Alfa Romeo, an emblem of Italian luxury and performance, has ventured into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of its first all-electric SUV, the Milano. This move marks a significant pivot for the brand as it embraces a future-oriented approach to automotive design and engineering. The Milano not only symbolises Alfa Romeo’s commitment to innovation but also sets a new standard in the compact SUV segment with its blend of style, performance, and advanced technology. Let’s delve deeper into the features, performance, and potential impact of this exciting new offering.
Design that Speaks Italian
The Milano retains the quintessential Alfa Romeo design ethos-sporty, sleek, and distinctly Italian. It features a compact body with a length of 4.17 metres, making it nimble for urban environments yet spacious enough to meet the demands of an active lifestyle. The design includes iconic elements such as limited overhangs, pronounced wheel arches, and a “Kamm tail” that nods to the historical Giulia TZ. The front end is dominated by Alfa’s traditional shield-shaped grille, adapted for its electric nature, flanked by innovative 3+3 LED matrix headlights that enhance its modern appeal.
Performance and Specifications
The Milano is available in two electric variants:
- Elettrica: This base model is equipped with a 154 hp electric motor powered by a 54 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 255 miles /410 km (WLTP). It is designed for efficiency and sufficient daily performance.
- Elettrica Veloce (“Veloce” meaning “fast” in Italian): The high-performance model boasts 237 hp, catering to those who seek a more dynamic driving experience. Though it shares the same battery size, the increased power likely reduces its range slightly compared to the Elettrica model.
Both models support fast charging capabilities, allowing a recharge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes with a suitable fast charger, showcasing Alfa Romeo’s commitment to convenience and usability.
Technology and Interior
Inside, the Milano is just as revolutionary. It features a dual 10.25-inch display setup, one for the infotainment and another as a digital cockpit for the driver. Unique design touches include air vents modelled after the Cloverleaf insignia, adding a bespoke feel to the cabin. A fully-digital instrument cluster displays vital information clearly, while a large central touchscreen controls infotainment, navigation, and climate control. The Milano also introduces advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including optional Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities, enhancing safety and driver comfort.
Unique Selling Points
A key selling point of the Milano is its combination of Alfa Romeo’s sporting DNA with electric efficiency. The vehicle is not just an SUV but a statement of luxury and future-ready technology. It offers the largest boot in its class for a full battery electric vehicle (BEV), addressing one of the common criticisms of compact EVs—lack of space. Furthermore, the Milano is built on the Stellantis e-CMP platform, which is known for its versatility and has been adapted to provide a unique blend of performance and efficiency.
Target Market
The Milano targets a broad audience, from eco-conscious urban dwellers to performance enthusiasts who are not willing to compromise on style or driving pleasure. Its competitive pricing, starting around €30,000 (around 27 Lakhs) in Europe, positions it well against other compact EVs in the market, making it an attractive option for those looking to transition to electric mobility without sacrificing brand prestige or vehicle aesthetics.
Potential Industry Impact
The launch of the Milano is likely to have a substantial impact on the automotive industry, signalling a shift among traditional luxury automakers towards embracing electrification. Alfa Romeo’s entry into the EV market with a vehicle that maintains the brand’s core values of design and performance could push more heritage brands to accelerate their EV strategies. This move is poised to expand the market for luxury EVs, offering new choices for consumers and driving further innovations in the sector.
Alfa Romeo Milano Elettrica Vs Volvo EX30
| Feature | Alfa Romeo Milano (Base Elettrica) | Peugeot e-2008 |
| Powertrain | 154 hp electric motor | 136 hp electric motor |
| Battery Capacity | 54 kWh | 50 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 255 miles (410 km) | Up to 214 miles (345 km) |
| Charging Capability | Fast charging up to 100 kW | Fast charging up to 100 kW |
| Performance | Base model designed for efficiency | Focus on smooth, quiet driving |
| Interior | Dual 10.25-inch displays, high-tech interior with advanced ADAS options | 3D i-Cockpit with a 10-inch touchscreen display, practical and modern interior |
| Boot Space | 400 litres | 434 litres |
| Price (starting approx. in Europe) | €30,000 | €34,050 |
| Unique Selling Points | Italian design, largest boot in its class for a BEV, new entry into EV market | Established model with eco-friendly design, slightly larger dimensions for a compact SUV |
Conclusion
The Alfa Romeo Milano represents a bold step into the future for the storied Italian automaker. By melding its rich heritage with cutting-edge technology and electric efficiency, Alfa Romeo is not just adapting to the new era of mobility but is looking to lead it. The Milano is more than just a car; it’s a harbinger of what the future of luxury electric vehicles can be. As it rolls out across Europe, the automotive industry will be watching closely, ready to see how this blend of tradition and innovation reshapes consumer expectations and manufacturer strategies alike.
