Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Facebook could be looking to buy Opera browser]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/facebook-could-be-looking-to-buy-opera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/facebook-could-be-looking-to-buy-opera/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/25/facebook-could-be-looking-to-buy-opera/#comments Facebook could be looking to buy Opera browserSince its IPO earlier this month, Facebook has wasted no time in expanding its empire -- it's already purchased the Karma mobile gifting service and launched a standalone camera app -- and talk about the social network's next steps doesn't seem to be quieting down. The latest rumor, from Pocket Lint, says Facebook is looking to buy the Opera browser as part of its larger effort to compete against Google, Mozilla and other internet mammoths. According to a source at Opera Software who spoke with Pocket Lint, the company is shopping around for potential buyers and has even imposed a hiring freeze. While it's not too hard to believe that Facebook is readying its horse to enter the browser race, this rumor is just that: a rumor. But given the social network's tendency to whip out new features at warp speed, we should have something more solid than speculation soon -- if the Opera purchase story has any legs, that is.

Facebook could be looking to buy Opera browser originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 May 2012 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>facebookfacebook cameraFacebook IPOfacebook rumorsFacebookCameraFacebookIpoFacebookRumorskarmakarma appKarmaAppoperaOpera BrowserOperaBrowserrumorrumorssocial networkingSocialNetworkingFri, 25 May 2012 13:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker leak shows Atlantic production delayed to mid-2014, 0-60 in 6.5 seconds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/fisker-leak-shows-atlantic-production-delayed-to-mid-2014/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/fisker-leak-shows-atlantic-production-delayed-to-mid-2014/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/20/fisker-leak-shows-atlantic-production-delayed-to-mid-2014/#comments Image

Our hopes of taking the Fisker Atlantic for a spin next year just got dampened considerably: a big document leak has revealed that the more reasonably-priced alternative to the Karma won't be rolling off the production lines en masse until mid-2014, a year later than we'd expected. Thanks in part to a factory overhaul, the only Atlantics rolling on their hybrid-powered wheels in mid-2013 will be prototypes. On the upside, we've learned more about the car itself, including a fairly brisk 0-60 time of 6.5 seconds courtesy of a 300HP-equivalent motor. Green drivers who thought that the promised lower price would put it into entry-level luxury will nonetheless get a reality check with that $50,000 to $60,000 target, even if it's still a big savings over the six-digit Karma. There's still a huge amount of leeway for things to change, but with our compatriots at Autoblog having confirmed that the documents were real and "highly confidential," they may be a sign that the Tesla Model S will have free rein in the green luxury sedan world for a good year or more.

Fisker leak shows Atlantic production delayed to mid-2014, 0-60 in 6.5 seconds originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 May 2012 09:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atlanticcarcarsDelaydelayselectric hybridElectricHybridfiskerfisker atlanticFisker KarmaFiskerAtlanticFiskerKarmahybridhybrid carhybrid carshybrid vehicleHybrid vehiclesHybridCarHybridCarsHybridVehicleHybridVehicleskarmaprototypesedansedansSun, 20 May 2012 09:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Facebook likes Karma app, buys the whole darn thing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/19/facebook-likes-karma-app-buys-the-whole-darn-thing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/19/facebook-likes-karma-app-buys-the-whole-darn-thing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/19/facebook-likes-karma-app-buys-the-whole-darn-thing/#comments Facebook likes Karma app, buys the whole darn thingWhat does one do after generating billions from an initial public stock offering? Go shopping, of course. After falling short of expectations following its somewhat helter-skelter IPO debut, Facebook simply shook off the whole thing and acquired itself some good Karma. No, we're not talking about that Karma. Instead, Facebook purchased the startup responsible for the Karma social gifting app. The move was apparently made to bolster Facebook's mobile chops -- an area the company considers ripe for opportunity. Just recently, Facebook also acquired mobile stalwart Instagram and the Lightbox team, for example. As for its newest purchase, Karma will be allowed to "continue to operate in full force" despite its recent status change, according to a blog post by co-founders Lee Linden and Ben Lewis. Details weren't disclosed about how much the deal was worth but judging from celebratory nature of their post, it doesn't look like Linden and Lewis will "Unlike" the agreement any time soon.

Facebook likes Karma app, buys the whole darn thing originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 19 May 2012 16:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acquireacquisitionandroidappbuyfacebookfilterinstagramiphoneiphone androidIphoneAndroidkarmakarma appKarmaApplightboxmobilemobilepostcrosssocial giftingsocial networkSocialGiftingSocialNetworkSat, 19 May 2012 16:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma reportedly sets house on fire, doesn't restore cosmic balance (updated)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/08/fisker-karma-reportedly-sets-house-on-fire/#comments Image

Fisker's Karma woes aren't relenting anytime soon, as one new owner just found out the hard way. A driver in Sugar Land, Texas parked his recently obtained hybrid sedan in his garage last week, only to have the car self-immolate minutes later and damage his new home. Despite the slight risk of lithium-ion batteries catching fire, the luxury car's power pack (unplugged at the time) appears to have been left in one piece -- suggesting that something more complicated is at fault. For their part, neither Fisker nor insurance investigators are ready to offer a definite explanation as to what set the car on fire, although an electrical panel in the garage is a possible lead. Hybrids and pure EVs typically aren't at significant risk of igniting, so we might not ask for a refund... but we would recommend keeping an eye (and a nose) on any potential fire hazards around your eco-friendly auto.

Update: Looks like Fisker's about to take some more heat. Here's a statement from the owner's attorney:

The fire department recently completed their investigation and determined the origin of the fire was, in fact, Gutierrez's newly purchased Fisker Karma hybrid electric vehicle that he just took possession of two weeks earlier

Hit up our source link after the break to read the note in full.

Fisker Karma reportedly sets house on fire, doesn't restore cosmic balance (updated) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 08 May 2012 23:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery fireBatteryFireElectric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarsElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVfirefiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmakarmaLithium Ionlithium ion batteryLithium-Ionlithium-ion batteryLithium-ionBatteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatterysafetyTue, 08 May 2012 23:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker plans to replace the battery packs on 640 Karma sedans]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/fisker-plans-to-replace-the-battery-packs-on-640-karma-sedans/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/fisker-plans-to-replace-the-battery-packs-on-640-karma-sedans/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/26/fisker-plans-to-replace-the-battery-packs-on-640-karma-sedans/#comments ImageFisker Automotive hasn't exactly had the smoothest of launches for its all-electric Karma sedan, and it's now been dealt yet another small setback. As Wired Autopia reports, Fisker now plans to replace the battery packs on nearly all of the Karmas that have rolled off the assembly line -- apparently due to the same issue that caused the car to break down during Consumer Reports' test of the car. That includes some 640 cars in all (up from 239 in an earlier recall), although Fisker notes that it has only seen the issue on a "handful" of vehicles. If you're the owner of one of those, you can expect to receive a notice in the next few days, along with a software update (unrelated to the recall) that promises improvements on everything form the powertrain to infotainment system.

Fisker plans to replace the battery packs on 640 Karma sedans originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>A123A123 SystemsA123Systemsbatterybattery packbattery packsBatteryPackBatteryPackselectric vehicleElectricVehicleevfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmarecallMon, 26 Mar 2012 17:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Consumer Reports' Fisker Karma gets fixed, testing resumes, for now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/fisker-karma-part-two/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/fisker-karma-part-two/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/fisker-karma-part-two/#comments
Remember Consumer Reports' bought a Fisker Karma that broke down while on the test track? Well after it had made the 200-mile round-trip to the dealership, it turned out the inverter cable and battery were both faulty and replaced them, before fully recharging the vehicle. The car has now been returned to the test track where a full review can begin -- give it a week, and we'll start taking bets on if it actually gets that "recommended" rating.

Consumer Reports' Fisker Karma gets fixed, testing resumes, for now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 15:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakdownConsumer ReportsConsumerReportsFiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmaHybrid Electric VehicleHybridElectricVehicleKarmaPlug in HybridPlugInHybridRecallTestingTom MutchlerTomMutchlerTue, 13 Mar 2012 15:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma breaks down in CR test, risks that 'recommended' rating (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/fisker-karma-breaks-down-during-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/fisker-karma-breaks-down-during-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/fisker-karma-breaks-down-during-review/#comments
Consumer Reports splashed out $107,850 to buy its own Fisker Karma, but before the car had traveled 200 miles, it had broken down. Partway through calibration testing on the CR Track, the car's dashboard began issuing warnings, but when tester Tom Mutchler pulled over to identify the issue, it wouldn't get going again. Mutchler was forced to call the dealership, located 100 miles away, to collect it on a flatbed for repair. It's the first time in memory that the testing organization can recall a vehicle breaking down partway through testing, but when it comes to the Karma, you can only be sure that nothing's too calamitous.

Continue reading Fisker Karma breaks down in CR test, risks that 'recommended' rating (video)

Fisker Karma breaks down in CR test, risks that 'recommended' rating (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BreakdownConsumer ReportsConsumerReportsFiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmaHybrid Electric VehicleHybridElectricVehicleKarmaPlug in HybridPlugInHybridRecallTestingTom MutchlerTomMutchlervideoFri, 09 Mar 2012 18:26:00 EST<![CDATA[With federal loans blocked, Fisker halts work on Project Nina, lays off 66 workers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/with-federal-loans-blocked-fisker-halts-work-on-project-nina-l/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/with-federal-loans-blocked-fisker-halts-work-on-project-nina-l/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/with-federal-loans-blocked-fisker-halts-work-on-project-nina-l/#comments Fisker Automotive's bumpy 2011 appears to have given way to an even rockier 2012. A little more than a month after recalling 239 of its Karma plug-ins, Fisker has now stopped working on its second electric vehicle, following the US government's decision to suspend its federal loans. The manufacturer confirmed the news in an email yesterday, adding that a total of 66 workers in Delaware and California have been laid off, as a result. In 2009, the Department of Energy provided Fisker with $528.7 million in federal loans, but according to spokesman Roger Ormisher, access to those funds have been blocked since May. The money was supposed to be used to launch the Karma and Fisker's second, US-manufactured EV, known as the Nina. The Karma began rolling out to market in July, but did so well behind schedule, spurring the DOE to suspend its loan.

"Our loan guarantees have strict conditions in place to protect taxpayers," Department spokesman Damien LaVera explained in an email to Bloomberg. "The department only allows the loan to be disbursed as the company meets certain milestones and demonstrates results." Thus far, Fisker has drawn on only $193 million of federal funds and is looking to renegotiate the terms of the loan, in the hopes of accessing the remaining $336 million. The DOE, however, is still under intense scrutiny because of September's Solyndra debacle, so it's difficult to say what a renegotiated deal would look like. The manufacturer, for its part, says it's taking no risks, telling GigaOM that it "continues to pursue alternative funding sources." In the meantime, it'll continue to focus on the Karma for 2012, and hopes to revive Project Nina at a later date.

With federal loans blocked, Fisker halts work on Project Nina, lays off 66 workers originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobusinesscaliforniacarcarsdealdelawaredelaydepartment of energyDepartmentOfEnergyDOEelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVfiskerfisker automotivefisker karmafisker ninaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmaFiskerNinagovernmenthybridindustrykarmalayoffloanmoneyplug inPlugInproductionproject ninaProjectNinatransportTue, 07 Feb 2012 07:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/01/fisker-karma-recall-is-official-239-cars-will-need-their-batter/#comments The folks at Fisker are probably more excited to see the calendar roll over than anyone, as a tumultuous 2011 comes to an end with another setback for the Karma. A battery issue previously thought to affect around 50 cars will actually result in the recall of 239. GigaOM points out an NHTSA notice confirming a problem with the positioning of hose clamps on the high-voltage Li-Ion batteries. It could result in said hoses leaking coolant into the battery creating the risk of an electrical short-circuit (still not seeing how this is a bad thing) and fire (oh), which the company will resolve by replacing the batteries. The recall probably covers everyone out there rolling like Walden Schmidt, since the CEO announced December 21st that 225 cars had been shipped and its factory was producing 25 cars per day. Still, assuming the ~$96k price tag isn't an issue, would you really let a little thing like potentially bursting into flames keep you away from such a sleek, smooth handling luxury sedan that puts 657hp of hybrid power at your disposal? Neither would we.

Continue reading Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped

Fisker Karma recall is official, 239 cars will need their battery packs swapped originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 01 Jan 2012 07:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a123automobilebatterycarcoupefiskerhybridkarmaleakLi-IonLithium IonLithiumIonnhtsaplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridSun, 01 Jan 2012 07:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma battery poses 'potential safety issue' for about 50 autos, fix already in tow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/fisker-karma-battery-poses-potential-safety-issue-for-about-50/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/fisker-karma-battery-poses-potential-safety-issue-for-about-50/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/fisker-karma-battery-poses-potential-safety-issue-for-about-50/#comments
Fisker has seen its fair share of delays on its Karma EV in the past, and now ''fewer than 50" of the vehicles -- which if you'll recall, cost over $100K -- are at risk for battery malfunction. According to Bloomberg Businessweek, A123 (the company which supplies the car's power pack) has issued a memo to customers and stakeholders, noting that "in rare circumstances" the car's batts could short-circuit due to coolant leakage from "misaligned hose clamps." A123 further explained that's already begun repairing the Karma's in question, and doesn't expect to experience to strain its relationship with Fisker due to the problem. Notably, Bloomberg also reports that 25 of the automobiles get assembled daily, with about 225 currently en-route to showroom floors -- a far cry from the company's earlier estimates for the 2011 production year. You'll find A123's full PDF memo at the source link below.

Fisker Karma battery poses 'potential safety issue' for about 50 autos, fix already in tow originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 03:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>a123automobilebatterycoolantcoolant leakCoolantLeakcustomerelectricelectric vehicleElectricVehicleEVfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmahose clampsHoseClampsinvestorkarmaleakleakagemalfunctionminipostshareholdershort circuitShortCircuitsports carSportsCarstakeholderTue, 27 Dec 2011 03:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker's shooting brake Surf EV to make waves at Frankfurt]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/07/fiskers-shooting-brake-surf-ev-to-make-waves-at-frankfurt/#comments
Frankfurt's ready to hang ten as teaser images of Fisker Automotive's new "shooting brake" electric whip dropped in just in time for the city's automotive show on September 13th. Affectionately nicknamed the Surf, the two-door sedan is the latest incarnation of the Karma, Fisker's range-extended electric vehicle launched last year. Although the company won't release any details on the new ride just yet, we're expecting it to be somewhat similar to the company's former model, which boasts two 150 kW electric motors, a turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 and a lithium-ion battery. Joining the ranks of other luxury wagons like the Ferrari FF, the Surf's blast-from-the-past design is guaranteed to be a gnarly change from the standard four-door luxury variety, and you can bet we'll be there for the full reveal.

Fisker's shooting brake Surf EV to make waves at Frankfurt originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 07 Sep 2011 20:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesEVferrari ffFerrariFfFisker AutomotiveFiskerAutomotiveFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurtMotorShowkarmaLithium Ionlithium ion batterieslithium ion batteryLithiumIonLithiumIonBatteriesLithiumIonBatteryrange extended electric vehiclerange-extended vehicleRange-extendedVehicleRangeExtendedElectricVehicleshooting brakeShootingBrakesurfWed, 07 Sep 2011 20:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma boss nabs first set of keys, s'pose we'd do the same]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/fisker-karma-boss-nabs-first-set-of-keys-spose-wed-do-the-sam/#comments In an old-fashioned display of corporate introversion, the keys to the first production Fisker Karma will be handed not to a real customer, or a profile-raising celeb, or even to a good cause. Nope, they'll be whisked straight into the silky pockets of Ray Lane, chairman of the board of directors at Fisker Automotive. Unless it's an entirely empty publicity stunt and he has to hand the keys right back, lucky Lane will be driving home this afternoon in a luxury EV with a 300-mile range and 125MPH top speed. The rest of us, however, will have to wait til October -- and cough up $95,900.

Fisker Karma boss nabs first set of keys, s'pose we'd do the same originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 06:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric carselectric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricCarElectricCarselectricvehicleElectricVehiclesEVFiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker KarmaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmaKarmaluxuryluxury EVLuxuryEvperformance EVPerformanceEvRay LaneRayLaneTue, 26 Jul 2011 06:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Six Fisker Karmas roll off the production line, coming soon to a city near you]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/six-fisker-karmas-roll-off-the-production-line-coming-soon-to-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/six-fisker-karmas-roll-off-the-production-line-coming-soon-to-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/19/six-fisker-karmas-roll-off-the-production-line-coming-soon-to-a/#comments It's been months since the first Fisker Karma came forth from the factory, and in the time since, the sleek saloon's production timeline experienced a delay or two along the way. Yet, here we are, and the next six production Fiskers have finally been constructed. Unfortunately, those with open wallets will have to wait to get one of the elusive EVs, as the sextet of Karmas is bound for a nationwide barnstorming tour -- so that the masses may caress the car's curvy lines and perhaps take one for a spin. Details are scarce regarding the test drives, but OC Metro reports that 44 fortunate cities and 3,000 people will get to cruise in the performance EV over the next three months. Now that's some good Karma.

Six Fisker Karmas roll off the production line, coming soon to a city near you originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 19 Jul 2011 03:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmaTue, 19 Jul 2011 03:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma delayed again, but only by a tiny little bit]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/fisker-karma-delayed-again-but-only-by-a-tiny-little-bit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/fisker-karma-delayed-again-but-only-by-a-tiny-little-bit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/fisker-karma-delayed-again-but-only-by-a-tiny-little-bit/#comments Yes, that's a Fisker Karma at the Monaco Grand Prix starting line, but no, it won't be taking off just yet, at least not this month. Last we heard from Roger Ormisher, Fisker Automotive's Communications chief, the electric supercar was set to debut in the US during the June / July timeframe, but that's now been nudged that extra bit later, with "the first" dealer demonstration vehicles and customer orders landing firmly in July. So, you'll have to keep stashing that $95,900 under your mattress for a little while longer, but look on the bright side: Fisker's delays are getting shorter all the time!

Fisker Karma delayed again, but only by a tiny little bit originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011cardelaydelayedelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmavehicleMon, 06 Jun 2011 09:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel roads, floating golf, and the 2,564.8 MPG race car]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-panel-roads-floating-golf-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-panel-roads-floating-golf-and/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/24/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-panel-roads-floating-golf-and/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

Building technology got a tremendous boost this week as Inhabitat reported on a new type of graphene super paper that is 10 times stronger than steel and six times as light. We also took a look at several remarkable new infrastructure projects popping up around the world - from a self-sufficient floating golf course in the Maldives to London's gleaming new cable car system, to the Netherlands' plan to supercharge its roadways with solar panels.

Speaking of hot asphalt, this week the ultra-efficient Alerion race car blazed a trail at the Shell Eco-Marathon, clocking in an incredible 2,564.8 miles per gallon. Meanwhile, Fisker announced that its sexy electric Karma sedan will hit the road this summer, and we were surprised to hear that Marcelo da Luz was forced to pull his solar-powered X of 1 car across Ontario due to road regulations. The New York Auto Show also kicked off with a blast this week as Lexus unveiled its next-gen LF-Gh concept hybrid and Porsche rolled out a 911 GTR 3 in a Facebook colorway that got a lot of "likes".

Finally, we looked at several futuristic example of wearable technology this week including a pair of RoboCop-like glasses that are capable of scanning 400 faces per second at public events. We also brought you a brilliant LED backpack that lets cyclists send signals to drivers, a pollution-detecting t-shirt, and a clock that tells time by knitting a new scarf every year.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar panel roads, floating golf, and the 2,564.8 MPG race car originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alerioncable carCableCarFiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmagolfinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenKarmaLexusLF-GhLondonMaldivesMarcelo da LuzMarceloDaLuzNetherlandsNew York Auto ShowNewYorkAutoShowPorschePorsche 911Porsche911scarfShell Eco MarathonShell Eco-MarathonShellEco-marathonShellEcoMarathonsolar powerSolarPowerweek in greenWeekInGreenX of 1XOf1Sun, 24 Apr 2011 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma production slowly ramping up, first deliveries expected in June or July]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/fisker-karma-production-slowly-ramping-up-first-deliveries-expe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/fisker-karma-production-slowly-ramping-up-first-deliveries-expe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/20/fisker-karma-production-slowly-ramping-up-first-deliveries-expe/#comments The company is insisting it can't "really be interpreted as a delay" given that it's gone from prototype to production in just 37 months, but Fisker is now saying that the first all-electric Karma luxury vehicles will delivered to their owners sometime in June or July -- which you'll notice is neither late 2010 nor the first quarter of 2011, as had been promised. Fisker's Roger Ormisher also points out that the company did begin "limited series production" at the end of March as planned, and he says the company is "ramping up slowly to ensure absolute quality." Is it worth the nearly $100k price tag? It certainly seems to be if you've got the cash to spare.

Fisker Karma production slowly ramping up, first deliveries expected in June or July originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Apr 2011 16:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehiclefiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmaproductionWed, 20 Apr 2011 16:03:00 EST<![CDATA[EV milestone: Fisker rolls first Karma off the assembly line, aims to deliver 7,000 this year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/23/ev-milestone-fisker-rolls-first-karma-off-the-assembly-line-ai/#comments Patience can bear such wonderful fruit, can't it? The electrified (and electrifying) Karma, which first graced the world with its presence back in 2008, has managed to negotiate the slalom course of funding and logistical issues that faces any new upstart company and can now boast its very first production unit. The Karma 1 above will be making its way out within a month (presumably after every nook, cranny and capacitor has been polished to perfection) and company spokesman Roger Ormisher says the plan is to ramp up very slowly and carefully, reaching "over 7,000 deliveries" by year's end. Considering the rate at which Leafs and Volts have been selling so far, that doesn't actually sound half bad.

EV milestone: Fisker rolls first Karma off the assembly line, aims to deliver 7,000 this year originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Mar 2011 03:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotivecarelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevexpensivefactoryfinlandfirstfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmakarmaluxurymanufacturingmilestonephevplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpremiumproductionvalmetvalmet automotiveValmetAutomotiveWed, 23 Mar 2011 03:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma enters production on March 21st, our future shortly thereafter]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/fisker-karma-enters-production-on-march-21st-our-future-shortly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/fisker-karma-enters-production-on-march-21st-our-future-shortly/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/fisker-karma-enters-production-on-march-21st-our-future-shortly/#comments It's been a long road for the Karma to reach production, but now it finally has an end in sight: March 21st. That's the date Fisker promises to start rolling its gorgeous PHEV off assembly lines, with deliveries to the first humans to reserve one coming up in April. The price for the 2012 Karma remains a mighty $95,900, though if you ask our brethren over at Autoblog, that's a bunch of pennies well spent. Fisker expects to start producing 1,500 Karmas per month starting in October and to then sell 15,000 a year from 2012 onwards.

Fisker Karma enters production on March 21st, our future shortly thereafter originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 04:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011cardateelectricelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevexpensivefiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmafuturehybridkarmaluxuryphevplug-inpremiumproductiontransportvehicleMon, 28 Feb 2011 04:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/22/autoblog-drives-the-2012-fisker-karma-deems-it-best-handling-l/#commentsAutoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car' Karma, in a religious sense, is the sort of divine retribution or cause for your deeds or misdeeds. In an automotive sense it's a $95,900 plug-in luxury performance car that Fisker has been teasing since 2007. That machine is finally nearing production and Autoblog was lucky enough to take an early model for a spin around California Speedway, a brief test-drive that left the pilots concluding "the Fisker Karma is a rolling dream machine for anyone who wants something very different that works and drives exceptionally well." For the rest of the impressions on this $100k plug-in hybrid that offers a combined 657hp and 981lb-ft of torque from three motors and will go 50 miles on batteries alone you'll need to click on through the source link below. For the details on what's in store from your own karma you need only look inside yourself.

Autoblog drives the 2012 Fisker Karma, deems it 'best handling large premium car' originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Feb 2011 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 fisker karma2012 karma2012FiskerKarma2012Karmafiskerhybridkarmaphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridTue, 22 Feb 2011 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/fisker-karma-now-set-for-production-in-march-deliveries-this-sp/#commentsFisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe Still hanging on to your Fisker Karma pre-order slip despite the decidedly sizeable boost in MSRP, up to $95,900? Well, we now have an idea of when you might actually have a chance of getting a car. The most recent estimates we heard indicated deliveries starting in late 2010, but that obviously didn't happen. Now Fisker is indicating that full production is set to begin in March, about two months from now, with people getting their rides "soon after." Initial examples of the car are to be produced in Europe, Finland to be exact, and they'll need the services of a fairly substantial boat to get across the Atlantic before they become available here. But, still, a potential release date just a few months away is a reasonably encouraging thing -- and you can't deny the car is still quite a looker.

Fisker Karma now set for production in March, deliveries this spring -- maybe originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 08:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>delayfinlandfiskerhybridkarmaphevplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridproductionWed, 19 Jan 2011 08:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker raises Karma plug-in hybrid base price to $95,900, brings that 750i back into consideration]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/26/fisker-raises-karma-plug-in-hybrid-base-price-to-95-900-brings/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/26/fisker-raises-karma-plug-in-hybrid-base-price-to-95-900-brings/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/26/fisker-raises-karma-plug-in-hybrid-base-price-to-95-900-brings/#comments Oh, sure -- gas is bound to hit $4 a gallon before 2020, but you can buy an awful let of petrol with the money you'll save from dodging Fisker's increasingly expensive Karma. 'Course, those looking to blow 100 grand on an eco-friendly automobile are probably doing so just to throw Ma Earth a bone, but still -- money matters. Originally teased way back in the fall of 2007, Fisker's first plug-in hybrid still hasn't ended up anywhere near mass production, but it has managed to see two rather significant upticks in price all the while. Right around two years ago, we saw the $80,000 MSRP boosted by $7,000, and today, prospective customers are being notified via email that the Karma's base price is now sitting at $95,900 before a $950 destination fee. Granted, the company insists that this includes an integrated solar roof panel (valued at $5,000), and it still starts at $1,400 less than a Panamera S. And yeah, that base price does shrink to $88,400 after you include federal tax incentives. That said, we're doubting high-rollers that were dead-set on handing over $73,000 or so after tax breaks are currently stoked about an increase this large, particularly when there's still no definitive ship date. To Fisker's credit, we've seen General Motors go through similar trials and tribulations surrounding the Volt, and even at $95k, you'll be hard pressed to find more sexy than this on four (street legal) wheels.

Fisker raises Karma plug-in hybrid base price to $95,900, brings that 750i back into consideration originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Dec 2010 05:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automobilecareco-friendlyelectric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevexcessexpensivefiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmahybridkarmaluxuryplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridpriceprice hikeprice increasePriceHikePriceIncreasepricingSun, 26 Dec 2010 05:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: Honeycomb skyscrapers, solar funnels, and the Karma PHEV supercar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-honeycomb-skyscrapers-solar-funnels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-honeycomb-skyscrapers-solar-funnels/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/19/inhabitats-week-in-green-honeycomb-skyscrapers-solar-funnels/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

High tech architecture took the spotlight this week as Aedas unveiled a set of photovoltaic crystalline honeycomb skyscrapers for Abu Dhabi and San Francisco unfurled plans for a sail-shaped solar stadium for the America's Cup yacht race. We also took an exclusive look inside a high-tech solar home that actually produces more energy than it consumes, and spotted a new technology that can transform any home's electrical wiring into an information-transmitting antenna.

We also showcased some of the world's most efficient vehicles as the winners of the $10 million Automotive X-Prize were announced, and we were excited to hear that the first factory-built Fisker Karma supercar will be rolling up to the Paris Auto Show next month. Finally, we peek inside Jay Leno's envy-inducing green garage in this week's episode of Green Overdrive.

In other news, MIT made waves on the renewable energy front as they revealed a new "solar funnel" technology that could increase the efficiency of photovoltaic cells 100 times. We also took a first look at Eddy GT's new streamlined city-friendly wind turbine, and we saw Tesla batteries jump-start residential solar systems by storing excess energy.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: Honeycomb skyscrapers, solar funnels, and the Karma PHEV supercar originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Sep 2010 21:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Abu DhabiAbuDhabiauto x prizeauto x-prizeAutoX-prizeAutoXPrizedesigneddyeddy gtEddyGtEVfiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker Karmafisker karma hybridFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmaFiskerKarmaHybridinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenJay LenoJayLenokarmaMITPHEVskyscraperssolar funnelsolar powerSolarFunnelSolarPowertesla motorsTeslaMotorsweek in greenWeekInGreenwind powerWindPowerx prizex-prizeXPrizeSun, 19 Sep 2010 21:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Department of Energy lends Fisker $528.7 million for Karma and Project Nina]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/department-of-energy-lends-fisker-528-7-million-for-karma-and-p/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/department-of-energy-lends-fisker-528-7-million-for-karma-and-p/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/23/department-of-energy-lends-fisker-528-7-million-for-karma-and-p/#comments Well, it seems like that sex-on-wheels advert has done its job. Fisker's development of the oh so desirable Karma PHEV and its lower-cost sibling, now known as Project Nina (inspired by Christopher Columbus' escape from the Old World, no less), has been given a significant boost by the US government. Henrik Fisker himself has been quoted as saying that once the conditional loan is in, "it wouldn't take long to get the lower-cost plug-in hybrid on the road." If the company carries over the aggressive styling from the luxury model, it might have a real winner on its hands, though -- we know -- it's got to be cheap enough first. While waiting for that $528.7 million to work its magic, you can gawk at the solar paneled roof on the Karma, to be found after the break.

Continue reading Department of Energy lends Fisker $528.7 million for Karma and Project Nina

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Department of Energy lends Fisker $528.7 million for Karma and Project Nina originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 Sep 2009 07:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>department of energyDepartmentOfEnergydoedoe loansDoeLoansfederal governmentFederalGovernmentFiskerFisker KarmaFiskerKarmagovernmentgovernment loanGovernmentLoanhybridKarmaloanninaphevproject ninaProjectNinaWed, 23 Sep 2009 07:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola QA1 Karma coming to AT&T June 28]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/motorola-qa1-karma-coming-to-atandt-june-28/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/motorola-qa1-karma-coming-to-atandt-june-28/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/23/motorola-qa1-karma-coming-to-atandt-june-28/#comments
We've been hearing about this one since the wee months of the year, so it's good to see Motorola and AT&T come to the table to finally make it happen. The QA1 Karma follows the ever-popular QWERTY route, this time in a portrait slider configuration (a la Samsung Propel) with 3G, support for AT&T Navigator, a 2 megapixel camera, and a 2.5-inch QVGA display. A little like the Hint, ain't it? Find it in stores starting June 28 for $79.99 on contract after a $50 rebate. Follow the break for AT&T's unboxing (and it's even available in HD, if you're into that sort of thing).

Continue reading Motorola QA1 Karma coming to AT&T June 28

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Motorola QA1 Karma coming to AT&T June 28 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attedgegsmkarmamobilemotomotorolaqa1qwertysliderumtsTue, 23 Jun 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker already working on lower-cost vehicle to rival Volt, Model S]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/fisker-already-working-on-lower-cost-vehicle-to-rival-volt-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/fisker-already-working-on-lower-cost-vehicle-to-rival-volt-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/09/fisker-already-working-on-lower-cost-vehicle-to-rival-volt-mode/#comments
While Fisker Automotive isn't making too much of a stir at the New York Auto Show this week, it is scheming to deliver a vehicle that will purportedly compete with Chevrolet's Volt and Tesla's Model S. 'Course, it should probably look to get its Karma onto US streets before it starts looking too far ahead, but you won't find us kvetching about the promise of a lower cost plug-in hybrid. Company spokesman Russell Datz insinuated that the outfit was jonesing to release a model that would be priced somewhere below its Karma ($87,900) and above the Volt (around $40,000) and Model S (somewhere in the $50,000s), though it wasn't close enough to production to hit the show floor of any expos in 2009. Oh, what a tease.

[Via AutoblogGreen]

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Fisker already working on lower-cost vehicle to rival Volt, Model S originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric carelectric vehicleElectricCarElectricVehicleevFiskerhybridkarmakarma sKarmaSplug-inplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridThu, 09 Apr 2009 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma TV ads hit the LA airwaves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/14/fisker-karma-tv-ads-hit-the-la-airwaves/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/14/fisker-karma-tv-ads-hit-the-la-airwaves/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/14/fisker-karma-tv-ads-hit-the-la-airwaves/#comments
Uh oh, Tesla -- it looks Fisker's joining the battle for the hearts of Californian electric sports-car buyers in style. The carmaker has started running ads for the Karma on LA TV stations, and while the first one out the gate is certainly effective in showing off the coupe's sexy lines, it's not exactly mindblowing -- we're pretty certain this would be equally effective in advertising a local technical college with just a few tweaks. Check it after the break.

Continue reading Fisker Karma TV ads hit the LA airwaves

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Fisker Karma TV ads hit the LA airwaves originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 14 Mar 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehiclesElectricVehiclesevfiskerkarmaSat, 14 Mar 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Production Fisker Karma gets revealed, shakes that sexy thang]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/production-fisker-karma-gets-revealed-shakes-that-sexy-thang/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/production-fisker-karma-gets-revealed-shakes-that-sexy-thang/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/04/production-fisker-karma-gets-revealed-shakes-that-sexy-thang/#comments
Unlike another automaker out there, Fisker Automotive's eco-friendly vehicle looks a whole lot like the concept, and while the Tesla Roadster is certainly a sexy beast, we're having an exceptionally difficult time taming our fondness for this ride. The $80,000 $87,000 plug-in hybrid has been officially revealed ahead of its "debut" at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, but sadly, it seems that the '09 ship date has already slipped to "late 2010." We can't say looking at the gorgeous pictures make that fact any less depressing, but they're all there in the read link if you care to indulge.

[Via CNET]

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Production Fisker Karma gets revealed, shakes that sexy thang originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Dec 2008 22:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>all electricAllElectriccareco-friendlyFiskerFisker AutomotiveFisker karmaFiskerAutomotiveFiskerKarmagreenkarmapicspicturesvehicleThu, 04 Dec 2008 22:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Fisker Karma hybrid sports car to generate motor noise through external speakers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/14/fisker-karma-hybrid-sports-car-to-generate-motor-noise-through-e/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/14/fisker-karma-hybrid-sports-car-to-generate-motor-noise-through-e/http://www.engadget.com/2008/03/14/fisker-karma-hybrid-sports-car-to-generate-motor-noise-through-e/#comments
You know how we love the electric cars around here, but internal combustion sure does sound sexy -- a big V-8 literally brings the noise in a way the nearly-silent whir of an electric motor can't hope to match. Well, it looks like the mad geniuses behind the $80,000 Fisker Karma plug-in hybrid have hit upon an appropriately high-tech solution: speakers placed inside and out that allow drivers to give their rides any sound they want, including one described as "like something between a Formula One car and a jet plane." Interesting, to be sure -- but seeing as the Karma can hit 125mph and go from 0-60 in six seconds, we'd be happier if that rig just screamed at people to get out of the left lane.

[Via Autoblog]

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Fisker Karma hybrid sports car to generate motor noise through external speakers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Mar 2008 04:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleElectricVehiclefiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmahybridhybridshyridkarmaFri, 14 Mar 2008 04:02:00 EST<![CDATA[The "eco-chic" Fisker Karma and 150mpg XH-150 hybrids revealed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/14/the-eco-chic-fisker-karma-and-150mpg-xh-150-hybrids-revealed/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/14/the-eco-chic-fisker-karma-and-150mpg-xh-150-hybrids-revealed/http://www.engadget.com/2008/01/14/the-eco-chic-fisker-karma-and-150mpg-xh-150-hybrids-revealed/#comments
Hybrids are the rage at this year's Detroit Auto Show. Center stage then is the $100,000 $80,000 Fisker Automotive plug-in hybrid set for delivery in 2009. California-based Fisker is the namesake of Danish-born Henrik Fisker, CEO and former BMW and Aston Martin designer. The Fisker Karma (pictured), can go up to 50 miles before the gas engine kicks in to charge the lithium-ion batteries. It features a 150mph top speed capable of reaching 60mph from a standstill in 5.8 seconds. Sharing the stage with Fisker is AFS Trinity Power Corporation and their 150mpg plug-in hybrid XH-150 SUV -- that "XH" stands for Extreme Hybrid. Unlike traditional hybrids, the XH-150's powertrain uses ultra-capacitors, not gas, for "fast" acceleration. The XH-150 goes from 0 to 60 in 6.9 seconds with a top highway speed of just 87mph. Instead of bringing the XH-150 to market, however, AFS Trinity is more focused on licensing their ultra-capacitor technology. Good idea too, after checking the ho-hum XH-150 just beyond the break.

[Via c|net News]

Read -- Fisker Karma
Read -- AFT Trinity unveils 150 MG XH SUV

Continue reading The "eco-chic" Fisker Karma and 150mpg XH-150 hybrids revealed

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The "eco-chic" Fisker Karma and 150mpg XH-150 hybrids revealed originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 14 Jan 2008 06:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afsafs trinityAfsTrinityfiskerfisker karmaFiskerKarmahybridkarmaplug-inultra capacitorUltraCapacitorxh-150Mon, 14 Jan 2008 06:03:00 EST