Hispano Suiza introduces the Carmen Sagrera, the latest addition to its electric hypercar lineup, marking the brand’s 120th anniversary with a blend of heritage and cutting-edge technology.
At the Sagrera unveiling, Sergio Martínez Campos, CEO of Hispano Suiza, emphasised the significance of the car in consolidating the Carmen range, launched in 2019. He noted the company’s plans to conquer key markets, including the United States, and complete European homologation, celebrating their legacy along the way.
Technological advancements
The Carmen Sagrera (below) uses the brand’s second-generation batteries, featuring a 103 kWh capacity, an upgrade from the previous 80 kWh battery found in the standard Carmen and Carmen Boulogne.
Developed and manufactured at Hispano Suiza’s Montmeló facilities in Barcelona, the battery consists of 360 lithium-ion cells across 15 modules. Weighing a not insignificant 612 kg, it offers a range of 480 km according to the WLTP cycle, an 80 km improvement over the standard Carmen and Carmen Boulogne.
Juan Fernández, Hispano Suiza’s technical director, explains that the new battery includes an enhanced cooling system, which is lighter and more sustainable. This system improves temperature control and reduces energy consumption, contributing to better overall performance and weight distribution, according to Fernández.
Extra equipment, extra weight
The Carmen Sagrera, however, weighs in at 1 875 kg, which is much heavier than the Carmen Boulogne’s mass of 1 630 kg.
The reasons for the increased weight of the Sagrera compared to the Carmen Boulogne could be the larger and heavier battery pack, combined with new cooling systems components, the rear wing (above), and additional luxury features.
Bold design and aerodynamics
The Sagrera’s design evolution includes a pointed grille reminiscent of the early 20th-century Hispano Suiza Alfonso XIII sports cars, redesigned bonnet vents, and new side sills that align with the rear panel’s design.
Francesc Arenas, head of design, emphasises the goal to uphold the brand’s sporty legacy while refining the concept of sportiness.
The rear design features a beautiful, large spoiler inspired by the brand’s stork emblem, enhancing aerodynamics alongside the diffuser, which has copper accents. These elements significantly increase downforce and grip, improving the vehicle’s cornering and acceleration capabilities, Hispano Suiza claims.
No fender skirts
The striking wheel enclosures (fender skirts) of the standard Carmen (above) are notably absent. By covering the wheels, these skirts reduce drag, reducing fuel consumption while improving performance. Shown next to the 1938 Hispano-Suiza H6B Dubonnet Xenia (below), it’s clear how much the vintage inspired the contemporary.
Inside, the car offers a luxurious ambiance with alcantara, black and red leather details, and a redesigned centre console and infotainment system.
High performance and advanced technology
Equipped with four 205 kW motors, the Carmen Sagrera delivers a combined output of 820 kW (1 100 hp) and 1 160 Nm of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 2,6 seconds. Hispano Suiza claims the same 2,6 second sprint time for the Boulogne (shown below).
The motors, connected in series to the rear axle, are supported by a virtual self-locking differential and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres, designed in collaboration with Michelin’s technical centre.
Military-grade materials
The vehicle’s suspension system was crafted from military-grade materials, according to the manufacturer. It features deformable parallelogram suspension with adjustable shock absorbers and coil springs. The advanced braking system includes 400mm carbon ceramic discs and lightweight single-block brake calipers, ensuring high performance under racetrack conditions.
Future appearances and brand legacy
Following its premiere, the Carmen Sagrera will make its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK in 2024.
The Sagrera’s unveiling took place at Finca Mas Solers near Barcelona, Spain. At the event, Miguel Suqué, president of Hispano Suiza (Spanish for ‘Spanish Swiss’), highlighted the enduring pioneering spirit that has driven the company since its inception by his great-grandfather Damián Mateu and partner Marc Birkigt.
“This is a story of people, of cars, and of numbers, but above all, it is about people who work as a team and love a unique and challenging project – a project with soul,” said Suqué.
To gain a sense of the brand’s character, watch this video titled Welcome to Hotel 1904.
At the time of writing, Hispano Suiza has not given any indication of the retail prices or delivery dates of any of its cars.
