Experienced by Kimatni Rawlins
Recently in Irvine, California I had the distinct pleasure of visiting the headquarters of Karma Automotive and meeting its president, Marques McCammon, in person. Previously, Automotive Rhythms had interviewed the North Carolina A&T graduate about the direction of electric performance mobility and Karma’s array of stately innovations in the electric vehicle (EV) space. The HQ tour and Kaveya test drive gave me a deeper understanding of the American automaker’s EV portfolio, design strategies, and engineering disciplines.
Upon walking into the Orange County ultra-luxury EV manufacturer’s doors, a set of pristine Karma vehicles — including the Revero range-extended hybrid electric touring sedan — will instantly capture your attention. I immediately learned from McCammon the three pillars of the brand: Experiences, Community, and Technology. Of course, the vehicles, whether it’s the Gyesera or Kaveya super coupe, represent the technological aspect, along with the in-house software that operates them. In fact, I was able to ride along in the 1,000-horsepower Kaveya battery-electric super coupe, marking the highlight of the day. With a 250-mile range, it is estimated to reach 0-60 mph in under three seconds.
Interestingly, Karma’s design philosophy is devoid of massive grilles, exaggerated gills, giant screens, and extensive spoilers. Dubbed Stealth Tech, the company’s ideology of performance and efficiency is focused on removing or reducing unnecessary components while cleaning up surface areas for a taut and sculptural physique. For example, from a technical perspective, wind diffusers are required for optimal performance; however, Karma showcases them when needed and then hides them when not required.
As McCammon stated, a Karma always appears to be flowing in perpetual motion. In accordance, he meets with designers twice a week and is very much involved in every process. Karma situated the design studio in-house, as well as some of its software development and product planning garages. Its production facility is close by in Moreno Valley, CA.
“The Gyesera, with its modern look, feel, and superior performance, is our bridge to the future, the embodiment of Karma’s revitalized corporate direction,” said McCammon. “It’s for a market segment that wants a beautiful, exotic performance sedan with unique character … that’s pure EV.”
An engineer by trade, McCammon was thrilled to discuss the automaker’s electric vehicle powertrain and innovations. Karma believes in the future of electric drive, which offers significant efficiency advantages — up to 90% compared to traditional engines. Its sedans and coupes address range anxiety with an onboard generator, allowing drivers to continue their journey seamlessly. It’s one thing to build a cool-looking car, but it’s another to have a story behind it. Similar to each of the Karma vehicle’s names, which are methodically chosen, the development of each model stems from merging lightweight carbon fiber bodywork with an innovative hybrid extended-range electric powertrain.
Karma also incorporates signature and bespoke lifestyle collaborations to enhance the brand’s tenets. For example, they have forged partnerships with elite labels, including those for cigars, fashion, Allende luggage pieces, American Single Malt Whiskey, Tiffany glassware, and fragrance to provide a sense of indulgence and refinement. Designed to fit the interior, the handbags utilize the same exclusive leathers as the cockpit. The first 50% of hide goes into crafting the cabin and the other 50% is set aside for the gear. Notably, Karma is proud of its defining relationship with NY-based entrepreneur Chris Collins who employs the power of smell and scent to instill passion and confidence in his clients.
“Fragrance is a portal—a way to transcend time, place, and memory. My creations are more than just scents; they are stories, deeply personal and inspired by the experiences that shaped me. Each one is a blend of artistry and transformation, designed to take you on a journey,” stated Collins.
Karma Automotive prices its vehicles similarly to Aston Martin, viewed as a key competitor. After purchasing one of its elegant EVs a special package will be sent including key fobs, an owner’s manual, a build book, and white gloves. Specialized sill plates featuring your preferred inscription in aluminum will also be commissioned.
It’s a new dawn in the luxury electric vehicle (EV) automotive space, led by innovative minds and creative mobility solutions. Welcome to the energized world of Karma Automotive.
