- A set of patent drawings filed by Stellantis showcases a mid-engined supercar.
- The model is an early mockup from the development of the Alfa 33 Stradale.
- The brand plans to release more limited-production specials in the near future.
Alfa Romeo seems to be under the impression that they’ve struck automotive gold with the revival of the 33 Stradale supercar. And clearly, they’re not stopping there. In fact, we can expect more limited-production specials to follow. However, the car you see here isn’t the next big thing.
Let’s rewind a bit. Today, a set of patent drawings surfaced online, leading to wild speculation that they depicted Alfa’s next exotic supercar. Spoiler alert: they don’t. But the truth, while less thrilling, is still pretty interesting.
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We found the official patent folder that includes both exterior and interior drawings of a sleek, low-slung, mid-engined supercar, which served as the base for our rendering. As is the case with patents, the car is badge-free, but a few subtle hints, like a touch of the classic scudetto grille, pointed to Alfa Romeo’s Centro Stile as the designer.
The Real Story Behind the Patent
Our colleagues at Motor1 spoke with Krystyna Perry, head of PR at Alfa Romeo, who confirmed the source of the patent drawings:
“I can confirm that these images represent the 33 Stradale in its first 1:1 physical model’s design project. They date back to October 2022,” she said. “This model design was patented in accordance with the Alfa Romeo Centro Stile procedure at that time. The procedure involves patenting the style of a project to protect the uniqueness of its design. Our process establishes a two-year duration for design patents, and upon expiration, we evaluate whether to renew them or not. Once the patent expires, the images can be made public.”
In other words, these images give us a glimpse into the development of the modern Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale. It explains the shared proportions and key design elements, but also shows how much a design can evolve between the scale model phase and final production.
The aggressive LED headlights of the early prototype sit lower, while the side cooling intakes have been repositioned higher on the rear fenders, with flying buttresses adding an extra flair.
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The greenhouse and butterfly doors bear a strong resemblance to the Maserati MC20, proving that Alfa Romeo once considered adopting more shared components. Note that the 33 Stradale sits on the carbon fiber monocoque of the Maserati, and uses the same twin-turbo V6 powertrain, although it was also available in fully electric form.
The rear end of the patented design feels like an updated take on the 33 Stradale. Highlights include a floating engine cover, semi-circular taillights, dual tailpipes, and diagonal line patterns.
A Glimpse Inside: A Shift in Design Philosophy
Interestingly, we also get a peek inside this proposed design, and it’s a departure from the 33 Stradale. While the bucket seats and steering wheel remain familiar, the dashboard and center console take on a more distinct, streamlined look. The cabin embraces a minimalist approach, with a touchscreen display and fewer buttons and toggle switches compared to the final production model.
What’s Next for Alfa Romeo?
The Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale made its debut in August 2023, with first deliveries taking place in December 2024. Alfa plans to wrap up production of all 33 units of this seven-figure supercar by December 2026. This will likely clear the runway for their next big project, which will not only bring in much-needed cash for the company but, more importantly, generate some buzz around the Alfa name.
These special editions are being developed by a dedicated department called Bottega, and earlier reports hinted that the design of the new supercar could have been influenced by four iconic Alfa Romeo classics. While the patent drawings for these will most likely remain a well-kept secret for a few more years, we’re all hoping for more details to surface soon.
As for the early version of the 33 Stradale, it’s not expected to influence any future Alfa Romeo products, at least, according to the PR head.
Until the Italian brand shows us the next limited-production special, you can check out the early prototype of the Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale in a direct comparison with the final proposal and the Maserati MC20 donor car. Which one do you prefer?
