In the picturesque village of Slashten, nestled near Bulgaria’s border with Greece, the first physical prototype of a revolutionary electric hypercar, Alieno Sentiero, was unveiled.
The event marked a significant milestone for Bulgaria’s ambitious automotive startup, Alieno, led by entrepreneur Ahmed Merchev.
The prototype represents years of meticulous development, showcasing a design that is set to challenge the boundaries of electric vehicle technology.
The debut of the Alieno Sentiero is particularly notable because it is the first time the company has presented a tangible model.
While the Alieno project has been generating buzz over the past few years through sketches, digital renders, and ambitious claims, this physical prototype brings the hypercar closer to reality.
However, the current model does not feature a drive system and is primarily intended to give a glimpse into the future production version’s design.
Aggressive Design and Future Plans
True to the vision illustrated in previous digital concepts, the Alieno Sentiero’s design is aggressive and futuristic.
The prototype, a one-seater model, exudes aerodynamic sophistication, with sharp lines and striking aesthetics that hint at the car’s potential capabilities.
The exterior styling aligns with the company’s commitment to delivering a hypercar that not only performs at unprecedented levels but also looks the part.
Alieno has already revealed plans to develop a two-seater version, which will precede the production of fully functional pre-production units equipped with advanced electric propulsion systems.
According to the company, the top-spec version of the Alieno Sentiero will deliver an astounding 5,221 horsepower, theoretically enabling it to achieve a top speed exceeding 584 kilometers per hour.
With such staggering specifications, the hypercar aims to position itself among the most powerful and fastest electric vehicles in the world.
The price tag for the Alieno Sentiero is equally bold, with estimates reaching as high as 4.3 million euros, depending on the configuration.
This places the hypercar within an elite market segment, targeting customers seeking cutting-edge performance combined with exclusivity.
Expanding the Lineup: Unum and Arcanum Models
Ahead of the Sentiero prototype’s unveiling, Alieno had announced plans for two other hypercar models: the Unum and the Arcanum.
These models will feature different propulsion setups, ranging from three to 24 electric motors depending on the chosen version.
The modular nature of the propulsion systems allows for varying degrees of performance, catering to different customer preferences.
Prices for these models will start at 1.6 million euros, with the most advanced versions reaching up to 4.3 million euros.
The delivery timeline for the upcoming electric hypercars is expected to span between 18 and 30 months, based on the specific modifications requested by buyers.
This flexible approach to customization underscores Alieno’s strategy of catering to a niche market that demands both high performance and personalized specifications.
Manufacturing in Bulgaria: A Local Project with Global Aspirations
The production of these Bulgarian electric hypercars will be carried out in the nearby village of Tukhovishta, where a dedicated factory has already been established.
This facility, covering an initial 2,300 square meters, will be expanded to 14,000 square meters to accommodate the company’s ambitious production plans.
So far, approximately 5 million leva have been invested in developing the prototypes and setting up the manufacturing operations.
The plant is equipped with around 200 machines, ready to facilitate the start of full-scale production once the hypercar models reach the pre-production phase.
The choice to base the manufacturing process in Tukhovishta is a deliberate one, aimed at establishing a strong automotive industry footprint in Bulgaria.
Ahmed Merchev and his partners are betting on local talent and resources to help bring their vision to life, with plans to eventually expand both production capacity and the workforce.
Challenges Ahead: Turning Ambition into Reality
While the unveiling of the Alieno Sentiero marks a significant step forward, challenges lie ahead. The automotive industry, especially the niche segment of electric hypercars, is highly competitive.
Established players like Rimac, Pininfarina, and Lotus are already pushing the envelope in electric vehicle technology. For Alieno, the path to market will require overcoming technical, financial, and logistical hurdles.
The absence of a functional drive system in the current prototype means that considerable work is still needed to bring the car’s specifications to fruition.
Achieving the claimed 5,221 horsepower output and over 584 km/h top speed will necessitate sophisticated engineering and rigorous testing, not to mention compliance with regulatory standards for hypercars.
However, the company’s approach to modular propulsion systems, which allow for scalability and customization, may offer a competitive edge.
The use of multiple electric motors in various configurations can optimize power distribution and handling characteristics, potentially setting the Alieno models apart from their rivals.
Looking Forward: A Symbol of Bulgaria’s Automotive Ambitions
The unveiling of the Alieno Sentiero in Slashten has not only captured the attention of car enthusiasts but also symbolized a bold step for Bulgaria in the realm of advanced automotive technology.
With plans to expand production, introduce multiple models, and deliver unprecedented performance, Alieno aims to carve out a unique position in the global hypercar market.
As the company transitions from prototype development to full-scale production, all eyes will be on whether the Alieno Sentiero can fulfill its ambitious promises and establish Bulgaria as a contender in the high-stakes world of electric hypercars.
For now, the prototype stands as a testament to innovation and a vision that extends far beyond the borders of Slashten.