In the heartland of Italian motoring heritage, a bold new contender has entered the hypercar arena. Giamaro Automobili, an emerging manufacturer based in Modena, has unveiled its first production model: the Katla, a quad-turbocharged V12 monster producing a staggering 2,128 horsepower and 1,481 pound-feet of torque — all directed to the rear wheels.
Named after an Icelandic volcano, the Katla is engineered entirely in-house, built around a 170-kilogram carbon fiber monocoque chassis and paired with a seven-speed automated manual transmission. A high-performance 11-speed dual-clutch option is also in development. Despite its immense power output, the Katla tips the scales at only 1,450 kilograms (3,197 pounds), thanks in part to extensive use of lightweight materials and precision-machined aluminum suspension components.
The powerplant — a 7.0-liter V12 with a 120-degree “hot-V” configuration and four turbochargers — offers three selectable performance modes through distinct ignition keys. A white key limits output to under 800 horsepower for relaxed driving. The black key unlocks 1,647 horsepower, while the red key unleashes the full fury of 2,128.
Visually, the Katla is aggressive yet refined. Its sculpted bodywork is shaped around the engine’s cooling and airflow needs, featuring dual roof scoops and an active rear wing that doubles as an airbrake. Fighter jet-inspired square intakes house the daytime running lights, and the cabin continues the aviation motif with a cockpit-style center console, exposed carbon fiber, and CNC-machined aluminum finishes.
Customization lies at the heart of Giamaro’s philosophy. “We don’t build cars for customers — we build them with them,” said co-founders Giacomo and Pierfrancesco Commendatore in a statement. Owners will be able to tailor everything from suspension geometry to throttle response, making each Katla a bespoke expression of personal identity.
Though Giamaro is unproven in a competitive field, the Katla’s specs place it among the most powerful production cars in history — second only to the Koenigsegg Gemera’s hybrid output. Giamaro has also teased a second model, the off-road-oriented Albor, which will share the Katla’s powertrain but adopt a more rugged design.
Production volumes and pricing remain undisclosed, but Giamaro’s disruptive entry has already stirred excitement across the automotive world. With an audacious vision and the engineering to match, the Katla signals that Italy’s newest marque intends not just to join the hypercar conversation — but to dominate it.