Hispano Suiza Carmen Is A Retro-Futuristic EV With Over 1,000 HP

Hispano Suiza isn’t exactly a household name, but that hasn’t stopped two different companies from reviving the brand in Geneva.

This particular model comes from Hispano Suiza Cars and it’s a retro-inspired coupe called the Carmen. Drawing inspiration from the 1938 Hispano Suiza H6C Dubonnet Xenia, that was commissioned by World War One fighter pilot André Dubonnet, the Carmen has an aggressive front fascia with a prominent grille that is flanked by sporty air intakes. The model has also been equipped with a carbon fiber splitter and semi-circular headlights.

The sporty styling continues further back as the Carmen has a ventilated hood and covered rear wheels which pay tribute to the original H6C Dubonnet Xenia. Speaking of the rear, it’s particularly eye-catching as it features a massive diffuser, three dimensional taillights and retro-inspired bodywork.

Hispano Suiza didn’t release interior pictures, but the company has previously said the model has carbon composite seats, leather and Alcantara upholstery as well as wood trim. We can also expect an analogue clock, toggle switches, machined aluminum accents and a triangular gear selector inspired by previous Hispano Suiza models.

Despite the old school styling, there’s modern convenience features including a wireless smartphone charger and LED ambient lighting. Drivers will also find a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

The modern touches extend beneath the skin as the Carmen rides on a carbon fiber monocoque chassis and features an electric powertrain. Two electric motors power the rear wheels and they give the car a combined output of 1,005 hp (750 kW / 1,019 PS). This enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than three seconds and hit a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Motivation is provided by an 80 kWh battery pack, although a 105 kWh unit might be available at launch. If that happens, the Carmen could travel more than 248 miles (400 km) on a single charge.

Hispano Suiza is currently accepting orders and pricing starts at $1.7 (£1.2 / €1.5) million. Only 19 units will be available and the first delivers will begin in June of 2020.

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