Fiat wants to take advantage of Mazda powertrain technology, although the strong yen and related higher manufacturing costs are a down side to the deal.

FORBES: Alfa Romeo Will Be Back In U.S. Sooner Rather Than Later

The startup has demonstrated its powertrain technology in the United States by retrofitting Ford 150 trucks and Ford E350 vans for potential fleet customers.

FORBES: An American Electric Hybrid Powertrain Maker Goes To China

"Mr Fisker's departure is not expected to impact the company's pursuit of strategic partnerships and financing to support Fisker Automotive's continued progress as a pioneer of low-emission hybrid electric powertrain technology, " the company said in a statement.

BBC: Henrik Fisker resigns from carmaker

Electric powertrain, battery management and charging technology are regarded as key technologies in the development and production of electric cars.

ENGADGET: Volvo and Siemens team up to build better electric engines

In November, McLaren announced it would design and build the powertrain for the first Formula E cars in consortium with Spark Racing Technology (SRT), a new company led by Frederic Vasseur.

ENGADGET: Rome to bring Formula E to Europe, joins a growing eco-racing scene

Graham Hoare, Ford's director for powertrain research, cautions that a lot more work is required, especially in applying the technology to big engines.

FORBES: EPA, Inc.