Transforming Elegance: The Remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil Fire Truck

UNIQUE but REAL - This is solely to satisfy our curiosity about a unique classic custom car originating from Brno, a city nestled in the south of the Czech Republic, apart from the previously discussed Netik 600 Raketa, which is equally unique. The mentioned automotive marvel once symbolized luxury and speed before being transformed into firefighting vehicles, some of the fastest of their time.

Under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation into  Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil firefighting vehicles. (Picture from: Bangshift)

Well, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is not your average car; it's a captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. Its distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, but this exceptional vehicle has a compelling backstory. Originally, it was a luxurious Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, abandoned by a German commander during World War II amidst the turmoil of Czechoslovakia's changing political landscape.

The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck has a distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, and captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)

Horch, formally known as A. Horch & Co., was a renowned German automotive manufacturer founded in Cologne in 1899. By 1904, the company had relocated its operations to Zwickau, Saxony. Among the Auto Union brands (Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer), Horch specialized in luxury vehicles, and the Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet was the final model introduced before passenger car production ceased in March 1940.

The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck was built based on an abandoned Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, as seen in the picture. (Picture from: Autoweek)

Despite its history, the Brno firefighters noted that this particular model was from 1941, suggesting it was among the last units produced. The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil emerged during a time when a 100 hp engine was a remarkable achievement. However, the aftermath of the war cast doubt on anything linked to Germany, including this elegant convertible.

The narrative took an intriguing turn in November 1945 when the Brno-Komín fire brigade made the decision to repurpose this modified Horch 853 convertible for firefighting tasks. The scarcity of specialized vehicles in the post-war era prompted organizations to adapt existing cars for essential roles. Thus, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil evolved from a symbol of luxury to a testament of human ingenuity, seamlessly combining elegance with functionality. Who was behind this remarkable transformation?

The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is pictured alongside its sibling fire truck from the Brno-Komín fire brigade. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)

Well, under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, known for their innovative designs, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation. Guided by Tomáš Lepil's sons, Bedřich and Josef, the Lepil team embarked on a journey of creativity and reinvention. They meticulously redesigned the convertible, incorporating features such as a separate rear entry and expanded space to accommodate firefighting equipment efficiently. 

In the cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck, you'll find a straightforward dashboard featuring a four-spoke steering wheel, a standard instrument panel, gauges, and knobs. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)

Interestingly, the transparent cabin bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit. Was this part taken from there? So far, there's no information about that yet; time will reveal the truth. What distinguishes the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is its ability to accommodate six crew members under its transparent roof, alongside a fire hose, making it an exceptionally efficient firefighting apparatus.

The transparent cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit, leading to speculations that it may have come from the German plane. (Picture from: Pinterest)

Today, the legacy of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil endures as one of the most remarkable fire vehicles ever created. It exemplifies the intersection of automotive history and human innovation, illustrating how a neglected plush convertible found a new purpose and became an iconic figure in firefighting. This narrative underscores the resilience of human creativity, exemplified by the visionary work of the Lepil family and their team.

The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil was once a symbol of luxury and speed, standing out as one of the fastest firefighting vehicles of its time, featuring a powerful eight-cylinder engine. (Picture from: Bangshift)

In conclusion, the journey of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil reminds us of the limitless potential of innovation. Even in adversity, humans can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, showcasing enduring ingenuity and adaptability. It's a story that continues to inspire, emphasizing the timeless spirit of innovation and resilience. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring another stunning Horch car creation, click here! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | WEIRDWHEELS | CHOICEGEARS.ORG | BANGSHFT | AUTOWEEK ]

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Revolutionizing Muscle Cars: Meet the All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona

The LEGEND is Back - The resurrection of the American muscle car legend has sent waves of excitement through the automotive world, with Dodge taking a bold step by introducing the All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona. Breaking away from tradition, this iconic muscle car is not just a powerhouse with a roaring Hemi V8; it's embracing the future with an electric motor, following the launch of its concept several years ago...

The All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona marks Dodge's foray into the electric muscle car realm, and initially available in two-door models, promises to redefine the expectations of electric vehicles. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Unveiled on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, the Charger Daytona marks Dodge's foray into the electric muscle car realm. The car, initially available in two-door models, promises to redefine the expectations of electric vehicles. Unlike typical electric cars known for their silent demeanor, the Charger Daytona is designed to capture the essence of a classic Hemi V8, ensuring that the exhilarating roar remains an integral part of the driving experience.

The All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona is designed to capture the essence of a classic Hemi V8, ensuring that the exhilarating roar remains an integral part of the driving experience. (Picture from: Carscoops)

In its first phase, Dodge introduces the R/T variant, boasting 496 horsepower and 548 Nm of torque. Accelerating from 0 to 97 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, this electric powerhouse retains the signature boldness and sleek design that defines the Charger Daytona. The Scat Pack variant, the top tier, elevates the performance further with an impressive 670 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, reaching 97 km/h in a mere 3.3 seconds.

The All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona introduces the R/T variant, boasting 496 hp and 548 Nm of torque, and the Scat Pack variant with an impressive 670 hp and 850 Nm of torque, reaching 97 km/h in a mere 3.3 seconds.. (Picture from: Carscoops)

Both versions feature an innovative "electric drive module" with front and rear motors. The rear motor is equipped with a mechanical slip differential for enhanced traction, and a 400-volt architecture combined with a 100.5 kWh battery ensures an impressive range of 317 miles for the R/T and 260 miles for the Scat Pack.

The rear motor is equipped with a mechanical slip differential for enhanced traction, and a 400-volt architecture combined with a 100.5 kWh battery ensures an impressive range of 317 miles for the R/T and 260 miles for the Scat Pack. (Picture from: Carscoops)

What truly sets these electric muscle cars apart is the Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust sound generator, a creation by Dodge's engineers. With a roar that reaches 126 dB, reminiscent of the SRT Hellcat, the Charger Daytona aims to provide an auditory experience matching the classic Hemi V8 engine. Dodge enthusiasts can even activate a stealth mode, demonstrating the car's adaptability and the brand's commitment to delivering a multifaceted driving experience.

The All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona's interior is wrapped in genuine black leather with tinge of red on the door trim and there is also a red LED light stripe on the dashboard. (Picture from: Motortrend)

Driving modes add to the versatility, with options like Auto, Eco, Sport, Wet/Snow, and Track available at the touch of a button. For the Scat Pack variant, street tricks and attractions are on the menu, including Drag, Drift, and Donut modes, providing a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.

Beyond sporting the fierce roar of a classic Hemi V8 beast, the 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona EV boasts a stealth mode, showcasing the car's adaptability and the brand's dedication to providing a versatile driving experience. (Picture from: Cars)

Surprisingly, Dodge maintains its commitment to gas-powered engines, introducing "multi-energy powertrain options." The Charger Sixpack HO model, powered by a high-output 3.0L Twin Turbo Hurricane six-cylinder engine, and the Charger Sixpack SO model with 420 horsepower demonstrate the brand's dedication to providing diverse choices for consumers.

Amidst the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles, Stellantis strategically plans its Dare Forward 2030 transformation, aiming for 50% electric vehicle sales in the US by 2030. (Picture from: Motortrend)

In the midst of the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles, Dodge's parent company, Stellantis, is strategically planning its Dare Forward 2030 transformation. With a target of 50% electric vehicle sales in the US by 2030, Stellantis and Dodge CEO Carlos Tavares emphasize flexibility in their strategy. They acknowledge the need to adapt to economic conditions, government incentives, and changing consumer preferences, indicating a commitment to both electric and gas powertrain options in the evolving landscape of the automotive world.

In conclusion, the All-Electric 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona stands as a testament to the brand's ability to blend tradition with innovation. It not only revives the spirit of the American muscle car but propels it into the future, catering to a diverse range of automotive enthusiasts. Dodge's strategic approach reflects an understanding of the dynamic automotive landscape, ensuring that the Charger Daytona remains a symbol of power, performance, and adaptability in the years to come. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | AUTOCAR | TOPGEAR | MOTORTREND | CARS ]

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Speed and Style: The Legacy of the Studebaker Avanti

Unique ONES - In the fast-paced world of automotive business, challenges are inevitable, even for iconic models like the Studebaker Avanti. Launched by the Studebaker Corporation between June 1962 and December 1963, the Avanti aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. Marketed as "America's only high-performance coupe with a capacity of four passengers," it promised a thrilling driving experience coupled with safety features.

The Studebaker Avanti launched by the Studebaker Corporation between June 1962 and December 1963. (Picture from: TimesColonist)

Just to let you know, when the Studebaker Avanti was announced in 1962, Studebaker's history already traced back 110 years to 1852. It all started when Clem and Henry Studebaker opened a blacksmith and wagon shop in South Bend, Indiana. Considered a pivotal milestone in the post-war automotive industry, the Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis.

The Studebaker Avanti conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. (Picture from: TheAvanti)

Its design, conceptualized by Studebaker president Sherwood Egbert during a flight, captured attention with its avant-garde aesthetic. Crafted by a team (consisted primarily of Bob Andrews, John Ebstein, and Tom Kellogg) led by Raymond Loewy, the Avanti dazzled the public when unveiled on April 26, 1962, at the New York International Automobile Show. The debut coincided with the Annual Shareholders' Meeting, generating excitement and anticipation among enthusiasts.

The Studebaker Avanti was crafted by a team led by Raymond Loewy and aimed to redefine luxury coupes with its unique blend of performance and style. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

To further elevate its profile, the Avanti found itself in the hands of racing champion Rodger Ward, winner of the 1962 Indianapolis 500. His ownership added prestige, cementing the Avanti's status as a symbol of speed and sophistication.

The Studebaker Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. (Picture from: TheAvanti)

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Avanti housed a formidable 289 cubic inch OHV V8 engine, capable of unleashing 240 horsepower. With an impressive 0-60 mph acceleration in under 8 seconds and a top speed of 139 mph, it offered exhilarating performance unmatched by its competitors.

The Studebaker Avanti's interior includes bucket seats, a padded dashboard, a central console, and overhead light switches. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Furthermore, Studebaker took the Avanti to the Bonneville Salt Flats where it set 29 production car records in 1963, eventually achieving a top speed of nearly 170 mph in the flying mile with Andy Granatelli, chief driver and chief engineer at Studebacker Racing behind the wheel.

Despite its initial acclaim, the Avanti encountered setbacks in production, including issues with suppliers and delays in manufacturing. These challenges hampered the company's ability to meet demand, resulting in numerous order cancellations from dealers and customers alike.

The Studebaker Avanti featured a streamlined fiberglass body mounted on a modified Studebaker Lark Daytona Convertible chassis. (Picture from: Wikipedia)

Sadly, the Avanti's production came to an abrupt halt at the end of 1963, just a year and a half after its launch. With only around 5,800 units manufactured, its journey was cut short, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and ambition in the automotive industry.

In retrospect, the Studebaker Avanti remains a testament to the pursuit of excellence, its brief yet impactful presence leaving an indelible mark on automotive history. Despite its challenges, it continues to be celebrated for its daring design and spirited performance, reminding us of the enduring allure of timeless classics. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | THEAVANTI | MOTORTREND | TIMESCOLONIST | WIKIPEDIA ]

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Sleek and Powerful: Karma's Gyesera EV Takes Center Stage

New EV - In a much-anticipated move, Karma Automotive has unveiled its latest creation, the Karma Gyesera, at the prestigious Amelia Concours d'Elegance. After almost four years of eager anticipation since the initial revelation of plans to introduce a full-electric vehicle (EV) based on the Revero plug-in hybrid sedan, the Californian brand has taken a significant step into the future with this sleek four-door grand tourer.

Karma Automotive has unveiled its latest creation called the Karma Gyesera EV, at the prestigious Amelia Concours d'Elegance. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

Described as a "bridge to the future" for Karma, the Gyesera showcases a thoroughly revamped design, housing a fully electric powertrain capable of an impressive 250-mile range. Aiming for a futuristic aesthetic, almost all of the exterior body panels have undergone a meticulous redesign, resulting in a 199.9-inch long model with a streamlined appearance. Notable updates include a grilleless nose, sculpted profile intakes, clear taillight lenses, and a modernized rear bumper.

The Karma Gyesera EV features a meticulously redesigned 199.9-inch-long frame, aspiring for a futuristic aesthetic through a streamlined overhaul of almost all exterior body panels. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

Despite these exterior refinements, the Gyesera maintains the timeless proportions and greenhouse, reminiscent of its predecessors like the GS-6 and Revero plug-in hybrids. This design ethos harks back to the original Fisker Karma, which debuted in 2011, maintaining the iconic low-slung silhouette.

The Karma Gyesera's power lies in its 120 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of over 250 miles. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

Internally, the Gyesera boasts an improved dashboard layout, echoing elements from the Fisker legacy. The center console has been revamped with a larger infotainment touchscreen, and the steering wheel has undergone a refreshing update. The absence of decorative inserts, coupled with the prominent Gyesera emblem on the dashboard, adds a touch of modern minimalism to the interior.

Internally, the Karma Gyesera boasts an improved dashboard layout, echoing elements from the Fisker legacy. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

This unveiling is particularly significant as it marks the 10th anniversary since the acquisition of bankrupt Fisker Automotive by the Chinese company Wanxiang Group, subsequently rebranded as Karma Automotive.

President Marques McCammon emphasized the Gyesera's distinctiveness compared to its predecessor, the GSe-6. Although both models share the aluminum spaceframe chassis, the Gyesera introduces a "completely different" battery design and "materially different" performance, with 85% of the EV undergoing significant revisions.

The center console has been revamped with a larger infotainment touchscreen, and the steering wheel has undergone a refreshing update. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

The Gyesera's power lies in its 120 kWh battery pack, offering a commendable range of over 250 miles. Its rear-mounted electric motor churns out an impressive 590 horsepower and 693 lb-ft of torque, translating to a rapid 0-60 mph sprint in under 4.2 seconds and a top speed exceeding 135 mph.

The Karma Gyesera EV introduces a "completely different" battery design and "materially different" performance, with 85% of the EV undergoing significant revisions. (Picture from: AutomotiveNews)

Anticipated for a late 2024 or early 2025 market launch, the Gyesera comes with an estimated price tag ranging from $175,000 to $225,000. Karma Automotive aims for exclusivity, planning to produce 2,000 units over a four- or five-year period at its Moreno Valley facility in California.

The Gyesera's debut sets the stage for Karma's future endeavors, with the Kaveya – a two-door electric sports car – expected to grace the production scene in late 2025. As Karma Automotive paves the way for the electric future, the Gyesera stands as a testament to innovation and design, propelling the brand into a new era of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KARMA AUTOMOTIVE | CARSCOOPS | CARANDDRIVER | AUTOMOTIVENEWS ]

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Innovative HONPE GT Limousine: The Almost-On-Demand Concept Car

New IDEA - In today's rapidly advancing world, where everything seems to demand speed and efficiency, the automotive industry faces the challenge of creating exceptional vehicles within tight timeframes. Despite the numerous impressive cars crafted by global manufacturers, there is one unique concept that stands out – the ARCHETYPE EV. Developed by HONPE Technology, the largest prototype manufacturing company, this electric luxury sedan boasts an extraordinary design and was created in an astonishingly short period – just 45 days from CAD model to a fully functional car.

The HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept stands out as one of the world's first GT Limousines, embodying Plato's concept of pure mental forms preceding their realization in the physical world. (Picture from: Ildossier Magazine)

The brainchild of renowned automotive designer Michael Robinson, the ARCHETYPE is a revolutionary electric sedan with a completely new GT limousine architecture. Known as a pioneer of the Italian automotive design, Michael Robinson took on the professional challenge and managed to conceive the entire car in record time, turning his idea into the remarkable vehicle we see today.

The HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept measures 5,250 mm in length, 2,015 mm in width, 1,300 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,305 mm. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)

The name 'ARCHETYPE' draws inspiration from ancient Greek philosophy, particularly Plato's concept of pure forms embodying the essential characteristics of an entity. Derived from the Greek word 'archetupon,' meaning "original form" or, according to some philosophers, the 'essence' of an idea, ARCHETYPE aims to reflect these 'essentially' lines and proportions. This challenges the prevailing trend of excessive engineering in modern cars.

The all-black exterior design of the HONPE ARCHETYPE EV concept, featuring integrated glass, creates a "carved from solid" effect, reducing visual noise. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)

As reported by Ildossier Magazine, the ARCHETYPE made its public debut at EICMA 2023, where the designer revealed it, showcasing a significant leap forward in automotive prototyping speed. Thanks to the substantial contributions from HONPE Technology, this sedan stands out as one of the world's first GT Limousines, embodying Plato's concept of pure mental forms preceding their realization in the physical world.

The interior surprises with spacious seat arrangements, premium reclining seats, and a bright color scheme that expands visual perception. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)

The philosophy of focusing on the 'original form' translates into eliminating excessive external lines and reducing the interior to a series of 'essential' elements. This minimalist design redefines the rules of luxury in the digital era, where individuals carry their virtual well-being wherever they go.

The stunning concept car measures 5,250 mm in length, 2,015 mm in width, 1,300 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 3,305 mm. ARCHETYPE's generous dimensions combine the height and width of a supercar with the extended wheelbase of a luxury limousine, creating an enticing blend suitable for both combustion and electric vehicles. The all-black exterior design, featuring integrated glass, creates a "carved from solid" effect, reducing visual noise.

Inside, the extremely lightweight and minimalist dashboard features a retractable glass screen and drive-by-wire steering, reminiscent of Formula 1 racing cars. (Picture from: QuattroRuote.it)

Shaped in a wind tunnel, the ARCHETYPE model utilizes high-velocity wind to sculpt its voluptuous form. Its aerodynamic design includes a short front fender, a long rear, and extra-wide fenders hugging premium tires, providing both visual and physical stability on the road.

The HONPE ARCHETYPE EV model utilizes high-velocity wind to sculpt its voluptuous form. Its aerodynamic design includes a short front fender, a long rear, and extra-wide fenders hugging premium tires, providing both visual and physical stability on the road. (Picture from: Corrieredimalta)

Notably, the absence of door handles, replaced by a sound-activated mechanism, and hidden side mirrors add to the cleanliness of the design. The interior surprises with spacious seat arrangements, premium reclining seats, and a bright color scheme that expands visual perception.

Inside, the extremely lightweight and minimalist dashboard features a retractable glass screen and drive-by-wire steering, reminiscent of Formula 1 racing cars. The ARCHETYPE challenges conventions, proving that ideas can come to life (almost) in real-time, even in an industry known for its lengthy development processes.

In conclusion, imagine the possibilities if more ideas could be implemented in such a short timeframe! The ARCHETYPE EV showcases the potential of rapid innovation, setting a new standard for the automotive industry and leaving a lasting impression on the future of car design and manufacturing. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONPE | ILDOSSIER MAGAZINE | QUATTRORUOTE.IT | CORRIEREDIMALTA ]

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Rometsch Beeskow: Volkswagen's Unofficial Luxury Craftsmanship

Rare ONES - The Volkswagen Beetle, an iconic creation by a German manufacturer, has become a canvas for creative automotive enthusiasts. These individuals transform the Beetle into automotive masterpieces, turning them into elegant and stunning creations far removed from their original form.

The 1951 Rometsch Beeskow Coupe posed along with its successor 1957 Rometsch Lawrence Cabrio. (Pictures from: VWVortex, Edited by Eka)

One outstanding example of this creative transformation is the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe, a beautiful classic car from the 1950s, was soon named Banane. At first glance, its exterior design exudes beauty and elegance, making it hard to believe that this car originated from the humble Volkswagen Beetle. But who is the mastermind behind this sophisticated creation?

The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) was designed by Johannes Beeskow, and crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch during 1951 to 1957. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

According to various internet sources, the Rometsch Beeskow Coupe was crafted by Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch, a Berlin-based coachbuilder established in 1924. Their venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.

The first Karosserie Friedrich Rometsch's venture into Volkswagen-based projects began in 1950 with a four-door taxi featuring an elongated wheelbase.. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

The exquisite car, designed by Johannes Beeskow, made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show. Referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society,' it earned this title rightfully. The initial buyers included the King of Sweden and renowned celebrities like Victor de Kowa, Gregory Peck, and Audrey Hepburn.

The Rometsch Beeskow exquisite car (pictured in Coupe model) featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

Fascinatingly, the aluminum-bodied sports car was never officially endorsed by Wolfsburg. Volkswagen declined to provide the coachbuilders with the essential rolling chassis and parts, prompting them to either acquire complete Volkswagens through their 50 employees or purchase used cars.

The cabin of the Rometsch Beeskow, featuring a similar layout to the VW Beetle, is adorned with additional luxury touches. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

The Rometsch Beeskow was available as a coupe and convertible, as many as 175 examples ever built (with 51 convertibles), the majority being convertibles. These hand-built vehicles featured a steel frame with wood pillars and were clad in a lightweight aluminum body. They aimed to provide an affordable sports car alternative to the more expensive cars of the time, utilizing the Volkswagen Beetle chassis to keep prices reasonable.

The aluminum-bodied sports car Rometsch Beeskow made its debut at the 1951 Geneva Motor Show, and referred to as the 'Volkswagen for high society'. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

After Johannes Beeskow's move to Karmann in 1956, Rometsch continued crafting bespoke cars with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence. The successor model, Rometsch Lawrence, saw the production of 120 units from 1957 to 1961 (in Coupe and Cabrio models). This period marked a transition in design, with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, including a cushioned dash.

The successor model, the Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model), showcases a transition in design with a more American-style exterior and sumptuous interiors, complete with a cushioned dashboard. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

Despite facing challenges, Rometsch persisted until 1961 when the Berlin Wall's construction effectively separated the company from half of its 90 employees. Despite modest sales at the time, the Rometsch Beeskow left an indelible mark in automotive history.

The Rometsch Lawrence (pictured in Cabrio model) bespoke cars were crafted with the assistance of furniture designer Bert Lawrence from 1957 to 1961. (Pictures from: VWVortex)

The car claimed several notable achievements, including being the first to feature its full manufacturer and model name on its back, pioneering interior safety with a padded dash, influencing the design of the Mercedes 300 SL, and inspiring the Audi TT’s designer with its timeless design.

The unmistakable reliability and refinement showcased in Rometsch's bespoke car models were truly undeniable, asserting their dominance and earning acclaim in the Volkswagen Custom Coachwork class at the 2019 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance. This achievement further solidified their indelible place in automotive history. Rometsch's cars serve as a compelling testament to the enduring allure of creative automotive transformations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VWVORTEX | CONCEPTCARZ | WESTERNDRIVER | THEAUTOCHANNEL | MOTORSPORT-TOTAL | THEMOVEMENT | KOLAHA-COLLECTION ]

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