After several years of investment, research and development, Lafitte Automobili made a high profile entrance on the automobile scene by unveiling its first three models in Miami on the sidelines of the 2023 edition of its F1 Grand Prix. The new car manufacturer based in Turin and headed up by racing driver Bruno Lafitte, nephew of the famous French pilot Jacques Lafitte, intends to recompose the landscape of electric hypercars with these models. To do so, he joined up with the Italian GFG Style design studio and L.M. Gianetti for engineering and manufacturing. Which resulted in ultra-exclusive, all-electric vehicles inspired by track racing, but approved for on-road driving.

The versatile Atrax and futuristic LM1 and Barchetta models, along with their first two variations, the Atrax Stradale and Barchetta Coupé, thus combine esthetic flair, elegance, comfort, and high performance. Zero-emission hypercars are in tune with their time, offer an ‘‘ultra-fast’’ charging system, but also a revolutionary sound system emulating the roar of combustion engines. Marketing scheduled for 2024, in (very) limited editions.

LAMBORGHINI USHERS IN A NEW ERA

This year, Lamborghini is celebrating its 60th anniversary. The chance for the Italian manufacturer of Sant’Agata to raise the curtain on its very first electrified model. Going by the name of Revuelto, it pays homage to a fighting bull that distinguished itself for its bravery in the Barcelona arenas in 1880. Successor to the Aventador, this new, rechargeable hybrid coupé retains a key component in Lamborghini DNA, the iconic V12, now coupled with three high-density electric motors of 150 HP each.

This super sports car can therefore lay claim to having a combined power of 1,015 HP with different driving modes (Citta, Strada, Sport and Corsa), and three electrification management programmes (Recharge, Hybrid and Performance), plus a groundbreaking transversal dual clutch e-gearbox. Inviting owners to ‘‘Feel Like a Pilot’’, the Lamborghini Revuelto chalks up 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.5 seconds with a top speed fixed at 350 km/h. As for looks, Lamborghini asserts that its sculpted design establishes a connection between past and future, with elements inspired by the Countach, Diablo and Aventador models along with brand-new features soon to be revealed.

Rather like an artistic masterpiece, the 6.5-litre atmospheric V12 engine is displayed for all to see at the rear, lit up by the third brake light. The 3.8 kWh battery charges in 30 minutes for a power supply of 7 kW, or in only 6 minutes using the V12 as a generator (Recharge Programme). The first models will be delivered to their lucky owners from the end of this year.