Fisker is finally opening orders for the entry-level version of its electric car called Ocean Sport, with a more attractive price and range than the Tesla Model Y. On paper at least, because in practice, the electric SUV still has many flaws that give its rival a good head start.
It was in 2019 that Fisker announced its first electric car model for the very first time, which took the form ofan SUV called Ocean. We will then have to wait until the Los Angeles show in 2021 to see the final version, pre-orders for which opened in 2022. But its launch encountered quite a few pitfalls.
Interesting features
Indeed, its arrival in Europe, initially planned for last May, was postponed due to significant software problems, which reminded us of those of the Volkswagen ID.3. Today, these seem to be resolved, but the road is still long for the SUV. And for good reason, less than 5,000 copies were produced during the 3rd quarter.
For comparison, Tesla delivered 419,074 Model 3s and Model Ys worldwide over the same period. But the firm founded by Henrik Fisker is determined to get back on track. This is how she has just opened the orders for the entry-level version of its SUVwhich takes the name Ocean Sport. On his websitethe manufacturer details the technical characteristics of the latter, the price of which is slightly increasing.
If the latter was initially announced at 41,900 euros, it is finally displayed at 43,990 euros. A price which is understood before the deduction of the ecological bonus of 5,000 euros, to which the car should continue to be entitled next year with its European production.
Despite the small increase, the price remains lower than the 45,990 euros requested for the Tesla Model Y Propulsion. Especially since to pass this new price, autonomy has been increased.
The latter goes from 440 kilometers estimated by the manufacturer to 464 approved kilometers according to the European WLTP cycle. For the record, the Extreme version topping the range is announced at 707 kilometers WLTP. For its part, the SUV of Elon Musk’s brand can travel up to 455 kilometers in a single charge thanks to its 19-inch aero rims supplied as standard.
Size defects
On paper, this Fisker Ocean is therefore quite interesting, especially in its new entry-level version which has all the cards in hand to make us forget its difficult beginnings. Especially since the standard equipment is also quite generous, including among other things 360-degree vision, 17.1-inch touchscreen or even the recognition of traffic signs, among others. But in reality, it’s a little different.
A few weeks ago, we were able to test this Ocean in real conditions. The opportunity to realize that all is not rosy regarding the electric SUV. And for good reason, the latter has in fact started its marketing without driving aids, or almost. No intelligent cruise control, nor level 2 semi-autonomous driving. The manufacturer then announced that these would arrive at the end of the year.
Which shows that the car is not quite finished, especially since the software part still suffers from numerous shortcomings. Same thing with regard to infotainment, which is not yet really up to scratch. However, the manufacturer promises remote updates to correct the situation and integrate the features planned for customers.
If on paper, this new entry-level version is very attractive, you will probably have to wait a little longer if you want to take the plunge. Especially since other very interesting models are also offered as alternatives, including the Renault Mégane E-Tech, among others.