Venturi America, an extraordinary vehicle
300 hp, top speed of 200 km per hour and a range of 300 km, the electric car is setting its sights on the truly exceptional. After 12 years of technological innovation pursued by Monaco-based Venturi Automobiles in the field of sustainable mobility, this raised cross-over with zero emissions is preparing to take to the road...
“Some dreams just never leave you. That of driving a sports car unique in its kind, powerful and silent, through fantastic scenery ; that of tasting the unique enjoyment of driving characterized by precision, acceleration and smoothness, in symbiosis with Nature. The America was born for wide open spaces.” From an ambition to its accomplishment there was just one step, taken by designer Sacha Lakic and the Monégasque car-manufacturer at the 2012 edition of the World Motor Show in Paris, after presenting the concept car two years previously. This sporty model has inherited the high body, wheel mounting and silhouette of the bodywork from the buggy. Everything in its design focuses on enjoyment, starting with lots of curves. In fine weather, this model recalling a roadster readily removes its top. No type of terrain - mountain roads, forest paths or arid trails - gets the better of its agility. And versatility is seen as an absolute. Endowed with the latest traction chain designed by the firm in the Principality, this raised 2-seater boasts 300 hp under its hood and constant acceleration up to its top speed of 200 km per hour. Appealing performance, given that it runs solely on electricity. The 53-kWh Lithium Ion Polymer battery pack provides a range of up to 300 km. An external recharge takes four hours, 10 hours on a monophase socket. The composite carbon body signed Venturi ensures optimal protection of both batteries and passengers. While observers are all in favour of ecological improvements, they generally admit to being bored at the wheel of electric cars. The America is the exception to the rule. And once again, the Monaco-based firm has proven its tenacity in overcoming technical obstacles without sacrificing driving pleasure. In 2010, one of its electric vehicles chalked up an average 495 km per hour over 1 km with a top speed of 515 km per hour, shattering the previous record. Another completed a run of 13,400 km from Shanghai to Paris without any assistance.
The America is assembled in France, at the firm’s Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Plant in La Sarthe. Each unit is then finished to order and delivered to the Monaco headquarters of Venturi Automobiles. The buyer benefits from a varied choice of colours and upholstery. Production is not expected to exceed 100 models over four years. With a 2-year guarantee, the America also benefits from assistance with diagnosis via a Wifi or GPRS connexion. Last but not least, the price : 300,000 € + VAT.
By Laetitia Rossi
