Chrysler's Striking Design for Lamborghini P140: Unveiling the Past

Forgotten ONES - In the early months of 1987, Lamborghini embarked on a mission to craft a worthy successor to the iconic Lamborghini Jalpa, initiating the ambitious Lamborghini P140 project. Embracing collaboration, the renowned car manufacturer sought external design expertise alongside their in-house efforts, a customary practice in the dynamic automotive landscape.

In 1989, the Chrysler Design Center presented a design proposal for the Lamborghini P140 project. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Shortly after the commencement of the P140 endeavor, a pivotal shift occurred as Chrysler acquired Automobili Lamborghini from the Mimram Group in April 1987. This transaction, completed at a reported $25 million, marked a significant return on the Mimram's original $3 million investment. Amidst this change, the focus on the Jalpa's replacement intensified, aiming to rival the offerings from Maranello, Stuttgart, and the emerging Japanese sports car scene, notably the impending Honda NSX.

The Chrysler's P140 design proposal unveils an exterior reminiscent of the Lamborghini Portofino Concept, evoking echoes of the 1991 Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor 'Wraith.' (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

Parallel to the P140 project, Lamborghini was concurrently engrossed in developing a successor for the legendary Countach. This dual commitment stretched the company's research and development resources to their limits. 

Technically, the P140 featured a bonded aluminum monocoque chassis, boasting a 2,522 mm wheelbase, an extension by 71 mm compared to its predecessor, the Jalpa. Suspension incorporated double wishbones, coil-sprung damper units on all corners, and anti-roll bars at both ends. Ventilated four-wheel discs handled braking duties, while the track dimensions were notably wider than the Jalpa.

Regrettably, the Chrysler model had to take a backseat as Lamborghini opted for Gandini's P140 design, given his rich history with the marque, having previously sculpted several Raging Bull masterpieces like the Miura, Espada, and Countach. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)

The quest for an exquisite body design led to evaluations of proposals from distinguished designers such as Marcello Gandini of Bertone, and the Chrysler Design Center. Ultimately, Lamborghini chose Gandini's P140 design, considering his extensive history with the marque, having previously crafted masterpieces like the Miura, Espada, and Countach.

The Marcello Gandini's designed Lamborghini P140 while sat on display at the Museo Lamborghini in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Meanwhile, the Chrysler Design Center's proposal, though intriguing, succumbed to the passage of time. A glimpse into Chrysler's P140 design surfaced through Story-Cars on X/Twitter, revealing an exterior akin to the Lamborghini Portofino Concept and evoking memories of the 1991 Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor 'Wraith.' Sadly, the fate of this Chrysler model, a full-scale prototype without an engine, remains shrouded in mystery.

The 1990 Lamborghini P140 boasts a carbon fiber body atop a purpose-built aluminum monocoque chassis, tailored for the 2,800 lbs (around 1,270 kg) lightweight supercar. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Despite nearing production readiness with a slated 1992 launch, Chrysler abruptly terminated the P140 program in its final developmental stages. The vehicle met an untimely demise, never getting the chance to grace the production line. Subsequently, Chrysler relinquished control of Lamborghini to the Malaysian investment group Mycom Setdco and the Indonesian group V Power Corporation.

The 1995 Lamborghini Calà Concept by ItalDesign, crafted upon one of the three P140 chassis, currently stands in the Lamborghini Museum alongside its predecessor, embodying a 15-year quest to follow in the footsteps of the cherished Jalpa. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Today, one of the three prototypes of Gandini's P140 finds its home in Lamborghini's museum, while another underwent a transformation into the striking Lamborghini Calà concept of 1995. This project, another endeavor to introduce a production-viable, V10-engined Lamborghini, met a similar fate. The Calà now resides alongside its predecessor in the Lamborghini Museum, symbolizing a 15-year journey to succeed the beloved Jalpa. In the realm of automotive history, the Lamborghini P140 remains a captivating tale of innovation, collaboration, and the twists and turns of the industry's evolution.

In the halls of Lamborghini's museum, these prototypes stand as testament to a bygone era, encapsulating the spirit of daring designs and unrealized dreams. The P140's legacy, though short-lived, echoes through Lamborghini's narrative, reminding enthusiasts of the brand's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. The journey from the drawing board to the museum showcases the intricate dance between creativity and practicality, a dance that defines the ever-evolving landscape of luxury sports car manufacturing. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY-CARS ON TWITTER | EVO.CO.UK | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | BA-BAMAIL | CONCEPTCARS | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]

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Renault's Reinastella: A Flying Saucer Tale from 2328

Futuristic RIDES - In the realm of extraterrestrial fascination, flying saucers often spark thoughts of encounters with aliens and UFO mysteries. However, not all saucers are bound for outer space; some find their origins right here on Earth, crafted by human ingenuity. This unlikely association between terrestrial design and celestial speculation is evident in various automotive creations, challenging the conventional narrative of unidentified flying objects.

The Renault Reinastella flying saucer concept, a result of the French automaker's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992, emerged as a distinctive creation. (Picture from: lAutomobileAncienne)

In the automotive world, renowned designers like Alex Tremulis ventured into uncharted territory, conceptualizing flying saucer designs. This trend extended beyond the drafting board, with manufacturers materializing these imaginative ideas into real, tangible forms. Examples include the 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 Disco Volante, the futuristic 1958 Ford X-2000, the gyroscopic wonder of 1967 Gyro-X, and the contemporary 2016 Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Spyder, each defying expectations.

The Reinastella name of 1992 Renault's flying saucer originated to the classic luxury car model, Renault Reinastella, dating back to early of 1930s. (Picture from: Secret-Classic)

Yet, amidst these earthly endeavors, there exists an intriguing anomaly—a flying saucer not confined on wheels. Renault, the famed French automotive manufacturer, ventured into uncharted skies in the early 1990s. Known for its conceptual prowess, Renault's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992 led to the creation of a flying saucer projecting into the distant future, the Renault Reinastella, named after a luxurious Renault classic model from early of the 1930s.

The Renault Reinastella, enveloped in innovative dermotylene and infused with avant-garde biomechanics, surpassed the notion of a mere vehicle. (Picture from: Proektor)

Crafted with avant-garde biomechanics and coated in the innovative synthetic material dermotylene, the Reinastella was envisioned as more than a mere vehicle. Propelled by a bio-organic engine fueled by 'plasmelf' fluid, it transcended conventional transportation, almost resembling a living organism. Operating 15 cm above the ground at 50 kph or soaring at 150 m and 300 kph, the Reinastella adapted its architecture for optimal aerodynamics during flight.

The Renault Reinastella, an airborne marvel, epitomized futuristic luxury travel for five passengers controlled by voice commands.. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)

Silently transporting five passengers through voice commands, this airborne marvel represented the epitome of luxury in futuristic travel. Access to its passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed.

Access to the Reinastella's passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)

Two examples were constructed and showcased on telescopic masts during Renault's partnership with Disneyland Paris. After the event, these futuristic saucers joined the Renault Classic Collection, destined to await their sale - scheduled a whopping 305 years into the future.😮

While the Renault Reinastella may not soar through the skies, it invites us to envision a future where innovation defies the limits of logic and propels us into uncharted realms. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)

Today, the Reinastella may be considered an 'Identified Flying Object' or IFO, as it remains grounded. Despite its earthly tethering, it serves as a captivating decorative testament to Renault's imaginative prowess. A glimpse into a future more than a century away, this 'IFO' prompts us to keep dreaming, pushing boundaries, and contemplating the unimaginable.

And it's had been proven by the automaker nearly three decades later, in 2022, it collaborates with TheArsenale had succeded to fly the Air4 prototype, in celebrating the 60th anniversary of its legendary Renault 4L model.😄 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LAUTOMOBILEANCIENNE | AUTO-MOTO | CLASSICDRIVER | CONCEPTCARZ | THRILLIST | SECRET-CLASSIC | PROEKTOR ]

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Beyond Minivans: Discover the Innovation of Honda's Space-Hub in the 0 Series

New EV - The 2024 Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas witnessed a captivating unveiling by Honda – not one, but two futuristic concept cars that seem to have leaped straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster. These innovative vehicles have now become an integral part of the Honda 0 Series, marking a significant stride towards the future of automotive technology. 

The 2024 CES in Las Vegas showcased Honda's captivating unveiling of two futuristic Honda 0 Series concept cars, the Saloon and Space-Hub, signifying a significant leap into the future of automotive technology. (Picture from: Jikayosha.jp)

The showcase not only included the sleek Saloon model but also featured the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub, signaling Honda's ambitious foray into the realm of electric vehicles (EV). While the Honda 0 Series Saloon takes design cues from the iconic wedge-shaped concepts of the 1970s, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and avant-garde aesthetics. On the other end of the spectrum, the Space-Hub takes a completely different approach. 

Honda envisions the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub as a "flexible space" capable of adapting to diverse passenger needs, evolving into a dynamic "hub" connecting individuals with each other and the external world. (Picture from: CarAndBike)

Honda envisions it as a "flexible space" capable of adapting to diverse passenger needs, evolving into a dynamic "hub" connecting individuals with each other and the external world. The design appears reminiscent of a Starfleet space shuttle, hinting at a futuristic narrative that Honda is keen to unfold.

The Honda 0 Series Space-Hub design appears reminiscent of a Starfleet space shuttle, hinting at a futuristic narrative that Honda is keen to unfold. (Picture from: CarAndBike)

Despite lacking concrete plans for production, this conceptual minivan offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential future of the Honda 0 Series. Its exterior boasts a panoramic roof stretching to the passenger side, providing a spacious and airy interior. The second-row seats, arranged facing each other, offer flexible configurations that transform the minivan into a communal space, fostering connectivity among passengers and the world beyond.

The Honda 0 Series Space-Hub second-row seats, arranged facing each other, offer flexible configurations that transform the minivan into a communal space, fostering connectivity among passengers and the world beyond. (Picture from: Mad4Wheels)

One standout feature of the Space-Hub is its unconventional rear design, characterized by box-shaped rear lights dominating almost half of the rear section. Interestingly, Honda opted not to include a rear glass, leaving enthusiasts to wonder about the reasoning behind this decision. Could it be a technological innovation or a strategic move influenced by production costs? The absence of a rear glass suggests a unique approach to visibility, perhaps relying on advanced technology to provide a clear view of the surroundings.

One standout feature of the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub is its unconventional rear design, characterized by box-shaped rear lights dominating almost half of the rear section. (Picture from: CarMagazine)

Beyond the captivating concept models, Honda introduced a fresh "H" logo designed exclusively for its upcoming EV models, including those within the 0 Series. This emblem, reminiscent of Honda's early logo, symbolizes "two outstretched hands," reflecting Honda's steadfast commitment to "expanding mobility possibilities and continuing to meet the needs of its customers." The logo encapsulates the brand's vision for the future – an open-handed embrace of innovation and a promise to usher in a new era of automotive excellence.

In essence, Honda's unveiling at the 2024 CES goes beyond mere automotive showcases; it marks a bold step into the future, where nostalgia intertwines with cutting-edge design, and where the concept of mobility evolves into a seamless connection between people and the world around them. The Honda 0 Series, with its futuristic concepts and visionary logo, sets the stage for an exciting era of automotive innovation and electric mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | 0.HONDA | CTRL_AND_X | TOPGEAR | ENGADGET | AUTOCAR | AUTOBLOG | WAPCAR.MY | CNET ]

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Inside the Exotic: Manuel Olmos' Journey to the Olmos 640 R One

ONE BIG DREAMS - In the ever-evolving realm of automotive innovation, a captivating narrative unfolds, revealing hidden treasures that ignite the passion of both car enthusiasts and industry insiders. One such gem is the Olmos 640 R One, a creation born from the ingenuity of the relatively unknown French car artisan, Manuel Olmos.

The Olmos 640 R One stands as a stunning automotive supercar, a creation of Manuel Olmos, a skilled automotive craftsman hailing from Meximieux in Ain, France. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)

The journey of this exotic sports car commenced in 2011 when Olmos, armed with a unique skill set spanning electrical engineering, pneumatics, mechanics, and goldsmithing, embarked on the transformative task of sculpting a foam block in his modest garage—a block destined to metamorphose into a luxurious automobile.

The Olmos 640 R One prototype underwent development for approximately six years, involving an impressive 18,000 work hours since 2011. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)

The driving force behind Olmos' ambitious project was his perception that France lacked an iconic luxury car on par with globally renowned brands like Pagani, Zenvo, or Lamborghini. Frustrated with the frequent disappointment of concept cars never making it to production, he invested not only his skills but also a substantial €1 million of his savings to breathe life into his visionary project.

The Olmos 640 R One boasts a captivating sporty design that prioritizes safety, incorporating various components crafted from titanium, carbon, and Nomex for enhanced durability. (Picture from: EncyclAutomobile.fr)

The culmination of six years and an impressive 18,000 work hours yielded the Olmos 640 R One prototype in 2017. This automotive masterpiece boasts a titanium Nomex-carbon fiber chassis, a flat, ground-effect underfloor, and is powered by a formidable yet unspecified LS V8, delivering an impressive 640 horsepower. Adding an extra layer of intrigue is the subtle indication of an unapparent hybrid setup in the production model, potentially propelling the power output to an astonishing 1,000 horsepower.

The formidable LS V8 powering the Olmos 640 R One is discreetly positioned in the rear center, enhancing its performance. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)

The meticulous evolution of the car's design and optics, entrusted to Pascal Fotia, a skilled compatriot coachbuilder, mirrors Olmos' unwavering commitment to perfection. The vehicle, resplendent in immaculate whiteness, made its grand debut at the Époqu’auto show in Lyon, serving as a testament to Olmos' unwavering dedication and craftsmanship.

The meticulous evolution of the 640 R One's design and optics, entrusted to Pascal Fotia, a skilled compatriot coachbuilder, mirrors Olmos' unwavering commitment to perfection. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)

Despite the technical prowess and aesthetic allure of the Olmos 640 R One, its substantial price tag, commencing at €600,000 or approximately £530,000, seems to have given pause to potential buyers. Nevertheless, this financial hurdle has not dampened Olmos' spirits; he remains steadfast in his commitment to the artisanal approach to car manufacturing, envisioning each car as a unique masterpiece, preserving exclusivity and individuality.

The Olmos 640 R One resplendent in immaculate whiteness, made its grand debut at the Époqu'auto Lyon 2018. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)

The Époqu'auto Lyon 2018 emerged as a pivotal stage for Olmos to gauge public interest and potentially attract investors or partners. The response was remarkable, with a captivated audience and professionals witnessing the unveiling of this automotive marvel. The subsequent stops on the Olmos 640 R One's journey included potential appearances at the Cannes Festival and the Grand Prix du Mans.

Regrettably, as of today, updates on Manuel Olmos and his 640 R One supercar remain elusive, as if both the car and its creator have vanished from the limelight. Questions linger unanswered—was the sports car actually produced, and if so, how many units found their way into the world?

The anticipation surrounding its release has left enthusiasts hungry for news, and any information about Olmos and his creation is eagerly welcomed through the comments section below. The automotive world holds its breath, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the extraordinary story of this French-built supercar. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OLMOS RACING | OBSCURE SUPERCAR ON TWITTER | ENCYCLAUTOMOBILE.FR | LAVOIXDELAIN.FR | LEPROGRES.FR | FRANCE3-REGIOS.FRANCETVINFO.FR ]

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The Ultimate Star Wars Ride: Vintage Works' 74-Z Speeder Bike Replica

Unique ONES - The enduring allure of the Star Wars universe continues to captivate fans worldwide, evident in the fervor with which enthusiasts seek to bring elements of the iconic franchise to life. From fantastical creatures and robots to intricately designed costumes and vehicles, the dedication of fans knows no bounds.

The creative team of Vintage Works, a custom workshop based in Wisconsin, has successfully undertaken the ambitious project of recreating the iconic 74-Z speeder back in 2016. (Picture from: BoxRepsol)

One of the most iconic rides in George Lucas' Star Wars films is undoubtedly the 74-Z speeder, famously associated with the Storm Troopers flying rides. The allure of this cinematic creation has inspired Vintage Works, a Wisconsin-based custom workshop, to embark on an ambitious project to replicate the 74-Z speeder back in 2016.

Illustration of the 74-Z Speeder bike (in pictured is a 1:12 Aratech 74-Z Speeder Bike with Imperial Sniper Scout Trooper (modified Bandai kit set)). (Picture from: WhatIfModellers)

Vintage Works' creative team has gone above and beyond, not merely creating a replica but ingeniously ensuring the custom motorbike mirrors the cinematic essence of the original. Beyond the striking design, the wheels are strategically concealed from various angles, creating a visual illusion that mimics the floating effect seen in the Star Wars film.

The meticulous attention to detail by the Vintage Works crew is apparent in the seamless integration of functional elements. (Picture from: SolidworksBlog)

Autoblog reports that the team's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the incorporation of functional elements. A button positioned in front of the rider allows for the manipulation of pneumatic suspension, mimicking the floating effect characteristic of the Star Wars universe.

The Vintage Works crew utilized CNC machines to craft all accessories for the speeder bike replica, complemented by a meticulously hand-shaped aluminum body, the 74-Z replica may not possess the ability to levitate or navigate the forest moon of Endor at breakneck speeds. Nonetheless, its performance on the road is commendable, reaching a top speed of 70 mph. The inclusion of hubless wheels adds a touch of realism, bringing the levitating effect a step closer.

The Vintage Works crew utilized CNC machines to craft all accessories for the 74-Z speeder bike replica. (Picture from: SolidworksBlog)

The dedication to authenticity extends to the auditory experience as well. A 400-watt sound effects system replicates the distinctive hum of the speeder bikes featured in Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. This ensures that as the custom motorbike cruises down the road, the unmistakable sounds of the Star Wars universe accompany its journey.

Vintage Works' creative team has not only crafted a replica but has ingeniously captured the cinematic essence of the original, with the addition of hubless wheels providing a touch of realism and bringing the levitating effect a step closer. (Picture from: Motors.Mega.mu)

With a simple push to the red power button, the programmable logic controller orchestrates a synchronized spectacle. Pneumatic solenoid valves release air from the front and rear air suspension, adjusting foot pegs, and triggering the sound system to emulate the iconic "power down" effects.

Videos shared on YouTube provide a glimpse into the custom motorbike's performance, revealing its limitations in power and agility. Nevertheless, the 74-Z Speeder Bike Custom by Vintage Works remains a testament to the joy and creativity inspired by the Star Wars legacy, offering enthusiasts a tangible connection to a galaxy far, far away.

In conclusion, Vintage Works' dedication to recreating the 74-Z speeder bike transcends mere replication, infusing the custom motorbike with an authentic cinematic experience. As fans continue to push the boundaries of imagination, projects like these serve as a reminder that the allure of Star Wars endures, fueling creativity and innovation in unexpected ways.

May the force be with those who continue to bring the magic of the galaxy to life.

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 | VINTAGE WORKS | AUTOBLOG | DIGITALTRENDS | THE SOLIDWOKS BLOG | LAUGHINGSQUID | MOTORS.MEGA.MU | BOXREPSOL | XATAKA ]

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Revolutionary XPeng AeroHT eVTOL Takes Flight at CES 2024

Ready 2 FLY - XPeng Motors, headquartered in Guangzhou, China, also has additional offices in California, United States, has positioned itself as a significant player in the electric car industry, earning a listing on the New York Stock Exchange. The company's notable growth in China is underscored by its robust sales performance. Notably, XPeng Motors has ventured into groundbreaking territory with the development and production of a flying car through its subsidiary, XPeng AeroHT.

XPeng AeroHT displayed a concept electric vertical take-off and landing flying car at the 2024 CES consumer tech show in Las Vegas. (Picture from: NikkeiAsia)

Established in 2014, XPeng Motors fulfilled its promise to unveil the XPeng AeroHT eVTOL prototype at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, United States. The flying car managed to steal the spotlight at the event, drawing attention from CES attendees.

XPeng AeroHT has successfully conducted a test flight of a two-ton eVTOL Flying Car prototype. (Picture from: Mobilitas.id)

Since 2021, XPeng AeroHT has actively engaged in developing the XPeng X2 flying car prototype. The culmination of their efforts came to fruition in 2022 when the Chinese company successfully conducted a test flight of a two-ton eVTOL Flying Car prototype. This innovative electric flying vehicle is equipped with contemporary safety features and showcases a state-of-the-art foldable rotor mechanism. The flying car's design is futuristic, boasting aerodynamic contours and a partially enclosed rear wheel that captivates the imagination of transportation enthusiasts.

The Xpeng AeroHT eVTOL employs a modular Land Aircraft Carrier with a dual-function design, featuring a module for vertical take-off as a pusher and lever and a land module serving as a car-like power source. (Picture from: Mobilitas.id)

XPeng Motors, in a statement released through XPeng AeroHT and reported by Nikkei Asia, announced plans to commence accepting orders for the flying car in the final quarter of 2024, with deliveries slated to begin in 2025. The XPeng AeroHT eVTOL is built on a modular Land Aircraft Carrier design, featuring two integral parts. The first part serves as a driver and lever for vertical take-off, akin to a personnel transport aircraft for low-altitude flights. The second part functions as a power source, resembling a conventional car for road use, ensuring safety and comfort.

At the 2024 CES event, the manufacturer of electric flying cars demonstrated a smooth transition between land and air modes, showcasing a vertical take-off. (Picture from: Otomotif.Sindonews)

During the CES event, the electric flying car manufacturer showcased the seamless transition between land and air modes, with a demonstration of vertical take-off (the initial endeavor carried out beyond China). In ground mode, the eVTOL flying car exhibits a streamlined appearance as its flying components fold inward. Following adjustments, the vehicle effortlessly reopens its 'wings' for vertical take-off.

XPeng Motors emphasized the versatile applications of these modular flying cars beyond personal use, citing their potential for public services such as emergency rescue operations, effectively meeting various governmental or private needs.

The initial market for these flying cars will be in China, with a price tag exceeding CHN ¥1 million (approximately $140,000 or Rp. 2.1 billions). Prospective buyers are required to undergo testing in a designated area before making a purchase. As XPeng Motors sets the stage for a new era of personal transportation, the XPeng AeroHT eVTOL promises to revolutionize the way we perceive and engage with mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | XPENG AEROHT | NIKKEI ASIA | CNET ]

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