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Castagna Fiat Tender2, the one-off based on the electric 500

With the new Tender2, Carrozzeria Castagna inaugurates a series of one-offs derived from the electric Fiat 500, after several creations based on the combustion-engined model, also under the Abarth brand. The atelier, which has acquired no fewer than 32 3D printers for the carbon customisation of its new models, has created this example for the Hotel Mandarin Oriental in Blevio, whose guests can now rent this little beach car with a canopy to enjoy the view of Lake Como.

Built in eight months on the basis of the “La Prima” launch edition, the Tender 2 sports a tone-on-tone mustard yellow bodywork, combined with a Sapelli mahogany wood kit with eight-layer workmanship inspired by the most classic Riva motorboats, to give this material a characteristic shiny, almost glassy effect. Even the chrome-plated ‘comet’, which is placed on the lower part of the side, is inspired by nautical elements, such as the side air exhausts of the Riva boats themselves.

Inside are two BMW-derived power seats, customised with brown eco-leather upholstery in different tones, which also characterises the lower part of the dashboard, the armrest and other elements of the passenger compartment. The backrests of these seats are made of yellow-grey-brown nautical fabric with a houndstooth motif, which is also echoed in the large, horizontally developed element of the dashboard. There is also a soft carpet covering at the occupants’ feet.

The rear of the car is where the nautical inspiration is most evident, thanks to an extensive use of mahogany and the presence of the side lockers, with relative hatches. On the entrance threshold the presence of a steel door sill is evident, whose chrome finish is recalled by the cap at the bottom of the floor: by lifting it, it is possible to take advantage of the supplied shower. Here again there is no absence of wicker, a classic in Castagna customisation.

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Aspark SP600

In a landmark achievement, the Aspark SP600, a production intent prototype hypercar, has become the world’s fastest electric hypercar, clocking a remarkable top speed of 438.7kph. This record-breaking feat was realized through the dedicated efforts of Manifattura Automobili Torino (M.A.T.) in collaboration with tire specialist Bridgestone and driven by professional racer Marc Basseng.

A Vision Realized

The Aspark SP600’s journey to this historic moment began with the vision of Aspark CEO Masanori Yoshida, whose company had previously set benchmarks with the Aspark Owl, renowned as the fastest accelerating electric hypercar. For this new project, Aspark once again partnered with M.A.T., entrusting them with the development and manufacturing of a hypercar capable of shattering the world top speed record for electric vehicles.

Collaboration and Innovation

To achieve this extraordinary speed, M.A.T. sought the expertise of Bridgestone to develop a custom-engineered tire. Bridgestone rose to the challenge with bespoke Potenza Race tires designed specifically for the SP600, ensuring they could handle speeds exceeding 420kph while managing the vehicle’s weight and driving dynamics.

The SP600 underwent rigorous testing at M.A.T.’s headquarters in Torino, Italy. This included extensive virtual and physical evaluations, wind tunnel validation, and numerous track testing sessions. M.A.T. meticulously handled the vehicle’s complete development, from powertrain and software integration to suspension and chassis design, as well as software calibration and the bespoke battery’s design and production.

Record-Breaking Achievement

On June 8th, during the second attempt of the day at Automotive Testing Papenburg, Marc Basseng flawlessly piloted the Aspark SP600 to its record-breaking speed of 438.7kph. This achievement was precisely measured using the certified Racelogic V-Box, a high-precision GPS-based device provided by the ATP proving ground.

The event was attended and supported by numerous marketing and premium partners, including the Supercar Owner Circle, who backed the attempt from its inception. Key executives from Aspark, M.A.T., and Bridgestone were present to witness this monumental accomplishment.

Statements from Key Figures

Masanori Yoshida, Aspark CEO: “It has been about 10 years since we started making the OWL Hypercar. We aimed for the world’s Fastest Acceleration car, and then attempted and achieved the top speed world record today. This technical capability inspires all involved to personal excellence and to challenge and grow in leaps and bounds into the future.”

Steven De Bock, Bridgestone VP EMEA Sales and Original Equipment:
“It was a big excitement on this first attempt for the record, which we immediately saw the potential of the cooperation between the car and tires. The whole team at Bridgestone worked extremely hard to deliver this project in such a short period, another testimonial of our technical capabilities and how we cooperate with our partners.”

Paolo Garella, M.A.T. CEO and Founder:
“This record represents a milestone in the continued growth of M.A.T., a company that today represents the best of the Italian tradition in the automotive industry. In 10 years, we have developed more than 11 full vehicle projects and we have demonstrated that with the right resources we are second to none. I am very proud of my team and also extremely happy to reach this milestone in the anniversary of the 10 years of foundation of M.A.T. A special thank you to Aspark’s CEO Mr. Masanori Yoshida for his vision, support, and trust in M.A.T., and to the Bridgestone team for taking on the challenge and supporting with their most advanced technology this record attempt.”

Exclusive Interview with Riccardo Garella

In an exclusive interview, Riccardo Garella, Sales and Marketing Manager at M.A.T., provided insights into the development process of the Aspark Owl. Watch the full interview on our YouTube channel here.

This historic achievement not only sets a new benchmark in the electric hypercar segment but also underscores the capabilities and potential of electric vehicles in pushing the boundaries of speed and performance.