The Italian hyper EV, Estrema "Fulminea," boasting the world's first adoption of all-solid-state batteries, a maximum output of 2040 HP (1.5 megawatts), and performance of 0-320 km/h in under 10 seconds, has been announced. This report comes from Akio Oya, a journalist based in Italy.

Maximum output of 2040 HP (1.5 megawatts), 0-320 km/h in under 10 seconds. Planned production of 61 units—these are the specifications for the hyper EV "Fulminea."

The development is being undertaken by Automobili Estrema, a new EV constructor from Italy. The concept model was unveiled in Turin on May 13, 2021.

Upon completion, it will be the world's first road-legal vehicle to combine all-solid-state batteries with high-capacity capacitors. The high-density lithium-ion all-solid-state battery offers 500 Wh per kg, with an estimated maximum battery capacity of 100 kWh. It achieves the aforementioned specifications with an AWD system powered by four motors.

The high-capacity capacitors are positioned above the front axle, and the all-solid-state batteries are placed behind the cabin and between the rear axle, contributing to ideal weight distribution. The cruising range is projected to be 450 km in the European WLTP cycle, with a DC charging time (10%-80%) of under 15 minutes.

Automobili Estrema was founded in Italy in 2020. Its founder, Gianfranco Pizzuto, previously founded a construction machinery manufacturer in Italy and was a co-founder of the American sports car brand Fisker in 2007. After Fisker was acquired by a Chinese entity, he served as a distributor for Italy and neighboring countries from 2010 to 2013.

The all-solid-state battery, which has garnered attention in recent years as a next-generation EV battery, is being co-developed with Abbey, a company based in Brussels. In March 2021, the holding company led by Pizzuto, along with Automobili Estrema, acquired Abbey.

The body dimensions are 4683×2052×1148mm. Compared to the Ferrari Roma, it is 27mm longer and 78mm wider, while being a significant 153mm lower. By extensively using the latest carbon fiber, the weight is kept down to 1500kg.

The name "Fulminea" is Italian for "lightning," and the side character lines reflect this with a lightning bolt motif. The advanced three-dimensional taillights and high-mount stop lamp glow red when illuminated but turn clear when off—a technology once seen in concept cars and now appearing in high-end vehicles. The rear spoiler integrates seamlessly with the body when retracted.

The color is "Azzurro Savoia," a blue established by the House of Savoy in the 14th century and the national color of Italy. However, the production model will perfectly reflect customer preferences.

The exterior design is by Luigi Memola. A rising talent, he earned bachelor's and master's degrees with honors from the Polytechnic University of Turin and IED, respectively. After a teaching career, he established his own studio, Epta Design, in London in 2015.

Pizzuto recalled to the author, "Initially, Memola and I explored the possibility of realizing Formula E or (the electric off-road racing series) Extreme E."

However, due to various circumstances, that plan was abandoned, and the concept of a hypercar emerged instead. He then explained that the proposal Memola presented in September 2020 became the design origin for the current Estrema.

"His style was radical; at first, I was reminded of the 'Fast & Furious' movie series," he recalled of his initial impression.

Pizzuto invited Memola to lead the company's design efforts, but ultimately respected Memola's wish to remain an independent designer working on various projects.

The concept model's form draws inspiration from a flying bird, a cheetah running on land, and a selfish fish swimming underwater.

While only the exterior design has been presented so far, what kind of interior image does he have in mind? In my opinion, recent luxury GTs seem to be polarizing into either "Spartan" or "Gorgeous." To this, Pizzuto replies:

"If I had to choose, my preference is Scandinavian style. It's truly 'Less is more' (Author's note: 'Simple is abundant.' A famous quote by modernist architect Mies van der Rohe). Alexandre Klatt, who designed the Fisker Karma, also reflected this philosophy. Like the Fisker, it will be lightweight, understated, and refined," he hinted.

The main markets are expected to be California, Japan, China, and Northern Europe. However, based on his experience with Fisker, Pizzuto believes that sales networks are unnecessary for this category of automobile. "One showroom is sufficient, and events organized in various locations will suffice."

The price is 1,961,000 euros (approximately 259.59 million yen). He imagines the customers to be "owners of residences with large solar panel installations."

When asked by the author about his thoughts on the Japanese market, Pizzuto stated, "Japan has been a country I've loved since visiting during my Fisker days." Regarding the Fulminea, he added, "Given the high appreciation for Italian design in Japan, we are planning an exclusive event there within a year."