Fisker Inc., an e-mobility and technology company headquartered in Los Angeles, California, which is currently developing a range of electric vehicles and proprietary solid-state battery technologies, has officially announced its new working partnership with former U.S. Representative, Richard (Dick) Gephardt. Although not made public until now, Gephardt, a former member of the board at Ford Motor Co., has been working with Fisker over the past five months as a key consultant as the automaker readies itself for some significant industry announcements. Gephardt has been advising Fisker on U.S. state manufacturing partners, labor contracts and best practices with innovative compensation plans.
Commenting on this new partnership, Fisker Inc. Chairman and CEO, Henrik Fisker, stated, “The global automotive industry is entering a disruptive era with electrification and consumer preferences shifting toward sustainable mobility. The next big revolution in the car industry will be marked by affordable and reliable electric vehicles, meeting new consumer tastes. We are currently developing our first affordable vehicles, priced well below the Fisker Emotion, at close to $40,000. Our range of affordable vehicles will ultimately exceed yearly volumes of 250,000 units. Fisker Inc. is looking at several partner states in the U.S. that have the necessary infrastructure and mindset needed to bring such innovative manufacturing and new electrified technologies to their respective states.
“Fisker Inc. was founded with the intention of creating state-of-the-art electric vehicles and technologies to help create a sustainable world and reduce our carbon footprint,” added Fisker. “Dick’s participation and insights will amount to immeasurable success for Fisker Inc., as well as for the larger movement toward a cleaner world. Together, I believe we can create a model where our highly skilled American workforce can become an important stakeholder in creating sustainable, affordable electric vehicles for the global market.”
“I feel strongly about the kinds of changes our nation needs in order to cope with the challenges of the new global marketplace,” added Gephardt. “Around the world, people look to the United States for leadership because of our economic success and commitment to free market capitalism. To maintain this leadership, we must invest in workforce skill development, increase our production and use of alternative energies and maintain our competitive edge in international markets. Fisker is leading the way for electric vehicle manufacturing in the United States, which will help us achieve these objectives. We are excited to support Henrik’s vision, reinforced by his world-class design talents and outstanding team, propelling the U.S. into a leading role shaping the future of the global automotive industry.”
“The American worker is the most flexible to change, most skilled in producing high-quality products and the most creative in addressing challenges. We believe that combining Fisker Inc.’s innovation and brand reputation, with the most skilled, highly productive workforce in the world, will enable our country to compete in the new global competition for electrified vehicle production. The key to the future success of U.S. manufacturing relies on the continued education and engagement of the American workforce. Henrik shares our vision, engaging his workforce by providing transparent information on the company’s performance, soliciting ideas for improvement and allowing workers to participate in the company’s success through profit sharing and stock options. We are proud to be associated with a company that is leading the way in creating an affordable, desirable electric vehicle for the world – and will do so by specifically relying on the hard work and innovation of the American workforce and the strength of auto manufacturing in the U.S.”
