09 Jul 2024

Alfa Romeo reveals dynamic secrets of new Junior VELOCE 280

DYNAMIC PREVIEW: The iconic Alfa Romeo Balocco Proving Ground hosts the long-awaited dynamic testing of the new 100% electric Junior 280 VELOCE
PERFORMANCE FLAGSHIP: Combining the brand's sporty DNA into a compact package, Junior Veloce 280 spearheads the return of Alfa Romeo to one Europe’s biggest market segments
DESIGNED TO EXCITE: Junior 280 VELOCE has been developed by the same skilled and passionate Alfa Romeo engineers that created iconic models such as the 4C, 8C, Giulia & Stelvio Quadrifoglio, and Giulia GTA
280 HORSEPOWER OF OUTPUT: the Junior VELOCE 280 debuts a new electric powertrain that delivers 207 kW / 280 HP and 345 Nm of torque
TORSEN DIFFERENTIAL: Junior Veloce 280 is the first front-wheel drive 100% electric vehicle to be fitted with the latest Torsen ‘D’ mechanical limited-slip differential for enhanced traction in all road conditions and on all surfaces
AGILE & LIGHTWEIGHT: Junior 280 VELOCE is the lightest car in its class, weighing-in at 1,590 kg
COMFORT & PRACTICALITY: 400-litre boot of Junior is the biggest in its class
PACKED WITH TECHNOLOGY: Cutting edge infotainment with ‘Hey Alfa’ virtual assistant with generative artificial intelligence and the EV routing navigation system
LEGENDARY BALOCCO: Dynamic evaluation of Junior 280 VELOCE is taking place on the same testing circuits where road and racing cars from Alfa Romeo over the last 60 years have been designed and honed
EXCLUSIVE TRIALS: For the first time since its construction in 1962, drivers from outside the Alfa Romeo engineering team are being provided access to the entire configuration of the ‘Langhe’ circuit, which is over 20km long
READY FOR ANYTHING: ‘Ready to drive, Anywhere, Anytime’, this an electric car created the Alfa Romeo way. Junior 280 VELOCE is equipped with an advanced connected navigation system that gives access to over 600,000 charging stations.

Alfa Romeo is throwing open the gates of its historic Balocco Proving Ground (Vercelli province), for a day of pre-type-approval testing of the new, 100% electric Junior 280 VELOCE. This unique dynamic preview will enable industry insiders to put the brand's first electric compact car to the test on the same Tarmac as some of the brand’s most famous models, plus they will be given unique insights into the development process the eagerly anticipated Junior Veloce 280.

The iconic Balocco Proving Ground was completed in 1962 and has been used for the dynamic development and validation of all Alfa Romeo road cars ever since. It is also home to the ‘Alfa Corse’ team, which has used the testing facility to fine-tune the brand’s famous motorsport competitors, including its Formula One, DTM and Super Turismo racers. It’s here that the Alfa Romeo team of Italian engineers have been developing new Junior – and they will be on hand during this unique event to support the dynamic testing of new Junior VELOCE 280.

100% Alfa Romeo driving dynamics

The Alfa Romeo Junior 280 VELOCE is a small car that truly embodies the brand’s sporting spirit. With perfect weight balance, first-class driving dynamics, advanced technological solutions and timeless beauty, new Junior is a true Alfa Romeo. The 280 VELOCE version elevates these features to the highest levels with segment-leading agility and best-in-class road handling.

All this is made possible by two world-first additions for the Junior VELOCE: the new 280-HP/207-kW electric motor and the latest Torsen ‘D’ mechanical limited-slip differential. As the flagship of the Junior line-up, the 280 VELOCE also benefits from the quickest steering in the segment (with a ratio of 14.6), which has been specially calibrated to enhance the VELOCE’s exceptional road-holding. In addition, the suspension has been lowered by 25 mm and the anti-roll bars have been recalibrated. Finally, the braking system includes 380-mm discs at the front with 4-piston monobloc calipers, while the 20’ alloy wheels feature bespoke tyres developed for high performance EVs.

Greater efficiency and more pleasure in everyday driving

The new Junior 280 VELOCE combines an engaging driving experience with remarkable efficiency and ease-of-use. At just over 4 metres long and with a turning circle of 10.5 meters, the Junior is compact, easy to handle and ideal for the city. Despite its size, the interior is spacious and can comfortably accommodate four adults and their luggage, thanks to a segment-leading 400-litre boot. Practicality is further enhanced by a special storage compartment under the bonnet for the charging cable.

With a kerbweight of just 1,560 kg, new Junior VELOCE weighs about 200 kg less than its nearest competitors, giving it a significant advantage when it comes to efficiency. A compact lithium-ion battery pack contributes significantly to the car’s low mass, while the brand’s trademark ‘truncated tail’ and asymmetrical front air intakes help reduce both aerodynamic drag and energy consumption.

Plus, Junior guarantees the best driving experience both in the city and on mixed routes, without ever sacrificing the utmost practicality. It also features a specific electric driving sound (audible only inside the passenger compartment) for an enhanced feeling of acceleration and deceleration, plus an EV routing system for automatic, worry-free driver guidance when requiring a charge.

Access to Balocco’s ‘Langhe’ track for the first time

For the first time ever, Alfa Romeo is providing access to Balocco’s ‘Langhe’ circuit, the famous track covering over 20 km that faithfully reproduces the mixed hilly routes often seen in the Piedmont region that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

This challenging and hilly circuit is full of corners that emulate some the most challenging and enjoyable roads in the region, making it the perfect place to test the new Torsen ‘D’ limited slip differential. Developed to ensure linear behavior and accurate handling, it ensures the Junior 280 VELOCE is one of the most dynamic and engaging cars in its segment.

Elsewhere, the ‘Special Pavings’ section of the Balocco circuit demonstrates the new Junior’s comfort and control in everyday driving. Studded with bumps, potholes, tram tracks, cobblestones and steps, these challenging surfaces allow new Junior to highlight its best-in-class refinement.

While new Junior was not made to be driven on the track, its team of Italian engineers’ have driven it extensively in these condition to validate power, agility and road handling. This is ideal place to discover the fast cornering and its the exceptional traction of Junior which is enhanced by the new Torsen ‘D’ anti-skid differential.

Specially developed for new Junior, this device minimise understeer and increases the car's stability on corners, helped by the fast, class-leading 1-Hz response of the front axle. Furthermore, the rear axle accurately follows the trajectory the car’s intended corning line with a drift angle of almost nil. Moreover, the instant response to steering inputs – both when entering and exiting a corner – creates the ‘motorcyclist effect’, delivering a feeling of full synergy between the driver and the vehicle.

This unique opportunity will allow the Junior to be tested under the most testing conditions, while guests will also have access to the team of Italian engineers involved in extraordinary projects such as the 8C, 4C, Giulia and Stelvio in their Quadrifoglio versions, including the Giulia GTA and GTAm.

Best-in-class driving dynamics courtesy of specific technical solutions ‘made by and for Alfa Romeo’

WORLD PREMIERE: Alfa Romeo Junior VELOCE debuts the new 280-HP electric powertrain

With the Junior 280 VELOCE, Alfa Romeo brand debuts the new generation of the M4+ electric motor, which delivers 207 kW / 280 HP of output and torque of 345 Nm. Jointly developed by Alfa Romeo engineering, the Stellantis Engineering Propulsion Systems team and Emotors, the new powertrain has been designed and fine-tuned to meet very specific targets.

Thanks to the motor’s high power and torque, and the specific calibration of the powertrain, new Junior VELOCE 280 offers uncompromising driving pleasure with segment-leading dynamics. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 5.9 seconds and the top speed is more than 200 km/h.

This exceptional electric powertrain consists of Hybrid Synchronous Electric Motor and the latest 54-kWh battery, which offers a high energy density and an outstanding ratio of rated to usable energy. For example, the lithium-ion pack provides up to 207 miles of range in the WLTP cycle. Moreover, charging new Junior VELOCE is remarkably simple: it takes less than 30 minutes to charge the batteries from 20 to 80% at 100-kW DC fast charging stations.

WORLD PREMIERE: the new Torsen ‘D’ mechanical limited-slip differential

To make sure all this power is put down on the road, Alfa Romeo has equipped new Junior VELOCE with the latest Torsen ‘D’ mechanical limited-slip differential. This is the first ever application on a front-wheel drive electric vehicle, and the new system is the evolution of a device pioneered by Alfa Romeo with the 147 Q2 in 2006.

A simple and effective solution, the latest evolution of this set-up is lighter and more efficient than ever. Specifically, the new system is tasked with the dynamic, consistent distribution of torque between the front drive wheels, according to driving conditions and road surface. This system allows drivers to take full advantage of all the strengths of front-wheel drive (significantly increased road holding, traction and stability), while at the same time reducing understeer during acceleration, electronic stability control interventions and vibrations through the steering wheel.

The advancement of driving modes, managed by the Alfa D.N.A. system

To optimise handling and performance, drivers can select their preferred driving mode using the Alfa D.N.A. selector, which made its debut on the Giulietta, Mito and 4C.

For new Junior VELOCE 280, Dynamic mode provides maximum power and torque, increases the sensitivity of the steering and pedals, and minimises ESP interference. For new Junior VELOCE 280, ‘Dynamic’ mode provides maximum power and torque, increases the sensitivity of the steering and pedals, and minimises ESP interference. In addition, regenerative braking is disengaged in favour of fully mechanical braking to enhance the overall sporty feel.

Alternatively, selecting Natural limits maximum output and speed in an effort to save energy, while the ESP interventions are more conservative. Alternatively, selecting ‘Natural’ limits maximum output and speed in an effort to save energy, while the ESP interventions are more conservative. In Advanced Efficiency mode, torque is limited to 300 Nm for utmost energy efficiency. In ‘Advanced Efficiency’ mode, torque is limited to 300 Nm for utmost energy efficiency.

Finally, Junior VELOCE features a ‘B-mode’ button for enhanced regenerative braking to recover energy to ghe battery each time the accelerator is released, helping to improve the vehicle’s range.

Suspension with specific sports calibration

For new Junior the suspension setup is a proven combination of the McPherson strut at the front and torsion beam at the rear, ensuring perfect road holding and great comfort in all driving conditions.

For Junior VELOCE 280, the front suspension system adopts a new anti-roll bar and a new strut for direct response and perfect handling. Together with a shorter steering arm, this new strut gives new Junior a best-in-class steering ratio of 14.6:1.

At the rear, a specific torsion beam is the standout feature of the suspension, while specific springs and dampers with double hydraulic stop springs have been used on both axles.

Braking system and tyres

For assured performance at high speed, Alfa Romeo has equipped new Junior 280 VELOCE with 380-mm ventilated front brake discs with four-piston monobloc calipers. This powerful set-up offers braking power of 1.12 G, corresponding with a braking distance from 100 km/h to 0 in just 33 metres. The specifications are completed by large 20-inch alloy wheels and racing-derived tyres.

State-of-the-art technology for comfort, safety, and connectivity.

Unrivalled in-car comfort and well-being

For Alfa Romeo, comfort means making every travel experience simple, extremely pleasant, organised, and safe. When getting into new Junior you immediately notice the meticulous attention to detail, the high quality of the upholstery and the unmistakably Italian sporty feel.

Despite its compact size, new Junior car features the largest boot in its class (BEV), with a load capacity of as much as 400 litres, while handsfree technology allows remote opening of the tailgate. It also comes with exclusive features such as the convenient charging cable organiser storage compartment located under the bonnet.

To increase comfort even further, the new Junior offers a series of driver assistance features, including level 2 autonomous driving. Using 360° parking sensors and a 180° rear camera, new Junior features a practical semi-autonomous parking system that can identify an available space and complete the car’s entry and exit maneuvers itself.

New Junior 280 VELOCE also includes proximity access technology, unlocking and locking your car quickly and easily as you come closer to, or move away from, the vehicle.

The new infotainment system features a sophisticated, fluid multitasking interface

New Junior 280 VELOCE leads the way in terms of software and connectivity, while maintaining the brand's signature driving pleasure and its comfortable, safe and fully connected experience.

For example, new Junior features new-generation electronic architecture with over-the-air system and software updates that can add new features as soon as they become available. The new infotainment system also features a sophisticated, fluid multitasking interface, giving the driver all the information they need at-a-glance without taking their attention off the road.

Ahead of the driver is the Telescope system that consists of a fully digital 10.25’ TFT screen to access the car’s data and the settings for the driving technologies. In the centre console and angled towards the driver, is a 10.25’ touchscreen infotainment system developed to work with widgets and graphic components. Designed for intuitive interaction with all the features, it can be customised via quick and easy drag and drop.

Technological innovations on Junior include ChatGPT for the in-vehicle voice recognition system. Artificial intelligence now makes it possible to ask complex questions and receive full, structured answers on various topics of conversation, such as science, history, geography and much more, for a safer yet entertaining driving experience.

Voice control can even be used to interact with the car remotely from home, using the Alfa Romeo skill for Alexa. This feature offers the option to ask Amazon Alexa about charge level, search for points of interest, find the car’s latest location, and send lock and unlock commands remotely.

New ADAS systems heighten the emotions of Level 2 autonomous driving

New Junior 280 VELOCE is equipped with the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) for Level 2 autonomous driving. Allowing the automatic control of acceleration, braking and remaining within lane, these technologies ensure maximum driving safety without sacrificing the pleasure of sitting at the wheel.

Specifically, the new Junior provides Level 2 autonomous driving by combining the Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (IACC) and Lane Centering (LC) systems with the front camera, to monitor all the car’s surroundings both ahead and to the sides. Furthermore, the IACC system makes use of Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts the car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicles in front.

It also features Traffic Sign Recognition and Intelligent Speed Control systems. The former uses the on-board camera to recognise traffic signs and show them on the display, alerting the driver of the current speed limit. The latter suggests the driver reduce their speed to the limit detected. If the driver accepts, the cruise control settings are automatically adjusted.

Finally, the Lane Control system monitors the sideways movement of the car, keeping it in the middle of the lane even in heavy traffic.

Alfa Connect Services, the suite of connected services

New Junior VELOCE is equipped with Alfa Connect Services, the tool that offers advanced onboard connectivity and a range of services for maximum safety and comfort. Thanks to over-the-air (OTA) technology, the car's maps and software are always kept up to date.

The various functions that make the onboard experience include ‘My Navigation’, which consists of apps to remotely search for destinations and points of interest (POI), as well as real-time alerts on traffic, weather and speed camera locations.

By using the My Alfa Connect smartphone app, customers can also interact with the car using ‘My Remote’. This service offers various useful features, such a remote control of the car’s functions (locking/unlocking the doors or flashing the lights) via smartphone or smartwatch; vehicle location; control of certain parameters (speed and area) and notifications if these are not respected.

In addition, E-Control also offers the option to remotely manage start-up and stopping, to schedule charging and to heat or cool the interior before getting into the vehicle. Another new feature is the integration of the ‘Hey Alfa’ virtual assistant, a ChatGPT (A.I.) interface that uses voice recognition to give you a useful and discreet ‘copilot’ on your travels.

JUNIOR 280 VELOCE SPEC AS STANDARD

New Junior 280 VELOCE is distinguished by its unique Progresso badge, two-tone livery (black roof and body colour with red accents), privacy glass at the rear, adaptive Full LED Matrix headlights, and ‘Venti’ 20’ alloy wheels. Owners can customise their cars further with black mirror caps, body-coloured door handles and the Biscione logo on the C-pillar. In addition to the exclusive two-tone paint finish, new Junior VELOCE can be ordered in one of the six body colors available: Sempione White, Tortona Black, Brera Red, Navigli Blue-Teal, Arese Steel, and Scala Ivory.

The same sporty appeal and Italian attention to detail is carried over to the interior of new Junior VELOCE. Standout features include the use of the finest materials and the placement of all the controls within the driver’s reach, as demonstrated by the instrument panel with a fully digital 10.25’ TFT screen in the middle and a 10.25’ touchscreen in the center of the dashboard.

For new Junior VELOCE there are also refined Spiga seats with black/red/eco-leather fabric upholstery and a ‘shield’ effect. The driver's seat also features electric adjustment and massage function, while soft-touch materials are used for the dashboard, which also includes laser-cut trim inserts. Elsewhere, there is a front centre armrest, a smartphone storage space and two cup holders in the central tunnel. Attention to detail is further demonstrated by the elegant and distinctive 8-color interior lighting marking out the air vents, central tunnel, and the iconic Telescope instrument cluster.

In terms of technology, the standard specification includes wireless connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Alfa Connected Services suite, a sound system with four speakers and two USB ports in the front. New Junior is also peerless when it comes to safety features, as demonstrated by the Lane Assist, adaptive Cruise Control and Driver Attention Alert systems, while further comfort is guaranteed by the electronic parking brake, rear parking sensors, climate control and D.N.A. selector.

The standard specification is completed by tailored floor mats, a three-level height-adjustable boot floor and an 11-kW three-phase onboard charger.

Finally, two packs are available to customise the Junior VELOCE even further. The Technology pack includes level 2 autonomous driving, handsfree electric tailgate, LED Matrix headlights and connected navigation with virtual assistant. Alternatively, the Sport pack (interior only) offers a leather and Alcantara steering wheel and the exclusive Sabelt Corsa seats upholstered in black/red suede.