Together, Henrik Fisker and Bernhard Koehler are building on one of the world's greatest handcrafted experiences in car design - coachbuilting. Thier first car, a resculpted Mercedes-Benz, is this Fisker Tramonto. Beneath the skin, the engineering quialties of a Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG remain. The array of Mercedes-Benz's technology, from the power-retractable hardtop to Active Body Control (ABC), remain untouched - as do safety systems, including crumple zones and airbags.

Compared to its original platform, the Tramonto is reproportioned with a shorter back end, a longer-looking hood line with a pronounced power dome, and no visual bumpers. Take a casual glance at the new car's muscular lines. Gaps between body panels are tight and uniform. Aluminum and carbon fiber - materials that befit an exotic sports car - make up the body panels. Steel is used judiciously, to enhance structural rigidity.

For those who crave performance, a package is available thanks to a partnership betweeen Fisker and Kleemann. This gives the Tramonto a 610-hp supercharged 5.5- liter V8 which helps the car do 0-60 mph in just 3.6 seconds. Details include a custom-made ECU, Super Sport Camshafts, stainless steel exhaust headers, down pipes and 70 mm dual exhaust system with four steel cats allow for freer breathing.

To thoroughly enjoy the power and performance of the Tramonto, a class-leading suspension and braking system are absolutely essential. The independent suspension is 4-link in the front / 5-arm multilink in the rear, optimized with an AMG-enhanced version of Active Body Control (ABC). Stopping power is provided by the Kleemannn High-Performance Brake system as part of the Fisker Performance Plus Package. The Kleemann High Performance Brake system features fully floating, directional, ventilated front discs which are fully compatible with Mercedes-Benz Sensotronic Brake Control, Anti-lock Braking System and Brake Assist.

All Fisker models will have an all-new exterior design and re-designed interior expressing a distinctive Fisker Design DNA. The grille design was inspired by highly sophisticated aircraft designs, such as the F/A-22 Raptor. The Fisker Tramonto's front silhouette is similar to this sleek jet aircraft, with the large center opening tying into the fuselage and the two wings expanding from the mouth.

Interior design is as crucial as the exterior. All seat and fascia surfaces are expertly hand trimmed and hand stitched, in a selection of durable Italian leathers. Milled aluminum highlights the center console, and aluminum details accent the switch gear - joining with leather to form the strong Fisker logo bars on the gear shift knob. The multifunction steering wheel is a Fisker original, with built-in sound system controls.

At the touch of a button, the class-leading power retractable hardtop transforms the Tramonto from coupe to roadster in just 16 seconds. And even with the hardtop retracted, the trunk is still spacious enough for two golf bags.

Fisker plan to build 150 examples of this car.

Story by Fisker