Alfa Romeo Milano: A Glimpse into the Brand's Electrified Future
Alfa Romeo, renowned for its legacy of performance and style, is embarking on a new era with its first all-electric model, the Milano. This small utility vehicle symbolises innovation and a tribute to the city where the iconic brand was born in 1910 - Milan. The Milano is set to make its grand entrance in April, and it promises to captivate enthusiasts and eco-conscious drivers alike.
The Milano will mark Alfa Romeo's foray into the electric vehicle (EV) market. Initially, it will be offered with a full-electric drivetrain, ushering in the brand's new era of emissions-free driving. Subsequently, a mild-hybrid gasoline version will follow, offering consumers a choice that aligns with their preferences.
While the Milano is Alfa's first full-electric model, the brand already offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Tonale compact crossover. However, it's important to note that the Milano will be the last Alfa Romeo model to feature a combustion variant. Starting in 2025, all new Alfa models will be electric-only, and by 2027, the brand will exclusively sell full-electric vehicles, signalling a firm commitment to sustainability.
Interestingly, the Milano was initially rumoured to be named the Brennero, following the brand's tradition of naming models after Italian mountain passes. This change in terminology reflects Alfa Romeo's desire to connect with its roots and pay homage to its place of origin.
Jean-Philippe Imparato, the CEO of Alfa Romeo, refrained from providing specific volume predictions for the Milano and the expected share of full-electric sales. However, he expressed the brand's readiness to extend Milano's availability beyond Europe if there is demand for it. This hints at the possibility of Alfa Romeo's expansion into global markets.
While a final decision on bringing the Milano to the United States has not been made, Imparato is optimistic about the potential demand for "urban small electric SUVs" in some U.S. states. Alfa Romeo currently offers models like the Tonale, Giulia midsize sedan, and Stelvio midsize crossover in North America and has plans to introduce a large sedan by 2027.
The Milano will be manufactured at Stellantis' plant in Tychy, Poland, alongside sibling models such as the Jeep Avenger and Fiat 600. All these models are based on the eCMP2 architecture, allowing for electric and combustion variants.
In terms of competition, the Milano will enter the fiercely competitive small SUV segment in Europe, which the Volkswagen T-Roc leads. The Milano will vie for attention alongside models like the Toyota Yaris Cross and the Peugeot 2008, in a segment that saw significant growth in overall sales in the first ten months.
The Milano represents a shift towards premium small SUVs among luxury brands. It joins the ranks of the DS 3, Audi Q2, and Mini Countryman, catering to consumers who seek both style and substance. Notable newcomers in this segment include the Volvo EX30, Smart #1, and Lexus LBX, indicating the growing interest in compact premium SUVs.
While the small SUV segment continues to expand, full-electric models face challenges in gaining traction. Although overall small SUV sales grew by 15 per cent, EV sales grew slower than 12 per cent in the first ten months. They currently account for only 5.6 per cent of the segment, with the Hyundai Kona leading the electric pack.
Alfa Romeo still needs to unveil specifications and pricing details for the Milano, leaving enthusiasts eager for more information. Nevertheless, Imparato assures that the Milano will not only compete with models like the Smart #1 and Volvo EX30 but surpass them in handling, staying true to the brand's heritage of delivering exhilarating driving experiences.
The Alfa Romeo Milano is not just a vehicle; it's a glimpse into the electrified future of a brand that has long symbolised passion and performance. The Milano carries Milan's legacy as it paves the way for Alfa's transition to electric mobility. In this city, it all began and promises an exciting chapter in the brand's storied history.
