Virtually unknown, VL Automotive is the brainchild of entrepreneur Gilbert Villareal and Bob Lutz, a former General Motors executive who was an avid supporter of the Chevrolet Volt. ?With this in mind, it is slightly surprising that VL's first car is a Corvette-powered Fisker Karma.
The Destino?comes standard with a direct-injected 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine that makes 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft. of torque. ?Customers who are after more grunt can order the car with an optional 6.2-liter supercharged LS9 V8 that raises the power output to 638 horsepower and 604 lb-ft. of torque.Both engines can be bolted to either a four-speed automatic gearbox or a six-speed manual unit.
Since the Karma's battery pack has been tossed out, the extra power generated by the?V8?engine is accompanied by a considerable loss in weight. ?Performance statistics are not available but the?Destino?is undoubtedly able to hold its own against well-established sports sedans like the Porsche?Panamera.
VL has left the Karma's body untouched but the Destino is equipped with specific bumpers on both ends. ?Up front, the Karma's controversial mustache grille has been ditched in favor of a recessed mesh grille and numerous air dams; Out back, the bumper incorporates four exhaust tips that are a subtle nod to the car's 'Vette heart.?
With the exception of the center console, the Karma's interior carries over to the Destino, giving buyers plenty of bling for the buck.
A full set of details and more pictures about the Destino will be available in the coming days.