Wanderlust

Tag: Alfa Romeo

  • Totem Automobili Presents “Persephone” GTSuper No. 10

    Totem Automobili Presents “Persephone” GTSuper No. 10

    For Totem Automobili, the star of the 2025 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este weekend was “Persephone”, their latest commission and GTSuper No. 10. That it sat in the garden of Villa Condulmar, a 17th-century Venetian estate located minutes from the firm’s Treviso atelier was also significant as it marked the beginning of a new partnership between the Alfa Romeo remastering company and this beautiful space.

    For Totem, Villa Condulmar will play a part as a venue for public and private events. Figure exclusive gatherings reserved for clientele.

    AS for “Persephone”, at its heart is a 2.8-liter twin turbo V6 rated at 640 hp sourced from Italtecnica and paired to a 6-speed manual gearbox with gated shifter.

    The color is “Verde Pino”, a historic color and favorite of Totem Automobili. The handsome wheels that hark a great era at Alfa Romeo are machined from solid billet and finished in nickel.

    Inside, the color orange adorns the nappa leather, while pied de pool fabric seat inserts accent it beautifully. Carbon fiber also takes a prominent place in the cabin, finished in high gloss in all configurable components. Also inside is the latest evolution of they firm’s instrument cluster, introduced in their third ever build though now showing a more intricate designs.

    PHOTO GALLERY

    PRESS RELEASE

    TOTEM AUTOMOBILI UNVEILS “PERSEPHONE”

    source: Totem Automobili

    Totem Automobili is proud to present “Persephone”, GTSuper No. 10 — a creation that embodies the technical refinement, aesthetic purity, and artisanal craftsmanship at the heart of every Totem project. This occasion also marks a significant milestone for the company: the beginning of an official partnership with Villa Condulmer, a magnificent 17th-century Venetian estate located just minutes from our Treviso atelier.

    Villa Condulmer will serve as a distinguished venue for both public and private events hosted by Totem. These gatherings, particularly the private ones, will be highly exclusive — reserved for our international clientele seeking a truly immersive Italian experience. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Monti family, proprietors of this remarkable villa, for supporting our mission: to promote and safeguard Italy’s cultural and historical heritage around the world.

    “Persephone” is as unique as the setting in which it was unveiled — a car whose creation demanded exceptional commitment from our entire supply chain, with a final result that reflects the collective excellence of every contributor.

    Powering the car is the “Gloria” engine: a 2.8-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 640 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox featuring an open-gate shifter. The body is finished in a special triple-layer metallic paint, inspired by the legendary “Verde Pino” — a historic shade that graced some of the most beautiful classic cars ever built.

    The interior showcases premium orange nappa leather and hand-crafted pied de poule fabric inserts, produced in Florence on a bespoke basis for each vehicle to match its unique configuration. This particular unit also features the latest version of our instrument cluster, introduced starting from car No. 3, now more intricate and refined than ever before.

    Exterior trims and wheels — the latter machined from solid billet locally — are finished in a bespoke Nickel coating. Meanwhile, the carbon fiber used throughout the interior and in all configurable components displays a traditional weave and high-gloss finish, a stylistic homage to the golden age of automotive design that inspired this model.

    “Persephone” is not only a technical and aesthetic milestone, but also a manifesto of our dedication to merging timeless beauty with cutting-edge innovation.

  • Totem Automobili Shows “Persephone” Commission at Villa d’Este

    Totem Automobili Shows “Persephone” Commission at Villa d’Este

    If you need another reason to add the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este to your bucket list, perhaps these photos of Totem Automobili’s latest GT Super known dubbed “Persephone” will help seal the deal. The illustrious Alfa Romeo remastering firm displayed the car handsomely at Villa d’Este’s Giardino di Fuoriconcorso.

    The location was close to the waters of Lake Como, a spot where Totem paired “Persephone” and another commission “Gaia” displayed the firms capabilities, drawing in attendees and press.

    For Totem, the displaying of the two cars offered an opportunity to show the spectrum of their capabilities. One car is built as an internal combustion engine, powered by the Italtecnica-sourced twin-turbo V6. Theater is fully electric, for those who prefer an embracing of the future of mobility without losing out on the style that runs through both of them.

    Gaia boasts a triple-layer green paint Totem refers to as “Verde EVO”, inspired by the color of premium extra virgin olive oil. Persephone is finished in an updated version of the firm’s Verde Pino, paired with orange interior for a bold contrast.

    See more photos below, with the full press release below that.

    PHOTO GALLERY

    PRESS RELEASE

    TOTEM AUTOMOBILI DAZZLES AT GIARDINO DI FUORICONCORSO WITH “PERSEPHONE” AND “GAIA”

    source: Totem Automobili

    Villa Flori, Como, May 2025 – In the refined setting of Giardino di Fuoriconcorso—a rising highlight of the Villa d’Este Concorso d’Eleganza weekend—Totem Automobili proudly debuted its latest creations: the GTSuper “Persephone” and the GTElectric “Gaia”. This dual premiere marks a significant step forward not only for Totem’s design and engineering journey, but also for the growing prestige of this exclusive lakeside event.

    Just a few meters from the shimmering waters of Lake Como, “Persephone” and “Gaia” drew crowds of collectors, enthusiasts, and international press. They embody two distinct yet complementary visions of modern performance: one powered by Totem’s now-celebrated twin-turbo V6 engineered by Italtecnica, the other fully electric, crafted to meet the future of mobility without sacrificing style or soul.

    “We designed this electric car because I don’t like electric cars” says Riccardo Quaggio, Totem’s founder and CEO, with his signature candor and irony. “It’s true—EVs don’t deliver the raw emotion of an internal combustion engine, which we still proudly build. But at least this one still stirs something—because it’s beautiful. That’s the point. Sculpting a fully electric car by hand, tailored to each client, is something few in the world can offer with such deep passion. Gaia is proof of that.”

    Gaia features a refined triple-layer “Verde EVO” paint, inspired by the hue of premium extra virgin olive oil—a nod to nature with a bold aesthetic edge. Persephone, meanwhile, updates the legendary Verde Pino with a modern twist and pairs it with vivid orange interiors that give the car its assertive, unmistakable personality.

    Both models showcase a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail typically reserved for the most exotic coach-built cars, while staying true to the retro inspiration that defines the Totem philosophy. “We improve with every car,” adds Quaggio. “I started this company at twenty-two, and it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come with these two builds—from the design to the mechanical and dynamic performance. The feedback we received at Villa Flori from peers, clients, media, and enthusiasts really says it all.”

    Totem’s presence at the Giardino di Fuoriconcorso reaffirms its growing stature in the world of boutique automotive excellence, and highlights the increasingly rich and diverse program of events that now orbit the Villa d’Este weekend—an unmissable celebration of beauty, innovation, and car culture at its finest.

  • Totem Automobili Unveils the GT Super “Jarama”

    Totem Automobili Unveils the GT Super “Jarama”

    Totem Automobili has chosen the Vezzena Pass to unveil its latest chassis, part of the “Totem Individual Program”


    [source: Totem Automobili]

    Treviso, March 28, 2025 – “Jarama” is the latest creation from Totem Automobili, a car that embodies the timeless charm of racing and the elegance of Italian craftsmanship. Part of a strictly limited run of only 40 units, this one-off is born within the “Totem Individual Program”, a customization journey that allows clients to work side by side with the Totem team to create a truly unique car.

    The name “Jarama” is a tribute to the historic victory achieved in 1972 by Autodelta with the GTA Junior 1300 in the 4 Hours of the circuit of Jarama, the final race of that year’s European Touring Car Championship. It honors an era when motorsport was driven by talent, courage, and innovation—values that Totem continues to uphold in its creations.

    “Jarama” features design elements developed exclusively for this model. The side badges, sculpted from CNC-machined aluminum and hand-painted, were designed specifically for this chassis, echoing the plaques of classic race cars. The carbon fiber bodywork is finished in “Blu Cervino,” a custom triple-layer mica paint applied entirely by hand to enhance every curve and line with extraordinary chromatic depth.

    Inside, tradition meets contemporary luxury. The ConnollyTM Cognac leather, specially selected for this version, wraps the seats, headliner, and side panels, creating a warm and inviting cabin. The dashboard houses two vintage Tag Heuer chronographs on the passenger side, evoking the golden-era of racing when even timekeeping was a manual, analog operation. Every control, from the light switch stalk to the push buttons, has been redesigned and developed exclusively for “Jarama,” crafted from noble materials like aluminum and carbon fiber, emphasizing the blend of aesthetics and functionality.

    Technically speaking, “Jarama” is the result of meticulous engineering, with solutions designed specifically for this model. The electronically controlled suspension, custom-developed in collaboration with ORAM from Como, allows the car’s behavior to adapt to any situation, ensuring the perfect balance between comfort and sportiness. The gearbox has been completely re- engineered: its CNC-machined aluminum linkages are a distinctive feature of this car, visible through the central tunnel. The tunnel itself is lined with the same fabric used throughout the interior, offering a glimpse of the mechanical beauty beneath.

    The carbon fiber, a signature element of Totem’s creations, has been crafted with a unique rhomboidal weave and finished in matte to highlight the plenum and various interior and exterior details, while the matte Nickel trim adds a touch of understated elegance across the vehicle.

    A special mention goes to the “Pied de poule” fabric found in the interior. Each batch of fabric is produced in Florence specifically according to each car’s configuration, ensuring a perfect match with the many chromatic elements that define both the exterior and interior.

    “Jarama” is much more than a car—it is a modern interpretation of Italy’s great automotive tradition. It merges the allure of vintage racing with the precision of contemporary technology, handcrafted with an attention to detail that makes each unit unique. With this GT Super, Totem Automobili continues to shape its vision of the future, where technical excellence meets a passion for design and history.

  • Red Totem GT Super Spotted in the Streets of Paris

    Red Totem GT Super Spotted in the Streets of Paris

    Paris, France – Totem Automobili, an icon of bespoke automotive craftsmanship, proudly unveiled the No. 07/40 GT Super, known as “Hestia”, during JP Morgan’s exclusive 40×40 event held at Place Vendôme in Paris on November 4th and 5th. This premier gathering brought together visionaries and next-generation leaders for two days of innovation and inspiration.

    “Hestia” is the seventh car in Totem Automobili’s special series, a masterpiece blending extraordinary performance with unparalleled luxury and design.

    The car’s exterior is painted in a triple-layer metallic red, a striking shade that highlights its sleek, modern lines. The interior, designed for ultimate refinement, features extended black Nappa leather complemented by custom-made fabric inserts, crafted exclusively to match the bespoke layout. The vehicle also boasts extensive visible carbon fiber, showcasing an intricate diamond-pattern weave that shifts dynamically depending on the viewing angle, creating a captivating visual effect.

    Under the hood, “Hestia” is powered by a 2.8-liter twin-turbo engine developed by Italtecnica exclusively for Totem Automobili. This powerhouse delivers up to 640 horsepower, ensuring a thrilling driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission with an open-gate shifter pays homage to traditional automotive craftsmanship while enhancing the connection between driver and machine.

    The name “Hestia” reflects the personal vision of its U.S.-based owner, who chose the moniker to represent warmth, beauty, and tradition. The car’s finishing touch is a matte carbon fiber trim painted in a satin nickel tint, seamlessly integrating modern sophistication with timeless elegance.

    About the 40×40 Event

    JP Morgan’s 40×40 is a highly curated annual summit, designed to connect and inspire young leaders across diverse fields, including entrepreneurs, investors, artists, and athletes. By fostering meaningful conversations and relationships, the event reflects the passions and ambitions of the next generation.

    The debut of the “Hestia” at this prestigious event underscores Totem Automobili’s alignment with visionary thinking and commitment to excellence, making it a fitting centerpiece at this gathering of remarkable individuals.

    Event Images – 📸 @tobephoto | Tommaso Bertotti

    About Totem Automobili

    Totem Automobili is an Italian automotive company specializing in the production of luxury cars hand-crafted from carbon fiber. Our mission is to combine the most modern technologies with classic design, creating cars that offer an unforgettable driving experience. The GT Series is our first masterpiece, merging Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation.

  • Totem Automobili Unveils GT Super Chassis No. 12/40, “Iperia”

    Totem Automobili Unveils GT Super Chassis No. 12/40, “Iperia”

    [source: Totem Automobili]

    Vairano, December 4, 2024 – Totem Automobili proudly announces the completion of the 12th chassis in its limited production run of just 40 units. This one-of-a-kind GT Super is powered by the iconic 90° V6 twin-turbo engine, developed in collaboration with Italtecnica, delivering extraordinary performance.

    Exclusive Paintwork and Advanced Materials

    This chassis represents a true masterpiece of engineering and design. The bodywork is adorned with a bespoke metallic green finish, created exclusively for this unit. The carbon fiber elements feature a unique matrix, shifting from square to diamond patterns depending on the angle of light, complemented by an elegant matte finish.

    Inside, bespoke carbon fiber racing-inspired seats were crafted to meet the client’s desire for a heightened, immersive driving experience. The vehicle’s bodywork, chassis, and internal supports—such as the central tunnel and dashboard—are constructed from structural carbon fiber. This advanced material, with variable density, is further reinforced with Kevlar in specific areas, showcasing the engineering complexity achieved with the support of our partner JM from Valfenera d’Asti.

    The IVA Homologation Milestone

    Currently, GT Super Chassis No. 12 is undergoing Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) testing at Vairano. This pivotal step will enable Totem vehicles to be legally driven across Europe and many other parts of the world.

    Totem Automobili faces the challenges of an incredibly costly homologation process, designed for large manufacturers but rarely accessible to small independent carmakers. With costs often exceeding €10 million, we must ask: are these regulations genuinely focused on safety and environmental protection, or do they serve as financial barriers to safeguard the interests of major corporations?

    A Call for a Fairer Future

    We believe the time has come for Italy and Europe to create a regulatory framework that acknowledges the unique nature of small-scale manufacturers. Totem vehicles, produced with highly streamlined supply chains, have a minimal aggregate environmental impact and meet the most stringent safety requirements.

    Totem Automobili remains committed to redefining quality, innovation, and sustainability in the automotive industry. With this 12th chassis, we celebrate our determination to overcome challenges with the passion and creativity that define the Made in Italy.

    Event Photos – 📸 @giacomogeroldi_visuals | Giacomo Geroldi

    About Totem Automobili

    Totem Automobili is an Italian car manufacturer specializing in handcrafted luxury vehicles made from carbon fiber. Our mission is to blend cutting-edge technology with timeless design, creating cars that deliver an unforgettable driving experience. The GT Series is our first masterpiece, merging Italian craftsmanship with technological innovation.