Henrik Fisker Resigns As Executive Chairman Of Fisker Automotive

Henrik Fisker, former Executive Chairman of luxury plug-in hybrid carmaker Fisker Automotive, has resigned from the company he helped to found in 2007. Citing "several major disagreements...with the Fisker Automotive executive management on the business strategy," in a statement sent to Autocar, Fisker announced his resignation, effective immediately. Details are scant, but the company has released the following statement:

Fisker Automotive announced today the resignation of its Executive Chairman, Henrik Fisker. The Company recognizes and thanks Mr. Fisker for his service and many contributions as Fisker Automotive has progressed from start-up to a fully-fledged global automotive company.

Fisker Automotive is proud to have launched the world's first extended-range luxury electric car, the award-winning Karma sedan. The Company has a strong and experienced management team and its strategy has not changed. Mr. Fisker's departure is not expected to impact the Company's pursuit of strategic partnerships and financing to support Fisker Automotive's continued progress as a pioneer of low-emission hybrid electric powertrain technology.

The plug-in carmaker has been plagued with problems. First, there were the multiple delays in launching their Fisker Karma extended range electric sports car and its disappointing EPA fuel economy ratings. Next came the suspension of Fisker's Department Of Energy loans and subsequent layoffs. Most recently, the multiple reports of car fires and the destruction of hundreds of brand new Karmas during superstorm Sandy. And now news of the company's co-founder stepping down.

Last August, the embattled automaker looked to recharge their company by hiring CEO Tony Posawatz, formerly of General Motors' Volt program.

We'll continue to follow the story as it develops.