Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne at the exhibition “Hypercars 2. The allure of the Extreme” hosted by the Petersen Museum
The Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne heads to Los Angeles to be on display at the exhibition “Hypercars 2. The allure of the Extreme” hosted by the Petersen Museum.
Located in the Bruce Meyer Gallery, the exhibition features a selection of 14 vehicles, including the first Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne delivered in the United States. This unique sample delves into the concept of “hypercar” and its attributes.
The exhibition, which has already opened its doors, will last until May 24th, 2023.
Hispano Suiza will also take part in the Petersen Museum’s 28th Annual Gala dinner to be held on Saturday, October 1st. During the dinner, a Hispano Suiza Experience will be auctioned off among the 600 attendees. It includes, among other activities, a test drive with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne in the surroundings of the picturesque Peralada Castle and a visit to the New Winery, designed by RCR architecture studio and the first in Europe with a LEED GOLD sustainability certificate.
All proceedings will be donated to the Petersen Museum Foundation.
ABOUT HISPANO SUIZA
Hispano Suiza is a historic Spanish automotive brand owned by the Suqué Mateu family, now in its fourth generation. Hispano Suiza Automobile Factory S.A. was founded in Barcelona in 1904 by Damián Mateu, together with technical director and engineer Marc Birkigt, also a partner in the company.
Between 1904 and 1946, Hispano Suiza manufactured more than 12,000 high-performance luxury vehicles and 50,000 aircraft engines. Currently, with its headquarters, technical center and manufacturing plant located in Barcelona (Spain), it embodies a spirit that combines the pride of being a Spanish brand with a solid family legacy.
In 2019, the brand presented the Hispano Suiza Carmen, its new 100% electric hypercar, and a year later, it upped the ante with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne. In total 24 exclusive units will be produced.
In 2022, the first unit of Carmen Boulogne in the United States was delivered to collector Michael Fux.
Since its foundation, four generations of the Suqué Mateu family have preserved the brand, providing impetus and dynamism to maintain its significant heritage. Currently, Miguel Suqué Mateu, great-grandson of the brand’s founder, is at the helm of Hispano Suiza as its Chairman.
Hispano Suiza is part of the Peralada Group, which represents the pinnacle of luxury dining and entertainment through its global portfolio of casinos, restaurants, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, music festivals and marinas.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For further information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the Press Office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
Hispano Suiza receives ‘Legacy, Spirit & Style’ award at The New York City Concours
The first Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne to arrive in the US was the guest star of The New York City Concours
“This award is a tribute to the legacy, the style and the unique spirit of our cars”, said Sergio Martínez Campos, CEO of Hispano Suiza
New York, 20 September 2022. Hispano Suiza has received the ‘Legacy, Spirit & Style’ award given by the organization of The New York City Concours.
For Sergio Martínez Campos, CEO of Hispano Suiza, “this award recognizes the legacy, style and unique spirit of our cars and shows the great interest that the brand raises in the American market.”
Sergio Martínez Campos, CEO of Hispano Suiza receiving the Award in NYC.
Thirty classic cars and motorcycles participated in the contest, which kicked off men’s fashion style month, as well as 31 establishments from the Madison Avenue shopping district.
The first unit of the Carmen Boulogne to arrive in the US took pride of place amongst the classic cars on display. The Boulogne pays tribute to the heritage of Hispano Suiza in the world of motorsport. Building on its sibling’s credentials, the Carmen Boulogne boasts 820kW (1,114PS) of power, a top speed of 290km/h (180mph) and accelerates from 0-100km/h in less than 2.6 seconds.
ABOUT HISPANO SUIZA
Hispano Suiza is a historic Spanish automotive brand owned by the Suqué Mateu family, now in its fourth generation. Hispano Suiza Automobile Factory S.A. was founded in Barcelona in 1904 by Damián Mateu, together with technical director and engineer Marc Birkigt, also a partner in the company.
Between 1904 and 1946, Hispano Suiza manufactured more than 12,000 high-performance luxury vehicles and 50,000 aircraft engines. Currently, with its headquarters, technical center and manufacturing plant located in Barcelona (Spain), it embodies a spirit that combines the pride of being a Spanish brand with a solid family legacy.
In 2019, the brand presented the Hispano Suiza Carmen, its new 100% electric hypercar, and a year later, it upped the ante with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne. In total 24 exclusive units will be produced.
In 2022, the first unit of Carmen Boulogne in the United States was delivered to collector Michael Fux.
Since its foundation, four generations of the Suqué Mateu family have preserved the brand, providing impetus and dynamism to maintain its significant heritage. Currently, Miguel Suqué Mateu, great-grandson of the brand’s founder, is at the helm of Hispano Suiza as its Chairman.
Hispano Suiza is part of the Peralada Group, which represents the pinnacle of luxury dining and entertainment through its global portfolio of casinos, restaurants, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, music festivals and marinas.
MEDIA CONTACTS For further information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the Press Office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
Hispano Suiza to ‘electrify’ The New York City Concours
Hispano Suiza will be the main sponsor of “The New York City Concours” an exhibition of fine classic cars taking place in the heart of Manhattan on September 17
The brand will exhibit the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne on 72 nd Street between Madison and Fifth Avenue
The US play a key role in the expansion of Hispano Suiza internationally
Barcelona, September 8, 2022. After the Monterey Car Week, Hispano Suiza heads to New York to take part in “The New York City Concours”. This year the event organisers have accepted the invitation from the Madison Avenue Business Improvement District to be the featured attraction of their Men´s Style Month. Madison Avenue is the main luxury district in the United States, where the most important fashion and jewelry boutiques are located, as well as internationally famous hotels and restaurants. Located in the Upper East Side area of Manhattan, just a few meters from Central Park, it constitutes an incomparable setting for “The New York City Concours”.
Sponsored by Hispano Suiza, “The New York City Concours” will showcase more than 30 classic and exotic vehicles as well as 12 motorcycles on 72 nd Street between Madison and Fifth Avenue. Along with them, the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne who will be shown for the first time in the big Apple. “The United States is a strategic market for Hispano Suiza” says Sergio Martínez Campos CEO of Hispano Suiza. “After Miami and Monterey, this will be our first time in New York. And I can’t imagine a better venue than this revamped edition of The New York City Concours on Madison Avenue, one of the top fashion and style destinations in the world. With our presence here we continue to challenge the concept of luxury and break the mold of the automotive industry” he concludes.
For her part, Maria Jannace, founder of the NYCC, highlights that “Hispano Suiza is an automotive brand known for their exquisitely luxurious and meticulously engineered automobiles. Their heritage is an important part of automotive history and they have infused their dynamic culture into the creation of cutting-edge electric cars. We couldn’t be more honored to have this legacy Spanish brand as our partner”, says Jannace.
“The New York City Concours” will thus become a meeting point for car collectors and fashion lovers. In addition, the People’s Choice Award will be presented, a prize awarded to the most iconic vehicle attributed by the event guests themselves.
The exhibition is free and open to the public from 12:00 to 17:00.
ABOUT HISPANO SUIZA
Hispano Suiza is a historic Spanish automotive brand owned by the Suqué Mateu family, now in its fourth generation. Hispano Suiza ¡ Automobile Factory S.A. was founded in Barcelona in 1904 by Damián Mateu, together with technical director and engineer Marc Birkigt, also a partner in the company.
Between 1904 and 1946, Hispano Suiza manufactured more than 12,000 high-performance luxury vehicles and 50,000 aircraft engines. Currently, with its headquarters, technical center and manufacturing plant located in Barcelona (Spain), it embodies a spirit that combines the pride of being a Spanish brand with a solid family legacy.
In 2019, the brand presented the Hispano Suiza Carmen, its new 100% electric hypercar, and a year later, it upped the ante with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne. In total 24 exclusive units will be produced.
In 2022, the first unit of Carmen Boulogne was delivered in the United States.
Since its foundation, four generations of the Suqué Mateu family have preserved the brand, providing impetus and dynamism to maintain its significant heritage. Currently, Miguel Suqué Mateu, great-grandson of the brand’s founder, is at the helm of Hispano Suiza as its Chairman.
Hispano Suiza is part of the Peralada Group, which represents the pinnacle of luxury dining and entertainment through its global portfolio of casinos, restaurants, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, music festivals and marinas.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For further information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the press office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
The United States, a strategic market for Hispano Suiza after Monterey Car Week
The first Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne to arrive in the US starred in the Monterey Car Week, held from August 17 to 21 in California
“We are going to experience a revolution in the interior of our vehicles”, said Francesc Arenas, director of Design at Hispano Suiza, who took part in a panel organized by the Petersen Museum about the “Future of Electric Vehicle Design”.
Motorlux, The Quail and Exotics on Broadway were the events featuring Hispano Suiza.
Monterey, August 23, 2022. Hispano Suiza finalized its participation in the Monterey Car Week. Throughout the week, the brand took part in various exclusive events that turn this area of California in an epicenter for automotive fans, collectors and potential buyers.
“Motorlux”, held at the Monterey Jet Center, marked the beginning of the Monterey Car Week. The first Hispano Suiza car delivered in the United States, a Carmen Boulogne painted in one-off Ocean Song Rose color, was displayed in the so-called “Electric Avenue” before 3,000 visitors, as the excellence in automotive, aviation and gastronomy gathered together, three highly important components of the Hispano Suiza DNA.
In addition, Francesc Arenas, Design Director of Hispano Suiza, took part in a panel organized by the Petersen Museum on the “Future of Electric Vehicle Design” at the renowned Pebble Beach Beach&Tennis Club. The autonomous car and the changes that it will entail for the interiors focused part of the interventions. Arenas stressed that “biometrics will allow managing the necessary relationship between human and artificial intelligence”.
Francesc Arenas, Design Director of Hispano Suiza at the conference organized by the Petersen Museum.
The pillar of this Monterey Car Week has been “The Quail, a Motorsport Gathering”, held at the renowned Quail Lodge & Golf Club. Hispano Suiza showcased its Carmen Boulogne on a stand that captured the attention of personalities such as the Swedish former Formula 1 driver Stefan Johansson and one of the best known automotive TikTokers in the world, Daniel Mac (@itsdanielmac with nearly 13 million followers).
Hispano Suiza finalised its participation in the Monterey Car Week with the “Exotics on Broadway” exhibition, thanks to its partnership agreement with Michelin. Since the inaugural event in 2015, Exotics has grown from a small gathering of supercars to the event with the highest attendance during Monterey Car Week. Focused entirely on the Super, Hyper and Exotic Car phenomenon, the event takes place on Broadway Avenue in the Monterey County town of Seaside.
Hispano Suiza’s presence in the United States is gathering momentum, having participated in five events this year in the United States, since its first showcase at The Amelia last March.
ABOUT HISPANO SUIZA
Hispano Suiza is a historic Spanish automotive brand owned by the Suqué Mateu family, now in its fourth generation. Hispano Suiza Automobile Factory S.A. was founded in Barcelona in 1904 by Damián Mateu, together with technical director and engineer Marc Birkigt, also a partner in the company.
Between 1904 and 1946, Hispano Suiza manufactured more than 12,000 high-performance luxury vehicles and 50,000 aircraft engines. Currently, with its headquarters, technical center and manufacturing plant located in Barcelona (Spain), it embodies a spirit that combines the pride of being a Spanish brand with a solid family legacy.
In 2019, the brand presented the Hispano Suiza Carmen, its new 100% electric hypercar, and a year later, it upped the ante with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne. In total 24 exclusive units will be produced.
In 2022, the first unit of Carmen Boulogne in the United States was delivered to collector Michael Fux.
Since its foundation, four generations of the Suqué Mateu family have preserved the brand, providing impetus and dynamism to maintain its significant heritage. Currently, Miguel Suqué Mateu, great-grandson of the brand’s founder, is at the helm of Hispano Suiza as its Chairman.
Hispano Suiza is part of the Peralada Group, which represents the pinnacle of luxury dining and entertainment through its global portfolio of casinos, restaurants, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, music festivals and marinas.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For further information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the Press Office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
Monterey Car week: next stop for Hispano Suiza in the United States
Hispano Suiza will take part in the exclusive Monterey Car Week, the largest automobilia show in America, that takes place from August 17 to 21 in California
The Spanish brand will be in attendance with a custom-made Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne, the first unit that was delivered to a client in the United States
Francesc Arenas, Director of Design at Hispano Suiza, will participate in a conference organized by the Petersen Museum on the design of electric vehicles of the future.
Barcelona, August 1, 2022. Hispano Suiza sets sail again for the United States to take part in the Monterey Car Week, which will take place between August 17 and 21. During this week, Monterey and its surroundings become the epicenter of the automotive world. Every year, around 100,000 car enthusiasts, fans, collectors, celebrities and, of course, manufacturers participate in this event showcasing the most exclusive vehicles in the world.
The curtain opens on Wednesday, August 17 with “Motorlux”, an event that marks the beginning of the Monterey Car Week and that takes over from the McCall’s Motorworks Revival.
The following day, Thursday August 18, Hispano Suiza will participate in a conference organized by the Petersen Museum on the “Future of Electric Vehicle Design”. The company’s Director of Design, Francesc Arenas, will present his vision along with other prominent voices from the industry.
On Friday, August 19, Hispano Suiza will be at “The Quail, a Motorsport Gathering”, an exclusive exhibition located in an incomparable setting: the gardens of the Quail Lodge & Golf Club in the picturesque city of Carmel.
The grand finale will be on Saturday the 20th, when Hispano Suiza will be present, thanks to its partnership with Michelin, at the “Exotics on Broadway”, a unique event open to the public, focused on supercars, hypercars and exotic cars.
ABOUT HISPANO SUIZA
Hispano Suiza is a historic Spanish automotive brand owned by the Suqué Mateu family, now in its fourth generation. Hispano Suiza Automobile Factory S.A. was founded in Barcelona in 1904 by Damián Mateu, together with technical director and engineer Marc Birkigt, also a partner in the company.
Between 1904 and 1946, Hispano Suiza manufactured more than 12,000 high-performance luxury vehicles and 50,000 aircraft engines. Currently, with its headquarters, technical center and manufacturing plant located in Barcelona (Spain), it embodies a spirit that combines the pride of being a Spanish brand with a solid family legacy.
In 2019, the brand presented the Hispano Suiza Carmen, its new 100% electric hypercar, and a year later, it upped the ante with the Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne. In total 24 exclusive units will be produced.
In 2022, the first unit of Carmen Boulogne in the United States was delivered to collector Michael Fux.
Since its foundation, four generations of the Suqué Mateu family have preserved the brand, providing impetus and dynamism to maintain its significant heritage. Currently, Miguel Suqué Mateu, great-grandson of the brand’s founder, is at the helm of Hispano Suiza as its Chairman.
Hispano Suiza is part of the Peralada Group, which represents the pinnacle of luxury dining and entertainment through its global portfolio of casinos, restaurants, hotels, golf courses, vineyards, music festivals and marinas.
MEDIA CONTACTS
For further information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the Press Office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
Hispano Suiza debuts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed
First day of Hispano Suiza at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in partnership with Michelin
Luis Pérez-Sala, Hispano Suiza Driver Brand Ambassador and former Formula 1 driver, drove up the legendary hill behind the wheel of the Hispano Suiza Carmen
The hypercar is fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, delivering outstanding grip and high precision.
Goodwood, 23 June 2022. Hispano Suiza made its official debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed today, one of the largest automotive events in the world. The iconic Spanish brand attended the event in the South of England, thanks to its partnership agreement with Michelin.
Hispano Suiza participates in the Goodwood Festival of Speed with the Carmen, the 750kW electric hypercar which heralded the return of the brand to the automotive world in 2019, equipped for the occasion with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
Luis Perez-Sala, Hispano Suiza Ambassador and former Formula 1 driver, drove up Goodwood Hill for the very first time: “The hillclimb its very entertaining, full of fast bends and the slope is quite steep. The Carmen behaved very well, and I am looking forward to driving it again”. The iconic hypercar will take part in the hillclimb twice a day, with Spanish driver Pérez-Sala behind the wheel.
More than 100,000 spectators are due to attend the Goodwood Festival of Speed over the weekend and they will be able to admire the Hispano Suiza Carmen in the Michelin Supercar Paddock. Fans of the brand will be able to follow the live coverage of the event on the Marque ́s Instagram profile: @hispanosuizacarsofficial.
GOODWOOD HILLCLIMB – TIMINGS
Friday 24 June 2022 12:20 h BST – 1st Hillclimb 17:45h BST – 2nd Hillclimb
Saturday 25 June 2022 12:20 h BST – 1st Hillclimb 15:20 h BST – 2nd Hillclimb
Sunday 26 June 2022 09:50 h BST – 1st Hillclimb 18:20h BST – 2nd Hillclimb
Barcelona, 21 December 2021. Hispano Suiza is much more than a car manufacturer, and this has been demonstrated throughout its more than 100 years of history. During this time, Hispano Suiza has become an important part of the Spanish and global automotive industry, creating exclusive, luxurious, reliable and technologically advanced vehicles. These values remain in the new era of the company, which resurfaced in 2019 with the launch of Carmen and Carmen Boulogne, two electric hypercars delivering over 1000 HP which there will only be manufactured 24 units.
During the last century, Hispano Suiza has participated in numerous events, competitions and has also played an important role in the lives of its owners, including Alfonso XIII, King of Spain, who was truly passionate about the brand. This is just one of the almost unknown curiosities about the legendary company. Here is a list of 10 facts you most likely didn’t know about Hispano Suiza.
1 – More than 100 years of history
Hispano Suiza was founded on June 14, 1904 by Damián Mateu together with Francisco Seix and Swiss engineer Marc Birkigt, who had worked for two companies which had preceded Hispano Suiza: La Cuadra and J. Castro. Birkigt’s experience in the industry was key in laying the foundations for Hispano Suiza.
In 1905, Hispano Suiza created their first vehicle, the Armored Type Birkigt System, which was equipped with a four-cylinder engine and 20 CV of power, and which reached a top speed of 87 km/h. It was followed, a year later, by what would be the first car with a six-cylinder engine built in Spain, a model delivering 75 HP of power that completed the Perpignan-to-Paris route in 22 hours, a feat which received great media attention at the time.
2 – Hispano Suiza did not just produce cars throughout its history
During World War I, Hispano Suiza went from producing cars to manufacturing aircraft engines. It was a period of great success for the company: they applied their technological know-how in the manufacture and development of automotive engines to a new field, which brought them great benefits.
Birkigt built an aircraft engine that was based on a racing car engine, following the “direct drive” principle, with a V8 layout and aluminum alloy blocks to reduce weight. Hispano Suiza began to receive numerous orders, so many that they had to sell licenses to other manufacturers in France, the United Kingdom, the United States, Italy, Japan and even Russia… In total, more than 50,000 Hispano Suiza engines were built.
Hispano Suiza aviation engines also found their place at sea. The most spectacular engine, a V12 delivering 1,300 HP, was mounted on a series of racing boats, including the so-called Aurora, built in 1935. Birkigt collaborated in the assembly of this boat, which was auctioned a few years ago for a figure close to a million euros.
3 – King Alfonso XIII
King Alfonso XIII played an important role in the early days of Hispano Suiza. The monarch was a car enthusiast, who instantly fell in love with the 20CV Hispano Suiza that he drove in in 1905. So much so that in 1910 he became a shareholder, purchasing 8% of the company shares. King Alfonso XIII also had a car named in his honor, a two-seater sportscar, with a 3,619 cc four-cylinder engine, delivering 60 HP, with a top speed 120 km / h. It was the Hispano-Suiza T45, better known as Hispano Suiza Alfonso XIII.
4 – A car for the elite
Thanks to the performance of its vehicles, which combined speed with lightness and amazing driving sensations, thanks to its luxury materials, the handcrafted to the highest quality standards, Hispano Suiza immediately rose to fame.
In addition to King Alfonso XIII, the vehicles of the Spanish brand were chosen by aristocrats, intellectuals and the most renowned artists in the world, such as Gustavo V of Sweden, Carlos II of Romania, Louis II of Monaco, Pablo Picasso, André Citroën, Coco Chanel, René Lacoste, Paul McCartney or Albert Einstein.
The history of Hispano Suiza cars has always been closely linked to clients with high purchasing power, an exquisite taste for luxury and an incalculable passion for the automotive world. Today, classic Hispano Suiza cars are preserved with great care in museums and private collections around the world.
5 – Hispano Suiza, not just a car but an asset of cultural interest
The Hispano Suiza 30-40 HP was an important model in the history of the brand, developed by Birkigt as a replacement for the 20-30 HP. Of all those produced, there a very special unit was custom-built for the Marquis of Zayas and bodied by Francisco Capella.
This model used noble woods and materials such as ivory and silver. The steering wheel was positioned to the right, as it was customary then, and featured mahogany details, ivory handles, beveled glass, automatic blinds, fine cushioned upholstered seats, a perfume diffuser, vases and numerous details that underlined the elegance and exclusivity of the car. It was an Hispano Suiza made to measure.
The model, after all cars once belonging to the Marquis of Zayas were auctioned, was acquired by the Spanish Home Office which declared it an Asset of Cultural Interest in 1988, being the first car to achieve this status, which is normally granted to monuments and works of art. The vehicle was then displayed in the Museum of Automotive History located in Salamanca (Spain).
6 – The stork
Hispano Suiza’s emblem, the stork, is a nod to the company’s heritage as a manufacturer of aircraft engines. The brand decided to feature it in all its models to pay tribute to Georges Guynemer, a French fighter ace, who had a stork painted on the fuselage of its fighter jet during World War I, powered by an Hispano Suiza engine.
In 1919, the silver stork accompanied the new Hispano Suiza H6B in its presentation at the Geneva Motor Show and, since then, it featured in all the brand’s models, accompanied by the flags of Spain and Switzerland. 100 years later, the stork flew again at Carmen’s presentation, once again at the Geneva Motorshow.
7 – Carmen
Carmen is the name that Hispano Suiza has given to the vehicle with which it made its comeback to the world of automotive manufacturing. It is a model that has already made history; the most technologically advanced that has been designed, manufactured and developed in Spain. The choice of the name is not a mere coincidence: it is a tribute to Mrs. Carmen Mateu, granddaughter of Damián Mateu – founder of the company – and mother of the current president of Hispano Suiza, Miguel Suqué Mateu.
“The name Carmen is a tribute to our mother. When we were debating what to name the new vehicle, we immediately thought of Carmen and the family loved it ”, declared Miguel Suqué Mateu. “She always told me that she wanted to see Hispano Suiza roaring on the streets again, and I am sure that she would be very proud of it. The signature on the back of the vehicle is her original signature.”
The ‘last name’ Boulogne, which is used for the more powerful version of Carmen, is not a coincidence either. It is a tribute to the victories achieved by the Hispano Suiza H6 Coupé in the Georges Boillot Cup, held in the French town of Boulogne-sur-Mer a century ago.
8 – A car made to race
The Hispano Suiza Carmen and Carmen Boulogne have been developed on the racing circuits. For the creation of this very special model, which was presented at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, Hispano Suiza had the backing of QEV Technologies, a motorsport company that built the first car that went on to win the drivers’ title in the Formula E championship.
Thus the Hispano Suiza Carmen’s dream performance, typical of a racing car. Its 1,019 CV of power – 1,114 CV in the Boulogne version – and its less than three seconds of acceleration from 0 to 100 km / h, make it one of the most powerful and fastest road cars in the world.
9 – Hispano Suiza has a former F1 driver in their team
After completing the design and manufacturing process, Hispano Suiza handed over the steering wheel to a former Formula 1 driver: Luis Pérez-Sala. Pérez-Sala has been in charge of developing the model on the track and on the road since the Hispano Suiza comeback was announced, and has worked to ensure that the select group of owners of the new Hispano Suiza feel like racing drivers.
In addition to Pérez Sala, Pablo Suárez, an experienced rally and rallycross driver with training as a motorsport engineer, also participated in the development process, bearing witness to the creation of an authentic work of art on wheels.
10 – The opportunity to create the car of your dreams
Each Hispano Suiza Carmen is unique. Thanks to the brand’s Unique Tailormade programme, customers have access to a wide variety of options to create the model they have dreamed of all their life. There are 1,904 possible combinations, so no two Hispano Suiza are alike.
Clients can choose between three main configurations that reflect the key values of the brand’s DNA – Elegance, Heritage and Sport – and, based on these, they can choose different colours and materials for the interior and exterior of their car, to add a personal touch to the design and adapt it to their individual tastes.
Media Contacts:
For more information about Hispano Suiza, please contact the press office: press@hispanosuizacars.com
Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne at Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este
Hispano Suiza will be present at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, which will be held from October 1st to 3rd on the shores of Lake Como, in Italy.
The Spanish brand will exhibit its most extreme electric hypercar, the Carmen Boulogne, which will be included in the prototype category
Lake Como, September 30, 2021 – Hispano Suiza continues to attract attention and admirers during its European tour thanks to the Carmen and Carmen Boulogne, the fully electric hypercars with which the brand has come back to life and elevates the concept of luxury and high performance to its maximum power. After taking part in the iconic Salon Privé in the UK, the IAA Mobility in Germany and the St. Moritz International Automobile Week & Motorsport Rendezvous in Switzerland over the past few weeks, Hispano Suiza is now heading to Italy to participate in the Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este.
For one weekend a year, this time from October 1st to the 3rd , the Grand Hotel Villa d’Este becomes the centre of attention in the world of luxury cars. Located in an idyllic setting on the shores of Lake Como and surrounded by mountains, Villa d’Este has been the chosen scenario of Concorso d’Eleganza since 1929, an event that brings together all kinds of vehicles with the concept of luxury and elegance as a common nexus.
Hispano Suiza will take part in the concours with its striking Carmen Boulogne. Designed, developed and manufactured in Barcelona, the Carmen Boulogne is the maximum representation of exclusivity. With a design characterised by sportiness and timeless elegance, the Carmen Boulogne integrates the exclusive legacy of the brand in an ultra- modern, fully electric vehicle delivering no less than 1,114 HP of power. Its name pays tribute to the victories of Hispano Suiza in the Georges Boillot Cup race, held near the French town of Boulogne, and its carbon fibre exterior finish combined with its cutting-edge technology make it a true work of art on wheels.
The Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne will be part of the prototype category of the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and is set to become one of the great attractions of the show, which is usually held in May and that, due to COVID-19, has been delayed until today.
Francesc Arenas, Design Director of Hispano Suiza said: “We are delighted to participate in such an iconic event as the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este with our Carmen Boulogne. Design has always been a differentiating element for Hispano Suiza, and it continues to be so today in the new models of the brand. When designing the Carmen and the Boulogne, we tried to combine the worlds of luxury and high performance, just as it happened with our historic models. The exterior of Carmen, in fact, is inspired by the late 1930s Xenia Dubonnet. In its most radical version, the Carmen Boulogne, the extensive use of carbon fibre pays tribute to Hispano Suiza motorsport heritage. We are sure that it will not leave anyone indifferent! “
Hispano Suiza Carmen: stars on the red carpet at Salón Privé
Hispano Suiza will be present at Salón Privé, which takes place from the 1st till the 5th of September at Blenheim Palace with its iconic hyperarc: the Hispano Suiza Carmen.
The all-electric hypercar makes its official UK debut at a legendary event, where exclusivity, luxury and elegance go side by side to offer a unique week in the automotive world.
Blenheim Palace, 1 September 2021 – The Hispano Suiza Carmen is not only a fully electric vehicle delivering outstanding performance thanks to a power output of 1,019 HP. The hypercar that heralded the return of the Spanish company to the automotive world represents technological excellence, high performance and luxury raised to its maximum power. And that is why it will be present, from today until September 5, at one of the most glamorous events in the automotive sector, Salón Privé.
Undoubtedly one of the unmissable appointments on the British social calendar for all lovers of the world of motoring and luxury, Salón Privé has been chosen for the UK debut of the Hispano Suiza Carmen. During the 5-day show, the luxurious and exclusive vehicle will be on display in the breath-taking gardens of Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Britain’s greatest Palace.
Designed, developed and manufactured in Barcelona, the Hispano Suiza Carmen is the highest representation of the values of exclusivity and elegance that Salón Privé transmits. With a design characterised by sportiness and timeless elegance, the Carmen combines the exclusive legacy of the brand in a modern hyper-luxury vehicle and will be one of the main stars of the show, where you can find authentic treasures of the present, past and future. of the automotive industry.
In addition to getting to know the new Hispano Suiza Carmen first-hand, those attending Salón Privé will have the opportunity to discover the latest news from various international manufacturers and enjoy the more than 100 vehicles on display, including cars and motorcycles, at the exclusive Concours d’Elegance. This year, rally legend Richard Burns will be honored with a collection of his racing cars on the 20th anniversary of his historic WRC victory.
Carmen, the inspiration behind the most advancedHispano Suiza of all times
Carmen Mateu was the granddaughter of Damián Mateu, founder of Hispano Suiza, and the mother of the current Chairman of the company.
She was Chairman of Hispano Suiza from 1972 till 2000, and a great promoter of music, culture and entertainment through the Peralada Festival, which she founded with her husband in 1987. This year the Festival celebrates its 35th anniversary.
Her amazing figure has served as inspiration for the launch of Carmen, the first Hispano Suiza of the new era.
Barcelona, 15 July 2021. Hispano Suiza Carmen represents technological excellence, high performance and luxury raised to its maximum power. In short, it is the most advanced vehicle ever created in our country. A model of such depth had to bear the name of a key figure in the history of the brand: Carmen Mateu. A tribute to the pursuit of dreams, to the infinite love for culture and art, and to the promotion of talent and our country within and outside our borders.
The rebirth of the Hispano Suiza brand bears the name of “Carmen”, a choice that was not merely coincidental, but quite the opposite: it is a name that perfectly embodies what the company and its products stand for. Carmen Mateu Quintana was born on February 21, 1936 in Barcelona, she was the daughter of Miguel Mateu i Pla, who throughout his long and distinguished career, was Mayor of Barcelona, Chairman of La Caixa bank and Ambassador in Paris. Miguel, in turn, was the son of Damián Mateu, a successful businessman, who in 1904 had founded Hispano Suiza together with Marc Birkigt.
Carmen lived through the end of the first era of Hispano Suiza, a brand she was extremely fond of, and that revolutionised the incipient automobile industry in our country, building more than 12,000 luxury cars between 1904 and 1946. The family also acquired the Peralada Castle (near Girona, Spain) in 1923: an imposing 14th-century construction, today it serves as the Peralada Group headquarters, headed by the Suqué Mateu family. Surrounded by immense gardens of almost 77,000 m2, designed by the architect François Duvilliers, and flanked by two 14th-century towers, the Peralada Castle hosts a majestic collection of books, ceramics and works of art.
With such a heritage, it is not surprising that Carmen was infected with an indomable passion for music, culture and art. She studied art and decoration, and she devoted herself to it throughout her life. In 1957 she married businessman Arturo Suqué, who eventually became Chairman of the Peralada Group, the holding that controls all the companies controlled by the family, including Hispano Suiza.
Driven by their love for music and entertainment, Carmen and her husband launched the Peralada Festival in 1987, held since then in the surroundings of the Peralada Castle and which has become a national and international reference for ballet and classical music. The Peralada Summer nights have been immersed in culture for over 30 years, thanks to outstanding opera productions, symphonic concerts, ballet, jazz and pop concerts that led the Peralada Festival to become a member of the European Festivals Association in 1992 and later of Opera Europe in 2010.
Artists such as Plácido Domingo, Josep Carreras, Montserrat Caballé, Ainhoa Arteta, Alfredo Kraus, Paco de Lucía, Joaquín Cortés, Antonio Canales, Sara Baras, Miguel Bosé, Alejandro Sanz and Miguel Poveda have all perfomed on the Peralada Castle stage. In 2011 Joan Manuel Serrat, gave an emotional symphonic concert to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Festival. Among the operas represented on the Peralada stage are Turandot and La Bohème, by Giacomo Puccini, Giuseppe Verdi´s La Traviata, and Don Giovanni, by Mozart. This year the Peralada Festival celebrates its 35th edition this summer with an amazing line-up.
Carmen Mateu established herself throughout her life as a promoter of the musical arts, thus continuing the family legacy. Thanks to the love and passion for all the forms of art that her father had instilled in her from her early years, she really put Peralada – a small village of 1,800 inhabitants- on the map and converted it into an international point of artistic reference. “My father left us a legacy: Peralada – she said in one of the rare interviews she gave – He liked music and this is a town of musical culture. He used to tell me: You have to do something! You have the place and the space, you have to dedicate it to whoever can enjoy it and reinvest in culture ”, so this is how the Festival was born.
When he passed away, in 2018, the 32nd edition of the Peralada Festival dedicated in his honor a performance of Verdi’s Requiem, by the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra and the National Orchestra of Catalonia. Throughout her life, Carmen Mateu received numerous awards, including the Gold Medal of the Cercle del Liceu, the Cruz de Sant Jordi or the Gold Medal of Merit for Fine Arts.
Her legacy lives on in every Hispano Suiza
The figure of Carmen is still very present in the new era of Hispano Suiza. She and her husband were in charge of transmitting the family values to their three children – Miguel, Isabel and Javier . Just as Carmen wanted to turn Peralada into am international point of reference, where the best artists performed and the best works where shown, today it is Hispano Suiza which elevates luxury, performance and excellence to a higher level, with the aim to entice car lovers and collectors all over the world.
Carmen Mateu, like the rest of the family, maintained the incessant desire to bring Hispano Suiza back to life. She was Chairman of the company between 1972 – after the death of her father, Miquel Mateu i Pla – and 2000, when she handed over the presidency to her son, Miguel Suqué Mateu, who currently heads the company.
Almost two decades later, a new Hispano Suiza was born to take the automobile industry by storm, featuring new technologies and producing the most advanced vehicles in the world.
“Hispano Suiza is the only brand that is still in the hands of a family today. For four generations we have preserved the Hispano Suiza brand, which is closely linked with the Suqué Mateu family”, said Miguel Suqué Mateu, Chairman of Hispano Suiza, son of Carmen Mateu and Artur Suqué and great-grandson of Damián Mateu, founder of the brand.
“The name Carmen is a tribute to our mother. When we were debating what we should name the vehicle, we thought about Carmen and the family loved it. She always told me that she wanted to see a Hispano Suiza on the streets again, and I am sure that now she will be proud of it. The signature on the back of the vehicle is her original signature. “
In March 2019, the new vehicle that brought the brand back to life was launched at the Geneva Motor Show: the Hispano Suiza Carmen, an electric hypercar delivering 1,019 HP of power, was designed, developed and manufactured in Barcelona. and only 19 units will be produced. Five of them will be in its most extreme version, called Carmen Boulogne, which raises its power to 1,114 hp.
It is a worthy tribute to the figure of a woman who put all her efforts to uphold the family’s legacy, with elegance and honor, and who fulfilled the dream of sharing her passion with the rest of the world.
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