The Alfa Romeo Junior, previously known as the Milano, had a rough start due to a forced name change, but there's good news on the horizon. The Italian automaker has revealed that the top-tier Veloce trim of the electric vehicle now packs an impressive 278 horsepower, a significant increase from the initially stated 237 horsepower.
Alfa Romeo updated the specifications for the Junior Veloce EV after completing its dynamic development program. The carmaker stated that "tests have shown the electric motor’s output to be a robust 280 horsepower (PS), aligning it with the performance of the Giulia, Stelvio, and Tonale Veloce models." They also disclosed the torque figure of the electric motor, which stands at a respectable 345 Nm.
This revelation has sparked curiosity. How did the automaker underestimate its own electric vehicle's power by 39 hp just before launch? The difference between 237 horsepower and 278 horsepower is substantial, especially for a vehicle aiming to project a sporty image like the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce.
Initially, the Junior Veloce was expected to share its electric motor with the closely related Abarth 600e and the Lancia Ypsilon HF supermini. It remains to be seen whether Abarth and Lancia will also increase the power outputs of their models after further testing or stick with the original 237 horsepower.
In addition to sporting the most potent electric motor, the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce features a suspension lowered by 25 mm compared to other trims. It is complemented by front and rear anti-roll bars, a Torsen differential on the front axle, and grippy 20-inch tires. The steering is touted as "the most responsive in its class," while the brakes include larger 380 mm front discs with four-piston monobloc calipers.
Alfa Romeo claims that these enhancements enable the Junior to deliver "best-in-class" driving dynamics, akin to the discontinued Giulietta and Mito hatchbacks.
The next phase for the Junior involves testing by the press at the Balocco Proving Ground, as the model has yet to undergo the ‘type-approval phase.’ Alfa Romeo has announced that journalists will experience their first drive on the Langhe configuration of the circuit, spanning over 20 km.