Karma Automotive is a brand defined by its commitment to pushing the boundaries of design, luxury, and sustainability, embodying a distinctly American approach to ultra-luxury automobiles. Known for blending cutting-edge technology with timeless craftsmanship, Karma is creating vehicles that stand as both high-performance machines and collectable works of art. In this exclusive interview, we sat down with the design leaders of Karma Automotive, Michelle Christensen, Karma Automotive's VP of Global Design and Nicholas David, Karma Automotive's Senior Design Director to gain an inside look into the making of the Karma Invictus. This limited-edition masterpiece, with only 30 units produced, is a powerful fusion of American ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship.
Join us as Michelle and Nicholas share their vision and design philosophy, revealing how they infused performance, elegance, and sustainability to make the Invictus a true icon in automotive design.
What is the inspiration behind the Karma Invictus. What drove the design philosophy for this model?
Nicholas David: The focus behind the Karma Invictus was really to create a performance-focused evolution of the Revero. Our aim was to emphasize the level of customization we’re offering as a company, particularly with our Reserve Collection, of which the Invictus is a part. The car itself has such beautiful proportions to start with, and I think what we’ve done highlights the craftsmanship and attention to detail through advanced materials. One of the key visual elements you’ll notice is the use of carbon fibre. We’ve incorporated a unique fading effect on the hood, roof, and rear deck, which not only looks stunning but also speaks to our commitment to both aesthetics and functionality. This material choice showcases the craftsmanship we bring to the table—it’s more than just a visual feature; it’s a statement of strength and refinement.
Additionally, we took inspiration from iconic American architecture, like the Empire State Building, especially in the interior design. Harsha, our Senior interior designer, infused Art Deco elements from these skyscrapers into the cabin, creating a luxurious yet distinctly American feel. The stitching along the seats and detailing on the doors reflect this inspiration, giving the cabin a sense of sophistication and cultural homage.
Michelle Christensen: Absolutely, Nick, and to expand on that, the brand’s vision is about merging what we call 'supernatural imagination' with American ingenuity. Our goal is to elevate Karma into the ultra-luxury market—a space where American brands aren’t commonly seen. We’re drawing inspiration from iconic American elements, whether it’s art, architecture, or cultural ingenuity, and integrating that into both our design and brand essence. By tapping into these inspirations, we’re not just creating cars; we’re building on a legacy of American icons. It’s about setting us apart with a unique American touch that resonates with luxury and innovation, pushing Karma forward as a distinct presence in the ultra-luxury automotive market.
The Karma Invictus looks powerful and stylish. Can you elaborate on the emotions and impressions it’s meant to evoke?
Nicholas: The Karma Invictus is based on a vehicle developed even before Michelle and I joined Karma, so we feel incredibly fortunate to work with such a timeless foundation. The car’s proportions are truly grand, giving the Invictus an undeniable presence. It’s remarkably low-slung and long—possibly even the lowest four-door sedan or four-seater on the market.
Working with a vehicle that already has such an impressive, grounded stance has allowed us to focus on enhancing the defining aspects our clientele values. You’ll notice details like the carbon fibre aero package along the sides, which really plants the car to the ground and amplifies its athletic profile. Our goal was to bring out the unique character of the Invictus, crafting a bespoke experience that feels exclusive to each owner. In many ways, this project has been about refining the craftsmanship and attention to detail, from the stance to the materials used, to deliver something that resonates with those seeking individuality and elegance in every element of their vehicle.
Michelle: Building on the car’s stunning proportions, we wanted to integrate design elements that are both subtle and sophisticated. One of the key features is what we call the 'Comet Line,' a defining contour that wraps around the cowl and establishes the car’s architectural foundation. This line, first introduced with the Kaveya, has become an essential part of Karma’s design DNA. For the Karma Invictus, while it’s rooted in the Revero platform, we aimed to elevate its aesthetics with an exclusive, refined paint job that feels both unexpected and distinctive. The paint gradient subtly reveals the carbon fibre underneath in a pattern that echoes the Comet Line, giving the car a dynamic yet understated elegance.
Though we haven’t fundamentally altered the original design, our approach has been to infuse sophisticated craftsmanship and precision into every detail, tying the Invictus more deeply into Karma’s identity. Ultimately, it’s about creating a cohesive, luxurious experience that balances heritage with innovation, offering something truly distinctive.
The Karma Invictus uses a lot of carbon fibre and includes unique touches. Could you elaborate more on this and how it enhances the car’s unique look?
Nicholas: Absolutely. On the exterior, the carbon fibre fade is one of those details that truly set the Karma Invictus apart. Many of our clients appreciate these subtle, unique touches—features that feel exclusive compared to other vehicles. For example, from a distance, you might notice the car’s beautiful proportions. But as you get closer, the intricate carbon fibre details begin to reveal themselves, and upon even closer inspection, the fade effect becomes apparent. It’s almost like a hidden layer of design knowledge; it’s not immediately obvious, but when you spot it, it feels like a discovery. We’re inspired by this idea of ‘hidden treasures’ in our design philosophy, like features in the Kaveya, like the hidden lamps and spoilers. With the Karma Invictus, we wanted to create a similar experience. At first glance, it might look like a beautifully proportioned Revero, but as you explore, you’ll uncover unique elements—almost like little Easter eggs for our clients.
Karma Invictus has Art Deco-inspired touches on the exterior. Could you share how this style shows up in the car’s design, especially in the wheels?
Nicholas: The Art Deco influence was a key inspiration, especially on the exterior. You’ll see this reflected in the wheels with our new split 5-spoke design. The shape of each spoke draws from classic Art Deco architecture—particularly the iconic lines and window designs of New York’s historic buildings. The way the spokes ‘V’ out toward the rim is a direct nod to this architectural style, adding depth and elegance to the wheels. We wanted these details to be subtle yet impactful, revealing themselves more as you spend time with the car. Taken together, these elements tell a story that resonates with our clients on a deeper, more personal level. It’s these design touches that make the Karma Invictus not just a car, but an experience grounded in heritage and artistry.
The aesthetic choices clearly align with performance elements. How does the design affect the car’s dynamics and handling?
Nicholas: We focused on achieving a true ‘ultimate expression’ of performance with the Karma Invictus, pushing both engineering and design boundaries to craft a car that’s as exhilarating to drive as it is to behold. Our engineering team made key enhancements to elevate road feel, responsiveness, and overall agility, particularly in EV mode. One of the standout improvements was stiffening the chassis, which significantly enhances handling, giving drivers a more connected and controlled experience on the road.
Combined with the addition of Ohlins suspension, every twist and turn becomes more immersive, delivering exceptional precision and stability, even at high speeds. Incorporating a carbon fibre roof was another significant achievement, reducing the vehicle’s weight by 50 pounds. This not only lowers the centre of gravity but also improves overall balance, giving the Karma Invictus a more grounded and poised stance. We also opted for wider rear tyres paired with lightweight forged wheels, enhancing acceleration. In fact, these upgrades alone shaved half a second off the 0-60 mph time, boosting straight-line speed while maintaining control and comfort.
Together, these engineering upgrades create a driving experience that’s as powerful as it is refined. We aimed to deliver performance gains without compromising the aesthetic elegance and sophistication we envisioned for the Karma Invictus. The result is a vehicle that combines speed, stability, and style, offering an unparalleled experience on the road.
We’ve noticed that concept designs can look quite different from the final production model. How do the design and engineering teams at karma work together to balance the original vision with practical requirements?
Nicholas: That’s a great question, and it’s something we navigate often in automotive design. With the Karma Invictus, we were very fortunate. What you see in the concept is essentially what you’re going to get in the final production model. You could almost say it's 99.9% identical to the concept, so there’s minimal difference from sketch to reality. There may be a few minor tweaks around the vents, but those are really fine details that don’t alter the overall vision. In fact, customers ordering the Invictus now will likely have their vehicles delivered by the end of the year, which is rare in this industry. Our process is collaborative, but it can be challenging, especially on full-scale production models where you’re balancing creativity with practical limitations.
For the Karma Invictus, which is already based on an existing platform, there was less room for negotiation. But when we’re creating something from scratch, like the Kaveya, there’s a lot more back-and-forth with the engineering team. We’re constantly discussing details like headlamp placements, angles for optimal visibility, and specific adjustments to maintain the unique character of the car. And yes, these discussions can go back and forth for weeks, even months, sometimes stretching out over 10 to 20 weeks just to get a single feature right. We’re all aligned with a common goal—to deliver a product that’s both innovative and true to its concept, ensuring our customers receive something truly remarkable.
Michelle: One of the things Nick and I emphasize in the design studio is ensuring that our concepts and proposals are thoroughly thought out. As Nick mentioned, this isn’t just a styling studio or design silo—it’s a truly collaborative environment. We work closely with engineering from the start, so our designs aren’t just wild dreams that can’t be realized; they’re realistic visions achievable in production. Even with concept models like the Kaveya, Ivara, and Gyesera, we keep production possibilities in mind. These aren’t purely ‘blue sky’ designs—they’re grounded in what’s feasible, giving us a unique advantage in both speed and realism. And we’re fortunate to start with a beautiful platform. Many designers at other companies struggle to maintain good proportions, but we’re building on an already excellent foundation. Our design vision is strong, and with constant daily communication between design and engineering, we ensure that everything we create can be brought to life. Plus, we’re lucky to have a passionate and capable engineering team, and even our president has a keen eye for design, which adds another layer of support for our vision.
Sustainability is a big part of Karma’s ethos. How is Karma Invictus a reflection of that commitment?
Michelle: We see the Karma Invictus Limited Edition as an opportunity to showcase our entire customization process. At a high level, Karma’s customization is built around four pillars. The first is the Karma Collection: our capsule collection of options, which provides a core set of options available directly from the dealer. The second level, the Reserve Collection, offers a more personalized configuration, typically requiring a month or two to complete. The third level, 'Karma Studio,' allows clients to work directly with our design studio to create a fully customized proposal for their vehicle. Finally, at the pinnacle, we have 'Karma Masterwork'—our highest level of customization, reserved for very limited editions like the Invictus.
This approach isn’t just about offering options for exclusivity or personalization, though our clients highly value these. It’s also about sustainability. With this range of customization, owners can continually reinvent their vehicles over time, keeping it longer rather than replacing it. As our president has said, we’re not making cars destined for the landfill; we’re crafting heirlooms that can be passed down through generations. This high-level customization is central to our vision of sustainable luxury.
Nicholas: Michelle captured it perfectly. Adding to that, we’ve been actively exploring new material options with our suppliers, particularly alternatives that align with our sustainability goals. For instance, rather than traditional leather, we’re considering innovative PU materials to offer a vegan option in our vehicles. This shift is something we’re definitely focused on. With the Karma Invictus Limited Edition, our choices have been slightly more restricted in terms of materials, but expanding sustainable options is a high priority as we move forward with future models. As we continue developing the product line, sustainability and material innovation will remain top considerations.
It seems the balance between interior and exterior design is crucial to Karma Invictus’s identity. Can you tell us about how you achieved this?
Nicholas: Our approach, especially with the Karma Invictus, was to blend interior and exterior elements in a way that feels natural and cohesive. For instance, the carbon accents you see on the outside are also used inside the cabin. Similarly, the Art Deco-inspired wheel design is echoed in smaller details within the car. These are touches you might not notice right away, but they all connect to create a unified design. For future models like the Kaveya, we’re taking this approach further. The Comet Line, for example, wraps around the cabin and windshield, influencing the shapes of the dashboard, starter button, and even seat patterns. This flow from outside to inside really brings our ‘inside-out’ design to life. It’s not just a design trick—it’s our way of creating a seamless experience where the interior and exterior feel truly connected. While we’ve included as much of this approach as possible in the Karma Invictus, you’ll see it even more in our upcoming models.
With only 30 units being produced, what exclusive touches can buyers expect?
Nicholas: We’re passionate about making every Invictus a one-of-a-kind masterpiece for each owner. Take the exclusive lightweight forged wheels, for instance—they aren’t just crafted to look stunning; they’re built to enhance agility and responsiveness, giving drivers a true sense of performance with every turn. Inside, you’ll find a custom stitch pattern meticulously designed to embody Karma’s unique aesthetic and character. This signature stitching, exclusive to the limited edition Invictus, speaks to the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and detail. The exterior features are just as thoughtful. The front fender vents, more than a sleek design choice, are engineered to channel airflow and boost aerodynamics, giving the Invictus that extra edge in performance and setting it apart from other models in a truly distinctive way.
But what really brings the Karma Invictus to life is the personalized touch we offer each client. Owners get to place their own custom-engraved plaque on the car, as if signing their name to this masterpiece. This moment of personalization encapsulates the spirit of Invictus—built to be deeply personal and tailored to the individual. And to make receiving the Invictus an event, each car comes in a custom presentation box with leather-bound details and a personalized booklet. This ceremonial touch elevates the experience, making each delivery feel like a celebration of exclusivity and artistry. Every element of Karma Invictus is crafted to create a lasting connection and memory, reminding owners that they’ve received something truly extraordinary.
Michelle: Just to add one thing. I really think that the stitch pattern is beautiful and has become something iconic for the brand. It’s a design that stands out, and I can see it influencing more of what we do in the future. But for now, it’s something bespoke to the Invictus, giving it that unique, personal touch that makes this vehicle truly special.
Karma is transitioning into the ultra-luxury segment. What design philosophy guides you as you reposition the brand?
Michelle: From a brand perspective, what’s exciting about Karma is that we completely rebranded while developing a new design philosophy and portfolio simultaneously. This approach allowed the brand and design to evolve together, creating a cohesive vision. It’s great to hear feedback recognizing the passion and unity in our interior and exterior designs. We work hard to ensure that this consistent design language is felt, whether you’re on our website, in a showroom, or experiencing models like the Karma Invictus or Kaveya. As an American brand in the ultra-luxury space, we have a unique opportunity. Most ultra-luxury brands are European, but we’re bringing a distinctively American spirit inspired by ‘supernatural imagination’—our take on American innovation and exploration, with nods to American space exploration. This embodies our aim to push boundaries with purpose, combining imagination with a mission to do good.
Our vision of ultra-luxury stands out by focusing on pure, refined design rather than unnecessary decoration. Nick often talks about the purity of our designs, where technology is used to simplify and enhance the experience. And with the support of our president, Marcus McCammon, who values design as much as we do, we’re building a design-driven, ultra-luxury brand rooted in a philosophy that unifies every aspect of Karma.
Nicholas: To build on what Michelle said, we’ve spent a lot of time in the design studio defining what ‘ultra-luxury’ means for Karma. Unlike some established British brands with a lot of chrome and flashy elements, we wanted a distinctly different approach—one that feels refined yet powerful in its simplicity. With models like the Kaveya supercar, we focused on creating a clean, predictionary aesthetic. Instead of relying on chrome or window trim, we’ve eliminated almost all brightwork. Hidden features like weather seals, headlamps, windshield wipers, and a retractable rear spoiler contribute to a sleek and uncluttered design that lets the form of the car speak for itself. We were fortunate to start with phenomenal proportions, so there’s no need for added lines or details to enhance the shape. One of our design signatures is the ‘Comet Line’—a single line that wraps around the car, giving a flowing, cohesive look. This minimalism is something we believe sets our ultra-luxury aesthetic apart.
Another element that adds to the exotic feel is the low sitting position, or 'H-point,' which we’ve achieved thanks to our EREV system with the batteries down the middle of the car. This setup allows us to lower the seat position significantly, giving even our supercar models a hyper car stance. In fact, the Kaveya sits lower than most supercars, giving it an exotic and ultra-luxurious look, while maintaining a supercar price point. This combination of cleanliness, proportion, and a low profile creates an unmistakable presence that we think defines Karma’s unique take on ultra-luxury.
How do Colour, Material, and Finish (CMF) choices play into this ultra-luxury ethos?
When it comes to our CMF (Colour, Material, Finish) choices, we know that at a certain price point, clients have certain subconscious expectations. Buyers of ultra-luxury vehicles like the Kaveya, they’re often people who own several high-end cars and live in homes with styles, materials, and amenities. We wanted the experience of getting into the Kaveya to feel like a seamless transition from an ultra-luxury home into an ultra-luxury car.
For example, we use the highest quality leather from Bridge of Weir in Scotland, known for its fine quality. There’s also a unique carbon fibre with a candy gloss finish that gives a refined, exclusive look. Inside, we aimed to create a calming, tech-enhanced environment without overloading digital screens. Just like in a well-designed home, screens are discreet; our central display folds away when not in use, reducing blue light and creating a more serene atmosphere for digital well-being.
Every touchpoint inside the car is designed to reinforce this luxurious feel, so when you’re in the vehicle, you know you’re in something truly special, something that matches the ultra-luxury experience these clients expect in every other part of their lives.
The concept of minimalism seems to be a recurring theme in Karma’s designs. Is this intentional?
Michelle: I wouldn’t call it minimalism. For us, it’s really about a holistic approach and keeping the design pure and authentic to the brand. Some parts of the car may appear simple, but others are complex, with thoughtful mechanisms and details that go beyond minimalism. Instead of stripping things down, it’s about clarity and purpose—making sure each feature serves a real function for the client. Every detail is intentional and authentic to the car’s purpose, refined to its essence. This approach gives the vehicle a sense of purity that resonates deeply with our clients.
Nicholas: When I think about minimalism, sometimes it reminds me of spaces that can feel too sparse or even cold. With the Karma Invictus, we wanted to keep things uncluttered, but we never wanted it to feel lacking in warmth or character. The exterior, for example, benefits from the car’s strong proportions. We don’t need to add extra elements to make it visually engaging; the volume and shape do the work for us. You might call it minimalist, but we’re really just taking advantage of how well the design flows naturally, without needing any extra embellishments.
Inside the vehicle, it’s about reducing unnecessary elements. There aren’t many switches—just four or so, apart from the windows and starter button. We’ve focused on decluttering, particularly with screens and blue light, to create a more calming and immersive space. So, while it’s minimalist in terms of clutter, it’s maximalist in terms of character and theme. It’s a balance where simplicity and richness coexist, giving it a unique warmth that makes it feel special.
It sounds like defining the design DNA for Karma involved some tough decisions!
Michelle: Absolutely. As we went through the design process, we had so many talented designers bringing incredible ideas to the table, which made it tough to decide which path to follow for our new design DNA. Nick and I kept coming back to this practice of covering up parts of the vehicle to see if they were really needed. For example, we’d look at a fender vent and ask, ‘If we cover it up, does the design still feel strong and complete?’ This approach helped us distil the car’s design down to its essence, stripping away anything that didn’t feel essential. It allowed us to achieve that clean, cohesive look that has become part of our design philosophy.
Nicholas: Yes, definitely. Sometimes, as designers, it’s hard to hold back, especially when you’re working with such an impressive form. For example, with models like the Kaveya, we have a long dash-to-axle ratio and a huge hood—a lot of real estate to add lines and details. But we restrained ourselves and focused on surface quality and the way light plays over each curve. It’s that restraint that brings timelessness. When we see the car at events and watch people’s reactions, it reaffirms that the team did an amazing job. The design feels fresh and enduring, and there’s very little we’d change, which speaks to the purity and timeless quality we aimed for.
What can Karma fans expect next?
Michelle: While we can’t share too many details just yet, I can say that Karma is in an exciting phase of intense creativity and growth. We’re actively working on new projects that are set to push our design philosophy even further, bringing innovative concepts to the ultra-luxury market in ways that feel fresh and uniquely American. Each vehicle we’re developing is designed with a sense of timelessness, aiming to create cars that don’t just follow trends but set a new standard in the ultra-luxury space. Our goal is to redefine what American ultra-luxury means, delivering sophistication and artistry that speak to a new generation of clients.
Nicholas: The next 12 months are going to be incredibly exciting for us. We’re working on projects that really embody our commitment to design excellence and innovation, and we’re looking forward to sharing these with you. Each new model we’re crafting combines performance with artistry in a way that we hope will resonate on a personal level with our clients. We’d love to give you a closer look at these designs in person soon, so you can experience firsthand the direction we’re taking Karma in the ultra-luxury world.
As we wrap up, the Karma Invictus stands as a powerful fusion of luxury, performance, and sustainability—an embodiment of Karma’s commitment to American ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship. Each of the limited 30 units represents more than just a car; it’s an artful blend of precision engineering and design, crafted to evoke a lasting emotional connection. Karma has designed Invictus to be both a high-performance machine and a collectable work of art, something its future owners will cherish for years to come. We hope you enjoyed this inside look into the vision and philosophy driving Karma’s ultra-luxury lineup. If you found this interview inspiring, share it with friends, fellow car enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the unique blend of design and innovation that Karma brings to the automotive world.
