First Electric Popemobile: Fisker Ocean SUV Chosen

Fisker to Develop a Custom Popemobile for Pope Francis

Fisker Inc., the electric vehicle company that transitioned to a publicly traded entity, is currently developing a specialized version of its all-electric Ocean SUV for Pope Francis.

Agreement Reached with the Vatican

The company announced on Friday its intention to deliver a Popemobile, based on the forthcoming Fisker Ocean SUV, to the Vatican by late next year. This initial accord was established during a private audience on Thursday involving Pope Francis and the Fisker co-founders, Henrik Fisker and Dr. Geeta Gupta-Fisker.

During the meeting, Henrik Fisker presented several design sketches, one of which was personally signed by Pope Francis. A preliminary rendering of the modified Fisker Ocean SUV reveals a fully transparent, glass cupola.

A Tradition of Automotive Collaboration

This agreement extends a tradition spanning over half a century, where automakers have collaborated with the Vatican to create and provide vehicles for transporting the Holy See.

Ford notably produced a customized 1964 Lehmann-Peterson model utilized by Pope Paul VI during his 1965 visit to New York City. The term “Popemobile” gained prominence throughout Pope John Paul II’s papacy.

Numerous automotive manufacturers, including Dacia, Stellantis’ Fiat and Jeep brands, Mercedes-Benz, and Renault, have previously supplied vehicles to different pontiffs. Pope Francis has also been observed utilizing a Ford Focus for transportation within Vatican City.

Sustainable Materials and Production Timeline

“My inspiration stemmed from learning of Pope Francis’s deep concern for the environment and the effects of climate change on future generations,” stated Henrik Fisker. “The interior of the Fisker Ocean papal transport will incorporate a range of sustainable materials, notably carpeting crafted from recycled plastic bottles recovered from the ocean.”

Fisker anticipates commencing production of its Ocean SUV, with a starting price of $37,499, on November 17, 2022. The Popemobile variant is projected to be available around the same timeframe, although a precise delivery date remains unspecified.