Belgian car makers, Imperia Automobiles, used to be a thriving car manufacturer way back in the 1900’s, they ceased operations in the 1950’s but now they’re back from the dead (work started on reviving the company in 2008) with a brand new hybrid-car. The new car will be available in 2012 and is called the Imperia GP.
The exterior styling of the car is based on classic British sports cars, similar to what Weismann and Morgan are doing; under the classic shell is all-new state of the art technology. The car is powered by a turbocharged 1.6 liter engine in addition to an electric motor. The gasoline engine makes 209 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque and the electric motor produces 136 HP (100 kW) and 184 lb-ft. of torque. The end result is a blast to 62 mph in 4.0 seconds using both motors or 6.0 seconds when only the electric motor is called to action.
These are pretty respectable times considering the claimed mpg is pretty damn good, the Imperia GP gets 123.80 miles per gallon (1.9 L/100 km) and it only produces 50 g/km of CO2 emissions. The battery pack has a 43.5 mile (70 km) range and can be charged in 4.5 hours.
The 2012 Imperia GP will cost €89,950 and will be available next year but if you just have to have the car this year then you can buy it now for an additional €30,410, the total bill in USD is about $164,809.
Imperia GP Picture Gallery
[Source: Imperia Automobiles]
This really reminds me of a vehicle pulled straight out of the 1940s; I kind of like it.
I like the design, but the wheels are all wrong. A five star wheel might be a better look.
I never even noticed the wheels, you’re right, they don’t look good at all. I guess I was too drawn in by the beautiful curves 😉
such a great concept… fast hybrid that still gets mileage! now, if only they could mass produce it to get the cost WAY down
I know I shouldn’t do this but…. it’s “ceased” operations, not seized.
You should. And thanks 😉