Pininfarina Designs 2023 Viritech Apricale

Italian design house Pininfarina has styled a new hydrogen-powered hypercar called the 2023 Viritech Apricale. Claimed to be the world’s first zero-emission hypercar to achieve weight parity with petrol-engined competitors, it tips the scales at 1000kg.

UK-based Viritech says it “proves that a zero-emissions powertrain can offer the same power, weight and range as an internal combustion engine.” A hydrogen fuel cell powers a battery that is “less than half the weight of typical BEV hypercars”, says the company. Ultralight graphene-lined tanks, forming part of the carbonfibre chassis, contain pressurised hydrogen fuel.

There are two motors (one on the front axle, one at the rear) with mechanical differentials, while pull-rod torsion bar suspension offers “limited active ride control”. A range of over 350 miles before refuelling is projected.

Pininfarina describes the design as “a synthesis of technology, sustainability, beauty and performance.” Pininfarina is also set to build the limited run of 25 examples at its factory in Cambiano, Turin. The prototype Apricale was unveiled at Goodwood in June 2022, with the production prototype due to follow in 2023 and customer deliveries in early 2024.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Viritech Apricale

• Powertrain: 6kWh battery pack, 2 x 400kW motors
• Transmission: Single-speed automatic
• Weight: 1000kg
• Dimensions: 4550mm (L), 1900mm (W), 1150mm (H)
• Max Speed: 200mph