Fisker Inc. is entering into agreements with Magna International Inc. that provide the framework for strategic platform sharing and manufacturing cooperation for the Fisker Ocean SUV. Using the Fisker-Flexible Platform Adaptive Design (FF-PAD), Fisker’s design, engineering, and software teams will integrate Magna electric vehicle architecture with Ocean’s award-winning exterior design. The new FM29 lightweight aluminum-intensive platform is the basis not only for the Ocean – but may also be the basis for the company’s future vehicles.
The Fisker Ocean will initially be manufactured exclusively by Magna in Europe, where it already produces several vehicles on behalf of global brands. Magna (as a part of Magna Steyr) has been building cars under contract for companies like Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Chrysler for the past 50 years — having produced more than 3.7 million vehicles of 30 different models all in all. Magna and Fisker have agreed to work together to continue to develop new technologies that will accelerate innovation across multiple automotive systems and architectures for Fisker vehicles.
“We chose to leverage the Magna EV architecture after detailed due diligence on several options — and in consideration of our own product and technology strategy,” said Henrik Fisker, chairman and chief executive officer of Fisker and the visionary (who created James Bond’s BMW Z8). “Further, having Magna take such a committed position in the project and our company demonstrates the depth of this cooperation. Combined with our own Fisker developed IP, the new FM29 platform is projected to deliver class-leading range, interior space with third-row seating and overall vehicle performance. These factors, combined with capital investments, Bill of Materials and manufacturing costs, will enable us to deliver the Ocean to market at a starting MSRP of $37,499.”
The development of complete vehicle concepts that meet the global requirements of future mobility is a key part of Magna’s global strategy. Their competence in transportation design starts out with idea sketches, covering Photoshop rendering, computer aided styling (CAS), physical model-making and feasibility phases, eventually finishing with a production-ready car. The company considers themselves a leader in four key areas that will shape the industry for many years to come: lightweighting, autonomy, electrification, and smart mobility.
“We are very happy to be able to work with Fisker on such an exciting, sustainable product and to see what additional opportunities this cooperation may bring,” said Swamy Kotagiri, president of Magna. “This is a unique competitive position for us, particularly with new mobility players and OEMs seeking to expand their electrified offerings.”
Fisker is aiming to give reservation holders, subject to location, the opportunity to experience the Fisker Ocean from late 2021. Details on test drive locations will be released via the Fisker Flexee App, via email and via Fisker’s social media channels. The company will not have franchised dealers, but will be offering a direct-to-customer experience. All customers will be able to view the cars at dedicated Brand Experience Centers.