The Emily GT, an electric sedan prototype created by former Saab engineers in Sweden with Chinese funding, may see production in Italy under the auspices of a Canadian startup, reports Autocar. The startup, EV Electra, has recently had an offer to purchase an Italian factory approved, potentially marking a new chapter in the development of this innovative electric vehicle. With plans to build various body styles beyond the initial sedan, including a wagon, coupe, convertible, sports car, and luxury sedan, EV Electra is poised to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market.
### Origin and Development
The Emily GT prototype originated under NEVS, which acquired the remains of Saab after the Swedish automaker filed for bankruptcy in 2011. NEVS had ambitious plans to develop multiple EVs based on the Phoenix platform, which was intended to underpin the next-generation Saab 9-3. Additionally, NEVS planned to create an electric version of the old 9-3 and 9-3X models using General Motors’ legacy platform. Although a version of the latter was publicly showcased in 2017, the Emily GT was primarily a demonstrator for Protean in-wheel motors, rather than a production model.
### Variety of Body Styles
EV Electra has shown renderings of various body styles for potential future models, expanding the Emily GT lineup beyond the initial sedan design. With plans for a wagon, coupe, convertible, sports car, and luxury sedan, the startup is positioning itself to cater to diverse consumer preferences in the electric vehicle market. This strategic approach reflects a commitment to innovation and versatility in electric vehicle design.
### Timeline and Development Process
Development of the Emily GT reportedly began in 2019, with the first prototypes being completed within a relatively short time frame of 10 months. Despite this rapid progress, the vehicle was not revealed to the public until 2023, indicating a meticulous approach to development and testing. EV Electra acquired the rights to the project in 2021, continuing the legacy of the Emily GT prototype and setting the stage for production in the near future.
### Production Plans
EV Electra is currently in the process of selecting dealers and expects to commence deliveries of the proposed models starting in August 2024. With ambitious plans to bring the Emily GT and other body styles to market, the startup is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle industry. By leveraging innovative technologies and designs, EV Electra aims to offer consumers a range of electric vehicles that combine performance, style, and sustainability.
### Future Prospects and Industry Impact
As EV Electra moves closer to realizing its production plans for the Emily GT and other models, the startup is positioned to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the automotive industry towards electric mobility. By combining Swedish engineering expertise with Chinese funding and Canadian innovation, EV Electra represents a truly global collaboration that highlights the interconnected nature of the modern automotive landscape. With a commitment to sustainability, performance, and innovation, EV Electra is poised to make a lasting impact in the electric vehicle market.