The PGO Hemera is a unique, two-door, two-seater sports car best described as a mid-engined "shooting brake" or a mix of a coupé and a break. It is produced by the French independent car manufacturer PGO Automobiles and was launched in 2008 at the Paris Motor Show, with production starting in 2009.
Key Features
Design: The Hemera has a distinctive "retro-futuristic" aesthetic, combining classic lines inspired by the Porsche 356 with modern elements like a unique rear glass bubble.
Body and Chassis: The car uses a multi-tubular frame with a composite, hand-molded bodyshell to keep the weight down (around 980-1012 kg or 2,160-2,233 lbs).
Engine Options: The Hemera has been equipped with two primary engines over its production run:
Early Models (pre-2012): A mid-mounted 2.0-liter, 140 hp Peugeot four-cylinder engine.
Later Models (post-2012): An official switch to a BMW Group-sourced 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, producing 184 hp and a maximum torque of 240 Nm.
Performance: With the BMW engine, the Hemera can reach a maximum speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). Its light weight allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under 7 seconds.
Driving Experience: It offers a purist driving experience with rear-wheel drive, manual transmission, and unassisted steering, which is often described as a "go-kart feeling".
Practicality: The shooting brake design provides increased trunk capacity (240 dm³) and enhanced interior luminosity compared to PGO's other models, making it more practical for daily use or long weekends.
Manufacturing
Like other PGO models, the Hemera is largely handcrafted at the company's headquarters in Alès, France, allowing for a high degree of customization. Each car is built to order, contributing to its exclusivity and status as a niche sports car.