Dream EV - The automotive world has always been filled with thrilling innovations, and Lotus continues to push boundaries with its latest creation. For decades, Lotus Car has been renowned for crafting lightweight, high-performance sports cars that capture the hearts of enthusiasts around the globe. Now, the iconic brand is stepping into the future with the Lotus Theory 1, an all-electric sports car that blends cutting-edge technology with the thrill of high-speed driving. This marks a significant chapter in the company's long history, as it ventures into the ever-evolving electric vehicle (EV) market.
The Theory 1, Lotus's latest concept EV, showcases the automaker's strong belief in the future of intelligent, lightweight sports cars. (Picture from: TheVerge)
Lotus has never been a stranger to innovation. From the early days of Formula 1 racing to the production of street-legal performance cars, the company has always sought to balance speed with design excellence. The introduction of the Lotus Theory 1 is a testament to its ongoing commitment to evolution. This concept car showcases not only the brand’s engineering prowess but also its ambition to lead in the electric vehicle arena. More than just a high-speed marvel, the Theory 1 is designed to offer a driving experience like no other.
The Lotus Theory 1 measures 4,490 mm in length, 1,140 mm in height, and 2,000 mm in width, with a 2,650 mm wheelbase and a weight of under 1,600 kg, making it impressively light for an electric car. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)
At first glance, the Theory 1’s exterior design stands out with its sharp, aggressive lines. The car’s resemblance to the iconic Lotus Esprit is unmistakable, yet it brings a modern flair that is futuristic and bold. The low-slung body, paired with boomerang-shaped headlights, creates a sleek, aerodynamic profile that enhances its performance capabilities. The attention to detail is evident, especially in the unique doors that mimic the dramatic bat-wing style, swinging up and out in a manner reminiscent of Koenigsegg's hypercars. The lightweight design, made from recycled carbon, composite, and polycarbonate materials, ensures the car remains agile on the road.
The Lotus Theory 1's low-slung body, combined with boomerang-shaped headlights, creates a sleek, aerodynamic profile that enhances performance, while its attention to detail is showcased in the dramatic bat-wing style doors. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)
Stepping inside the Lotus Theory 1 reveals an equally impressive interior. The three-seat layout, with the driver positioned centrally, is a nod to classic supercar configurations like the McLaren F1 and Gordan Murray T.50. This driving position enhances the sense of control and engagement with the car, making the driving experience immersive. But it’s not just the seating that stands out. The Lotuswear system introduces advanced technology into the cabin, using haptic feedback and colorful lights to interact with both the driver and passengers. The steering wheel, for instance, vibrates to signal upcoming turns, making the driving experience more intuitive.
The Lotus Theory 1 is equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, made possible by the integration of the Nvidia Drive platform. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)
Beyond its eye-catching design and innovative features, the Lotus Theory 1 is a powerhouse of performance. Underneath the sleek exterior lies an electric powertrain that delivers an astounding 987 horsepower. This immense power allows the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in under 2.5 seconds, a feat that places it among the fastest electric vehicles on the market. Its top speed reaches an impressive 320 kilometers per hour, showcasing the balance between raw power and refined engineering. However, while the car's speed is a significant talking point, its range is more modest, offering up to 402 kilometers on a single charge, which may limit long-distance drives.
Stepping
inside the Lotus Theory 1 reveals an impressive three-seat layout with a
central driver position, enhancing control and making the driving
experience more immersive.. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)
The technological advancements don’t stop there. The Lotus Theory 1 is equipped with Level 4 autonomous driving capabilities, made possible by the integration of the Nvidia Drive platform. This allows for semi-autonomous driving, where the car can handle many driving tasks independently. The inclusion of four Lidar sensors, HD cameras, and radar systems enables the vehicle to have a comprehensive 360-degree view of its surroundings, ensuring a safe and smooth driving experience. Even though this car can drive itself, Lotus has made sure that it still delivers the excitement and engagement that drivers crave.
Beneath the sleek exterior of the Lotus Theory 1, an electric powertrain produces 987 hp, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in under 2.5 seconds and providing a range of up to 402 kilometers on a single charge, which may limit long-distance travel. (Picture from: F1rstMotors)
Though mass production details remain unclear, the possibility of the Lotus Theory 1 becoming a production model is definitely on the horizon. Speculation suggests that it could be built at Geely's new factory in Wuhan, where other Lotus models like the Eletre and Emeya are produced. This would mark a significant step for Lotus as it expands its footprint in the electric vehicle market.
The Lotus Theory 1 represents more than just a concept car. It symbolizes the brand’s commitment to embracing the future while staying true to its heritage of high-performance sports cars. With its innovative design, advanced technology, and exhilarating performance, the Theory 1 has the potential to shape the future of electric sports cars and redefine what it means to drive. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOTUSCAR | HAGERTY | F1RSTMOTORS | CARANDDRIVER | ROADANDTRACK | THEVERGE | ID.MOTOR1 ]
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Iconic ONES - In the realm of automotive history, certain names and innovations stand out, casting a long shadow over the industry. One such name is Robert Paxton McCulloch, whose aspirations extended far beyond the realm of chainsaws and superchargers. In the early 1950s, McCulloch set out to create something truly extraordinary—a steam-powered sports car that would dazzle the world.
The Paxton Phoenix is now in the collection of Myron Vernis. He shows it regularly at concours events throughout the country. (Picture from: Hagerty)
This ambitious project materialized into the Paxton Phoenix, a vehicle that was as much a feat of engineering as it was a symbol of McCulloch’s indomitable spirit. The origins of the Paxton Phoenix are deeply rooted in McCulloch’s background. Founded in 1943, McCulloch Motors Company began as a manufacturer of chainsaws and quickly evolved into McCulloch Corporation, expanding its range to include go-karts and airplane engines.
The Paxton Phoenix was previously on display at the Studebaker Museum as part of a Brooks
Stevens tribute, with its exhibition running until April 1, 2024.(Picture from: Hemmings)
However, McCulloch’s vision was set on something grander—a steam-powered sports car designed to capture the imagination of the wealthy elite. By 1953, this vision was realized with the creation of the Paxton Phoenix, designed by the renowned Brooks Stevens.
A vintage promotional photo of the 1953 Paxton Phoenix prototype, envisioned as a mass-produced steam-powered automobile. (Picture from: NewYorkTimes)
The Paxton Phoenix was not merely a car; it was a testament to the innovative spirit of its time. Designed with a sleek, fiberglass body—a cutting-edge material for its era—the Phoenix was both lightweight and aesthetically striking. The car featured a distinctive design with headlights nestled deep within chromed scallops and a prominent, powerfully suggestive hood.
The Paxton Phoenix, featuring headlamps set into nacelles—a Brooks Stevens hallmark—had its large front air inlet rendered unnecessary when powered by the Porsche engine. (Picture from: RevsInstitute)
Its exterior was adorned with a belt-line chrome strip running uninterrupted from front to rear, while a wide, shiny bumper highlighted its low-slung grille. The rear design drew inspiration from Stevens’ speedboat designs, and the vehicle boasted a fully retractable fiberglass top that seamlessly mimicked the shape of the deck lid.
Despite its 115-inch wheelbase, the Paxton Phoenix's modest front and rear overhangs provided a sleek appearance, while pushbuttons facilitated easy access to its generously sized doors. (Picture from: Hagerty)
Underneath this elegant exterior was an equally sophisticated interior. The Paxton Phoenix was equipped with a unique six-cylinder steam engine, a testament to McCulloch’s commitment to advanced technology. The engine was a refined version of Abner Doble’s earlier designs, featuring both high-pressure and low-pressure cylinders to maximize efficiency.
The Paxton Phoenix, a beautiful car designed by Brooks Stevens, offers an early glimpse of the style that would later influence his Studebaker Hawk. (Picture from: Hagerty)
This setup allowed the car to achieve smooth, powerful performance, with a thermal efficiency comparable to advanced gasoline engines. The steam was generated in a front-mounted boiler, which was designed to heat water quickly and safely, ensuring the car could be ready to drive within 20 seconds of startup. An innovative water reuse system further enhanced its practicality.
Featuring a wheelbase of 115 inches rather than the final 118, this layout of the Paxton Phoenix includes its three-cylinder steam expander mounted above the rear wheels. (Picture from: RevsInstitute)
The Phoenix was powered by a Porsche drivetrain, which was installed as the steam engine development continued. Despite the promising performance of the steam engine, the project faced significant hurdles, including financial difficulties and a lack of investor interest.
McCulloch and his team used a Porsche 356 as an engineering sample for the Phoenix, eventually installing its engine in the car for testing, where it still resides today. (Picture from: Hagerty)
Consequently, the steam-powered dream was shelved, and the car was left with its Porsche engine, which McCulloch drove occasionally. Unprepossessing though the Porsche 1500 Super four looked in the tail of the Paxton Phoenix, it gave good performance thanks to the experimental car’s remarkably light weight.
A clay model of the Paxton Phoenix takes shape in the styling studio at Paxton Engineering in Los Angeles. (Picture from: Hagerty)
Following McCulloch’s death in 1977, the Paxton Phoenix was acquired by Brooks Stevens, who displayed it in his personal museum until his passing in 1998. The car then found a new custodian in Myron Vernis, a passionate automotive collector from Akron, Ohio.
The Paxton’s design by Brooks Stevens ingeniously provided for its hard top to slide backward and down to nest snugly over the rear deck for full convertibility. (Picture from: RevsInstitute)
Vernis, who had been captivated by cars since childhood, purchased the Paxton Phoenix shortly after Stevens’ death and has preserved it for over 26 years. The car has been showcased at prestigious events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance and was previously part of a Brooks Stevens on display at the Studebaker Museum, with its exhibition running until April 1, 2024. | nUFmAIB1QuE |
The Paxton Phoenix remains a remarkable piece of automotive history, embodying a visionary's dream and showcasing the innovative spirit of its era. Its journey from McCulloch’s ambitious plans to its current status as a prized collectible highlights the enduring appeal of groundbreaking design and engineering. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HAGERTY | | VIRTUAL STEAM CAR MUSEUM | UNDISCOVERED CLASSICS | NEWYORKTIMES | FACEBOOK'S STORY | REVS INSTITUTE | HEMMINGS | SUPERCARS.NET | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Grandeur Series - Beautiful memories have a unique way of sticking with us, evoking a sense of nostalgia that often feels timeless. Hyundai, the renowned automotive brand from South Korea, understands this sentiment well. In a remarkable tribute to its history, Hyundai introduced an electric car with a retro 80s design, taking inspiration from one of its most iconic models.
The Hyundai Heritage Series Grandeur was made to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Hyundai Grandeur, a flagship sedan first introduced in 1986. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
This nostalgic nod was made to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Hyundai Grandeur, a flagship sedan first introduced in 1986. The celebration wasn't just about reminiscing; it was about bringing the past into the present with a modern twist. Hyundai achieved this by blending the original design with contemporary technology, resulting in a vehicle that is as much a tribute to the past as it is a glimpse into the future.
The Hyundai Heritage Series Grandeur, powered by an electric drivetrain, represents a remarkable shift from its original combustion engine. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The creation of the Heritage Series Grandeur is nothing short of a marvel. The car is powered by an electric drivetrain, marking a significant shift from its original combustion engine. Yet, it retains the spirit of the 80s, evident in its retro aesthetics and design choices. The exterior might remind one of the original Grandeur, but under the hood, it's a completely different beast. The combination of advanced light and sound features with nostalgic design elements gives this car a unique identity that bridges two eras. It's a celebration of both innovation and tradition, showing that even as we move forward, we can still hold onto the things that made the past special.
The Hyundai Heritage Series Grandeur captures the 80s spirit with its retro design, but features a completely modern electric drivetrain under the hood. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The Hyundai Grandeur first made its debut in 1986, quickly establishing itself as Hyundai's flagship sedan. It was a car that stood for luxury, performance, and prestige. Fast forward 35 years, and Hyundai chose to honor this legacy by revisiting the Grandeur with a fresh perspective. The result was the Hyundai Grandeur Heritage Series concept, a vehicle that pays homage to the original while incorporating modern technological advancements. This concept car is more than just a celebration of an anniversary; it's a statement of how the old can be made new again, how classic designs can be reimagined for a new generation.
The Hyundai Grandeur Heritage Series boasts a modern, luxurious interior with red velvet, Napa leather, premium trims, and unique lighting for a sophisticated ambiance. (Picture from: HypeBeast)
Hyundai's decision to "reimagine" the 1986 Grandeur for the 21st century resulted in a vehicle that beautifully balances the old and the new. This Heritage Series concept is Hyundai's second foray into revisiting its past models, following the Heritage Series Pony. The design of the Grandeur Heritage Series takes the public on a journey back to the 1980s, with all the charm and style that era had to offer. It's a car that doesn't just look back fondly on the past but also brings it to life in a way that feels relevant today.
Contrasting with its retro elements, the Hyundai Grandeur Heritage Series features a state-of-the-art ultra-wide screen and a vertical display that modernize its infotainment system. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The project was spearheaded by Hyundai's interior design team, who worked meticulously to preserve the grandeur of the original first-generation model. However, they didn't stop at preservation. The team went a step further, transforming the Grandeur into an all-electric vehicle with a modern, luxurious interior. The use of red velvet and Napa leather in the interior adds a touch of opulence, while premium leather and wood trims, along with unique lighting features, create an atmosphere of sophistication. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the car's design, from the infinity mirror in the rear passenger compartment to the bronze-themed lighting that adds a vintage touch.
The automaker team went a step further by transforming the Grandeur into an all-electric vehicle with unique lighting features that create an atmosphere of sophistication. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
In contrast to the retro elements, the Grandeur Heritage Series boasts a state-of-the-art ultra-wide screen that seems to have been lifted directly from Hyundai's latest electric vehicles. This screen, along with a second vertical display at the front of the center console, brings the car's infotainment system into the modern era. The juxtaposition of old and new is striking, yet it works harmoniously to create a car that is both a tribute to the past and a nod to the future. The designers went to great lengths to ensure that the car's lighting was both functional and evocative, using an infinity mirror to create a look that is truly unique. The choice of bronze-themed lighting is a deliberate nod to the vintage audio equipment of the past, further enhancing the car's nostalgic appeal.
The designers went to great lengths to ensure that the Hyundai Grandeur Heritage's lighting was both functional and evocative, using an infinity mirror to create a look that is truly unique. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The development of the Hyundai Grandeur Heritage Series concept was a labor of love, completed in just eight months. Despite the modern updates, the car retains the soul of the original Gak Grandeur, making it a fitting tribute to one of Hyundai's most iconic models.
However, it's important to note that the Grandeur Heritage Series is not intended for production. Instead, it serves as a creative exercise, allowing Hyundai to explore its past designs and draw inspiration for future projects. This project is a reminder that even as the automotive industry moves towards electrification, there is still room to honor and celebrate the cars that helped shape the industry.
Despite modern updates, the Hyundai Grandeur Heritage Series preserves the essence of the original Gak Grandeur, making it a fitting tribute to one of Hyundai's iconic models. (Picture from: HypeBeast)
Hyundai's creative journey doesn't stop here. The company's lineup is filled with possibilities, and it will be exciting to see which retro models Hyundai will revisit next. The automotive world was already abuzz when Hyundai launched the N Vision 74 concept car in 2022, with news that it will soon enter production.
This enthusiasm is a testament to Hyundai's ability to innovate while staying true to its roots. As we look forward to what Hyundai will bring to the table next, one thing is certain: the brand's blend of nostalgia and innovation will continue to captivate and inspire. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HYUNDAI | HYPEBEAST | CARMAGAZINE ]
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💣Forgotten ONES💣 - Prototype cars always have a unique allure, capturing the pure intentions of designers before the compromises of mass production set in. This was certainly true for the Ascari F/GT, a creation of British supercar specialist Lee Noble. Noble, known for founding Noble Automotive, left his mark on the automotive world long before his own company took off. Early in his career, he designed the Ascari F/GT, but he left the company before the car went into production. This departure meant that the final production version bore some differences from the original design, a common occurrence in the world of prototypes where initial ideas often undergo significant transformation.
The Ascari F/GT was a creation of British supercar specialist Lee Noble. Noble, known for founding Noble Automotive. (Picture from: Silodrome)
Hidden GEMS - In the world of classic cars, few vehicles capture both charm and history as effectively as the Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe. Despite its compact size, this car has an extraordinary backstory, deeply intertwined with the design genius of Zagato, a styling house that has significantly influenced automotive history. To fully appreciate this vehicle, it’s crucial to understand its origins and unique features.
The 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe crafted by Zagato features the "Panoramica" body style, which brought a sense of openness with its unique greenhouse-like design. (Picture from: QuirkyRides)
The story of this car began after World War II, when Zagato's founder, Ugo Zagato, sought to innovate car design. His primary focus was on creating more spacious interiors, a groundbreaking concept at the time. This led to the development of the creation of the "Panoramica" body style, featuring a distinctive greenhouse-like design that offered a sense of openness. The Panoramica design was applied to various vehicles, from Ferraris to the Fiat Topolino, merging practicality with elegance. This particular Fiat Topolino 750MM, built in 1949, is one of only eight ever produced, making it a rare gem in the automotive world.
The 1938 Fiat 500A Topolino Hard Top by Zagato participated on the 1938 Mille Miglia (B&W photo colorized). (Picture from: MrScharroo's Weird Car Museum)
Despite its small stature, the Topolino is anything but insignificant. In fact, this car placed 4th in its class during the famous Mille Miglia race, an impressive feat given its modest 16-horsepower engine. Weighing just 900 pounds, the car was nimble and capable of reaching an average speed of 57 miles per hour during the race. For its time, this was quite an accomplishment, especially for such a lightweight vehicle. Its success in competitions like Mille Miglia only added to its allure, elevating its status among collectors.
The Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe stands out with its distinctive wraparound windows, giving the car a unique and futuristic look. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
One of the most striking features of the Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe is its exterior design. The wraparound windows, a signature element of the Panoramica series, give the car a unique and almost futuristic appearance. These large windows not only provided drivers with better visibility but also contributed to the overall sense of space within the small cabin. The use of lightweight materials like aluminum and Plexiglas further enhanced the car's design, making it lighter and more agile on the road.
The use of lightweight materials like aluminum and Plexiglas enhanced the 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe's design, making it lighter and more agile. (Picture from: DeviantArt)
Inside, the Topolino offers a minimalist but functional interior. Though small, the car was designed to maximize space, and the clever use of materials made it feel more open. However, its design did come with some limitations. The car was primarily built for cooler climates, as ventilation was limited to small front and rear windows. Despite these quirks, the car's interior remains a testament to Zagato’s ability to balance aesthetics with practicality.
The 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe features a minimalist yet functional interior, cleverly designed to maximize space and create an open feel. (Picture from: Coachbuild)
What makes the Topolino 750MM even more fascinating is its historical significance. This car was part of the first wave of Zagato's post-war creations, marking the beginning of a long line of collaborations between Zagato and other prestigious brands such as Ferrari and Aston Martin. While later Zagato designs became synonymous with high-performance supercars, this early creation laid the groundwork for what was to come. It represents a period of experimentation and innovation, where Zagato pushed the boundaries of what a small car could be.
The 1949 Fiat Topolino 750MM Panoramica Coupe was designed mainly for cooler climates, with ventilation limited to small front and rear windows. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Today, this Fiat Topolino 750MM stands as a collector's dream, not only because of its rarity but also due to its rich history. It might not have the immediate recognition of other classic racers like the Ferrari 166MM or Talbot Lago, but its role in automotive history is just as important. From its participation in the Mille Miglia to its unique design, this car is a true example of post-war creativity and engineering. | PAaPlH-Urjo |
As we look back at this Fiat Topolino, it becomes clear that it’s not just a car, but a symbol of innovation and resilience. Through its success on the race track and its distinctive design, this little car holds a special place in the world of classic automobiles. Though only a few of these cars remain today, their legacy endures, reminding us of an era where creativity and craftsmanship reigned supreme. If you're curious to see another equally unique Topolino, be sure to check it out here. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTORTREND | VWVORTEX | CONCEPTCARZ | SUPERCARS.NET | CARANDDRIVER | DEVIANART | COACHBUILD | VELOCETODAY | FORUM.RETRO-RIDES | QUIRKYRIDES ]
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Hidden GEMS - Japan has long been known as a leader in automotive manufacturing, with its brands becoming synonymous with innovation and reliability. Yet, amidst the giants of the industry, there are unsung players quietly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in automotive engineering. One such example is the Ikeya Formula IF-02RDS, a supercar born from a passion for performance and cutting-edge technology. This car has not only captured the attention of enthusiasts but also holds the potential to redefine the way we think about seamless driving experiences.
The IF-02RDS is a road-legal supercar, built and designed by Ikeya Formula, born from a passion for performance and cutting-edge technology. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
The IF-02RDS first turned heads at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, where its bold design and advanced engineering made an unforgettable impression. Crafted by Ikeya Formula, a company previously known for producing high-quality tuning parts, the car showcases their expertise in creating components like manual transmissions and suspension systems. However, with the IF-02RDS, Ikeya Formula has gone a step further, building an entirely original supercar from the ground up. This vehicle represents a new direction for the company, combining their technical know-how with an ambitious vision for the future of sports cars.
Ikeya Formula is a technical group that handles a wide range of vehicle-related items, from tuning to parking equipment. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
The key innovation that sets the IF-02RDS apart is its transmission system, known as the IST (Ikeya Seamless Transmission). This breakthrough was developed to eliminate the lag typically associated with gear shifts, creating a smoother, uninterrupted driving experience. By using a dog clutch in place of the traditional synchro mechanism, the IST ensures that the transition between gears happens almost instantaneously. As the next gear engages, the previous one disengages automatically, allowing for seamless acceleration without any loss of power. This is achieved without the complexity or weight increase found in dual-clutch systems, making the IF-02RDS both lightweight and highly responsive.
The IF-02RDS weighs just 1,150 kg, offering a truly Spartan driving experience. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
Creating the IF-02RDS posed a considerable technical challenge for Ikeya Formula, as it marked their first venture into building a fully functional supercar that could legally drive on public roads with a proper license plate. While the company had a strong background in formula cars and high-performance tuning parts, designing a road-legal vehicle brought its own set of complexities. Every component, from the glass to the dashboard, had to comply with strict safety and regulatory requirements. Despite these challenges, Ikeya Formula was determined to demonstrate the capabilities of their IST technology, and after three years of rigorous development, the IF-02RDS was finally ready for the road.
The IF-02RDS features a steel tube space frame with an FRP body, designed by CEO Shinji Ikeya and completed using CAD technology. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
Powering the IF-02RDS is a Honda K20A engine, a robust and reliable unit known for its use in the Integra Type R. Ikeya Formula has turbocharged this engine to produce 350 horsepower, ensuring plenty of performance for a vehicle of its size. The engine is mounted longitudinally, and the power is delivered through the IST, which is based on a Formula 4 transmission. While this setup is more than sufficient for spirited driving, the company has already set its sights on developing a bespoke V10 engine for future models, indicating that the IF-02RDS is only the beginning of their journey.
The cockpit of the IF-02RDS offers a unique, slightly reclined seating position, enhancing the sensation of being in a high-performance machine.(Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
Getting behind the wheel of the IF-02RDS is an experience like no other. The interior is designed with a race car feel, complete with a wide side sill and a cockpit that requires careful maneuvering to enter. The pedals are positioned centrally, and the gear lever is located on the right side, enhancing the car’s performance-oriented layout. Once inside, the driver is treated to a unique seating position, slightly reclined, which adds to the sensation of being in a high-performance machine. The car’s minimalist design and focus on functionality make it clear that the IF-02RDS was built for drivers who crave a pure, unfiltered connection to the road.
The IF-02RDS's cockpit is tight and racy, with a sequential shifter on the right side of the seat. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
Starting the IF-02RDS reveals the power lurking beneath its sleek exterior. The engine roars to life, and with a flick of the I-pattern sequential shift, the car moves effortlessly into first gear. The twin-plate clutch is heavy but manageable, and as the car begins to accelerate, the turbocharged K20A delivers an impressive amount of low-end torque. Shifting through the gears is where the magic of the IST truly shines. Each upshift is accompanied by a sharp “bang” as the gears change without any interruption in the drive. This seamless transition between gears gives the car an exhilarating sense of speed and power, allowing the driver to maintain momentum without the usual pauses for gear changes.
The IF-02RDS is powered by a 2L Honda K20A engine, mounted vertically in the middle and equipped with an HKS turbo kit, paired with the IST, which serves as the core of the vehicle's performance. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
The IF-02RDS is not just a high-performance machine on paper—it delivers an engaging and dynamic driving experience. The chassis is highly responsive, giving the car a direct, almost formula-car-like feel on the road. Despite its aggressive performance capabilities, the ride is surprisingly smooth for a vehicle of this type, making it suitable for everyday driving. The steering, while slightly slower than expected, provides enough feedback to make navigating tight corners and intersections an enjoyable challenge. The car’s handling and balance are carefully tuned to ensure that it remains composed even during spirited driving, and the seamless shifting further enhances the overall driving pleasure.
The aerodynamic design of the FRP body is unique to Ikeya Formula, a company that has produced formula cars such as FJ and F3. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
The sound of the IF-02RDS is another element that adds to its appeal. While the turbo helps keep the exhaust noise relatively subdued, the deep bass note of the engine is unmistakable. Inside the cabin, the roar of the gears reverberates, creating a racy atmosphere that transports the driver into a world of high-performance driving. Every aspect of the car has been designed to maximize the driving experience, from the engine and transmission to the chassis and exhaust system.
The IF-02RDS is a road-legal supercar with the appearance of a Group C race car, featuring a prominent rear wing. (Picture from: CarMeet.jp)
The IF-02RDS represents the future of Japanese supercars. It is a bold statement of intent from Ikeya Formula, a company that has successfully transitioned from tuning parts to full-scale vehicle production. The car’s seamless transmission technology, coupled with its lightweight design and powerful engine, makes it a standout in the world of high-performance vehicles.
As Ikeya Formula continues to refine and develop their innovations, the IF-02RDS is a glimpse of what’s to come—a new era of driving where performance and technology work in harmony. Japan’s automotive industry has long been at the forefront of innovation, and with the IF-02RDS, Ikeya Formula has proven that even smaller players can have a big impact.
This supercar is not just a testament to the company's engineering prowess, but also a symbol of what can be achieved when passion and technical skill come together. As Ikeya Formula continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, the future of sports driving looks brighter than ever. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | IKEYA FORMULA | CARSMEET.JP | AUTOMOTORSPORT | CARMAGAZINE ]
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The Lotus Theory 1 represents more than just a concept car. It symbolizes the brand’s commitment to embracing the future while staying true to its heritage of high-performance sports cars. With its innovative design, advanced technology, and exhilarating performance, the Theory 1 has the potential to shape the future of electric sports cars and redefine what it means to drive. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LOTUSCAR | HAGERTY | F1RSTMOTORS | CARANDDRIVER | ROADANDTRACK | THEVERGE | ID.MOTOR1 ]
