1937 Lewis Airomobile: The Futuristic Three-Wheeler That Never Took Off

Forgotten Futurism - The 1930s marked an era of bold automotive experimentation. With the Great Depression disrupting industries, many ambitious entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to introduce radical vehicle concepts. One such visionary was Paul M. Lewis, who sought to revolutionize transportation with his streamlined, three-wheeled vehicle called Airomobile.

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile Prototype now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)

Unlike conventional cars of its time, the Airomobile was designed to be affordable, highly efficient, and aerodynamically advanced—offering a glimpse into a future where cars defied traditional design and function. However, despite its innovative engineering, it remained a dream that never reached mass production.

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile prototype was built and designed by a team consisting of John Tjaarda and former Franklin Automobile Company engineers Carl Doman and Edward Marks, under the commission of Paul M. Lewis. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)

Lewis first introduced the idea in 1934, forming Lewis American Airways to develop the car. To bring his vision to life, he assembled a team of experts, including John Tjaarda, a renowned automotive designer known for his work on the Lincoln Zephyr, and two former Franklin Automobile Company engineers, Carl Doman and Edward Marks. With their combined expertise, the team created a car that stood out from anything else on the road.

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)

At first glance, the Airomobile had a striking resemblance to other futuristic cars of the era, such as Buckminster Fuller's Dymaxion. However, unlike the Dymaxion, which had rear-wheel steering, the Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and front-wheel steering. This setup, while unconventional, was intended to provide greater stability and control. 

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile featured front-wheel drive and steering, an unconventional setup designed to enhance stability and control. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)

The vehicle's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. Under the hood, Doman and Marks developed a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines.

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile powered by a a unique 129-cubic-inch, air-cooled, flat-four engine that produced 60 horsepower—an advanced design that would later influence aircraft engines. (Picture from: ThrottleExtreme)

To prove the Airomobile’s capabilities, Lewis embarked on an ambitious promotional tour in 1937, covering 45,000 miles across the United States. He claimed the car performed exceptionally well, averaging 44 mph and 80 mpg. However, not everyone was convinced. Investors remained skeptical, and despite modifications to the front-end design in 1938, funding never materialized. The Airomobile, with its $550 projected price tag, was ultimately deemed too radical for mass production. With no financial backing, the project came to a halt, leaving only a single prototype behind.

The 1937 Lewis Airomobile's lightweight chassis and aerodynamic body allowed it to reach speeds of up to 80 mph while delivering an impressive fuel efficiency of 40 miles per gallon. (Picture from: MacsMotorCityGarage)

Although the Airomobile itself faded into obscurity, its innovative engine found a second life. The Doman-Marks flat-four evolved into the Franklin 4AC-150, later produced by Air Cooled Motors and used in small aircraft during the 1940s, including Piper and Taylorcraft planes. Meanwhile, Paul M. Lewis continued his pursuit of futuristic automobiles, later developing the eccentric Fascination series, which, like the Airomobile, never reached commercial success. | rIyQPjU5gPQ |

Today, the lone Airomobile prototype survives as a rare piece of automotive history. Pioneering car collector Bill Harrah acquired and restored it, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It now resides in the National Automobile Museum in Reno, Nevada, where visitors can marvel at this ambitious yet ill-fated creation. While the Airomobile never made it to production, it remains a testament to the daring ingenuity of its time—a reminder that even the most unconventional ideas can leave a lasting mark on the world of transportation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MACSMOTORCITYGARAGE | THROTTLEEXTREME | LUXURYEXPERIENCE ]

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Small Cars, Big Impact: The Legendary Fiat Abarth OT 'Periscopio'

Compact Brilliance - Abarth is a name that resonates with automotive enthusiasts worldwide, symbolizing the pinnacle of small-car engineering and motorsports triumphs. The journey of Abarth cars, particularly the extraordinary Fiat Abarth OT Periscopio, is a tale of innovation, resilience, and passion. To appreciate this legacy, it’s essential to delve into the origins of the man behind the brand, Carlo Abarth, and the unique circumstances that gave birth to this iconic model—a car as rare and magical as a mythical one-horned unicorn.

The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Carlo Abarth, born in Austria, was a visionary who transformed modest vehicles into motorsport marvels. By the 1960s, Abarth had cemented his reputation as a master of reengineering, partnering with brands like Fiat, Simca, and Porsche to create high-performance vehicles. His relentless pursuit of excellence led to the birth of the Abarth OT 1300, a Gran Turismo marvel developed in 1965. This car was crafted on the remnants of Simca 1000 chassis floor pans, a result of a halted collaboration between Abarth and Simca after Chrysler acquired a controlling stake in the French company.

The 1966 Fiat Abarth OT 1300 Periscopio powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

The Abarth OT 1300 emerged as a technical masterpiece. Built on a modified Simca 1000 platform, it featured a lightweight yet rigid pressed-steel chassis and a fiberglass body designed by Mario Colucci. The innovative design extended to its mechanics. Powered by a 1.3-liter Abarth engine producing 147 horsepower at an astonishing 8,800 rpm, the Abarth OT 1300 boasted a dry-sump lubrication system, dual Weber carburetors, and a five-speed transaxle. The car's dimensions were meticulously calibrated for racing, with a wheelbase of 2,015 mm and independent suspension ensuring agility and stability on the track.

The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio while sat on display at the 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

Among the car’s standout features was its distinctive periscopic air intake mounted high on the roof—a design as captivating as the horn of a unicorn. Much like the mythical creature, the "Periscopio" was not only visually striking but also served a functional purpose. The intake channeled cool air into the cockpit to counteract the heat generated by water and oil-cooling pipes running through the cabin, ensuring driver comfort during grueling endurance races. This combination of practicality and flair made the OT "Periscopio" a marvel both on and off the track, evoking the mystique and rarity of its mythical counterpart.

The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio, a more powerful evolution of the OT 1300, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore. (Picture from: Lotus16)

Building on the success of the OT 1300, Abarth developed the Abarth OT 2000, a more powerful iteration featuring a 2.0-liter engine capable of producing 215 horsepower. This version, with its even more prominent "unicorn horn" air intake, cemented its place in automotive lore. With a top speed exceeding 165 mph, the OT 2000 showcased Abarth's prowess in extracting extraordinary performance from humble engine blocks. Drivers, including renowned Formula 1 racer Jochen Rindt, regularly pushed these cars to their limits, solidifying their reputation on tracks worldwide.

The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio demonstrated Abarth's mastery in achieving extraordinary performance, reaching speeds over 165 mph from modest engine origins. (Picture from: UltimateCarPage)

The OT 1300 and its successor, the OT 2000, were not merely engineering achievements; they represented the spirit of innovation that defined Abarth as a brand. These cars, though small in size, were monumental in their impact, claiming hundreds of victories and elevating Abarth's status as a premier race car manufacturer. By the late 1960s, Abarth's dedication to performance and design had earned it a revered place in automotive history.

The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio crafted only three units, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history. (Picture from: Fiat Abarth La Passion)

In terms of production numbers, the OT 1300 met the FIA's homologation requirements with at least 50 units reportedly built. This already limited figure highlights the rarity of this model. However, its successor, the OT 2000 "Periscopio," was produced in an even more exclusive number. Only three units of the OT 2000 were ever created, making it one of the rarest and most coveted Abarth cars in history.

The 1968 Fiat Abarth OT 2000 Periscopio equipped with a 2.0-liter engine delivering 215 horsepower. (Picture from: Lotus16)

Today, the Fiat Abarth OT 'Periscopio' remains a symbol of Karl Abarth's ingenuity and the golden era of motorsport. Its striking design, characterized by the iconic roof-mounted air intake, continues to inspire car enthusiasts and collectors alike. Much like a unicorn, its rarity and uniqueness make it a coveted masterpiece in the automotive world—a reminder of an era where artistry met engineering with uncompromising precision.

As we reflect on the achievements of Karl Abarth and his remarkable creations, the story of the OT "Periscopio" serves as a reminder that true innovation stems from embracing challenges and pushing boundaries. These cars are not just vehicles but enduring icons of what passion and vision can achieve. And just like the unicorn that dazzles our imagination, the "Periscopio" continues to captivate hearts, a timeless testament to Abarth's dream of creating magic on wheels.  *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORTREND | CONCEPTCARZ | DANAUS.NET | AUTA5P.EU | HISTORICAUTOPRO | WEBCARSTORY | EGZOSTIVE | ULTIMATECARPAGE | BERNIMOTORI ] FIAT ABARTH LA PASSION | LOTUS16 ]

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Phoenix Trike Roadster: Bold Design Meets Power on Three Wheels

Unique TRIKE - Sometimes, in the ever-expanding universe of unique vehicles, we come across creations that defy the ordinary. Just as musicians find joy in discovering rare instruments, car enthusiasts often stumble upon extraordinary machines. One such rare find is the Phoenix Trike Roadster, a vehicle that instantly catches your eye and makes you question what you're looking at. The world of online car browsing is full of surprises, but this one stands out as something truly special.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster appeared with one of the most intriguing aspects is its active aerodynamics, controlled pneumatically. (Picture from: Motorious)

Discovered in Claremore, Oklahoma, this fascinating trike was originally built in 1987. It immediately draws attention with its distinctive three-wheeled design, reminiscent of futuristic concepts seen only in sci-fi shows. With just a single seat and an overall appearance that could fit right into an animated series, the Phoenix Trike Roadster is unlike anything else on the road. It doesn’t just look like a concept from the future; it embodies innovation in its own quirky way.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster body is adorned with an Italian flag motif, split between red and green, with a white stripe running through. (Picture from: Motorious)

One of the most intriguing aspects of this vehicle is its active aerodynamics, controlled pneumatically. This is the kind of technology you might expect to see on high-performance racing machines, yet here it is on a trike from the late '80s. The description likens it to a Formula 1 car from another dimension, a comparison that seems fitting when you take into account its sleek, unconventional form. But it's not all just about looks—this trike has a Kawasaki motorcycle engine under the hood, a 750cc beast capable of delivering 100 horsepower. For something as small and light as the Phoenix Trike Roadster, that's plenty of power to make it zip down the road.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster's description likens it to a Formula 1 car from another dimension, a comparison that seems fitting when you take into account its sleek, unconventional form. (Picture from: Motorious)

Interestingly, one of the challenges often faced when fitting motorcycle engines into cars is the issue of reverse gear. Motorcycles don’t typically need to go backward, but cars, even trikes, do. The advertisement for this trike doesn’t specify whether it has a solution for this problem, but considering the level of engineering involved in its design, it wouldn’t be surprising if a clever workaround had been implemented. After all, if someone can manage pneumatically controlled aerodynamics, they can probably figure out how to reverse.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster delivers the excitement of a Formula 1 race car with a safer design and a more budget-friendly price. (Picture from: BangShift)

Another feature that makes this roadster stand out is its bold paint job. The body is adorned with an Italian flag motif, split between red and green, with a white stripe running through. While this unusual color scheme gives it a distinctive look, it might not be everyone’s taste. Some might prefer it in a single, solid color to better highlight its unique shape and design. Nevertheless, the trike's visual flair only adds to its appeal for those who appreciate individuality in their vehicles.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster boasts a modern-compact dashboard equipped with a three-spoke sport steering wheel, enhancing both control and driving experience. (Picture from: Motorious)

For those intrigued by this peculiar creation, the Phoenix Trike Roadster comes with a price tag of $9,000. While this may seem steep compared to the cost of a used Kawasaki Ninja 750, it's a far cry from the price of other high-tech three-wheelers on the market. And for a vehicle with such a distinctive design, advanced features, and the kind of rarity that guarantees you won’t see another one like it on the road, the price might just be justified.

The Phoenix Trike Roadster powered by a 100 horsepower Kawasaki 750cc motorcycle engine. (Picture from: BangShift)

In a world full of mass-produced cars, the Phoenix Trike Roadster stands out as a reminder that creativity and uniqueness still exist in the automotive world. It may not be for everyone, but for those who appreciate the weird, the wonderful, and the completely unexpected, it’s a gem worth considering.

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops..... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORIOUS | BANGSHIFT | MEDIUM ]

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Fusion Flea: A Retro-Futuristic Icon of the Fallout Universe

Beyond Imagination - In a world where innovation and imagination collide, few creations manage to leave a lasting impression as the Fusion Flea does. This quirky, compact vehicle first emerged in the Fallout universe, a fictional setting known for its retro-futuristic aesthetic and storytelling depth. Amid the bustle of pre-war streets, the Fusion Flea stood out, not only as a mode of transportation but as a beacon of hope and ingenuity. Its three-wheeled design (two in the front and one at the rear) reflected an era of optimism and daring progress, capturing the hearts of those who dreamed of a brighter future.

The Fusion Flea Supreme is a nuclear vehicle found throughout the wastelands of the former United States. (Picture from: FallOut.Fandom)

Pininfarina's Rare Masterpiece Based on the Autozam AZ-1

Styled Obsession - The kei car, a hallmark of Japanese automotive ingenuity, stands out as one of the most beloved and iconic vehicle categories in Japan. Compact in size and efficient in design, these cars are celebrated for their practicality and affordability. With an engine capacity averaging 660 cc, kei cars exemplify the art of making the most of limited resources. Their diminutive stature is part of their charm, but occasionally, a model emerges that redefines what a kei car can be. Among these, the Autozam AZ-1 holds a special place, blending small car sensibilities with a distinctly European sports car flair.

The Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' was commissioned by Japanese Abarth enthusiast Shiro Kosaka and built by Pininfarina in 1996. (Picture from: AnythingWheeled)

The Autozam AZ-1, a product of Mazda's Autozam brand, already boasted a unique design, but its story took an even more intriguing turn in the mid-1990s. A Japanese Abarth enthusiast, Shiro Kosaka, envisioned something extraordinary and reached out to the renowned Italian design house Pininfarina to bring his dream to life. This collaboration resulted in a striking transformation of the AZ-1, creating a model that stood apart in the kei car world.

The Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' by Pininfarina retains its gull-wing doors, and complemented with headlights from a 2nd gen Honda Today. (Picture from: AnythingWheeled)

While details about the design process remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, it is widely believed that Pierangelo Andreani, a freelancer associated with Pininfarina, spearheaded the design under the guidance of Lorenzo Ramaciotti, then head of the design firm. This partnership blended Japanese engineering with Italian artistry, culminating in a vehicle that was as rare as it was captivating. The project was managed with a meticulous approach, highlighting the international collaboration that brought the design to fruition.

The Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' by Pininfarina attended at the Sakura Morning Cruise event on November 3rd, 2024. (Picture from: @Comingsoon2112 On X)

The redesigned AZ-1, often referred to as the Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' by Pininfarina (though not officially named as such), featured an eye-catching body kit. Produced by Saburo Japan, this kit bore hallmarks of European styling, including headlights from the second-generation Honda Today and taillights from the Fiat Coupe. These components lent the vehicle an exotic and dynamic appearance, setting it apart from traditional kei cars. 

The intake pipes are painted red with crystal paint and have the Pininfarina lettering on them. (Picture from: @Eeyore1015 On X)

The rear bumper came in two variations, accommodating different exhaust setups, and the overall aesthetic evoked the aggressive lines of a high-performance sports car. However, this transformation came at a cost. The kit itself was priced at JPN ¥1 million, with an additional JPN ¥1 million required for fitting and painting. This totaled JPN ¥2 million—substantially more than the cost of the original AZ-1. 

During Japan’s economic recession, such pricing placed the car firmly in the realm of exclusivity. The limited production run of fewer than 5,000 units for the AZ-1 only added to the rarity, and the high cost of the upgrade, combined with its polarizing design, meant that only a handful of these kits were ever sold.

The Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' by Pininfarina is widely believed to have been designed by freelancer Pierangelo Andreani, under the guidance of Lorenzo Ramaciotti, then head of the design firm. (Picture from: AnythingWheeled)

Despite its limited commercial success, the Pininfarina-designed AZ-1 remains a fascinating example of cross-cultural automotive experimentation. Its unique design continues to capture the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors, serving as a reminder of what happens when passion and creativity converge. Each detail of the car tells a story: the choice of components, the collaboration between cultures, and the audacity to dream beyond conventional boundaries.

The Autozam AZ-1 'Scorpione' by Pininfarina features taillights from the Fiat Coupe, with the reverse light on the right and the fog light on the left, a common European design. (Picture from: AnythingWheeled)

The Autozam AZ-1’s journey, culminating in the unofficially Japanese version's Abarth Scorpione transformation, is a testament to the boldness of automotive design. Though niche in appeal, it exemplifies how cars can transcend mere functionality to become artistic expressions. This rare fusion of Japanese engineering and Italian design artistry underscores the importance of innovation and collaboration in creating something truly exceptional.

The Pininfarina-designed AZ-1 (far right) is displayed alongside the Bertone-crafted version, highlighting the distinct design approaches of both renowned Italian coachbuilders. (Picture from: AnythingWheeled)

Whether admired for its aesthetics, its backstory, or its audacity, the Autozam AZ-1 and its Pininfarina-designed iteration stand as an emblem of what is possible when visionaries dare to think differently. As the automotive world continues to evolve, stories like this remind us of the enduring allure of creativity and the timeless appeal of vehicles that dare to be unique. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | @EEYORE1015 ON X | MINKARA.CARVIEW.CO.JP | ANYTHINGWHEELED.COM | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Cagiva-Powered Lomar Honey: The Unique Three-Wheeled Mini Car

Unique Creation - In the world of automotive history, there are certain vehicles that stand out due to their distinctiveness, often resulting from collaborations that merge different industries. One such unique creation came from the merging of Italian motorcycle expertise and automotive innovation. It was the collaboration between Cagiva, an iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer, and Lomar, a small but ambitious car company, that birthed the remarkable three-wheeled car known as Honey. This unusual vehicle, which used a motorcycle engine and was targeted at a niche market, quickly gained attention for its innovative design and functionality, although it would not see widespread production. Despite its short-lived commercial existence, the Honey has since become an intriguing piece of automotive history.

The Lomar Honey was presented by Giampiero Lombatti (left) to a visitor at the stand during the 1985 Salone del Ciclo e Motociclo di Milan (Milan Motorcycle Show). (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

The story behind the creation of the Honey car begins with the two founders of Lomar, Giampiero Lombatti and Fulvio Martini, both from Parma, Italy. The name "Lomar" is actually an acronym derived from their surnames. Lombatti hailed from a family with a strong connection to the automotive world, specifically Fiat’s historic dealerships. On the other hand, Martini came from the Coenzo family, known for their involvement with expanded resins. Their diverse backgrounds would contribute to the creation of a lightweight car that was quite ahead of its time. Their collaboration was made even more interesting by the support they received from Cagiva, a well-known name in the world of motorcycles.

The Lomar Honey was equipped with two gull-wing doors that could be easily removed during the summer months, transforming the car from a coupé to a convertible. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

The design of the first Honey prototype was overseen by Walter Cugini, a skilled designer with experience in the automotive world. The chassis was developed by a studio already working with renowned car manufacturers in Modena, a city famous for its automotive legacy. Initially, the bodywork was crafted using steel sheet metal, meticulously hand-stroked by Gianni Gobbi, an experienced bodyworker from Italcar. However, as the project progressed, the design switched to fiberglass and polyester resin, a decision that allowed for significant weight reduction, making the vehicle more agile and efficient.

The Lomar Honey, approved as a motor-carriage, was powered by a 20-horsepower, liquid-cooled Cagiva 125 motorcycle engine and required an A-carriage license to drive. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

The car’s debut at the 1985 Salone del Ciclo e Motociclo di Milan (Milan Motorcycle Show) caught the attention of many visitors and industry professionals. It was instantly recognized for its innovative use of a small three-wheeled layout, powered by a single-cylinder 125cc engine from Cagiva. This engine, a two-stroke design, was already popular in Cagiva’s motorcycles, particularly the Aletta Rossa 125 model. With a maximum power output of around 20 horsepower, the engine was capable of propelling the Honey to a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour, which was impressive for a vehicle of its size and design.

The Cagiva Aletta Rossa, shared the single-cylinder two-stroke 125cc engine and the modified gearbox with the Lomar Honey. (Picture from: DannataVintage)

One of the most eye-catching features of the Honey was its streamlined, modern coupé design. The body of the vehicle was compact, measuring just 3.6 meters in length and 1.6 meters in width. Its low height of 1.25 meters gave it a sleek profile. The Honey was equipped with two gull-wing doors that could be easily removed during the summer months, transforming the car from a coupé to a convertible. This unique feature added to the vehicle's appeal, as it combined the practicality of a small car with the fun of an open-air driving experience. The vehicle’s frame was made of steel tubes, ensuring strength and durability, while the use of fiberglass for the body panels kept the overall weight to just 300 kilograms.

The Lomar Honey featured a well-appointed interior with a sports steering wheel, and a dashboard with complete instrumentation. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

The Honey was designed with comfort in mind, offering a well-appointed cockpit for its passengers. Inside, the car featured two comfortable armchairs, a sports steering wheel, and a dashboard with complete instrumentation, similar to what you might find in more mainstream vehicles like the Fiat Ritmo. The gear lever was located on the central tunnel, making the driving experience more intuitive. The car's design was clearly intended to appeal to a younger audience, particularly those aged 16 and above, who would only need an "A" license in Italy to drive it.

The Lomar Honey featured a well-finished, elegant interior with two seats designed in a sporty and ergonomic shape, enhancing both style and comfort. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

However, despite the initial enthusiasm and interest from both the public and the industry, the Honey faced significant challenges when it came to production. The costs of industrializing the car proved to be far too high for Lomar and its small-scale operations. The two founders, unable to secure the necessary capital, had no choice but to abandon their dream of becoming car manufacturers. The Honey, which had been created with so much promise, remained a one-of-a-kind prototype and has since become a rare collector's item.

The Lomar Honey's bodywork was initially crafted from steel sheets by Gianni Gobbi, but during the start of series production, it transitioned to fiberglass and polyester resin. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

Although the Honey was not destined for mass production, it remains an intriguing part of automotive history. The combination of Cagiva’s motorcycle engineering and Lomar’s car design was a bold attempt to break the mold and offer a unique solution to the challenges of urban mobility. Today, the Honey is still carefully preserved, a testament to the vision of its creators and the potential that could have been. The vehicle represents an early example of a light, compact car that could have paved the way for future innovations in small-scale transportation.

The Lomar Honey featured a compact body measuring 3.6 meters in length, 1.6 meters in width, and a low height of 1.25 meters, giving it a sleek profile. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)

The story of the Honey serves as a reminder of the often unpredictable nature of automotive innovation. While the car did not achieve commercial success, its design and engineering principles have influenced later developments in the field of small vehicles and microcars. The Honey's legacy lives on in the form of its unique engineering, the ingenuity of its creators, and the fascination it continues to inspire in automotive enthusiasts. It is a shining example of how bold ideas, even when faced with insurmountable obstacles, can leave a lasting impression on the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DANNATAVINTAGE | AUTOTECNICA | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Opel's Compact Electric Car Revolution

Mini Marvel - The rise of electric vehicles has changed the landscape of urban mobility, leading to more compact and eco-friendly alternatives. One such vehicle that has recently caught the attention of car enthusiasts is the Opel Rocks-e. While its size and design may seem unconventional for a modern car, it offers a solution tailored to the needs of city dwellers. This tiny electric car fits perfectly within the quadricycle class, providing an innovative way to navigate crowded streets. Despite its small size, the Opel Rocks-e is making waves, offering more than just practicality.

The Opel Rocks-e, apart from its unique design, is claimed to effectively meet the mobility needs of urban consumers, offering a practical and compact solution for city driving. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The Opel Rocks-e shares a close connection with the Citroën Ami, a French electric car, as it is essentially a rebadged version of the Ami. With a length of just 2.41 meters, it is one of the smallest electric vehicles on the market. Its compact form does not mean it lacks character, though. The front features prominent lights under the windshield, while the doors open in reverse, a unique design feature that adds to its quirky appeal. Silver and black 14-inch rims complete the exterior look, making the car stand out despite its size.

The Opel Rocks-e, at just 2.41 meters in length, is one of the smallest electric vehicles on the market but still boasts plenty of character. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

On the inside, the Opel Rocks-e is designed with urban convenience in mind. It features a small digital instrument cluster, a flat steering wheel, climate control, and ample storage space for personal belongings. For its size, it provides enough comfort for two passengers, making it a practical choice for city travel. 

The Opel Rocks-e is designed for urban convenience, featuring a small digital instrument cluster, a flat steering wheel, climate control, and ample storage space for personal belongings. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The vehicle is powered by a 5.5 kWh battery and an 8 hp electric motor, offering a range of up to 75 km and a top speed of 45 km/h. It takes just 3.5 hours to recharge fully, making it a convenient option for daily commuting. While the Opel Rocks-e was originally intended as a city-friendly vehicle, its potential for off-road adventures has recently been explored.

The Opel Rocks-e is powered by a 5.5 kWh battery and an 8 hp electric motor, offering a range of up to 75 km and a top speed of 45 km/h. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The Rocks-e e-Xtreme is a special version of this tiny electric car that takes on a more rugged form. Designed by Lukas Wenzhöfer, the winner of the #OpelDesignHack contest, the Rocks-e e-Xtreme was created to tackle extreme terrains. The car's design includes modifications to improve its off-road capabilities, such as a reinforced chassis, larger tires, and increased ground clearance. The inclusion of a large rear wing, inspired by Opel's racing heritage, further enhances its aggressive look.

The Opel Rocks-e e-Xtreme was created to tackle extreme terrains, featuring a design by a talented student named Lukas Wenzhöfer, who won the #OpelDesignHack contest with his innovative concept. (Picture from: iNews.id)

The Rocks-e e-Xtreme is also equipped with a sturdier front bumper and a set of LED headlights, which are complemented by additional lighting mounted on the roof. While the performance details of this modified version are not fully disclosed, it is clear that the Rocks-e e-Xtreme is ready for more than just city streets.

With its toughened frame and off-road features, it is positioned to conquer a variety of terrains, making it an exciting option for adventure-seeking electric vehicle enthusiasts. In terms of its origins, the Opel Rocks-e and its off-road variant share a rich design heritage that showcases the potential of small electric vehicles. What started as a delivery-focused electric car has now evolved into something much more versatile, catering to different needs and preferences. 

Whether used for daily urban commuting or off-road adventures, the Opel Rocks-e proves that even the smallest electric cars can make a big impact. With the continuing development of electric mobility, we can only expect more exciting innovations like the Rocks-e to shape the future of transportation. ✨Happy Holiday...⛄ *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OPEL | ID.MOTOR1 | HIGHMOTOR ]

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