Unique ONES - In the fast-paced world of automotive business, challenges are inevitable, even for iconic models like the Studebaker Avanti. Launched by the Studebaker Corporationbetween June 1962 and December 1963, the Avanti aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. Marketed as "America's only high-performance coupe with a capacity of four passengers," it promised a thrilling driving experience coupled with safety features.
The Studebaker Avanti launched by the Studebaker Corporation between June 1962 and December 1963. (Picture from: TimesColonist)
Just to let you know, when the Studebaker Avanti was announced in 1962, Studebaker's history already traced back 110 years to 1852. It all started when Clem and Henry Studebaker opened a blacksmith and wagon shop in South Bend, Indiana. Considered a pivotal milestone in the post-war automotive industry, the Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis.
The Studebaker Avanti conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. (Picture from: TheAvanti)
Its design, conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. Crafted by a team (consisted primarily of Bob Andrews, John Ebstein, and Tom Kellogg) led by Raymond Loewy, the Avanti dazzled the public when unveiled on April 26, 1962, at the New York International Automobile Show. The debut coincided with the Annual Shareholders' Meeting, generating excitement and anticipation among enthusiasts.
The Studebaker Avanti was crafted by a team led by Raymond Loewy and aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
To further elevate its profile, the Avanti found itself in the hands of racing champion Rodger Ward, winner of the 1962 Indianapolis 500. His ownership added prestige, cementing the Avanti's status as a symbol of speed and sophistication.
The Studebaker Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. (Picture from: TheAvanti)
Underneath its stylish exterior, the Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. With an impressive 0-60 mph acceleration in under 8 seconds and a top speed of 139 mph, it offered exhilarating performance unmatched by its competitors.
The Studebaker Avanti's interior includes bucket seats, a padded dashboard, a central console, and overhead light switches.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
Furthermore, Studebaker took the Avanti to the Bonneville Salt Flats where it set 29 production car records in 1963, eventually achieving a top speed of nearly 170 mph in the flying mile with Andy Granatelli, chief driver and chief engineer at Studebacker Racing behind the wheel.
Despite its initial acclaim, the Avanti encountered setbacks in production, including issues with suppliers and delays in manufacturing. These challenges hampered the company's ability to meet demand, resulting in numerous order cancellations from dealers and customers alike.
The Studebaker Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Sadly, the Avanti's production came to an abrupt halt at the end of 1963, just a year and a half after its launch. With only around 5,800 units manufactured, its journey was cut short, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and ambition in the automotive industry.
In retrospect, the Studebaker Avanti remains a testament to the pursuit of excellence, its brief yet impactful presence leaving an indelible mark on automotive history. Despite its challenges, it continues to be celebrated for its daring design and spirited performance, reminding us of the enduring allure of timeless classics. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEAVANTI | MOTORTREND | TIMESCOLONIST | WIKIPEDIA ]
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New EV - In a much-anticipated move, Karma Automotive has unveiled its latest creation, the Karma Gyesera, at the prestigious Amelia Concours d'Elegance. After almost four years of eager anticipation since the initial revelation of plans to introduce a full-electric vehicle (EV) based on the Revero plug-in hybrid sedan, the Californian brand has taken a significant step into the future with this sleek four-door grand tourer.
Karma Automotive has unveiled its latest creation called the Karma Gyesera EV, at the prestigious Amelia Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
Described as a "bridge to the future" for Karma, the Gyesera showcases a thoroughly revamped design, housing a fully electric powertrain capable of an impressive 250-mile range. Aiming for a futuristic aesthetic, almost all of the exterior body panels have undergone a meticulous redesign, resulting in a 199.9-inch long model with a streamlined appearance. Notable updates include a grilleless nose, sculpted profile intakes, clear taillight lenses, and a modernized rear bumper.
The Karma Gyesera EV features a meticulously redesigned 199.9-inch-long frame, aspiring for a futuristic aesthetic through a streamlined overhaul of almost all exterior body panels. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
Despite these exterior refinements, the Gyesera maintains the timeless proportions and greenhouse, reminiscent of its predecessors like the GS-6 and Revero plug-in hybrids. This design ethos harks back to the original Fisker Karma, which debuted in 2011, maintaining the iconic low-slung silhouette.
The Karma Gyesera's power lies in its 120 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of over 250 miles. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
Internally, the Gyesera boasts an improved dashboard layout, echoing elements from the Fisker legacy. The center console has been revamped with a larger infotainment touchscreen, and the steering wheel has undergone a refreshing update. The absence of decorative inserts, coupled with the prominent Gyesera emblem on the dashboard, adds a touch of modern minimalism to the interior.
Internally, the Karma Gyesera boasts an improved dashboard layout, echoing elements from the Fisker legacy. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
This unveiling is particularly significant as it marks the 10th anniversary since the acquisition of bankrupt Fisker Automotive by the Chinese company Wanxiang Group, subsequently rebranded as Karma Automotive.
President Marques McCammon emphasized the Gyesera's distinctiveness compared to its predecessor, the GSe-6. Although both models share the aluminum spaceframe chassis, the Gyesera introduces a "completely different" battery design and "materially different" performance, with 85% of the EV undergoing significant revisions.
The center console has been revamped with a larger infotainment touchscreen, and the steering wheel has undergone a refreshing update. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
The Gyesera's power lies in its 120 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of over 250 miles. Its rear-mounted electric motor churns out an impressive 590 horsepower and 693 lb-ft of torque, translating to a rapid 0-60 mph sprint in under 4.2 seconds and a top speed exceeding 135 mph.
The Karma Gyesera EV introduces a "completely different" battery design and "materially different" performance, with 85% of the EV undergoing significant revisions. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)
Anticipated for a late 2024 or early 2025 market launch, the Gyesera comes with an estimated price tag ranging from $175,000 to $225,000. Karma Automotive aims for exclusivity, planning to produce 2,000 units over a four- or five-year period at its Moreno Valley facility in California.
The Gyesera's debut sets the stage for Karma's future endeavors, with the Kaveya – a two-door electric sports car – expected to grace the production scene in late 2025. As Karma Automotive paves the way for the electric future, the Gyesera stands as a testament to innovation and design, propelling the brand into a new era of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KARMA AUTOMOTIVE | CARSCOOPS | CARANDDRIVER | AUTOMOTIVENEWS ]
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New IDEA - In today's rapidly advancing world, where everything seems to demand speed and efficiency, the automotive industry faces the challenge of creating exceptional vehicles within tight timeframes. Despite the numerous impressive cars crafted by global manufacturers, there is one unique concept that stands out – the ARCHETYPE EV. Developed by HONPE Technology, the largest prototype manufacturing company, this electric luxury sedan boasts an extraordinary design and was created in an astonishingly short period – just 45 days from CAD model to a fully functional car.
The HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept stands out as one of the world's first GT Limousines, embodying Plato's concept of pure mental forms preceding their realization in the physical world. (Picture from: Ildossier Magazine)
The brainchild of renowned automotive designer Michael Robinson, the ARCHETYPE is a revolutionary electric sedan with a completely new GT limousine architecture. Known as a pioneer of the Italian automotive design, Michael Robinson took on the professional challenge and managed to conceive the entire car in record time, turning his idea into the remarkable vehicle we see today.
The
HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept measures 5,250 mm in length, 2,015 mm in width, 1,300 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,305 mm. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)
The name 'ARCHETYPE' draws inspiration from ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Plato's concept of pure forms embodying the essential characteristics of an entity. Derived from the Greek word 'archetupon,' meaning "original form" or, according to some philosophers, the 'essence' of an idea, ARCHETYPE aims to reflect these 'essentially' lines and proportions. This challenges the prevailing trend of excessive engineering in modern cars.
The all-black exterior design of the HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept, featuring integrated glass, creates a "carved from solid" effect, reducing visual noise. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)
As reported by Ildossier Magazine, the ARCHETYPE made its public debut at EICMA 2023, where the designer revealed it, showcasing a significant leap forward in automotive prototyping speed. Thanks to the substantial contributions from HONPE Technology, this sedan stands out as one of the world's first GT Limousines, embodying Plato's concept of pure mental forms preceding their realization in the physical world.
The interior surprises with spacious seat arrangements, premium reclining seats, and a bright color scheme that expands visual perception. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)
The philosophy of focusing on the 'original form' translates into eliminating excessive external lines and reducing the interior to a series of 'essential' elements. This minimalist design redefines the rules of luxury in the digital era, where individuals carry their virtual well-being wherever they go.
The stunning concept car measures 5,250 mm in length, 2,015 mm in width, 1,300 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,305 mm. ARCHETYPE's generous dimensions combine the height and width of a supercar with the extended wheelbase of a luxury limousine, creating an enticing blend suitable for both combustion and electric vehicles. The all-black exterior design, featuring integrated glass, creates a "carved from solid" effect, reducing visual noise.
Inside, the extremely lightweight and minimalist dashboard features a retractable glass screen and drive-by-wire steering, reminiscent of Formula 1 racing cars. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)
Shaped in a wind tunnel, the ARCHETYPE model utilizes high-velocity wind to sculpt its voluptuous form. Its aerodynamic design includes a short front fender, a long rear, and extra-wide fenders hugging premium tires, providing both visual and physical stability on the road.
The
HONPE ARCHETYPE EV model utilizes high-velocity wind to sculpt its voluptuous form. Its aerodynamic design includes a short front fender, a long rear, and extra-wide fenders hugging premium tires, providing both visual and physical stability on the road. (Picture from: Corrieredimalta)
Notably, the absence of door handles, replaced by a sound-activated mechanism, and hidden side mirrors add to the cleanliness of the design. The interior surprises with spacious seat arrangements, premium reclining seats, and a bright color scheme that expands visual perception.
Inside, the extremely lightweight and minimalist dashboard features a retractable glass screen and drive-by-wire steering, reminiscent of Formula 1 racing cars. The ARCHETYPE challenges conventions, proving that ideas can come to life (almost) in real-time, even in an industry known for its lengthy development processes.
In conclusion, imagine the possibilities if more ideas could be implemented in such a short timeframe! The ARCHETYPE EV showcases the potential of rapid innovation, setting a new standard for the automotive industry and leaving a lasting impression on the future of car design and manufacturing. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONPE | ILDOSSIER MAGAZINE | QUATTRORUOTE.IT | CORRIEREDIMALTA ]
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Rare ONES - The Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic creation by a German manufacturer, has become a canvas for creative automotive enthusiasts. These individuals transform the Beetle into automotive masterpieces, turning them into elegant and stunning creations far removed from their original form.
The 1951 Rometsch Beeskow Coupe posed along with its successor 1957 Rometsch Lawrence Cabrio. (Pictures from: VWVortex, Edited by Eka)
One outstanding example of this creative transformation is the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe, a beautiful classic car from the 1950s, was soon named Banane. At first glance, its exterior design exudes beauty and elegance, making it hard to believe that this car originated from the humble Volkswagen Beetle. But who is the mastermind behind this sophisticated creation?
The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) was designed by Johannes Beeskow, and crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch during 1951 to 1957. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
According to various internet sources, the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe was crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch, a Berlin-based coachbuilder established in 1924. Their venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.
The first Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch's venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The exquisite car, designed by Johannes Beeskow, made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show. Referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society,' it earned this title rightfully. The initial buyers included the King of Sweden and renowned celebrities like Victor de Kowa, Gregory Peck, and Audrey Hepburn.
The
Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) featured a
steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum
body. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Fascinatingly, the aluminum-bodied sports car was never officially endorsed by Wolfsburg. Volkswagen declined to provide the coachbuilders with the essential rolling chassis and parts, prompting them to either acquire complete Volkswagens through their 50 employees or purchase used cars.
The cabin of the Rometsch Beeskow, featuring a similar layout to the VW Beetle, is adorned with additional luxury touches.(Pictures from: VWVortex)
The Rometsch Beeskow was available as a coupe and convertible, as many as 175 examples ever built (with 51 convertibles), the majority being convertibles. These hand-built vehicles featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. They aimed to provide an affordable sports car alternative to the more expensive cars of the time, utilizing the Volkswagen Beetle chassis to keep prices reasonable.
The
aluminum-bodied sports car Rometsch Beeskow made its debut at the 1951
Geneva Motor Show, and referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society'. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
After Johannes Beeskow's move to Karmann in 1956, Rometsch continued crafting bespoke cars with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence. The successor model, Rometsch Lawrence, saw the production of 120 unitsfrom 1957 to 1961 (in Coupe and Cabrio models). This period marked a transition in design, with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, including a cushioned dash.
The successor model, the Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model), showcases a transition in design with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, complete with a cushioned dashboard. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
Despite facing challenges, Rometsch persisted until 1961 when the Berlin Wall's construction effectively separated the company from half of its 90 employees. Despite modest sales at the time, the Rometsch Beeskow left an indelible mark in automotive history.
The Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model) bespoke cars were crafted with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence from 1957 to 1961. (Pictures from: VWVortex)
The car claimed several notable achievements, including being the first to feature its full manufacturer and model name on its back, pioneering interior safety with a padded dash, influencing the design of the Mercedes 300 SL, and inspiring the Audi TT’s designer with its timeless design.
The unmistakable reliability and refinement showcased in Rometsch's bespoke car models were truly undeniable, asserting their dominance and earning acclaim in the Volkswagen Custom Coachwork class at the 2019 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This achievement further solidified their indelible place in automotive history. Rometsch's cars serve as a compelling testament to the enduring allure of creative automotive transformations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CONCEPTCARZ | WESTERNDRIVER | THEAUTOCHANNEL | MOTORSPORT-TOTAL | THEMOVEMENT | KOLAHA-COLLECTION ]
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FAST&STUNNING Motorcycle - Aston Martin, renowned for its luxurious four-wheeled marvels, stunned the world when it ventured into the realm of two-wheeled mastery with the creation of the AMB-001, a spectacular sports motorcycle born from a collaboration with Brough-Superior. Unveiled at the prestigious Milan Motorcycle Show (EICMA) in 2019, this groundbreaking creation marked a bold departure from Aston Martin's traditional domain.
The AMB 001 PRO is a spectacular sports motorcycle crafted through a collaboration between Aston Martin and Brough-Superior Motorcycles. (Picture from: RideApart)
The All-New AMB 001 PRO is crafted with precision and inspired by Aston Martin’s presence in Formula 1. Each unit is meticulously assembled by skilled artisans at the Brough-Superior manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France. The labor-intensive process, spanning up to two years for a single unit, ensures that every detail is executed flawlessly, embodying the epitome of craftsmanship.
The AMB 001 PRO is adorned with carbon bodywork finished in Verdant Jade, and is limited to a production run of just 88 units. (Picture from: RideApart)
Limited to a production run of just 88 units, the AMB 001 PRO exudes exclusivity from every angle. Its elegant Verdant Jade bodywork, adorned with striking yellow accents, captivates the eye and evokes a sense of unparalleled sophistication. This masterpiece of engineering transcends mere aesthetics, offering a glimpse into the realm of extraordinary performance.
The AMB 001 PRO is meticulously crafted with precision and propelled by a turbocharged 997 cc V-twin engine.. (Picture from: RideApart)
Scheduled to make its auction debut in April 2024 at Iconic Auctioneers, the AMB 001 PRO is poised to command attention and admiration alike. With price estimates soaring to £200 thousand, or approximately Rp. 3.9 billion, this exquisite machine embodies the pinnacle of automotive artistry.
Not only do the raw carbon and photon lime elements of the AMB 001 PRO add a dash of race-inspired contrast.. (Picture from: RideApart)
Beneath its sleek exterior lies a powerhouse of innovation, meticulously engineered to deliver an adrenaline-fueled experience like no other. The lightweight CNC aluminum frame, coupled with full carbon fiber bodywork, sets the stage for unrivaled agility and responsiveness on the track.
At the heart of this high-performance marvel beats a 997cc V-twin engine, enhanced with a Garrett turbocharger to unleash a staggering 225 horsepower. Mated to a 6-speed transmission with a hydraulic APTC clutch system and chain drive, this formidable powertrain propels the AMB 001 PRO to new heights of exhilaration with effortless precision.
In conclusion, Aston Martin's foray into the world of two-wheeled mastery with the AMB 001 PRO marks a paradigm shift in the realm of sports motorcycles. Combining unparalleled craftsmanship, breathtaking design, and blistering performance, this limited-edition marvel exemplifies the relentless pursuit of perfection synonymous with the Aston Martin legacy. As enthusiasts eagerly await its auction debut, the AMB 001 PRO stands as a testament to the boundless creativity and innovation that define the Aston Martin brand.
Unique ONES - The Corvette, in its second generation (C2), became an enduring symbol of American automotive excellence, capturing attention with its striking styling and revolutionary design. This iconic vehicle, born in 1953, reached new heights under the visionary leadership of Bill Mitchell, the head of GM Design, and Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark.
The 1963-'67 Corvette Sting Ray Coupe is still stunning from every angle and is today, truly an iconic automotive design. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Mitchell's inspiration for the Corvette's aesthetics came from the Shortfin Mako Shark, proudly displayed in miniature within his office. The result was the C2 Corvette, affectionately named the Sting Ray, a testament to its sleek and aggressive appearance.
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. (Picture from: Motortrend)
However, this bold departure from convention left Chevrolet's competition department scrambling to reconcile the striking design with the demands of racing. Zora Arkus-Duntov, considered the savior of Corvette performance, faced the challenge of adapting the road-centric Sting Ray for the track.
Larry Shinoda, the creative mind behind concept cars like the XP-720 4-Seater and XP-755 Mako Shark. (Picture from: Motortrend)
The Corvette Z06 emerged as Duntov's solution, featuring competition upgrades that allowed race teams to unleash the Sting Ray's potential on the track. Initially successful, the Sting Ray faced fierce competition from the purpose-built Shelby Cobra, which dominated the racing scene.
The 1959 Corvette Sting Ray XP-87 concept sat on display at the Petersen Museum. (Picture from: Motortrend)
As a road car, Mitchell's design achieved overwhelming success, introducing the Corvette coupe for the first time. The split rear window, though attention-grabbing, proved impractical, impeding rearward vision and necessitating removal in 1964. Both coupes and convertibles shared a fiberglass body atop a steel ladder frame chassis, showcasing Duntov's innovative rear suspension and maintaining the front suspension from the C1 generation.
The XP-720 Corvette prototype, manifested in a clay model, later served as the inspiration for the birth of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray.(Picture from: Motortrend)
Options abounded for Sting Ray enthusiasts, from engine choices to performance packages like L88, Z06, or COPO427, each gaining renown for rarity and exceptional performance. Leather interiors, Kelsey-Hayes cast aluminum wheels, air conditioning, and power brakes were among the many customizable features that set the Sting Ray apart.
The inside of the C2 Corvette Sting Ray adorned with genuine leather interiors, draws inspiration from the aviation world, providing a sensation of flight for both driver and passengers. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Under the hood, the '63 Sting Ray boasted a V8 engine, evolving over the years to include the powerful 327 in various states of tune. The introduction of the big block 396 Turbo Jet in 1965 signaled a shift towards even greater power, culminating in the 427 that produced an impressive 600 bhp in 1967 with the L88 option.
The C2 Corvette Sting Ray, known for its distinctive split rear window, continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967.(Picture from: Motortrend)
Priced at $4,037 for the convertible and $4,257 for the coupe, the Sting Ray found immediate success, with sales soaring and the St. Louis factory struggling to keep up with demand. Production for 1963 alone surged by 50 percent, reaching almost 22,000 units. The Sting Ray continued to captivate enthusiasts until 1967 when the third-generation Corvette (C3) made its debut, leaving an indelible mark on automotive history.
In retrospect, the C2 Corvette Sting Ray remains a timeless symbol of American automotive ingenuity, blending style, power, and performance in a package that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts worldwide. The legacy of the Sting Ray lives on, an enduring testament to the brilliance of Bill Mitchell's design and the spirit of innovation that defines the Corvette lineage. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | MOTORTREND | AMERICAN MUSCLE CAR MUSEUM | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Just to let you know, when the Studebaker Avanti was announced in 1962, Studebaker's history already traced back 110 years to 1852. It all started when Clem and Henry Studebaker opened a blacksmith and wagon shop in South Bend, Indiana. Considered a pivotal milestone in the post-war automotive industry, the Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis.
In retrospect, the Studebaker Avanti remains a testament to the pursuit of excellence, its brief yet impactful presence leaving an indelible mark on automotive history. Despite its challenges, it continues to be celebrated for its daring design and spirited performance, reminding us of the enduring allure of timeless classics. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEAVANTI | MOTORTREND | TIMESCOLONIST | WIKIPEDIA ]
