Debut of Ispano Suiza "Carmen Sagra" with new 103kwh battery

Historic Spanish automaker Ispano Suiza unveiled the next evolution of its electric hypercar, the Carmen, on Friday.

The new version, dubbed the "Carmen Sagrera," commemorates the 120th anniversary of Ispano Suiza's founding. The name is also a reference to the La Sagrera district of Barcelona, where Ispano Suiza opened a factory in 1911.

The original Carmen debuted in 2019 with a peak output of 1,000 hp. A more hardcore version, known as the Carmen Boulogne, was launched in 2020 and boasted an additional 100 hp. The new Carmen Sagrera matches the 1,100 hp of the Carmen Boulogne, and combines this output with a new 103 kwh battery developed completely in-house.

The increased cell density allows this new battery to fit into the T-shaped space of Carmen Sagrera's carbon fiber tubing. The battery alone weighs 1,350 pounds and is claimed to provide a range of almost 300 miles in the WLTP test cycle used overseas. Under the more stringent EPA test cycle, it would be rated lower.

Other upgrades are said to include an improved battery cooling system, a set of custom-made Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires, and an upgraded brake package that not only reduces weight but also improves brake feel. The rotors are made of carbon ceramic.

The aerodynamics package has also been significantly redesigned, especially at the rear, where a split spoiler resembling a stork's wing has been installed in reference to the brand's logo. According to Ispano Suiza, the aerodynamic changes have significantly improved downforce and grip levels.

The 1,100 hp output is produced by four axial-flow motors mounted on the rear axle. Each rear wheel is driven by two motors assembled in series, with a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 2.6 seconds (according to Hispano Suiza).

Production is extremely limited. Only 14 Carmen and 5 more Boulogne were built. Hispano Suiza has not disclosed how many Sagreras will be manufactured.

The company also did not mention availability in the U.S., but it could be launched here later this year; CEO Sergio Martinez Campos said at the launch that 2024 is the year to "conquer major markets," one of which is the U.S. 2022, Mattress king Michael Hooks took delivery of Carmen Boulogne, finished in his signature fuchsia purple.