aimed at young families wanting a high-end car whist contributing to the preservation of the environment.

"We are exceptionally proud of the Atlantic design prototype,” he said, “and believe we have created another groundbreaking car that looks and will drive like nothing else on the road in this class.”

Once launched, the starting price for the Fisker Atlantic is expected to be $55,000.