Why the Puritalia Berlinetta matter
In a world dominated by mass production and strict efficiency rules, the Puritalia Berlinetta stands out as something very different. Handcrafted in Italy, this limited run grand tourer combines classic GT proportions with a modern hybrid system that delivers nearly 1,000 horsepower. First unveiled at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, it represents the vision of a small team determined to blend artistry with advanced engineering.
The Berlinetta is not just about raw numbers, though its figures are impressive enough. With a 5.0 liter V8 paired to an axial flux electric motor, it accelerates from 0 to 62 miles per hour in just 2.7 seconds. What makes it truly compelling is the way it mixes old world craftsmanship with cutting edge hybrid software and carbon fiber construction. This dual identity Italian coachbuilding tradition paired with modern hybrid intelligence makes it a rare entry in today’s performance car scene.
Puritalia Berlinetta design and build quality
The Puritalia Berlinetta’s design philosophy is rooted in classic Italian elegance. It borrows the proportions of a traditional grand tourer: a long sculpted hood, a low roofline, and muscular rear haunches. At the same time, the styling has modern aerodynamics built into its flowing lines, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
- Carbon fiber monocoque: The Berlinetta sits on a lightweight carbon fiber chassis that provides rigidity and weight savings.
- Aluminum subframes: Both front and rear subframes are aluminum, reducing weight while maintaining structural strength.
- Handcrafted finishes: Every body panel and interior detail is shaped and finished by artisans, ensuring each car is unique.
The result is a GT that honors traditional Italian coachbuilding while embracing materials usually found in motorsport.
Puritalia Berlinetta powertrain and performance
The heart of the Puritalia Berlinetta is its hybrid system, combining mechanical muscle with electric precision. At its core is a 5.0 liter supercharged V8, tuned for responsiveness and raw character. To this, Puritalia adds an axial flux electric motor supplied by YASA, delivering instant torque and extra horsepower when needed.
- Combined power: Around 965 horsepower with over 920 Newton meters of torque.
- Acceleration: 0 to 62 mph in 2.7 seconds, placing it among the fastest boutique hybrids.
- Top speed: Claimed 208 mph, though this figure remains manufacturer stated.
- Transmission: Rear wheel drive with a seven speed automated gearbox that balances control and performance.
These numbers position the Berlinetta alongside hybrid hypercars from much larger companies, but with a more personal, hand built approach.
Puritalia Berlinetta driving modes and software
Puritalia markets its advanced control system as Purhydrive, a cloud connected platform designed to manage energy distribution intelligently. It uses algorithms to predict driver intent and optimize torque split between the engine and motor.
- Driving modes: Super Hybrid, Sport, Corsa, E Power, and Individual, each offering a different character.
- E Power: Purely electric mode, giving roughly 20 kilometers of range from the 5.2 kilowatt hour battery.
- AI integration: Purhydrive claims to learn the driver’s style over time, adjusting response and efficiency.
- Remote updates: Software is managed through cloud services, promising future refinements without mechanical changes.
This blend of AI, hybrid control, and personalization makes the Berlinetta more advanced than most traditional GTs.
Puritalia Berlinetta interior and ergonomics
Inside, the Puritalia Berlinetta emphasizes craftsmanship, blending high tech interfaces with traditional materials.
- Luxury appointments: Nappa leather, exposed carbon fiber, and Alcantara give the cabin a bespoke feel.
- Driver centric design: A 12.3 inch digital cluster and a 10 inch infotainment screen provide modern usability.
- Seats and ergonomics: Lightweight Sabelt seats hold occupants firmly while maintaining GT comfort.
- Connectivity: Smartphone integration and a proprietary app allow owners to track vehicle status and updates remotely.
Though built like a track capable machine, the cabin is finished to feel like a luxury tourer.
Puritalia Berlinetta specs at a glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 5.0 liter supercharged V8 |
| Electric motor | Axial flux motor by YASA |
| Combined output | ~965 hp / 920 Nm torque |
| Battery | 5.2 kWh LiFePO4 |
| Pure electric range | ~20 km |
| 0–62 mph | 2.7 seconds |
| Top speed | ~208 mph (claimed) |
| Chassis | Carbon fiber monocoque, aluminum subframes |
| Production run | 150 units |
| Starting price | €465,000 plus VAT (Unverified higher reports) |
Puritalia Berlinetta production, pricing and ownership
Puritalia states that the Berlinetta will be limited to just 150 units worldwide, each one handcrafted to the buyer’s specification. Customers are involved in the commissioning process, selecting materials and finishes to create a truly unique machine.
- Pricing: The official Puritalia listing shows a starting price of €465,000 plus VAT, though some reports cited higher figures exceeding €550,000. Because of this discrepancy, pricing remains partly unverified.
- Ownership experience: Buyers can expect direct contact with the factory and personalized support. Each car reflects significant manual work hours, making it more akin to a custom commission than a mass produced model.
- Exclusivity: The small production number ensures rarity, positioning the Berlinetta as a collector’s piece as much as a driver’s car.
Puritalia Berlinetta competitors and alternatives
Although unique in execution, the Puritalia Berlinetta inevitably draws comparisons to other hybrid supercars and boutique GTs. Its closest peers include the Rimac Nevera, known for all electric performance, and hybrid hypercars from brands like Ferrari and McLaren.
- Boutique competition: Companies like Pagani and Spyker emphasize hand built quality, though they often remain combustion focused.
- Mainstream hybrids: Models like the Ferrari SF90 Stradale and McLaren Artura demonstrate how larger brands integrate hybrid systems, but they lack the exclusivity of Puritalia’s limited run.
- Electric contrasts: The Rimac Nevera highlights the difference between hybrid and fully electric strategies.
For a contrasting look at an all electric hypercar concept, see our Faraday Future FFZero1 profile on TillDrive.
Puritalia Berlinetta pros and cons
Pros:
- Handcrafted Italian design and finishing
- Nearly 1,000 horsepower hybrid system
- Carbon fiber monocoque and advanced software
- Extreme exclusivity with only 150 units
Cons:
- Very high price, with unclear official figures
- Limited electric range compared to modern EVs
- Practicality is secondary to performance
- Unverified production status and delivery numbers
Conclusion Key takeaways
The Puritalia Berlinetta is not just another supercar. It is a handcrafted expression of Italian tradition fused with modern hybrid performance. With nearly 1,000 horsepower, a carbon chassis, and advanced AI assisted software, it competes with hypercars from much larger manufacturers while retaining exclusivity. For collectors and enthusiasts who value rarity, craftsmanship, and innovation, the Berlinetta is one of the most compelling boutique GTs of the last decade.
Puritalia Berlinetta FAQs
How much does the Puritalia Berlinetta cost?
Puritalia lists a starting price of €465,000 plus VAT, but other outlets reported figures above €550,000. The exact final pricing remains unverified.
How many Puritalia Berlinetta units will be built?
Production is limited to 150 units, according to Puritalia.
What is the electric only range of the Puritalia Berlinetta?
The small 5.2 kWh battery provides around 20 kilometers in E Power mode, best suited for city driving.
How fast is the Puritalia Berlinetta?
Manufacturer claims say 0 to 62 mph in 2.7 seconds and a top speed of about 208 mph.
Is the Puritalia Berlinetta road legal?
Yes, the car is homologated for road use in markets where small series vehicles are permitted.
Who makes the Puritalia Berlinetta?
It is designed and built by Puritalia Automobili, a boutique manufacturer based in Naples, Italy.
Does the Berlinetta receive software updates?
Yes, Purhydrive software is cloud connected and can be updated remotely, though long term real world testing is unverified.
When was the Puritalia Berlinetta unveiled?
The Berlinetta was first shown publicly at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.
