Arabian Nights on Wheels: Laraki Fulgura's Brief Stint in Supercar Stardom

Forgotten ONES - In the realm of exotic automobiles, one name that might not immediately come to mind is Morocco. However, the Laraki Fulgura, crafted by Moroccan entrepreneur Abdeslam Laraki, demands attention. Based in Casablanca, Laraki brought forth this creation through his company, Laraki Automobiles SA back in 2002, claiming the title of the first Arab supercar, although its European influences are quite evident.

The Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Abdeslam Laraki, known for his success in providing luxurious yachts to wealthy clients, ventured into the automotive world with the ambition to cater to their refined tastes. The Laraki Fulgura was born, drawing inspiration from the exotic Italian Lamborghini Diablo, a sensation in the 1990s and early 2000s.

The Laraki Fulgura built based on the frame and mechanicals of a Lamborghini Diablo, powered by a quad-turbo Mercedes-Benz 6.0L V12 to produce 920 hp (686 kW), coupled with a 6-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: StrangestCars)

With aspirations to rival thoroughbreds like the Lamborghini Murciélago, the Fulgura showcased a design reminiscent of the Ferrari 360 Modena, particularly noticeable in the two side air scoops dedicated to engine and rear-wheel cooling. Unveiled initially as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show, this supercar marked Laraki's inaugural foray into the sports car domain.

The Laraki Fulgura is the first Laraki Automobiles SA. a Moroccan company's attempt at a sportscar, and originally unveiled as a concept at the 2002 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Under the hood, the Laraki Fulgura boasted a Mercedes-Benz quad-turbo 6-liter V12 engine, generating an impressive 920 horsepower. Positioned longitudinally behind the seats, propelling the rear wheels, this placement promised a well-balanced chassis and superior cornering capabilities. The aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

The Laraki Fulgura has an aerodynamically sculpted carbon fiber body hinted at a top speed of 247 mph, with a rapid acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.4 seconds. (Picture from: GTPLanet)

Despite these enticing specifications, the Fulgura faced skepticism as the manufacturer provided performance figures without allowing independent reviewers to put them to the test. The absence of published road test reviews raised questions about the car's real-world capabilities. Priced at an estimated $555,750, the Fulgura's production status and unit count remain shrouded in mystery.

The lack of information suggests a lack of interest, relegating the Laraki Fulgura to the realm of forgotten supercars in automotive history. What a shame that 1st Moroccan's attempt at a supercar, while intriguing, should have vanished into obscurity. It appears that Laraki did not cease working; he went on to introduce several automotive creations such as Borac, Epitome, and ultimately Sahara. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄ *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GTPLANET | STRANGESTCARS | PISTONHEADS ]

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