Devinci Cars commercial director Jonathan Rouanet explains how the French marque is seeking a different approach to luxury motoring.

Established in France during 2016, Devinci Cars fills a distinct corner of the automotive sector by crafting electric collector cars drawn from pre-war and mid-century styling cues. Produced in limited runs and assembled to order, the firm’s offerings blend vintage silhouettes and open-top experiences with contemporary electric drivetrains. This lets owners savor the aesthetic charm of historic motoring while sidestepping many upkeep, dependability and compliance issues tied to conventional classics.

Devinci frames its automobiles as deeply customized luxury items. Buyers may tailor everything from exterior hues and cabin materials to unique design accents, with each example built in restricted quantities. The firm has also launched a private owners’ club focused on tours, rallies and select gatherings, underscoring an emphasis on lifestyle and fellowship beyond mere ownership. In contrast to most collector cars, Devinci stresses the joy of driving, especially open-air travel, straightforward operation and an intimate link to the environment. The brand likewise draws a clientele reaching past traditional collectors, appealing to those who value design, visual appeal and self-expression equally with engineering.

LUXUO speaks with commercial director Jonathan Rouanet about the beginnings of Devinci Cars, the firm’s stance on styling and production, the expanding demand for electric collector cars and why the company sees electrification as opening a fresh chapter for classic automotive shapes.

How was the idea of Devinci Cars conceived and what is the core DNA of the brand?

Devinci Cars arose from a wish to recapture the grace and emotional pull of historic automobiles while updating them for the present day. The brand’s essential character rests on three foundations: craftsmanship, enduring design and up-to-date technology. We seek to build cars that honor automotive legacy while presenting a fresh outlook on sustainable transport.

Would it be fair to say that Devinci Cars delivers authentic classic cars with contemporary technologies?

Yes, that captures our outlook precisely. We reimagine celebrated automotive forms through a modern lens, incorporating electric powertrains and current innovations. The aim is not to copy the past but to enhance it.

What advantages do electric collector vehicles offer over traditional classic cars?

Our electric collector vehicles merge the appeal and emotional styling of classic cars with the ease, dependability and eco advantages of electric mobility. They deliver quiet operation, lower upkeep demands and a lighter environmental impact without sacrificing driving enjoyment or looks.

What are the key models in the Devinci collection today, and what distinguishes them from one another?

The Devinci lineup currently features four models of custom electric vehicles, each inspired by classic automotive design. Every model offers extensive personalization and is produced in limited numbers, ensuring each car stands apart.

Devinci’s founder once described the marque’s vehicles as “the most ecological four-wheeled road-approved vehicles in the world.” What underpins that claim?

Our method centers on lowering environmental effects via complete electrification and careful production methods. In addition to cutting emissions, we stress longevity and extended use so each vehicle is built to endure and reduce needless replacement.

Devinci frequently highlights the bespoke nature of its vehicles and customising collectors’ electric vehicles. Can you elaborate more on this?

Personalization sits at the core of Devinci Cars. Clients may adjust nearly every element of their vehicle, from exterior coatings and any body shade to interior fabrics, thread hues and subtle styling touches, even including custom motifs such as numerals or meaningful symbols. Each car becomes a singular reflection of its owner’s character, shaped in every detail.

Indeed, each example qualifies as a singular creation because every vehicle is shaped around particular preferences and narratives. One distinctive project involved partnering with an artist to produce a rolling artwork for the client. We treat every commission as a distinct creative collaboration.

Your website does not publish a price range. How do you address pricing discussions with prospective buyers?

Every Devinci vehicle is built to order, so pricing reflects the selected model and degree of customization. Our entry model, Brigitte, begins at approximately EUR 58,000, though the final figure shifts with specifications. We choose to consult clients directly to grasp their requirements and prepare a tailored quotation.

How do you see Devinci Cars growing in the next five years?

Within five years we envision Devinci Cars as a leading name in the electric collector vehicle segment, boasting wider international reach and an expanding circle of dedicated clients and collectors.

Do you have a favourite automotive museum around the world?

After several visits to the Musée National de l’Automobile – Schlumpf Collection with family, that institution remains one of my preferred car museums because it connects classic and contemporary vehicles. It has also made a lasting mark on French automotive heritage, which holds personal meaning for me.

Devinci Cars will attend its first edition event from the 27th to the 28th and will join the Concours d’Élégance. We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the Devinci world.

Is there a mentor or figure who continues to inspire you in your work at Devinci?

Leonardo da Vinci, naturally, embodies both the artist and the consummate engineer. His dedication to elevating humanity through beauty, mastery, innovation and achievements “never yet been achieved by man” continues to motivate.