The Farnova Othello is a bargain electric hypercar from China (if it’s legit)

Farnova Automotive is apparently a sub-brand of boat manufacturer Farnova Yachts. PHOTO FROM FARNOVA AUTOMOTIVE

There’s a new entry to the electric-hypercar market and it’s coming from China. Called the Farnova Othello, it is based on a previous Chinese super EV, the Qiantu K50. But this juiced-up road rocket packs a much bigger punch than its predecessor. Weighing just 1,350kg, it promises to give the likes of Rimac a run for their money in speed and price. On top of that, it also looks like a street-legal spaceship, complete with gullwing doors and a hunkered-down appearance that should make lesser cars move out of the way rather quickly.

We have doubts that the chassis can handle the 12,000Nm of torque. IMAGES FROM FARNOVA AUTOMOTIVE

According to available information, the Othello will feature two electric motors with a total power output of 1,810hp, and a mind- and chassis-bending torque figure of 12,000Nm. That’s apparently enough to go from zero to 100km/h in 1.8 seconds and onto a top speed of 420km/h. The size of the Swedish-made battery pack is given as a rather modest 75kWh, which means any driver wishing to achieve the claimed range of 600km better have a very light right foot.

The handful of pictures we came across show a modern-looking EV that stands 4.67m long, is 2.08m wide and just 1.15m tall. The cabin on the prototype vehicle still looks a bit spartan, and we’re guessing it will be spruced up a bit once the planned production run of 200 vehicles starts.

To go fast, one must get rid of many creature comforts. PHOTO FROM FARNOVA AUTOMOTIVE

The cars will be built at the Quiantu Motors factory in Changde, China, and anyone wanting to own a Farnova Othello will have to transfer at least 1,860,000 Chinese yuan (P14.65 million) to its makers. That may sound like a lot of cash until you realize that many of the other cars capable of going this fast cost a lot more. Rimac will ask P116.7 million for a Nevera, while any gas-guzzling option like a Bugatti will easily set you back P170 million or more. So, in that respect, the Othello is almost a bargain (assuming it’s real).


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