The one and only Henrik Fisker is proving that as an innovative creator there is no challenge that cannot be overcome. What started as a childhood interest of simply drawing cars, quickly blossomed into a passionate pursuit of a career in automotive design that led him on a journey to BMW where he created the BMW Z8, had a hand in the X5 creation, as well as the Aston Martin Vantage and DB9 which single-handedly caused Aston’s 1,300 a year vehicle sales to skyrocket to over 7,000. Then, of course, he founded his own car company which successfully launched the world’s first electric car, the Fisker KARMA, of which high profile celebrities like Leonardo Dicaprio became one of the first to own one of these dream cars. Fisker’s success trajectory has been nothing short of spectacular and has put him on the road, pun intended, to endless creativity and fulfillment of all of his creative visions. Let’s learn more from this visionary genius…
Beverly Hills Magazine: What lessons did you learn from your first car company?
Henrik Fisker: At that time, in 2011, it was still so early in the electric car market that there was limited supply of batteries needed for these types of vehicles. I learned just how important it is to control your battery, and also that it is equally important to create a line of vehicles for the mass market. Now I have launched my own battery company called Fisker Nanotech with the world’s longest range battery providing 400 miles of electric energy. We are also currently developing our line of vehicles that will be accessible to the mass market with an entry price point of $33,000, yet still offering some of the same design signatures that are unique to the Fisker brand.
VLF Automotive’s Fisker Force 1 debuted at the 2016 North American International Auto Show, it not only marked the beginning of a new creative force in the industry but the resurrection of the American supercar. A unique supercar inspired by the Dodge Viper, the 745 hp muscle machine carries an 8.4-liter V-10 engine, can roar from zero to 60 mph in 3 seconds, and has a top speed of 218 mph. Starting at $268,500, only 50 will be produced for the exclusive and discerning buyers seeking a one of a kind Fisker vehicle.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Where do you get your inspiration?
Henrik Fisker: Unlike most people in Los Angeles, I actually enjoy my time in the car on the road, especially on the California freeway. It is a time where I can be alone, and I get so many visual inspirations from the other cars on the road, the sunlight and shadows, as well as the people. I also get tremendous inspiration from people and listening to customers who tell me directly what they want and need in a car, then I can create a car that will improve their life and that they can be proud of.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Tell us about your newest design, the E-motion vehicle?
Henrik Fisker: This is my latest creation for the luxury market that is very important to me. The name is representative of how people connect with their cars. I wanted to create a line of cars that inspires emotional connection, not only will they be exciting to look at and extremely fun to drive but I want people to be happy and proud of their car. We have also added some interior design features that increases the cabin space and leg room, making it much more comfortable as well. Plus they will have the new 400 mile long range battery for extended drive time.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What have been the biggest challenges in your career?
Henrik Fisker: Certainly starting my own car company, especially as a pioneer in the electric car sector. When I started, Tesla and Fisker were the only two, so I had to build a team, develop new technology, and discover new ways to do things. With every new door that opened, there were always surprises. Innovation is full of surprises and there is a lot of risk involved. Even now with my second company, it’s hard to create a process for success or even a timeline. Though I must say, I have a lot more clarity now than I did then, but there are still plenty of challenges.
Beverly Hills Magazine: You are a visionary…What future dreams are you yet to make come true?
Henrik Fisker: Well I am just finishing the design of a giant yacht with my partnership with Bennetti Yachts. I am also working on launching my own watch collection. One thing I haven’t done yet is a bicycle. Creating a Fisker bicycle is definitely on my list.
The Benetti “Fisker 50” is a 164-foot watercraft designed in California and scheduled for production in coastal Livorno, Italy. Its estimated value when finished will be $37 million. Benetti has said it will make as many as it can sell.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Do you have a life motto you live by?
Henrik Fisker: Never give up.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Henrik Fisker: Of course never give up, but also before you go out and talk to people, build your company as far as it can get. Seek advice and ask people’s opinions. You don’t have to take that advice, some of it may be bad advice, and some may be good. It’s just important to learn from others. Most importantly, if everybody is telling you not to do it, then you SHOULD do it.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Have you discovered a personal purpose in what you do?
Henrik Fisker: I am contributing the best of who I am to the world through my creations in vehicles, yachts, or whatever it is. I am here to innovate and by doing so I give people something that makes them happy and gives them joy. I never wanted to just make appliances; I wanted to create exciting cars that people can get attached to with the added benefit of being zero omission.
There you have it, from the mind of a mechanical mogul who continually pushes boundaries and dares to dream. He dreams of a world where there is harmony between the past, the present, and the future. Where together we can all live in a world where creativity, vision, and cars combine into one flawless masterpiece where dreams come true and cars become a piece of your heart that changes your reality forever. Cheers to making your car dreams come true!