Next Step - Imagine a future where your car is not just a mode of transportation but a luxurious experience, seamlessly integrated with smart technology. This dream is becoming a reality with the innovative concept of autonomous travel, designed to redefine how we perceive driving.
The Swift Pod, an autonomous overnight travel concept car created by Xoio, is more than just a vehicle; it's a comfortable sanctuary on wheels. (Picture from: Xoio.de)
The Swift Pod, a revolutionary creation by Xoio, embodies this vision of the future. This autonomous overnight travel concept car is more than just a vehicle; it's a comfortable sanctuary on wheels. Imagine stepping into a cabin that feels like a hotel room, complete with all the amenities you need for a relaxing journey.
Aerial view of the Swift Pod autonomous overnight travel concept vehicle shaped in triangle. Imagine stepping into the Swift Pod's cabin, which feels like a hotel room complete with all the amenities you need for a relaxing journey. (Picture from: OtoInfo)
Booking a Swift Pod is as easy as ordering a regular taxi through an app. You can specify your desired time and location or schedule your ride in advance for a planned trip. Once you're inside, the magic begins.
Boarding at the desired departure point at the desired time – maximum flexibility. (Picture from: Xoio.de)
The Swift Pod takes care of everything from calculating the best route to adjusting its speed to ensure you reach your destination on time. Its sleek exterior, featuring two massive wheels that resemble a motorcycle, gives it a futuristic look. However, a closer look reveals its unique triangular shape, symbolizing the future of transportation.
"We chose the iconic triangular design to showcase the evolution of multimodal travel," explains Peter Stulz from the Xoio team.
Despite its streamlined shape, the Swift Pod's interior offers ample space for comfortable travel, whether sitting or lying down, complete with a fold-out table and online WiFi for added convenience. (Picture from: Xoio.de)
Despite its compact size, the Swift Pod can accommodate two passengers comfortably. If you have luggage, don't worry; there's ample storage space under the seats, cleverly designed to double as a bed for added comfort during long journeys.
After a good night's sleep, you have the option of having your morning coffee at a selected location before completing the last few kilometers to your destination. Fancy a quick swim? (Picture from: Xoio.de)
What sets the Swift Pod apart is its intelligence. It doesn't just take you from point A to B; it enhances your travel experience. Need to take a break? Simply inform the Swift Pod, and it will plan short stops along the way. Moreover, it offers personalized suggestions for rest areas, dining options, and more, making your journey not just efficient but enjoyable.
In conclusion, the Swift Pod represents the future of transportation, blending autonomy with luxury and convenience. It's not just a car; it's a glimpse into a world where driving is an experience to savor. Get ready to redefine your travel expectations with the Swift Pod. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | XOIO.DE | DESIGNBOOM ]
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Green Pioneer = In the early 1990s, automakers, major suppliers, and technology companies worldwide were racing to meet the stringent requirements of California's zero-emission vehicle mandate and anticipated government regulations.
The Pininfarina Ethos series (left to right, Ethos I, II, and III), created in the early 1990s, aimed to meet the stringent requirements of California's zero-emission vehicle mandate and anticipated government regulations. (Picture from: GreenCarJournal)
Among the notable developments during this era was the Pininfarina Ethos, a series of concept cars designed to demonstrate various advanced powertrains, including battery electric and an innovative Orbital two-stroke engine. Unlike many concept cars, the Ethos was fully operational, with three distinct models released in 1992, 1993, and 1994, each with only one unit built.
The first in the Ethos series, the Pininfarina Ethos I, debuted as an environmentally-friendly roofless sports car at the 1992 Turin Motor Show. This spider model featured an aluminum space frame and a body made from thermoplastic materials.
The Pininfarina Ethos I, debuted as an environmentally-friendly roofless sports car at the 1992 Turin Motor Show. (Picture from: GreenCarJournal)
Its highlight was the Orbital thermic engine, known for its excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Weighing in at 1543 lbs (700 kgs), the Ethos I was powered by a naturally aspirated inline three-cylinder Orbital two-stroke engine, producing 95 PS (94 bhp - 70 kW) at 5000-5500 rpm and 125.0 Nm (92 lb. ft) of torque.
The Pininfarina Ethos I spider model featured an aluminum space frame and a body made from thermoplastic materials. (Picture from: GreenCarJournal)
This power was delivered to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. The Ethos I also boasted a sophisticated suspension system with coil springs, anti-roll bars, and McPherson struts, ensuring a smooth ride and impressive handling.
The Pininfarina Ethos II, introduced at the 1993 Geneva Motor Show, was a coupé with a mid-mounted engine driving the rear wheels. Its 0.8-liter, two-stroke Orbital two-cylinder engine generated 55 bhp (56 PS/41 kW) at 5500 rpm.
The Pininfarina Ethos II, unveiled at the 1993 Geneva Motor Show, featured a mid-mounted engine driving the rear wheels, with its 0.8-liter, two-stroke Orbital two-cylinder engine producing 55 bhp (56 PS/41 kW) at 5500 rpm. (Picture from: ArchivioPrototipi)
This model was notable for its exceptional aerodynamic efficiency, with a drag coefficient of 0.19, making it ideal for extra-urban driving. The Ethos II maintained the recyclable nature of its predecessor and was characterized by sleek lines and an eco-friendly design.
The Pininfarina Ethos II's underbody was entirely faired to optimize aerodynamics further, and the car's lightweight design ensured agile performance and low fuel consumption.. (Picture from: CarStyling.ru)
Its underbody was entirely faired to optimize aerodynamics further, and the car's lightweight design ensured agile performance and low fuel consumption.
The Pininfarina Ethos III, presented in 1994, aimed to redefine the city car concept. Despite its compact size, similar to the Fiat Cinquecento, the Ethos III managed to accommodate six seats arranged in two rows of three.
Despite its compact size similar to the Fiat Cinquecento, the Pininfarina Ethos III, presented in 1994, aimed to redefine the city car concept by accommodating six seats arranged in two rows of three. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
This was made possible by the small yet efficient 1.2-liter three-cylinder Orbital two-stroke engine. The lightweight aluminum body kept the car's weight to just 780 kg, significantly enhancing its fuel efficiency. This model highlighted Pininfarina's innovative approach to urban transportation, combining compactness with practicality.
The 1994 Pininfarina Ethos III concept's cabin featuring a modern interior arrangement, to fit six seats - two rows of three with a narrower middle seat. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Each model in the Pininfarina Ethos series showcased advanced engineering and forward-thinking design, reflecting the industry's efforts to meet new environmental standards. The Ethos I, with its sporty appeal and efficient engine, paved the way for more sustainable sports cars. The Ethos II demonstrated how aerodynamic design could improve efficiency and performance, while the Ethos III provided a glimpse into the future of compact, urban-friendly vehicles.
The Pininfarina Ethos III features a lightweight aluminum body that keeps the car's weight at just 780 kg, powered by the small yet efficient 1.2-liter three-cylinder Orbital two-stroke engine.(Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Pininfarina Ethos series remains a testament to the potential of innovative automotive design to meet environmental challenges. These concept cars not only addressed the immediate regulatory requirements of their time but also inspired future advancements in vehicle technology. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the lessons learned from the Ethos series will undoubtedly influence the next generation of sustainable vehicles.
In exploring the legacy of the Pininfarina Ethos, we can appreciate the foresight and creativity that drove these groundbreaking designs. The Ethos series serves as a reminder that with ingenuity and commitment, it is possible to create vehicles that are both environmentally responsible and enjoyable to drive. As we look to the future, the Ethos's blend of sustainability and innovation will continue to inspire and guide the development of the cars of tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GREEN CAR JOURNAL | STORY-CARS | CARSTYLING.RU | ARCHIVIOPROTOTIPI | ALLCARINDEX | RED-HEADED ]
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WAIT&SEE - In an exciting development for automotive enthusiasts, former Koenigsegg chief designer Sasha Selipanov has announced the creation of a new hypercar named Nilu27. Known for his remarkable work with prestigious brands such as Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Koenigsegg, Selipanov embarked on a new journey in 2023 with his own design studio, namely Hardline27. The first model, a hypercar powered by an internal combustion engine, is set to debut soon, generating considerable anticipation in the car community.
The Nilu27 hypercar, the latest creation from renowned automotive designer Sasha Selipanov, will debut at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance 2024. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Selipanov, the creative genius behind iconic cars like the Bugatti Chiron, Lamborghini Huracán, and Koenigsegg Gemera, is renowned for his innovative design approach. His new venture, Nilu27, has already captured attention through a strategic social media campaign and a tantalizing teaser video. The teaser, although brief, reveals some key features of the upcoming hypercar, hinting at the exciting innovations Selipanov plans to introduce under his own brand.
World-renowned
automotive designer Sasha Selipanov has finally launched his own car
brand after years of working with Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Koenigsegg. (Picture from: BeritaSatu)
The Nilu27 teaser images and videos reveal a car with a striking design, characterized by gull-wing doors and an exposed rear frame that highlights three large exhaust pipes. This bold design choice underscores Selipanov's commitment to creating visually stunning and performance-driven vehicles. The rear view, prominently featured in the teaser, showcases a center-mounted triple exhaust, a triple-tiered rear wing, and a substantial diffuser with a central brake light reminiscent of Formula cars. These elements suggest that Nilu27 will deliver not just in aesthetics but also in high-performance capabilities.
Interestingly, the teaser also provides an auditory glimpse into the car’s engine, which is speculated to be a pure V8 engine. This aligns with the brand’s emphasis on delivering a pure driving experience, despite the industry’s shift towards digitalization and electrification. Nilu27's social media posts emphasize a dedication to traditional automotive thrills, suggesting that the first model will focus on providing an unmatched driving experience powered by a robust internal combustion engine.
The Nilu27 teaser images and videos unveil a car featuring striking design elements, including gull-wing doors and an exposed rear frame showcasing three large exhaust pipes. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
Selipanov's decision to establish design studios in Los Angeles, USA, and Berlin, Germany, highlights his global vision for Nilu27. This strategic move allows him to leverage diverse design influences and industry insights from two of the world's automotive hubs. The dual-studio setup is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the unique identity and design language of Nilu27 vehicles.
The anticipation for the Nilu27’s full reveal is palpable, with the official unveiling scheduled for August 15, 2024, at the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. This event is the perfect stage for introducing a new hypercar, promising to attract enthusiasts, industry experts, and potential buyers from around the world. The choice of venue indicates Selipanov’s confidence in the vehicle's design and performance, aiming to make a significant impact in the hypercar segment.
Sasha Selipanov's choice to establish design studios in both Los Angeles, USA, and Berlin, Germany, underscores his global vision for Nilu27. (Picture from: BeritaSatu)
Reflecting on his illustrious career, Selipanov’s transition from working with automotive giants to establishing his own brand marks a significant milestone. His tenure at Koenigsegg, where he contributed to the design of the Gemera and CC850, laid the groundwork for his new venture. Prior to this, his roles at Bugatti and Genesis further honed his design philosophy and skills, preparing him for the challenges of running his own brand.
Selipanov has expressed his long-standing ambition to create his own brand, a dream he nurtured while working under the shadows of major car companies. His journey through Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Koenigsegg allowed him to connect with key figures in the automotive world and gain invaluable experience. However, the drive to forge something uniquely his own has culminated in the birth of Nilu27. | G8zmhQQCG2k |
With the imminent debut of its first model, Nilu27 is poised to make a significant impact on the hypercar market. The blend of Selipanov’s design expertise, the car’s striking features, and the promise of high performance create a compelling proposition for automotive enthusiasts. As the countdown to the reveal continues, the automotive world eagerly awaits the full unveiling of what promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the hypercar segment. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HARDLINE27 | NILU27 | AUTOBLOG | CARSCOOPS ]
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EXTRA Time - In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive innovation, Ares Modena, a distinguished Italian automotive company, has once again captivated enthusiasts with the unveiling of their latest masterpiece. At the culmination of 2023, amidst eager anticipation, Ares Modena, founded by the visionary Dany Bahar, former head of Lotus, introduced the world to the hardtop version of their inaugural supercar - now adorned with striking new gullwing doors, marking the debut of the Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition.
The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition, presented in a special and limited capacity with only 20 units available, showcases a blend of exclusivity and innovation that sets it apart. (Picture from: MotorLegend)
These doors, a marvel of design and engineering, heralded the debut of the Ares S1 unit featuring magnificent gullwing doors. This iteration, presented in a special and limited capacity with only 20 units available, showcases a blend of exclusivity and innovation that sets it apart. However, it remains undisclosed whether these units will accompany the previously unveiled S1 Spyder variant introduced in 2020 and the S1 Coupe variant with butterfly-door style, launched in 2021.
The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition, now adorned with striking new gullwing doors, pays homage to the iconic Le Mans racers of yesteryear, marrying style with a nod to automotive history. (Picture from: MotorLegend)
Beyond its aesthetic allure, these new gullwing doors pay homage to the iconic Le Mans racers of yesteryears, marrying style with a nod to automotive history. Crafted meticulously from lightweight carbon fiber, these doors contribute to the car's agile performance, weighing in at a mere 1,380 kilograms.
The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition meticulously crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, contributing to the car's agile performance and weighing in at a mere 1,380 kilograms. (Picture from: TopGear)
Under the hood, the Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition sheds 300 kilograms compared to its base model, the Chevrolet Corvette C8, enhancing its dynamic prowess. Powered by a robust 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine coupled with an eight-speed DCT dual-clutch gearbox, the Ares S1 Gullwing delivers a formidable 608 horsepower and 639 Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just three seconds, it boasts a top speed of 296 km/h, embodying the spirit of a speedster with a touch of subtlety in its design.
The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition is powered by a robust 6.2-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine coupled with an eight-speed DCT dual-clutch gearbox. (Picture from: TopGear)
The rear profile, reminiscent of automotive legends like the Chiron and the Porsche 918, coupled with an additional screen for the co-driver, exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail that defines the Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition. Every facet of this vehicle is a testament to luxury, performance, and aesthetics meticulously crafted to provide an unparalleled driving experience.
As you envision cruising the streets in this futuristic marvel, be prepared for a sensory experience like no other. The Ares S1 Gullwing First Edition transcends the realm of mere transportation; it becomes a symbol of success, exclusivity, and individuality. It's not just a car; it's a statement of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ARES DESIGN | TOPGEAR | STUPIDDOPE | MOTORLEGEND ]
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ONE-OFF - Alfa Romeo has a storied history of collaborating with some of the most renowned designers in the automotive world to create stunning concept cars. One such collaboration occurred in 2010, marking Alfa Romeo's 100th anniversary and Pininfarina's 80th. This partnership birthed the breathtaking Alfa Romeo Pininfarina 2uettottanta, a name pronounced "duettottanta."
The Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept car embodies Pininfarina's vision of the next generation of Alfa Romeo's iconic spider cars. (Picture from: Wall.AlphaCoders)
The 2uettottanta concept car embodies Pininfarina's vision of the next generation of Alfa Romeo's iconic spider cars. It also represents the peak of a longstanding relationship between two iconic Italian companies, paying homage to the legendary 1960s Duetto roadster. The name 2uettottanta, while sometimes confusing in its spelling, holds significant meaning.
Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta is Pininfarina's vision of how the next generation Alfa spider car should be. (Picture from: Motor1)
Contrary to what many believe, the initial character is a capital "D" from the Renaissance script, not the number "2". The "2" signifies the car's two-seat configuration, "uetto" nods to the classic Alfa Romeo Duetto model, and "ottanta," which means "80" in Italian, celebrates Pininfarina's 80 years of design excellence.
Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept by Pininfarina is debuted at the 2010 Geneva International Motor Show. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Visually, the 2uettottanta is a masterpiece of design, featuring sleek and elegant red bodywork characteristic of Alfa Romeo's traditional paint. The car measures 1,797 mm in width, 4,212.6 mm in length, and 1,280 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2500 mm. The front of the car maintains Alfa Romeo's contemporary design ethos, while the side and rear profiles are defined by smooth, flowing surfaces that exude sophistication and fluidity.
Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept inside is spacious and comfortable. (Picture from: Motor1)
Under the hood, the 2uettottanta is powered by a turbocharged 1,750 cc four-cylinder engine, reminiscent of the 1750 Veloce from 1968, part of the famed "Osso di Seppia" (Cuttlefish) lineage. This engine delivers power to the rear wheels through Alfa's TCT transmission. Additionally, the concept features a newly designed lever for Alfa's DNA adaptive chassis system, enhancing its driving dynamics and performance.
Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept, in particular, is not such a dramatic departure from current Alfa Romeo thinking. (Picture from: Motor1)
The Alfa Romeo 2uettottanta concept earned critical acclaim, winning the Car Design Award of the Year for best concept car design at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show. Its influence extended beyond accolades, inspiring the next generation of Alfa Romeo Spider models destined for the American and European markets.
In celebrating such a milestone collaboration, the 2uettottanta stands as a testament to the enduring legacy and innovative spirit of Alfa Romeo and Pininfarina. This concept car not only honors the rich history of these two automotive giants but also sets a visionary course for the future of automotive design.*** [EKA [19062020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR1 | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Rare ONES - You might never have thought that the classic Italian car Fiat Dino actually has an overseas cousin made specifically for the Japanese's renowned truck brand under the name Isuzu 117 Coupe. At first glance, many people mistake the Isuzu 117 for an early version of the Fiat Dino. This probably isn't a big surprise as both cars were designed by the same person within two years of each other.
The Fiat Dino Coupe (left) and its overseas cousin, the Isuzu 117 Coupe (right), were both designed by the renowned Italian stylist Giorgetto Giugiaro within two years of each other. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Isuzu 117 was one of the first Japanese cars to have a body designed entirely by an Italian stylist – the great Giorgetto Giugiaro when he was design director at Carrozzeria Ghia. Although largely unknown outside of Japan, the Isuzu 117 was an important car for Isuzu and the Japanese automotive industry as a whole. It was the world's first production sports car to be offered with a diesel engine and one of the first to be offered with a double overhead cam (DOHC) engine.
The Isuzu 117 Coupe became a cult classic in Japan, and it is now gaining popularity overseas as interest in vintage Japanese sports cars continues to rise. (Picture from: BelowTheRadar)
The project to build the car that would later the Isuzu 117 began in the mid-1960s. It was clear that a sports car was needed as a halo model to attract people into showrooms – of course, many of them would go with a less luxurious model. Meanwhile, at that time, Japanese cars were starting to become popular in Western countries due to their cheap price and good reliability. Several Japanese manufacturers decided to make sports cars to help improve their image.
The Isuzu 117 Coupe was designed and built based on the Florian sedan platform to expedite construction and reduce costs.(Picture from: Secret-Classics)
Isuzu Motors decided to follow this trend and contacted Giorgetto Giugiaro to design their new car. Rather than starting their sports car project from scratch, Isuzu chose to use the Florian sedan platform. This greatly sped up construction and reduced costs. Giorgetto Giugiaro designed the steel body for the new car, making great use of the Fiat Dino design, but the 117 was its own car in every way despite its resemblance to its older Italian cousin. The 117 debuted as a prototype at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, and awarded with prizes, where it won prizes and received high praise at the Tokyo Motor Show later that autumn..
Inside the Isuzu 117 Coupe, you'll find seating for four with ample room in the rear seats. It also comes well-equipped with air conditioning, power windows, and an AM/FM cassette player. (Picture from: Secret-Classics)
When it was produced in 1968, the Isuzu 117 Coupe was offered with a 1.8-liter single overhead cam (SOHC) inline four-cylinder engine that sent power through a four-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels. The next model would be offered with a DOHC engine, automatic transmission, a 5-speed manual, and an increased engine capacity to 1.95 liters.
The Isuzu 117 Coupe featured a dual-overhead cam four-cylinder engine with electronic fuel injection, double wishbone suspension up front, and a live axle at the rear. (Picture from: Secret-Classics)
In Japan, the Isuzu 117 Coupe became a cult classic during its lifetime. Its neat combination of Japanese engineering and Italian styling proved successful, and the car was much more affordable than contemporaries such as the Toyota 2000GT. The Isuzu 117 Coupe was produced from 1968 to 1981 with 86,192 units. When they replaced it, they did so with another Giugiaro-designed coupe – the Isuzu Piazza.
The Isuzu 117 Coupe's roof design was elegantly sloped, eliminating the vertical rear window in favor of homologated rear lights, setting it apart from the Fiat Dino. (Picture from: Secret-Classics)
Isuzu's strategy to combine Japanese reliability with Italian design was revolutionary. It showcased how a well-thought-out collaboration could result in a vehicle that resonated with consumers. The Isuzu 117 Coupe was not just a car; it was a statement of innovation and cross-cultural partnership.
The Isuzu 117 Coupe was a standout high-end personal car, combining elegant styling with sporty performance.(Picture from: Secret-Classics)
The legacy of the Isuzu 117 lives on, remembered by car enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate its unique place in automotive history. It stands as a testament to the bold vision of Isuzu and the timeless designs of Giugiaro. Today, the 117 remains a sought-after classic, cherished for its design and engineering.
As we look back on the story of the Isuzu 117 Coupe, it's clear that this car was more than just a vehicle; it was a bridge between cultures and an icon of its era. The Isuzu 117 Coupe will always be remembered as a pioneering effort that brought together the best of Japanese and Italian automotive expertise. This unique blend of cultures and ideas created a car that continues to be celebrated and admired, embodying a timeless appeal that transcends generations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ISUZU MOTORS | SILODROME | SECRET-CLASSICS | BELOWTHERADAR | ROADANDTRACK | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI ]
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In conclusion, the Swift Pod represents the future of transportation, blending autonomy with luxury and convenience. It's not just a car; it's a glimpse into a world where driving is an experience to savor. Get ready to redefine your travel expectations with the Swift Pod. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | XOIO.DE | DESIGNBOOM ]
