Fiat wants to take advantage of Mazda powertraintechnology, although the strong yen and related higher manufacturing costs are a down side to the deal.
The startup has demonstrated its powertraintechnology in the United States by retrofitting Ford 150 trucks and Ford E350 vans for potential fleet customers.
"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 powertraintechnology, " the company said in a statement.