Justin Bieber Considers Investment to Support Struggling Fisker
Pop star Justin Bieber is reportedly looking at investing in Fisker Automotive as the company faces mounting financial difficulties and uncertainty over its future models.
Justin Bieber is exploring ways to support Fisker Automotive as the California-based carmaker faces severe financial pressure and the threat of bankruptcy. The singer, then 19, is said to be keen to ensure the future of the company behind his Fisker Karma, a plug-in hybrid gifted to him for his 18th birthday.
According to reports at the time, Bieber wanted to invest in Fisker to help keep the company afloat, motivated in part by concerns over servicing his own Karma if the manufacturer collapsed. He was also reportedly interested in Fisker’s next planned model, described as a Batmobile-style vehicle, which was under threat due to the company’s financial uncertainty.
Bieber’s management team reportedly advised caution, wary of an unwise investment in a company with an uncertain future. Still, the singer asked his assistants to monitor the situation and keep him informed about any rescue package that might emerge.
Fisker’s financial troubles and model plans
Fisker Automotive, founded in 2007, had launched the Karma plug-in hybrid to much attention from celebrities and early adopters. The Karma’s striking design and electric drivetrain attracted high-profile owners, including Bieber and Leonardo DiCaprio. Despite this, the company struggled with production delays, battery recalls and cash flow problems. By early 2013, Fisker had halted production and was reportedly on the brink of bankruptcy.
Plans for a second model, said to be inspired by the Batmobile, were left in limbo. Bieber’s interest in this car reflected both his enthusiasm for unique vehicles and concern that Fisker’s collapse would leave his own Karma without factory support. The company’s financial struggles also put at risk US government loans and hundreds of jobs at its facilities.
- Fisker Karma: plug-in hybrid luxury saloon, launched 2011.
- Planned second model: rumoured Batmobile-inspired design, status uncertain as of 2013.
Celebrity interest in Fisker vehicles
Bieber was not the only celebrity drawn to the Karma. Leonardo DiCaprio was an early backer, and other high-profile figures were seen driving the car. Bieber’s own Karma had previously attracted attention after he was ticketed for speeding in California. His garage also included a Batman-themed Cadillac, a Ferrari and a Range Rover.
Fisker’s celebrity following did little to shield it from financial collapse. By late 2013, the company had entered bankruptcy proceedings. The fate of its planned models and support for existing Karmas was left uncertain, leaving owners like Bieber reliant on third-party specialists for maintenance.
