Perhaps most interesting, though, is how it's going to address the reliability issues that plagued the company's predecessor. WSJ says that the automaker is licensing BMW's electric vehicle control and charging systems -- a deal finalized last year. "There are huge, serious, major upgrades throughout the electronics systems, wiring, charging, battery," Karma's chief marketing officer Jim Taylor says. In terms of looks, though, it doesn't sound like you should expect anything to change in that department because the overhauls aren't going to be visible, according to Taylor.

Wanxiang picked up Fisker's remains for $149 million a few years back. This deal is important, especially for BMW: If the German automaker's licensed tech can help Fisker outrun its smoky, checkered past , that's a high-profile win for everyone involved.