Vision Unfulfilled - The world of automobiles thrives on a captivating blend of innovation and daring ideas. Few brands embody this adventurous spirit as vividly as Lamborghini. Celebrated for its iconic sports cars and powerful engines, the company has occasionally ventured beyond its established domain. One such bold endeavor was the LM003 project, a concept born during Lamborghini's ownership by the Indonesian group Megatech in the mid-1990s—years before the brand ultimately succeeded with the Lamborghini Urus.
The LM002, Lamborghini’s first off-road vehicle, stood as a unique outlier amidst the brand’s sleek road cars. Despite its imperfections, it maintained a loyal niche following and consistent sales. Encouraged by this success, plans for a successor were initiated. Initially entrusted to a UK-based firm, the design project later moved to a collaborative entity combining Lamborghini and SZ Design, an offshoot of Zagato. The new model, dubbed the LM003, was planned to cater to specific markets under names like Borneo or Galileo.
The Lamborghini LM002 is the first SUV produced by Lamborghini ranging of 1986 to 1993 and successful enough to attract the attention of automotive enthusiasts at the time. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Led by Nori Harada of SZ Design, the LM003 concept aimed to rival the Range Rover V8 with a luxury SUV tailored for a premium audience. Interestingly, the LM003 designation had previously been used for an experimental LM002 equipped with a turbocharged diesel engine—a prototype that failed to advance due to its lackluster performance. This new iteration, however, promised a completely fresh approach.
Early sketches showcased a sleek design reminiscent of the Range Rover, a key competitor of the era. Moving away from the rugged, boxy look of the LM002, the LM003 aimed to deliver a more versatile and luxurious off-road experience. Michael Kimberley, a key figure in the project, envisioned three different body styles: a conventional four-door SUV, an estate-like version, and an open-top variant similar to later Hummer models. Despite these ambitious plans, market research revealed limited interest. Lamborghini enthusiasts seemed more inclined towards sports car successors, such as those for the Espada or Diablo.
The Lamborghini LM003 (Zagato), 1997 - Design sketch by Nori Harada. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
Production challenges further hindered the LM003's progress. Like its predecessor, the vehicle’s bodywork was planned for international production, with manufacturing in the Far East through a partnership with Indonesian automaker Timor. Although a full-scale mock-up was created, the LM003 never advanced beyond the conceptual stage.
The Lamborghini LM003 (Zagato), 1997 - Design sketch by Nori Harada. (Picture from: Story-Cars)
The LM003’s story highlights Lamborghini’s relentless drive for innovation, even when the market wasn’t fully receptive. Today, the luxury SUV market thrives, with models like the Mercedes M-series and Lincoln Navigator enjoying widespread popularity. It’s tempting to think the LM003 may have simply been ahead of its time—a daring vision awaiting the right era.
Lamborghini's legacy is defined by its boundary-pushing ethos, and the LM003 remains a testament to the risks involved in pursuing extraordinary ideas. Though unrealized, it stands as a reminder that even unfulfilled ambitions can leave a lasting imprint in the world of automotive innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | STORY-CARS | WIKICARS | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Unique Creation - Imagine a racing car unlike any other, one that defies traditional design with its striking shape and innovative features. This unique car, often likened to a bug with large fins at the back, is not just a work of art but a product of intense engineering and a passion for racing.
The Satecmo Eolia, designed by André George Claude, took several years to complete and was finally registered in 1958, ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
The man behind this creation was André George Claude, the son of the renowned French chemist and physicist George Claude. While his father made significant contributions to science, André’s interests took him down a different path—one that led to the design and construction of an extraordinary French racing car.
The Satecmo Eolia's design, featuring a magnesium body and streamlined Berlinetta style, was as remarkable as its performance, having undergone extensive wind tunnel testing.. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
André's journey into the world of racing cars began with his own dissatisfaction with the options available to him. As an accomplished racing driver, having competed in prestigious events like the Tour de France, the Alpine Rally, and the Mont Ventoux Hillclimb, André felt that no car truly met his needs. This frustration drove him to design a car that combined speed, innovation, and French craftsmanship. His company, Satecmo, was tasked with building the car, which would feature a Renault engine—a company they were already collaborating with for tuning the 4CV model.
The Satecmo Eolia, named after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a true marvel of engineering, blending innovation and craftsmanship in every detail. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
The creation, named Satecmo Eolia after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a marvel of engineering. The car's design took shape over several years, and by 1958, it was finally registered and ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, this dream never materialized, but the car itself stood as a testament to André’s vision. It was fast, reaching a top speed of 104 mph, and offered impressive acceleration, thanks to the Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear. André also designed a five-speed "reverse gate" gearbox, adding to the car’s advanced features for its time.
The Satecmo Eolia showcased André George Claude’s exceptional attention to detail, with every element—ranging from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel—carefully designed to enhance handling and balance. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
The Eolia’s design was as remarkable as its performance. With a body crafted from magnesium and a streamlined Berlinetta style, the car had undergone extensive wind tunnel testing. Claude’s attention to detail ensured that every element, from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel, contributed to optimal handling and balance. His dedication to aerodynamics and lightweight materials allowed the Eolia to maintain a competitive edge, even in an era when many cars were built with more conventional methods.
The Satecmo Eolia was initially powered by a Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear, which was replaced in 1960 with an engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini.(Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
In 1960, the car received a significant upgrade when it was fitted with the engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini. Tuning experts at Renault further enhanced the engine, pushing its output to around 69 horsepower. This made the Eolia not just a unique creation, but a serious contender in the racing world. Yet, despite the car’s potential, André’s dreams of entering it into the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans remained unrealized, and the car was eventually sold in 1967.
The Satecmo Eolia stands out with its striking design, featuring two large double fins mounted at the rear, enhancing both its aerodynamics and unique appearance.(Picture from: IconicAuctioneers)
The Eolia’s journey didn’t end there. It was sold to a young engineer and spent many years in South West France before being acquired by its current owner in 2006. Remarkably, the car still only has 15,000 kilometers on the odometer, and its original features, including the Claude-designed 5-speed gearbox and electrical equipment, remain in excellent condition. The car is road-legal with French registration and is surprisingly fast, offering an exhilarating driving experience thanks to its lightweight body and tuned engine. | GJf7j0MSAUY |
Today, the Eolia is a rare and sought-after piece of automotive history, offering enthusiasts the chance to own a car that combines advanced design with racing heritage. With its unique features and competitive potential, this remarkable vehicle could be a valuable asset in various UK and European racing series. For those looking for a truly special car that showcases innovation and craftsmanship, the Eolia is an opportunity not to be missed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CLASSICDRIVER | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK |]
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The KING - It's not every day that a story surfaces about a cover-up involving a King. Yet, when it does, and it involves a custom-built Cadillac designed by the renowned Pininfarina, it instantly piques the interest of car enthusiasts. The tale of this exceptional Cadillac traces back to the early 1950s, a time when innovation in design was celebrated and affluent individuals sought vehicles that made a statement. In this case, the story begins with Norman Granz, a Beverly Hills concert promoter and record producer who envisioned something extraordinary.
The 1954 Cadillac PF200 cabriolet’s design was sleek and minimalist, reflecting the clean, modern lines that were synonymous with Pininfarina’s style. (Picture from: DeanGarage)
In 1953, Granz, who had made a name for himself in the music industry by producing live-concert records, shipped a Series 62 Cadillac to Pininfarina in Italy. The goal was to create a completely new body for the car, one that would reflect the elegance and sophistication that Pininfarina was famous for. Granz, who had amassed considerable wealth from his success with record labels like Clef, Norgan, and Verve, was certainly no stranger to luxury. After selling his music catalog to MGM in 1961 for a cool $2.5 million, he took a step back from the music world, but his love for exceptional automobiles never waned.
Originally painted silver, the 1954 Cadillac PF200 roadster was fully restored after an accident, with its color changed to blue and air vents added to the sides.(Picture from: DeanGarage)
The inspiration for Granz's Cadillac transformation came during his visit to the 1952 Geneva Auto Salon, where he laid eyes on the PF200—a stunning car designed by Pininfarina and built on a Lancia chassis. The sleek lines and innovative design captivated him, and he decided he wanted a similar body, but scaled up to fit his American Cadillac chassis. This decision would lead to the creation of a unique, one-of-a-kind roadster that perfectly blended American power with Italian design finesse.
A side view comparison of the Cadillac PF200 roadster shows the original silver-painted version (bottom image) alongside its fully restored condition, featuring a blue color and added side air vents (top image). (Picture from: DeanGarage)
Cost was no object for someone of Granz's stature. The price for this automotive masterpiece was reportedly set at the cost of materials, but with a twist—Granz sweetened the deal by offering a complete collection of his record productions. This included works from legendary musicians such as Ella Fitzgerald, Joe Pass, and Oscar Peterson, all of whom he managed. Other jazz greats like Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, and Sarah Vaughan were also part of this incredible collection. This barter, which mixed automotive excellence with musical genius, was truly a one-of-a-kind transaction.
The 1954 Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet was a two-door, three-seater roadster originally painted silver, later restored with a blue color and added side air vents. (Picture from: Paul Balze in Flickr)
The final result was a two-door, three-seater roadster painted in silver. Although Granz wanted the car to exude European style, he also wanted to retain a strong connection to its Cadillac roots. To ensure this, the car was fitted with signature Cadillac-style bumpers, and the iconic Cadillac "V" emblem was prominently displayed on both the radiator grille and the trunk lid. These elements ensured that, despite its exotic Italian bodywork, the car was unmistakably a Cadillac at heart.
The Cadillac PF200 roadster's grille, framed in chrome, featured a chrome "V," a key design element that linked the car to its Cadillac heritage. (Picture from: DeanGarage)
Dubbed the Cadillac PF200, this concept car was officially introduced in 1954. Pininfarina, responsible for its design and construction, gave the car a distinct aesthetic, starting with its large oval grille framed in chrome. The grille also featured a chrome "V," which was a key design element that tied the car back to its Cadillac heritage. Cadillac wheel discs from 1953 were used, further cementing its identity, despite its radically different appearance.
Inside, the Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was as luxurious as the exterior suggested, with the cabin upholstered in while leather. (Picture from: DeanGarage)
Inside, the car was as luxurious as the exterior suggested. The cabin was upholstered in tan leather, providing an elegant contrast to the silver-gray exterior paint. The roadster’s design was sleek and minimalist, reflecting the clean, modern lines that were synonymous with Pininfarina’s style. The two-seat layout emphasized the car's sportiness, while the roadster’s proportions made it feel far more compact than a typical Cadillac of the era.
The 1954 Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was powered by the same engine as the Series 62 Cadillac, a 346 cu in (5.7 L) Monobloc V8. (Picture from: DeanGarage)
There is some debate about the origins of this particular Cadillac model. While many sources agree that it was a custom car commissioned by Granz and built by Pininfarina, others suggest that it might have had a different origin. From several sources such Carstyling.ru, and DeanGarage write that the car was actually commissioned for Luigi Chinetti, an influential Ferrari importer and close friend of Enzo Ferrari. However, the connection between Chinetti and this Cadillac remains speculative, with little concrete evidence to support this theory. Regardless, what is clear is that the Cadillac PF200 cabriolet was a one-off masterpiece, never intended for mass production.
The Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet is often referred to as the "King of Cadillacs," a fitting title for such a unique and elegant creation. (Picture from: Paul Balze in Flickr)
The Cadillac PF200 Cabriolet is often referred to as the "King of Cadillacs," a fitting title for such a unique and elegant creation. The car’s blend of American engineering and Italian design makes it a standout among the many Cadillacs produced during that era. Its rarity and beauty contribute to its legendary status, much like the idea that there can only be one true "King."This car represents a moment in time when customization, creativity, and collaboration across industries came together to create something truly special.
In the world of automobiles, the story of Norman Granz’s Cadillac PF200 serves as a reminder of the golden age of design, when carmakers pushed boundaries and individuals sought vehicles that were more than just transportation—they were symbols of status, taste, and personality. Today, the legacy of this remarkable car lives on, not just in the memories of those who witnessed it but in the broader history of automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DEANGARAGE | CARSTYLING.RU | OLDCONCEPTCARS | CLASSICCARS.FANDOM | ALLCARINDEX | PAUL BALZE IN FLICKR | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI ]
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Forgotten ONES - The world of automotive history is dotted with fascinating tales of innovation, ambition, and occasional misfortune. One such intriguing story revolves around De Tomaso, an Italian premium car brand that has left an indelible mark on the racing and exotic car industry. Founded by Alejandro De Tomaso in 1959 in Modena, Italy, this brand has witnessed a rollercoaster journey, particularly in the 1990s when Alejandro himself continued to design exotic cars until his passing in 2006.
The De Tomaso Biguà was one of the last models crafted by the iconic Italian car manufacturer before the company ceased production. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The De Tomaso Biguà was one of the last models crafted by the iconic Italian car manufacturer alongside the De Tomaso Guarà of 1993 before the company ceased production. The De Tomaso Biguà represented a bold new direction for the brand. Alejandro De Tomaso, despite facing health issues, envisioned the Biguà as a unique sports car with a distinctive retractable roof that could transform it from a coupe to a convertible or targa.
The De Tomaso Biguà represented a bold new direction for the brand, inspired by the simplicity and elegance of TVR designs. (Picture from: DeTomasoDC.co.uk)
In the early 1990s, as De Tomaso's health declined, the management of the company became more challenging. During this period, Maserati’s chief engineer, Giordano Casarini, inspired by the simplicity and elegance of TVR designs, proposed the concept of the Biguà. He developed a straightforward front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) chassis based on a Ford V8 engine. This combination promised a blend of power and versatility, making the Biguà a standout in the sports car market.
The
De Tomaso Biguà envisioned the Biguà as a unique sports car with a distinctive
retractable roof that could transform it from a coupe to a convertible
or targa. (Picture from: DeTomasoDC.co.uk)
The prototype of the De Tomaso Biguà was unveiled at the 1996 Geneva Motor Show, where it garnered significant attention. Among the admirers were the Qvale family, prominent US importers of European prestige cars. They saw the potential in the Biguà and decided to invest in its development, providing the necessary funding to transition the concept into a production-ready vehicle. Their involvement was crucial, as they anticipated strong demand from the US market and built a new assembly plant in Modena to meet this expected demand.
The De Tomaso Biguà featured a straightforward front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (FR) chassis based on a Ford V8 engine. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Initially, the plan was to market the car as the De Tomaso Mangusta, a name that carried historical significance for the brand. However, due to ongoing management issues at De Tomaso and the shifting dynamics within the company, Qvale eventually took over the entire project. When the car finally went into production in 2000, it was rebranded as the Qvale Mangusta. Despite this change, the car retained many of the core design elements and engineering principles envisioned by Casarini and De Tomaso.
The
Qvale Mangusta is the production version of the De Tomaso Biguà,
retaining many of the core design elements and engineering principles
envisioned by Casarini and De Tomaso. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The De Tomaso Biguà, in its conceptual stage, featured a composite body and a robust box-section steel chassis, supported by double-wishbone suspensions. True to De Tomaso’s tradition, it utilized a stock Ford V8 engine and transmission from the Mustang Cobra. This setup ensured compliance with Federal emission and safety standards, making it suitable for the US market.
The car's angular exterior, designed by Marcello Gandini, known for his work on the Lamborghini Miura and Countach, had mixed reviews. Despite some criticisms of its bulk and high bonnet, necessitated by the tall Mustang V8, the Biguà's standout feature was its flexible roof panel, allowing it to switch between a Coupe, Targa, or Roadster.
Ultimately, the De Tomaso Biguà represents a fascinating chapter in the history of De Tomaso. It showcased the brand's commitment to innovation and adaptability, even in the face of significant challenges. While it never reached production under its original name, the spirit and vision of the Biguà lived on through its transformation into the Qvale Mangusta. This car remains a testament to the enduring legacy of De Tomaso and the creative ingenuity that defined the brand. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DETOMASODC.CO.UK | SUPERCARS.NET | PANTERA.INFOPOP | AUTOMOBILE.FANDOM ]
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Unsung Fierce-BEAST - In the world of sports cars, innovative designs and engineering marvels often ignite the imagination of automotive enthusiasts. One such intriguing creation is the Helem V6, a vehicle that could have carved out a unique niche within the Renault lineage. With its striking resemblance to the Mercedes CLK GTR and a nose reminiscent of the Renault Spider, the Helem V6 stands as a testament to what could have been for Renault in the late 1990s.
The Helem V6, initially developed by RJ Racing, aimed to create a more powerful variant and could have carved a unique niche within the Renault Spider lineage. (Picture from: RareFrenchSportsCars)
The story of the Helem V6 begins in 1996 when Renault Sport launched its very first production car, the Renault Spider. This lightweight two-seater captured the essence of open-air driving, offering a thrilling experience for drivers. Although the Spider was equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 150 hp, this power was adequate for leisurely drives and one-make racing events, it fell short for the rigors of endurance racing, specifically the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Resembling
a Mercedes CLK GTR with a Renault Spider nose, the Helem V6 could have
been Renault's answer to the Cayman, representing a missed opportunity.(Picture from: RareFrenchSportsCars)
Recognizing the limitations of the Spider, a passionate team from RJ Racing decided to take on the challenge of creating a more powerful variant. Their goal was to develop a model suitable for the FFSA GT series, and Renault showed interest in this endeavor. The project led to the birth of the Helem, which was originally intended to be a closed version of the Spider. The team replaced the original engine with a more potent 3.0 PRV twin-turbo V6 sourced from the Alpine A610, significantly boosting its performance to 250 hp while keeping the vehicle's weight at a nimble 1,100 kg.
By the end of 1997, the Helem V6, branded by RJ Racing, was ready and priced at 350,000 francs. (Picture from: RareFrenchSportsCars)
However, as the development of the Helem progressed, Renault began to shift its focus toward other projects, including the revival of the Alpine brand. By late 1997, the Helem had evolved into a distinct model that bore little resemblance to its Spider predecessor. With its design diverging from the original, the Helem emerged as a sleek and powerful sports car ready for the market. Priced at 350,000 francs, it was a high-end vehicle, but its introduction coincided with a challenging economic landscape for luxury sports cars.
The Helem V6 incorporates advanced materials, utilizing lightweight alloys for its chassis and innovative composite materials for its body, enhancing both performance and efficiency. (Picture from: RareFrenchSportsCars)
Despite its impressive specs and striking design, the Helem struggled to attract buyers. Many potential customers gravitated toward established names like the Venturi 300 and Porsche 911, seeing them as safer investments. Financial limitations prevented the founders of RJ Racing from bringing the Helem to full-scale production, ultimately halting the project and leaving enthusiasts to reflect on the missed opportunity. The car later passed through several hands before ending up with Technical Studio Technology, commonly known as Technical Studio, where it was rebranded as the TS07.
The Helem V6, originally intended as a closed version of the Spider, replaced its engine with a potent 3.0 PRV twin-turbo V6 from the Alpine A610, significantly enhancing its performance to 250 hp while maintaining a nimble weight of 1,100 kg. . (Picture from: RareFrenchSportsCars)
Ultimately, the Helem V6 serves as a bridge between Renault's iconic Spider, and the later Clio V6, which would continue the brand's legacy in the world of sports cars. Although the Helem never reached its full potential, it remains a fascinating chapter in Renault's automotive story. The passion and vision behind its creation highlight the importance of innovation in the automotive industry.
The Helem may not have made its mark in the annals of racing, but it symbolizes the spirit of exploration and creativity that drives car manufacturers to push the boundaries of performance and design. As we reflect on the Helem V6, it becomes clear that every car has a story, and some, though never fully realized, spark our imagination for what could have been. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILE-MAGAZINE.FR | FASTESTAPS | RAREFRENCHSPORTSCARS | GT1 HISTORY ]
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Custom Brilliance - The world of custom car building is a realm where artistry meets engineering, and few names resonate as profoundly as Elden Titus. For decades, this visionary designer redefined the possibilities of automotive craftsmanship, creating vehicles that merged functionality with an unmistakable aesthetic. One of his crowning achievements is the legendary Voodoo Spider, a hand-built masterpiece that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike.
The legendary Voodoo Spider, a hand-built masterpiece of Elden Titus that continues to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts and collectors alike. (Picture from: ModelCarsMag)
The story of the Voodoo Spider begins with a deep passion for pushing the boundaries of design. Elden Titus, often working alongside his brother Jerry, devoted his life to crafting extraordinary automobiles that transcended the conventional. The Voodoo Spider, built upon the foundation of a Jaguar XJS, is a testament to this dedication. Elden meticulously transformed every inch of the vehicle’s body, replacing the original design with hand-formed metalwork that is as elegant as it is groundbreaking.
The Voodoo Spider, finished in Candy Apple Red with black pearl accents laid down by Ryan James and Elden Titus, elevates the car's dramatic contours, with a silver base providing luminous depth, making it a vehicle designed to turn heads and evoke wonder.. (Picture from: CoffinCorner.Proboard)
The Candy Apple Red paint was laid down by Ryan James and Elden Titus, highlighted with black pearl accents, elevates the car’s dramatic contours, while the silver base provides a luminous depth. This was a vehicle designed to turn heads and evoke wonder.
The Voodoo Spider, with an interior designed to resemble an aircraft cockpit, is a symphony of precision and creativity, featuring custom steering, instrument housings, and an electric drop-down license plate box, all reflecting Elden’s commitment to perfection. (Picture from: CoffinCorner.Proboard)
The interior of the Voodoo Spider is as striking as its exterior. Designed to resemble the cockpit of an aircraft, it is a symphony of precision and creativity. From the custom steering wheel and instrument housings to the electric drop-down license plate box, every detail showcases Elden’s commitment to perfection. The chrome-plated art spiders and machined valve covers serve as unique adornments, blending artistry with function in a way that few could achieve.
The Voodoo Spider, currently residing at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma, showcases Elden’s mastery in blending innovation with spectacle.(Picture from: CNET)
Under the hood, the Voodoo Spider boasts a 327 Chevy engine paired with a turbo transmission. The Jaguar XJS disk brake differential, adorned with custom chrome artwork, highlights the technical prowess that went into its creation. Even the electric hood opening mechanism reflects Elden’s ability to blend innovation with spectacle. This is not just a car; it’s a narrative of craftsmanship that tells a story every time the engine roars to life.
The Voodoo Spider has starred in numerous car shows, from the Culver City California Car Show to the Super Nationals in Albuquerque. (Picture from: CNET)
The Voodoo Spider’s reputation extends far beyond its technical achievements. This custom creation has been a star at numerous car shows, from the Culver City California Car Show to The Super Nationals in Albuquerque. It has graced the halls of Darryl Starbird’s Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma and claimed over ten top awards at prestigious competitions. Its ability to captivate audiences is a tribute to the vision and skill that Elden Titus poured into every detail.
The Vampyre, one of Elden Titus' monumental works, remains on display at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma.(Picture from: CNET)
Elden’s journey into the world of custom car building began long before the Voodoo Spider. As a child, he built intricate scale models that hinted at the designer he would become. His partnership with Darryl Starbird in the late 1960s marked the start of a career that would leave an indelible mark on the automotive world. Alongside his brother Jerry, Elden helped revive the custom car movement during the 1970s. The Merc/Deuce Reunion and the creation of the Kustom Kemps of America club were pivotal in rekindling the passion for custom car culture, culminating in the Leadsled Spectacular event in Wichita, Kansas.
The Vibrasonic, exhibited at Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Hall of Fame in Oklahoma, is known as Elden Titus' final work before his passing in 2008. (Picture from: CNET)
Despite his many accomplishments, Elden never lost his drive for innovation. In the years leading up to his untimely passing, he continued to push boundaries with projects like the Vampyre and the wedge-shaped Vibrasonic. The Voodoo Spider, however, remains his magnum opus—a symbol of his ability to dream boldly and execute flawlessly. | N7HcLzeV2G0 |
As we reflect on the legacy of Elden Titus, the Voodoo Spider stands as a shining example of his talent, dedication, and vision. It is more than a car; it is a work of art that continues to inspire generations of car builders and enthusiasts. Through this extraordinary creation, Elden’s spirit lives on, reminding us that the pursuit of excellence can result in timeless beauty. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HOTROD | COFFINCORNER.PROBOARD | MODELCARSMAG | JALOPYJOURNAL | STARBIRDCARSHOW ON FACEBOOK | STRAYKAT.KUSTOM ON FACEBOOK | MARKETPLACE ON FACEBOOK | CNET ]
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The LM002, Lamborghini’s first off-road vehicle, stood as a unique outlier amidst the brand’s sleek road cars. Despite its imperfections, it maintained a loyal niche following and consistent sales. Encouraged by this success, plans for a successor were initiated. Initially entrusted to a UK-based firm, the design project later moved to a collaborative entity combining Lamborghini and SZ Design, an offshoot of Zagato. The new model, dubbed the LM003, was planned to cater to specific markets under names like Borneo or Galileo.
Lamborghini's legacy is defined by its boundary-pushing ethos, and the LM003 remains a testament to the risks involved in pursuing extraordinary ideas. Though unrealized, it stands as a reminder that even unfulfilled ambitions can leave a lasting imprint in the world of automotive innovation. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | STORY-CARS | WIKICARS | CARSTYLING.RU ]
