Rare ONES - When you think of supercars, Belgium may not be the first country that comes to mind. However, that perception changed with the introduction of the VDS GT 001. This remarkable supercar, with its roots in Belgian design and craftsmanship, brings a sense of pride to the country. It’s based on a Maserati V8 engine, and its story is one of passion and heritage, blending the power of Italian engineering with Belgian ingenuity.
The VDS GT 001 embodies passion and heritage, brought to life by Van der Straten, merging Italian engineering power with Belgian creativity. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
At the heart of this creation is Raphaël van der Straten, a man with deep ties to racing. For years, Van der Straten's family name has been synonymous with motorsports, and through VDS Racing Adventures, he continued the legacy of competitive racing. He had long dreamed of creating his own supercar, and in 2012, that dream became a reality with the VDS GT 001. The car was unveiled to much anticipation, marking a significant moment in Belgium’s automotive history.
The VDS GT 001 was built on the foundation of the Gillet Vertigo .5 Spirit. The partnership between Van der Straten and Tony Gillet, the mastermind behind the Gillet brand, played a crucial role in making this car a reality. While the initial plan was to incorporate the existing Vertigo chassis, Van der Straten’s vision required something more bespoke. Gillet modified the carbon fiber chassis, creating a new, extended version to meet the specific needs of the VDS GT 001. This wasn’t just about creating another car—it was about crafting something unique that reflected Van der Straten’s personal touch and racing experience.
The rear, with its modern diffuser and neo-retro lights, blends contemporary design with nostalgic cues, making the VDS GT 001 a car that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.(Picture from: Supercars.net)
The design of the VDS GT 001 pays homage to classic American muscle cars, particularly the Ford Mustangs once owned and raced by Van der Straten's grandfather. His admiration for the aggressive, bold styling of Mustangs inspired elements of the GT 001’s design. The wide grille, circular headlights, and side vents all give a nod to the iconic 1970 Boss 302 Mustang. The rear, with its modern diffuser and neo-retro lights, blends contemporary design with nostalgic cues, making the GT 001 a car that feels both timeless and cutting-edge.
The VDS GT 001-R, the competition variant, made its debut at the 24-Hours of Dubai in 2013, showcasing the Belgian automaker's commitment to blending style with substance. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Raphaël’s journey to bring the VDS GT 001 to life was not without its challenges. From the initial sketches by Charles van den Bosch to the full-scale model created by Patrick Bataille, the development of this car was a labor of love. Every detail, from the exhaust placement to the grille design, was carefully considered. Van der Straten was deeply involved in the process, working closely with Gillet and his team to ensure that the final product matched his vision.
The VDS GT 001 (shown here in its competition variant) combines striking aesthetics with speed, featuring a carbon fiber body and a 480-horsepower Maserati V8 engine, making it a true powerhouse. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The VDS GT 001 isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also built for speed. With a carbon fiber body and a Maserati V8 engine producing 480 horsepower, the car is a force to be reckoned with. Weighing only 990 kilograms thanks to its lightweight materials, it promises exceptional performance on both the road and the track. Raphaël van der Straten’s plans to create 22 road-going versions of the VDS GT 001 and to race the competition variant, the VDS GT 001-R, at the 24-Hours of Dubai in 2013 demonstrate his commitment to combining style with substance.
The VDS GT 001 (shown here in its competition variant) was the automaker's lifelong dream realized, marking Belgium’s entry into high-performance sports cars. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
This car isn’t just a symbol of Belgian pride; it’s a testament to the enduring passion for racing that runs through the Van der Straten family. For Raphaël, it’s the realization of a lifelong dream, and for Belgium, it’s a step into the world of high-performance sports cars. | UdqKyPkUcl0 |
The VDS GT 001 marks a significant moment not only for Van der Straten but also for Belgium as a whole. It's a car that challenges the notion of what a supercar should be and where it can come from. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and racing pedigree, the VDS GT 001 is a reminder that dreams, when combined with determination and skill, can lead to extraordinary achievements. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VDS RACING ADVENTURES | SUPERCARS.NET | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
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Dream Car - The 1960s were a time of bold visions and imaginative designs, especially in the world of American concept cars. Many vehicles from this era appeared to have leapt straight from the pages of science fiction, embodying futuristic aesthetics and technologies that seemed ready to soar into the skies. Among these dazzling innovations, the General Motors Corporation (GM) stood out at the New York World's Fair in 1964-65, showcasing a concept car that captivated visitors with its forward-thinking design and technology. In our sighting, its shape is reminiscent of the 1959 LeMans Coupe by Strother MacMinn and John Bond.
The GM-X Stiletto was a remarkable creation from GM's Advanced Development Department, offering young designers a platform to explore their wildest ideas without the constraints of production or safety requirements. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
The GM-X Stiletto was a remarkable creation from GM's Advanced Development Department, offering young designers a platform to explore their wildest ideas without the constraints of production or safety requirements. This concept car wasn't intended for practical use; it never moved an inch under its own power. However, it was packed with groundbreaking features that left a lasting impression on all who saw it. Hovering on brackets rather than resting on wheels, the Stiletto projected an image of speed and futuristic elegance, drawing the admiration of fairgoers.
The General Motors GM-X Stiletto Concept on display at the 1964 New York World's Fair. (Picture from: D70 in Flickr)
One of the most striking aspects of the GM-X Stiletto was its doorless design. The absence of side doors meant there were no front roof pillars, providing an unobstructed forward view. While this design choice made entering and exiting the vehicle somewhat challenging, it added to the car's sleek, futuristic appeal. Inside, the Stiletto was a technological marvel. It boasted a climate control system that automatically maintained the desired cabin temperature, ultrasonic sensors for obstacle detection, and a rear-view camera that displayed its feed on a central screen. The cabin was adorned with multiple screens of varying sizes, showcasing the advanced nature of this concept.
The GM-X Stiletto Concept featured aircraft-style steering controls and dashboard, a maintenance monitoring system with toggle switch controls, a three-way communication inside/outside speaker system, and cockpit designed seating. (Picture from: Atomic-Flash)
Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the GM-X Stiletto featured a compact aircraft-style control that turned only halfway from lock to lock. The car's wheels were maneuvered by electric motors rather than a mechanical linkage, allowing for variable steering ratios. This meant that in a parking lot, a slight turn of the steering wheel could result in a large wheel angle, while at higher speeds, the steering became more stable and precise.
The GM-X Stiletto Concept was designed as a slow-moving model and did not drive a single meter on its own. (Picture from: ReddIt)
The Stiletto also introduced an innovative maintenance warning system, which used a female voice to alert the driver about upcoming oil changes and refueling needs. For communication, the car was equipped with microphones and speakers, a necessary addition since it lacked roll-down windows.
The General Motors GM-X Stiletto Concept on display at the 1964 New York World's Fair. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The slogan for the Stiletto's demonstration was "The sports car of the coming decade," a testament to the forward-thinking vision of GM's designers. Even today, the GM-X Stiletto remains a fascinating glimpse into what the future of automotive design might have looked like from the perspective of the 1960s.
In 1969 the GM-X Stiletto reappeared before the public under the name Pontiac Cirrus in silver and even a new nose, intended to be a design study for a two-seat sports coupe though the prototype lacked an engine. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Five years after its initial debut, the Stiletto reappeared before the public with a new look and name: the Pontiac Cirrus. Despite these changes, it still lacked the ability to drive independently. Today, both the GM-X Stiletto and the Pontiac Cirrus are preserved in the General Motors museum, standing as monuments to an era of unbounded creativity and ambition in car design.
In the end, the GM-X Stiletto represents more than just a concept car; it symbolizes a time when imagination knew no bounds. It showcases the spirit of innovation that defined the 1960s and continues to inspire designers and engineers to push the boundaries of what's possible. This vehicle, with its otherworldly design and advanced features, remains a testament to the dreams and aspirations of a bygone era, reminding us of the endless possibilities that the future holds. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARANDDRIVER | MOTORTREND | STORY-CARS | WIKIPEDIA | ATOMIC-FLASH | REDDIT | ROLLING ART | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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Unique ONES - The world of automobiles has seen many innovations and concept vehicles that capture the imagination of car enthusiasts. Among these, the Daihatsu TA-X80 stands out as a unique entry, despite not having entered mass production. Introduced at the Tokyo Auto Salon in 1987 to celebrate Daihatsu's 80th anniversary, this bubble-top car draws from the spirit of the 1950s and 1960s while incorporating modern technology and design.
The Daihatsu TA-X80 is a two-seat coupe that features an advanced experimental technology package, designed to commemorate Daihatsu's 80th anniversary.(Picture from: TheDrive)
The TA-X80 is a two-seat coupe that showcases an advanced experimental technology package. Unlike typical compact cars of its era, it features a mid-engine layout, which provides a balanced weight distribution. This thoughtful engineering enhances the vehicle's handling characteristics, setting it apart from its contemporaries. Powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter V6 engine, the TA-X80 is equipped with a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, producing an impressive 128 horsepower at a high 9,000 rpm. This unique engine setup ensures that the car not only has sufficient power but also offers an engaging driving experience.
The Daihatsu TA-X80 stands out as a distinctive model, debuting at the 30th Tokyo Auto Salon in 1987. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
With a length of 3,900 mm, a width of 1,695 mm, and a height of 1,065 mm, the TA-X80 maintains a compact and sporty profile. Its lightweight construction, with a curb weight of just 880 kg, contributes to its nimbleness on the road. The vehicle's all-wheel drive system channels power from the engine through a four-speed automatic transmission, providing a seamless driving experience. Although it boasts a maximum speed of 250 km/h, which might seem modest by today’s supercar standards, the emphasis of the TA-X80 lies more in its innovative design and engineering rather than sheer speed.
The Daihatsu TA-X80 futuristic concept powered by a mid-mounted 1.0-litre twin-cam 24-valve turbo V6 engine. (Picture from: IMCDB.org)
The exterior of the TA-X80 reflects a futuristic aesthetic, characterized by its curved roof and transparent glass elements. The design cues are reminiscent of Italian supercars, with sleek lines, dual headlights, and strategically placed air intakes. The vehicle's unique sliding door mechanism, which opens backward, adds to its distinctive charm and sets it apart from conventional door designs. This attention to detail in both form and function highlights Daihatsu's commitment to pushing automotive boundaries during the late 1980s.
With a length of 3,900 mm, a width of 1,695 mm, and a height of 1,065 mm, the TA-X80 maintains a compact and sporty profile. (Picture from: TheDrive)
While the TA-X80 never made it to production, its introduction marked an important milestone for Daihatsu and the concept car landscape. The absence of this model in the marketplace didn’t hinder Daihatsu’s foray into the sports car segment; instead, it paved the way for future models like the Daihatsu Copen. The Copen, known for its compact size and fun driving dynamics, embodies some of the spirit that the TA-X80 sought to capture, showcasing the evolution of Daihatsu’s design philosophy.
The Daihatsu TA-X80's cabin, designed for two passengers, features a futuristic steering wheel, driver-centered instrument panel, and a sleek black-and-red interior. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The story of the Daihatsu TA-X80 serves as a reminder of the creativity and innovation that define the automotive industry. Concept cars often serve as a canvas for manufacturers to explore new technologies and design ideas, pushing the limits of what is possible. The TA-X80, though it remained a prototype, represents a moment in time when the allure of futuristic design met cutting-edge engineering.
The vehicle's unique sliding door mechanism, which opens backward, adds to its distinctive charm and sets it apart from conventional door designs.. (Picture from: TheDrive)
As we reflect on the legacy of vehicles like the Daihatsu TA-X80, it's essential to appreciate their role in shaping the automotive landscape. These concepts inspire future generations of designers and engineers to think outside the box and create vehicles that not only perform well but also capture the hearts of enthusiasts around the world. The TA-X80 may not have achieved commercial success, but its spirit lives on, reminding us of the endless possibilities in the world of automotive innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEDRIVE | CARSTYLING.RU | STORY-CARS | IMCDB.ORG ]
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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)
Vanished Vision - The dream of soaring through the sky like a bird may forever remain in the realm of fantasy, but the automotive world often inspires a similar sense of wonder. At the Denver International Auto Show in 2009, a small company called Lightning Hybrids managed to capture this spirit of innovation and imagination with their debut of the Lightning LH4. Despite being a last-minute rush to the finish line, their prototype hydraulic hybrid sports car stole the spotlight as one of the most unique vehicles at the event.
The Lightning LH4 prototype debuted at the 2009 Denver International Auto Show, showcasing innovation and imagination from the small company, Lightning Hybrids. (Picture from: Wired)
The LH4 stood out not only for its sleek, doorless design but also for its pioneering use of bio-diesel fuel combined with a hydraulic hybrid drivetrain. Aimed at offering both performance and sustainability, the car promised an impressive fuel efficiency of over 100 miles per gallon on biodiesel. Its aerodynamic features, enhanced by a clamshell door that opened upwards, showcased a clear intent to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. Even at first glance, it was clear the LH4 was no ordinary prototype; it embodied a bold vision for the future of green transportation.
The Lightning LH4 prototype, with its four-seat configuration and ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under six seconds, promised to combine everyday practicality with thrilling speed.(Picture from: WhatIsThisCar)
Inside, the LH4 embraced innovative technologies that were rare for its time. One of its standout features was the replacement of traditional rearview mirrors with cameras and display screens. While these might have seemed like mere gadgets, they had a practical purpose: reducing drag while improving safety. This attention to detail underscored Lightning Hybrids’ commitment to redefining what a sustainable sports car could achieve. Despite the vehicle's unconventional aesthetics, its performance was anything but timid. With a four-seat configuration and the ability to accelerate to 60 mph in under six seconds, the LH4 promised to blend practicality with exhilarating speed.
The Lightning LH4 prototype stood out not only for its sleek, doorless design but also for its pioneering use of bio-diesel fuel combined with a hydraulic hybrid drivetrain. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
.The Denver Auto Show marked an important milestone for Lightning Hybrids, a family-run company based in Loveland, Colorado. The event was not only an opportunity to showcase their flagship LH4 but also to introduce their forthcoming model, the LH3. This three-wheeled vehicle, designed to utilize the same hydraulic hybrid technology, was poised to hit the market before the LH4 due to fewer regulatory hurdles. The LH3 highlighted the company’s ambition to deliver sustainable solutions across different vehicle formats.
The Lightning LH4 prototype featured the innovative replacement of traditional rearview mirrors with cameras and display screens, enhancing both aerodynamics and safety. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
While the prototype wasn’t entirely finished by the time of the show, Lightning Hybrids remained committed to their vision. CEO Dan Johnson openly acknowledged the challenges of meeting the tight deadlines, yet his enthusiasm for the unveiling was palpable. For the team, the debut wasn’t just about showcasing a car but also about demonstrating a revolutionary approach to hybrid drivetrain technology. In their words, the LH4 wasn’t merely a prototype; it was a glimpse into the potential of cleaner, greener driving.
The Lightning LH4 prototype's aerodynamic features, enhanced by a clamshell door that opened upwards, showcased a clear intent to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. (Picture from: MotorAuthority)
Looking to the future, the company aimed to extend their technology beyond personal vehicles. Plans included offering the hydraulic hybrid drivetrain as a retrofit kit, targeting fleet operators who could benefit from improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This adaptability underscored Lightning Hybrids' desire to make an impact on multiple fronts in the transportation industry.
The Lightning LH4 prototype debuted at the 2009 Denver International Auto Show, showcasing innovation and imagination from the small company, Lightning Hybrids. (Picture from: GreenCarReports)
The arrival of the LH4 at the Denver Auto Show wasn’t just an exciting moment for car enthusiasts; it was a bold statement from a small team determined to disrupt the norms of automotive design and sustainability. Lightning Hybrids hoped their innovation would resonate with eco-conscious drivers who sought both performance and responsibility in their vehicles.
The 2009 Lightning LH4 aimed to redefine green sports cars with bold design and tech, but its story faded as quickly as it began.(Picture from: MotorAuthority)
While the company’s website and social media presence have since gone dormant, the legacy of their ingenuity remains a fascinating chapter in the story of green automotive development. For those who witnessed the LH4 firsthand, it was more than just a car—it was a symbol of possibility.
With every line of its aerodynamic design and every mile it promised on bio-diesel fuel, the LH4 challenged the automotive world to think differently. Though Lightning Hybrids may not have soared as high as they hoped, their brief flight was enough to inspire anyone who dreams of pushing the boundaries of innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LIGHTNING HYBRID | AUTOBLOG | WIRED | GREENCARREPORTS | AUTOEVOLUTION | MOTORAUTHORITY | PORSCHECLASSIC ]
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Mechanical Titan - The world of motorcycles has always been a showcase for engineering marvels, where innovation and creativity push the boundaries of design. While most motorcycles stick to a conventional two-wheeled structure, some break the mold entirely, blending power and uniqueness in ways rarely seen. One such machine is the Cosmos V8 Muscle Bike, a beastly creation that redefines the concept of a motorcycle. Combining automotive and motorcycle engineering, this remarkable vehicle is a true spectacle on the road, available in two stunning variants: the four-wheeled 4RWF and the more traditional two-wheeled 2RWF.
The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes are extraordinary creations, designed by Brazilian engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009. (Picture from: Bikez.net)
Conceived by Brazilian mechanical engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009 and introduced in 2010, the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike is unlike anything most riders have ever seen, alongside its 2RWF sibling. However, here the focus is on the uniqueness of the four-wheeled variant, the 4RWF. At its heart lies a Chevy ZZ4 350-cubic-inch V8 engine, a powerhouse typically found in American muscle cars. This monstrous engine produces an astounding 355 horsepower and 405 lb-ft of torque, figures that rival some of the most powerful road machines. The idea of such a massive engine propelling a motorcycle might seem unbelievable, yet the Cosmos 4RWF V8 turns this vision into reality.
The
2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes are extraordinary creations,
designed by Brazilian engineer Amadeu Ferreira Junior in 2009.(Picture from: ZombieDriveMoto)
Given the sheer force behind this machine, a conventional motorcycle frame would not suffice. Instead, the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike features a robust chassis designed to handle its massive power output. To ensure stability and control, the bike is equipped with a three-speed transmission and a reverse gear, a necessary addition considering its 1,047-pound (475 kg) weight. Without it, maneuvering such a heavy bike would be a serious challenge.
The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF and 2RWF V8 Muscle Bikes feature a mono-block chassis, measuring 2.60 meters in length with a 0.9-meter frame.(Picture from: CoolThings)
One of the most striking aspects of this motorcycle is its four-wheel configuration. Unlike traditional motorcycles that rely on two wheels for balance, this machine features two closely positioned wheels in the front and two in the rear. This unique design provides superior stability, reducing the risk of tipping over despite its immense size. However, due to its width and weight, only riders with a strong physique and experience handling heavy bikes will be comfortable taking control of it.
The 2010 Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike naturally invites comparisons to the legendary Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike, another machine that defies convention.(Picture from: RideMachine)
The presence of a 17-inch wheel setup adds to its dominant road presence. These wheels provide excellent grip and ensure that the bike maintains stability, even under the tremendous force generated by the V8 engine. The aggressive styling of the Cosmos 4RWF V8 Muscle Bike further enhances its status as a one-of-a-kind creation, making it a true head-turner wherever it appears.
The 2010
Cosmos 2RWF V8 Muscle Bike sports a mono-block chassis, with an overall
length of 2.60 meters and a frame measuring 0.9 meters.(Picture from: MotorcycleSpecs)
This motorcycle inevitably draws comparisons to the legendary Dodge Tomahawk V10 Superbike, another machine that defies traditional expectations. Just like the Cosmos 4RWF V8, the Tomahawk features an oversized car engine—in this case, an 8.3L V10 from a Dodge Viper. Both machines represent the pinnacle of motorcycle-meets-muscle-car engineering, offering performance that borders on the absurd and a road presence that is simply unmatched.
The 2010 Cosmos 2RWF V8 Muscle Bike is an extraordinary creation, powered by a ZZ4 V8 engine, delivering an impressive 350 hp, the same powerhouse that drives its 4RWF sibling. (Picture from: MotorcycleSpecs)
For
those intrigued by this engineering masterpiece, the price tag is as
bold as the bike itself. The four-wheeled (4RWF) variant costs $93,200
(approximately Rp.1.22 billion), while a more traditional two-wheeled
(2RWF) version is available for $82,100 (approximately Rp.1.07 billion).
While these prices place the bike firmly in the luxury segment, they
reflect its exclusivity and extraordinary design, making it a prized
possession for enthusiasts who appreciate extreme motorcycles.
Both variants of the Cosmos V8 Muscle Bike are more than just motorcycles; they are mechanical statements, machines that refuse to conform to the norm. They embody the fusion of automotive power and motorcycle agility, delivering an experience that few other vehicles can match. In a world where innovation continues to blur the lines between different vehicle categories, these remarkable creations stand as proof that engineering knows no boundaries. Whether admired for their sheer audacity or technical brilliance, one thing is certain—these motorcycles will never be forgotten.
The VDS GT 001 marks a significant moment not only for Van der Straten but also for Belgium as a whole. It's a car that challenges the notion of what a supercar should be and where it can come from. With its sleek design, powerful engine, and racing pedigree, the VDS GT 001 is a reminder that dreams, when combined with determination and skill, can lead to extraordinary achievements. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VDS RACING ADVENTURES | SUPERCARS.NET | ULTIMATECARPAGE ]
