Aehra Reveals Names for First Two Luxury Electric Vehicles: Estasi and Impeto

Published 7 August 2024

Aehra, the US-Italian electric vehicle start-up, has announced the names of its first two models: the Estasi saloon and the Impeto SUV. With a vision to revolutionise the luxury electric vehicle market, Aehra is gearing up to compete with the likes of Mercedes, Audi, BMW, and Porsche. The announcement also signals the brand’s commitment to innovation and sustainability as it prepares to begin production by mid-2026.

The Aehra Estasi: Luxury Meets Performance

The Estasi, derived from the Italian word for “ecstasy,” aims to be the pinnacle of luxury electric saloons. This four-door electric vehicle is designed to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, boasting a range of 497 miles, just shy of the Mercedes EQS 450+ which leads the segment with a 511-mile range.

source: Aehra

Performance-wise, the Estasi is impressive. It features a 120kWh battery, a triple-motor setup producing 805bhp, and can accelerate from 0 to 62mph in under three seconds. Its top speed is projected at 161mph. The vehicle’s 350kW recharging capability promises a rapid charge from 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes, making long journeys more convenient.

source: Aehra

In terms of dimensions, the Estasi measures 5,060mm in length, 2,000mm in width, and 1,450mm in height, with a weight of 2,200kg, putting it on par with its competitors. The car’s standout feature is its four top-hinged ‘falcon’ doors, reminiscent of the brand’s SUV, the Impeto. Inside, the Estasi is a strict four-seater, equipped with a unique full-width, extendable dashboard screen and a lower screen for climate and feature controls.

source: Aehra

The Aehra Impeto: A Bold New SUV

The Impeto, meaning “impetus” in Italian, is Aehra’s venture into the luxury SUV market. Like the Estasi, it features a 120kWh battery and a triple-motor setup, aiming for a range of over 497 miles and a similar performance profile with 0 to 62mph acceleration in under three seconds and a top speed of 161mph.

source: Aehra

The Impeto shares many design elements with the Estasi, including the cab-forward bodystyle, smooth surfacing, and strong front and rear haunches. The SUV’s defining feature is its large, dramatic gullwing doors, which provide a striking visual and functional element.

source: Aehra

source: Aehra

Production and Investment Plans

Aehra’s production plans are ambitious. The company has submitted a development proposal worth €1.2 billion (£1bn) to the Italian Ministry of Industry. This plan includes the construction of a 207,000 square foot factory in Mosciano Sant’Angelo, Abruzzo. This location was strategically chosen for its proximity to Italy’s renowned carbon fibre industry and the expertise available from the nearby University of L’Aquila.

The new factory is set to create 540 local jobs and an additional 110 positions at Aehra’s headquarters in Milan. Aehra is leveraging partnerships with academic institutions like the University of L’Aquila and the Polytechnic of Milan to drive technological advancements in EV production and to develop the cutting-edge 800km-range electric powertrain.

A Vision for the Future

Aehra, co-founded by former Lamborghini design chief Filippo Perini, aims to produce 25,000 units annually per model by mid-2026. The use of a carbon fibre monocoque passenger cell for both the Estasi and Impeto is touted as a world-first for mainstream production vehicles, highlighting Aehra’s commitment to innovation and performance.

With the Estasi and Impeto, Aehra is set to make a significant impact in the luxury EV market, offering vehicles that combine advanced technology, luxury, and sustainability. The company’s strategic investments and innovative design philosophy position it well to compete with established luxury automakers, promising an exciting future for electric vehicles.