Discovering the Battista Cinquantacinque: A Tribute to Timeless Automotive Elegance

ONE-OFF - In the realm of automotive excellence, where power meets artistry, the Battista Cinquantacinque emerges as a mesmerizing tribute to timeless elegance and innovation. Hailing from the prestigious lineage of Automobili Pininfarina, this masterpiece encapsulates the essence of Italian luxury and engineering prowess.

The Battista Cinquantacinque hyper GT is depicted alongside its inspiration, the iconic 1955 Lancia Florida, a creation cherished by Battista 'Pinin' Farina. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

At its core, the Battista Cinquantacinque is not just a car; it's a manifestation of boundless potential. Powered by four electric motors and a formidable 120 kWh lithium-ion battery, it unleashes an astounding 1,900 horsepower and 2,340 Nm of torque. These numbers translate into exhilarating performance metrics, including a jaw-dropping 0-100 km/h acceleration in a mere 1.86 seconds, firmly establishing its dominance on the roads.

The Battista Cinquantacinque hyper GT not only honors its heritage but also paves the way for future innovations and design trends in the automotive sector. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

The design philosophy of the Battista Cinquantacinque is a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation. Inspired by the iconic 1955 Lancia Florida, a creation beloved by Battista 'Pinin' Farina himself, this hyper GT exudes a timeless allure. From its flawless Blu Savoia Gloss exterior to the bespoke Mahagoni interior, every detail speaks of meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled sophistication.

The Battista Cinquantacinque hyper GT boasts a flawless Blu Savoia Gloss exterior, propelled by four electric motors and a powerful 120 kWh lithium-ion battery. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

One of the most captivating aspects of the Battista Cinquantacinque is its homage to the past while embracing the future. Unique inscriptions, such as the 'Cinquantacinque 55' signature, adorn the car, serving as a constant reminder of its rich heritage and provenance. This fusion of history and modernity creates a narrative that resonates with automotive enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.

The Battista Cinquantacinque hyper GT boasts a bespoke Mahagoni interior, where every detail speaks of meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled sophistication. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

As Automobili Pininfarina prepares to unveil the Battista Cinquantacinque in Tokyo, Japan, anticipation runs high among discerning clients and enthusiasts. Collaborating with esteemed retail partner SKY GROUP, the brand is poised to deliver an unparalleled client experience, where dreams of owning a bespoke, hand-crafted vehicle become a tangible reality.

The Battista Cinquantacinque hyper GT is depicted alongside its inspiration, the iconic 1955 Lancia Florida, a creation cherished by Battista 'Pinin' Farina. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

Dave Amantea, Chief Design Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, encapsulates the essence of the Battista Cinquantacinque perfectly, stating, "This was a truly special and unique opportunity to design a car that pays homage to Pininfarina SpA's heritage." Indeed, the Cinquantacinque not only pays homage but also sets the stage for future innovations and design paradigms in the automotive industry.

Apologies, the video above is not the Cinquantacinque, but rather a Batista showcased at Auto Zurich 2024, as the intended video was not found. In essence, the Battista Cinquantacinque stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Automobili Pininfarina, where every vehicle is not just a mode of transportation but a masterpiece crafted with passion, precision, and a relentless pursuit of automotive perfection.  *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA | ELEKTREK.CO | AUTOEVOLUTION | MOTOR1 ]

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Presidential Precision: Boano's Craftsmanship for Juan Perón

Unique ONES - In the wake of World War II's turbulence, the world of coachbuilding faced its own set of challenges. Once the exclusive domain of third-party artisans, the landscape shifted as manufacturers began unveiling their luxury car designs directly from their own styling houses. This change posed a significant hurdle for traditional coachbuilders seeking exclusive contracts.

The Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM (Competizione Maggiorata) by Boano Torino commissioned in 1954 for the President of Argentina, Juan Domingo Perón. (Picture from: VeloceToday)

Jetson-Era Reality: A Soon-to-Be-Realized Vision

Ready to FLY - Growing up watching cartoons like The Jetsons, where a compact personal flying rides were a norm, might have made the idea of personal flying vehicles seem less fantastical. Whether it's coincidental or not, today we're living in an era where that fantasy is turning into reality, particularly with the advancements in such technology embodied by the Jetson ONE. This innovative creation originates from an Italian-based startup founded by Peter Ternström and Tomasz Patan in 2017.

The Jetson ONE is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that weighs 86 kg and can fly for 20 minutes on a single battery charge, with a total duration of up to two hours. (Picture from: Elekrek.co)

The Jetson ONE is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft that weighs 86 kg and can fly for 20 minutes on a single battery charge, lasting up to two hours. Controlled using a joystick and throttle system, it can achieve speeds of up to 63 mph. 

Jetson's journey commenced with the official unveiling of the Jetson ONE in 2022, initially priced at $92,000.. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

It has captured the imaginations of many with its promise of private flight and unmatched freedom. Videos showcasing this futuristic aircraft have gone viral in recent years, sparking a surge in pre-orders and public interest.

The Jetson ONE 'personal flying rides' becomes first eVTOL certified for flight in Italy. (Picture from: Elekrek.co)

A significant milestone in the Jetson ONE's journey was reached when two of these innovative vehicles were spotted flying together for the first time. This not only showcased the technical capabilities of the aircraft but also hinted at its potential for a wide range of applications beyond recreational flying.

The Jetson ONE controlled using a joystick and throttle system, it can achieve speeds of up to 63 mph. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Originally marketed as a personal aircraft to make flying accessible to everyone, the Jetson ONE's single-seat design sets it apart in the eVTOL industry. The recent video demonstrating coordinated flight between two Jetson Ones suggests a future where these electric aircraft could be used for tasks ranging from rapid response missions to thrilling drone races.

Even with its price of $128,000 and an $8,000 down payment, the Jetson ONE remains in high demand, with production slots for 2024 and 2025 already sold out. (Picture from: VOI.id)

Despite its current price of $128,000, with an $8,000 down payment, the Jetson ONE continues to attract buyers, with production slots for 2024 and 2025 already sold out. This popularity reflects the growing confidence in eVTOL technology and its potential impact.

Operating the Jetson ONE in the US doesn't necessitate a pilot license, only training. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Jetson's journey began with the official unveiling of the Jetson ONE in 2022, initially priced at $92,000. Notable figures like Prince Albert II of Monaco unveiled it at prestigious events, solidifying Jetson's position as an industry leader. Milestones such as obtaining ultralight eVTOL certification in Italy further boosted Jetson's credibility.

Based in Arezzo, Tuscany, Jetson remains at the forefront of personal aviation. An interesting aspect of the Jetson ONE is that it can be flown without a pilot license in the US, making flying more accessible to enthusiasts.

Looking ahead, the sight of two Jetson ONE eVTOLs flying in formation signifies the exciting potential in personal aviation. Whether it's revolutionizing urban transport or creating new recreational opportunities, the Jetson ONE represents a future where the sky truly knows no limits. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | JETSON ONE | AUTOEVOLUTION | ELEKTREK.CO ]

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Rare Gems: Discovering TVR Typhon, the Ultimate Supercharged Ride!

Rare BEAST - The TVR Typhon concept car stands as a testament to the rare and extraordinary in the world of supercharged street-legal sports cars. With its sleek carbon fiber body, this car represents a pinnacle of automotive engineering and design. Interestingly, only one road car prototype was ever built in 2001, a fact that adds to its allure. 

The three TVR Typhons together at a Goodwood event in 2012. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Throughout its lifetime, only three of these remarkable machines were ever brought into existence, making it a true collector's item. This car holds the distinction of being the fastest production car ever built by TVR, the renowned British automotive company. 

The first prototype, PN02, was initially badged as TuscanR, then T400R, and finally T440R, commonly known as the T400R or DeWalt car. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Its production spanned from 2000 to 2006 at the company's factory in Blackpool. The genesis of the Typhon dates back to the late 1990s when Peter Wheeler, the founder of TVR, embarked on a project that aimed to see TVR cars dominating at Le Mans. 

The T400R Prototype, known as PN02 and painted in DeWalt colors, was utilized by TVR to promote the Le Mans series racing. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

To achieve this ambitious goal, a completely new car had to be conceived, one that utilized modern composite materials to be more rigid and capable than any previous TVR model. Initially, the TVR Typhon started its journey as a two-seat sports car named the TuscanR (TVR T400R), inspired by the Tuscan racers of the TVR Tuscan Challenge. 

The T440R prototype, like PN02, was spotted with both TuscanR and T400R badges in 2001. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

This composite-bodied racing and road car made its debut at the 2000 NEC Motor Show in Birmingham, marking the beginning of a legendary lineage. Designed to reach speeds of 200 mph (322 kph) on the challenging Mulsanne Straight, the Typhon was engineered for stability and, above all, victory. 

The T440R road car, commonly known as 'LNT1,' was originally owned by Lawrence Tomlinson. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

From its roots as the TuscanR (TVR T400R), it evolved into the Typhon, a car that not only surpassed 200 mph but also became the fastest and most expensive production car in TVR's storied history. In 2002, TVR offered two variants of the Typhon: a GT Championship-spec race car and a road car available in a 2+2 configuration. 

The original show car of TVR Typhon (No.2), known as the Reflex Charcoal car used in various motor shows, was initially owned by a post-Peter Wheeler era owner of TVR. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

These models boasted a 4.2-liter version of the TVR Speed Six engine, delivering an impressive 450 bhp. Coupled with a total weight of around 1,000 kg, this power-to-weight ratio far exceeded that of a Porsche 911 Turbo, showcasing the Typhon's remarkable performance capabilities.

TVR Typhon (No.3) stands as the only Typhon ever delivered directly to a private customer. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

The original TVR Typhon show car, known as No.2, made waves with its Reflex Charcoal appearance at various motor shows. Powered by either a 4000 cc or 4200 cc straight-six engine, the Typhon offered exhilarating performance matched with a five-speed manual gearbox (or an optional six-speed sequential gearbox), capable of propelling four adults to speeds exceeding 200 mph.

TVR Typhon No.1, originally equipped with a supercharged engine and a sequential gearbox, was retained by the factory until its closure and has been privately owned since 2010. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Despite its £75,000 price tag, the initial batch of 50 Typhons sold out quickly, underscoring the car's desirability and prestige among enthusiasts. As development progressed, the model name transitioned to T400, reflecting the 400 bhp engine option paired with a Borg Warner T5 gearbox. 

Additionally, the T440R variant emerged for the Le Mans race cars, solidifying the Typhon's racing pedigree. While production records from the factory are scarce, it is widely believed that only one true Typhon exists, equipped with a Vortex supercharger and a six-speed sequential gearbox generating approximately 550 bhp. Former TVR employees hint at the possibility of four Typhons being constructed in total, adding an aura of mystery and exclusivity to these exceptional automobiles. *** [EKA [29122018] | FROM VAROUS SOURCES | TVR CLUB CAR | WIKIPEDIA | WIKIWAND | CLASSICANDSPORTSCAR ]

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The Dark Knight - Gotham: Pininfarina's New Batman-Inspired Hypercars

The Dark Knight Returns - Gotham City's legendary protector, Batman, is not just a comic book hero but a cultural icon that has inspired generations. From the pages of DC Comics to blockbuster movies, Batman's influence extends beyond the realm of fiction. Now, Italian design powerhouse Automobili Pininfarina is bringing the essence of the Dark Knight to life with a new line of electric hypercars.

The Battista GT in the Dark Knight trim embodies Batman's nocturnal crusade against crime and redefines luxury and performance in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

The announcement of Pininfarina's latest creations, the B95 Barchetta and Battista GT models, has sent ripples of excitement through the automotive world. These hypercars, infused with the spirit of Batman, are set to redefine luxury and performance in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape.

Featuring butterfly doors, the Bruce Wayne-inspired Battista electric hypercar in the Dark Knight trim exudes sleekness and sophistication. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The distinguishing feature of these hypercars is their design philosophy, directly inspired by the dual identity of Bruce Wayne. The B95 Barchetta and Battista GT models come in two distinct trims, Gotham and Dark Knight, each reflecting a different aspect of Batman's persona.

The Battista GT in the Dark Knight trim features a sleek gloss black exterior paint (Nero Profondo), enhancing its menacing allure. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

The Gotham trim exudes elegance and luxury, mirroring Bruce Wayne's public persona as a billionaire playboy. The interior is adorned with premium brown leather, exuding warmth and sophistication. Complementing this rich interior is the Argento Vittorio gray exterior, symbolizing class and refinement.

The Gotham trim's interior is adorned with premium brown leather, exuding warmth and sophistication. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

On the other hand, the Dark Knight edition embodies Batman's nocturnal crusade against crime. The interior features a striking combination of black Alcantara and leather seats, creating a sense of stealth and power. The exterior sports a sleek gloss black paint (Nero Profondo), further enhancing its menacing allure.

The Black Knight trim's interior features a striking combination of black Alcantara and leather seats, creating a sense of stealth and power. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Both trims boast unique touches that pay homage to Batman's world. From discreet black wheels on the Gotham to ceramic polished rims on the Dark Knight, every detail is meticulously crafted to capture the essence of Gotham City's protector.

The B95 in the Black Knight trim features a sleek gloss black exterior paint (Nero Profondo) paired with ceramic polished rims, enhancing its menacing allure. (Picture from: Automobili Pininfarina)

Under the hood, the B95 and Battista retain their formidable powertrain. Powered by a 120 kWh high-capacity lithium-ion battery and four electric motors generating up to 1,900 hp, these hypercars deliver exhilarating performance. With acceleration from zero to 62 mph in under two seconds, they outpace even Formula 1 cars, making them the ultimate machines for tackling Gotham's criminal underworld.

The B95 in the Gotham trim boasts an Argento Vittorio gray exterior paired with discreet black wheels, exuding elegance and luxury that mirrors Bruce Wayne's public persona as a billionaire playboy. (Picture from: DesignBoom)

For enthusiasts eager to own a piece of automotive history, Pininfarina's Batman-inspired hypercars will be available exclusively on the BruceWayneX website. The price tag reflects the exclusivity and craftsmanship of these vehicles, with the Battista priced at €3.4 million and the B95s at €4.9 million. A select few will have the opportunity to experience these marvels firsthand at an exclusive event in NYC from June 3 to 10, 2024.

In conclusion, Pininfarina's collaboration with Batman transcends mere automotive design; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a beloved superhero. As these hypercars hit the streets, they serve as a reminder of the timeless appeal of Bruce Wayne's alter ego, the Dark Knight, and his relentless pursuit of justice. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BRUCEWAYNEX | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA | AUTOEVOLUTION | CARSCOOPS | DESIGNBOOM ]

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1950s' Ultimate Beauty: The Sexiest Astra Super Coupe

Sexiest GEMS - The world of automotive design has seen its fair share of iconic creations that blend various styles and inspirations from across the globe. One such remarkable example dates back to the 1950s when Jay Everett, a visionary designer, crafted a custom vehicle that seamlessly melded European elegance with American flair, captivating car enthusiasts of that era with his exceptional talent.

Designed by Jay Everett in 1955, the Astra Coupe stands as a custom vehicle that seamlessly melded European elegance with American flair, captivating car enthusiasts of that era with its exceptional talent. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

The genesis of this automotive marvel, known as the Astra Coupe, can be traced back to 1952 when Jay Everett resided in California and honed his skills at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, a renowned institution that nurtured many automotive design luminaries.

Since 2010, Franz Millnertisch of St. Valentin, Austria, has owned and restored the Astra Coupe to drivable condition. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

California, often hailed as the epicenter of hot rod culture in the United States, provided the perfect backdrop for Jay Everett's creative endeavors. With a modest garage tucked behind his residence, he embarked on a journey to bring his vision of the Astra Coupe to life amid the bustling custom car scene of mid-1950s California.

The 1955 Astra Coupe, constructed on a triangular frame made of 2,375-inch-long steel tubes, ensured the structural integrity essential for its distinctive form. (Picture from: Kustomrama)

The Astra Coupe was more than just a car; it was a testament to craftsmanship and individuality. Constructed almost entirely from scratch, the vehicle was tailored to reflect the builder's unique tastes and aspirations. A bespoke chassis, expertly crafted by Paul Koonz, formed the foundation of this automotive masterpiece. The chassis, a triangular frame constructed from 2,375-inch-long steel tubes, provided the structural integrity necessary for the car's distinctive form.

Front view of 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

The body of the Astra Coupe, meticulously shaped from aluminum by artisans Jack Sutton and Dennis Powers, embodied Everett's design ethos. Its radical exterior, characterized by front pontoon fenders and rear tailfins, created a sweeping, horizontal profile that exuded a timeless aesthetic appeal. The fastback roofline and low-slung nose further accentuated the car's distinctiveness, making it a true standout in the automotive landscape.

Right side view of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Upon its debut at the Petersen Motorama in 1953, the Astra Coupe garnered attention with its innovative front and rear grille design, featuring striking tube elements. The placement of the radiator in front of the rear grille showcased Jay Everett's forward-thinking approach to automotive engineering.

The steering wheel and dashboard view of 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

While the initial showcase in 1953 was more of a design study, Jay Everett completed the Astra Coupe in 1955, transforming it into a fully functional and drivable vehicle with enhanced interior and exterior refinements. The interior underwent a modern overhaul, featuring a handcrafted banjo-style steering wheel and racing bucket seats that underscored the car's performance-oriented nature.

Simple white-black trim seaters in the interior of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Powering the Astra Coupe was a robust V8 'Rocket' Oldsmobile engine boasting a displacement of 303 cubic inches (4,965 cc), mated to a Lincoln automatic transmission with overdrive. This formidable powertrain configuration ensured that the Astra Coupe not only turned heads but also delivered an exhilarating driving experience.

The 1955 Astra Coupe was used a V8 'Rocket' Oldsmobile 303 cubic-inch capacity of 4,965 cc. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

Unsurprisingly, the Astra Coupe captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders alike, earning coveted cover features in prominent American automotive publications such as Motortrend, Hot Rod, and Rod & Custom. Its blend of artistic flair, engineering prowess, and sheer innovation cemented its legacy as a timeless automotive icon.

Rear side view of the 1955 Astra Coupe. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)

In essence, the Astra Coupe stands as a testament to the ingenuity and passion that drive automotive design forward, showcasing how a singular vision can transcend mere transportation to become a work of art on wheels. *** [EKA [02032020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | RUOTEVECCHIA | KUSTOMRAMA | UNDISCOVEREDCLASSIC ]

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