Rotary Ambition - The pursuit of innovation has consistently propelled the automotive industry toward uncharted frontiers. During the transformative 1970s, car manufacturers competed to redefine engine technology in response to emerging challenges and opportunities. Against this dynamic backdrop, Chevrolet embarked on a bold journey to reshape the future of American sports cars. The result was the Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT—a concept car that seamlessly blended advanced engineering with daring design. But the origins of this remarkable vehicle trace back not to Chevrolet itself, but to a groundbreaking invention by a German engineer whose work would lay the foundation for its creation.
The 1973 Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT along with the 1973 GM-RCE266 Wankel Rotary Engine sat on display at the National Corvette Museum. (Picture from: CorvetteMuseum)
Felix Wankel’s revolutionary rotary engine, introduced to the world in the mid-20th century, stood out as a marvel of modern engineering. Its compact and lightweight design, coupled with fewer moving parts than traditional piston engines, offered smoother operation and higher revving capabilities. Initially adopted by brands like NSU and Citroën, it was Mazda that truly elevated the Wankel engine’s reputation, integrating it into iconic models such as the RX-7. Yet, the engine’s potential also caught the attention of American automakers, particularly Chevrolet, which envisioned not one but two mid-engine Corvette prototypes—the Two-Rotor and Four-Rotor concepts—powered by this groundbreaking technology.
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT, a concept car that seamlessly blended advanced engineering with daring design. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
Chevrolet’s venture into the realm of rotary engines began with the creation of the XP-987 GT, commonly referred to as the Corvette Two-Rotor. Conceived in the early 1970s, this prototype was designed to demonstrate the versatility of the Wankel engine, which General Motors had been developing for a range of applications. The engine’s compact size and impressive power-to-weight ratio aligned perfectly with Chevrolet’s vision of a nimble, high-performance Corvette. The decision to adopt a mid-engine layout further marked a significant departure from the traditional front-engine designs of its predecessors, signaling a bold evolution in the Corvette’s legacy.
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT boasted a striking design, born from meticulous efforts led by GM’s Vice President of Styling Bill Mitchell, sketched by Kip Wasenko, and brought to life in collaboration with renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The XP-987 GT’s striking appearance was a result of meticulous design efforts led by Bill Mitchell, GM’s Vice President of Styling. Kip Wasenko’s sketches envisioned a sleek, European-inspired body, featuring a distinctive split windshield with an integrated radio antenna at its central seam—a hallmark of Mitchell’s influence. To bring this ambitious design to life, Chevrolet collaborated with the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina. Built on a heavily modified Porsche 914/6 chassis, the car’s steel body combined American ingenuity with European craftsmanship, resulting in a unique aesthetic that captured global attention.
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT built on a heavily modified Porsche 914/6 chassis, the car’s steel body combined American ingenuity with European craftsmanship, resulting in a unique aesthetic that captured global attention. (Picture from: Corvette Furman On Facebook)
When the XP-987 GT made its debut at the 1973 Paris Motor Show, it captivated both enthusiasts and industry experts. The concept’s compact design, powered by a two-rotor GM engine producing 180 horsepower, offered a glimpse into what the future of Corvette could entail: a perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and style. However, despite the excitement surrounding the concept, significant challenges loomed. The rotary engine, though innovative, faced hurdles such as high fuel consumption and difficulty meeting increasingly stringent emissions standards. The 1973 oil crisis and growing environmental concerns compounded these issues, prompting GM to abandon its rotary engine program in 1974.
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT powered by a two-rotor GM engine producing 180 horsepower, offered a glimpse into what the future of Corvette could entail: a perfect blend of performance, efficiency, and style. (Picture from: MotorTrend)
The XP-987 GT’s journey didn’t end with its withdrawal from the spotlight. After its global showcase, the car was stored at GM’s Vauxhall Motors Design Centre in England, where it remained largely forgotten for nearly a decade. Scheduled for destruction in 1983, the concept was rescued by Tom Falconer, a dedicated Corvette enthusiast and author. With assistance from Chuck Jordan, GM’s Head of Design, Falconer ensured the car avoided the scrapyard. The XP-987 GT found a new home in Falconer’s garage, where it underwent modifications to restore its functionality.
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT made its debut at the 1973 Paris Motor Show, it captivated both enthusiasts and industry experts. (Picture from: Corvette Furman On Facebook)
In a poignant twist, the rotary engine that symbolized the car’s innovative spirit was replaced with a Mazda 13B rotary engine, underscoring the lasting legacy of Felix Wankel’s invention. Falconer’s tireless efforts preserved the XP-987 GT as a tangible piece of Corvette history, allowing it to make appearances at prestigious events like the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. Today, the car stands as a reminder of an era defined by experimentation and ambition, and a tribute to the engineers and designers who dared to dream. | PSE-y4hRuK8 |
The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT represents a glimpse into a path not taken. Its story is one of creativity, collaboration, and resilience, embodying the relentless pursuit of progress that drives the automotive world. Though it never reached production, its legacy endures as a symbol of what could have been—a testament to the boundless imagination that defines innovation in every era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CORVETTEMUSEUM | CORVSPORT | CONCEPTCARZ | CORVETTE FURMAN | CARBUZZ | HEMMINGS | LSXMAG | MOTORTREND ]
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Lost Legacy - Saleen has long been synonymous with high-performance vehicles, particularly its Mustang tuning expertise. However, the company has never been content with just modifying existing cars—it has always harbored ambitions of creating its own supercars. That ambition first materialized in the form of the legendary Saleen S7, a supercar that proved American engineering could compete with European exotics. Now, Saleen is once again aiming to redefine the American supercar with the Saleen S5S Raptor, a concept car that embodies the company’s dedication to raw power and precision engineering.
The Saleen S5S Raptor Concept car made its debut at the 2008 New York Auto Show.(Picture from: ImagineLifeStyles)
The Saleen S5S Raptor made its debut in 2008 as a concept car, capturing attention with its aggressive styling and impressive performance figures. It was designed to be a more accessible yet still formidable counterpart to the S7, targeting the premium performance market with a price range that could rival the Ferrari F430. Under the hood, the S5S Raptor packs a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, capable of producing 650 horsepower and 630 lb-ft of torque. This power allows it to rocket from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds and achieve a top speed exceeding 200 mph.
Left side view of Saleen S5S Raptor Concept car.(Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Unlike many high-performance cars that rely on exotic engine configurations, the Raptor sticks to a simple yet potent single-overhead-cam design, making it a true muscle car in supercar form. One of the standout features of the S5S Raptor is its lightweight construction. Saleen engineered the car with an aluminum chassis and composite body panels, ensuring that its weight remained under 3,400 pounds. This careful weight distribution, combined with a sophisticated braking system and high-performance tires, provides exceptional handling dynamics.
Rear Left side view of Saleen S5S Raptor Concept car. (Picture from: HKCarWorld)
The car’s six-speed manual transmission—along
with the possibility of a paddle-shift sequential manual—further
enhances the driving experience, keeping it raw and engaging. Despite its promising specs and enthusiastic reception, the S5S Raptor never made it to full production. | 58eJXX8KeNo | MBmeG06k1BY |
Although the fate of the S5S Raptor remains uncertain, its impact on the automotive world is undeniable. It served as a statement that Saleen was not just a tuner but a legitimate supercar manufacturer. Even if the S5S never saw production, its spirit lives on in Saleen’s relentless pursuit of speed, innovation, and American-made performance. Whether through combustion or electric power, Saleen’s legacy continues to shape the future of high-performance cars. *** [EKA [07022014] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SALEEN | AUTOEVOLUTION |AUTOBLOG | MOTORTREND | CARANDDRIVER ]
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Powercrafted Rarity - In a world where high-performance cars often come from global giants with decades of legacy, it's always exciting when a fresh name turns heads on the supercar stage. Amidst the roar of engines and spotlight of innovation, a small American manufacturer dared to dream big—and delivered. That dream took shape in the form of the Falcon F7, a bold creation that embodies raw power, refined craftsmanship, and the spirit of individuality that so often defines true automotive greatness.
The 2014 Falcon F7 is a bold creation that embodies raw power, refined American craftsmanship, and the spirit of individuality, as showcased at NAIAS 2014. (Picture from: Forbes)
The story of the Falcon F7 doesn’t begin with an army of engineers or a sprawling production facility. Instead, it traces back to a single vision. Falcon Motorsports, a boutique automaker based in Holly, Michigan, began building the F7 in 2009. With a clear focus and an unshakable passion for performance, they completed the car’s development by late 2011.
The 2014 Falcon F7 features a body sculpted from a blend of carbon fiber and Kevlar, mounted on a monocoque chassis that incorporates aluminum for enhanced rigidity and weight savings. (Picture from: Falcon F7)
Its official debut came at the 2012 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), although a prototype had already made its first appearance there two years earlier. And when it returned to the NAIAS stage again in 2014, the Falcon F7 had grown into something far more polished—but no less rebellious.
The 2014 Falcon F7 is equipped with creature comforts that match today’s expectations—Bluetooth connectivity, an iPod dock, Garmin GPS navigation, a premium audio system, power windows, and air conditioning all come standard.(Picture from: NewAtlas)
What makes the Falcon F7 such a standout is not just its aggressive styling, but also the craftsmanship behind it. The body is sculpted from a blend of carbon fiber and Kevlar, laid over a monocoque chassis that also features aluminum for structural rigidity and weight savings. Weighing just 1,304 kg (2,875 lbs), the car is a featherweight contender in the supercar segment. Its design, a tribute to the angular, wedge-shaped icons of the 1980s, oozes nostalgia while still delivering cutting-edge performance.
Driver-focused dashboard view featuring unique instrument panels and buttons in the 2014 Falcon F7. (Picture from: Falcon F7)
Inside, the F7 brings together modern technology and artisanal attention to detail. The cockpit features brown-mustard leather trim with optional seats hand-stitched by Venzano, a name respected for bespoke automotive upholstery. Driver-centric touches like an adjustable gauge pod ensure that comfort and control go hand in hand. Despite its hardcore performance credentials, the Falcon F7 is equipped with creature comforts that match today’s expectations—Bluetooth connectivity, an iPod dock, Garmin GPS navigation, a premium audio system, power windows, and air conditioning all come standard.
The Falcon F7 is powered by a powerful 7.0-liter V8 engine from the Chevrolet Corvette, delivering 620 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 585 lb-ft of torque at 5,400 rpm. (Picture from: Falcon F7)
At the heart of the Falcon F7 lies a beastly 7.0-liter V8 engine sourced from the Chevrolet Corvette, capable of unleashing 620 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 585 lb-ft of torque at 5,400 rpm. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission developed by Ricardo, the power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels. That setup rockets the car from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.3 seconds, reaching a top speed that ranges from 305 km/h (190 mph) up to a blistering 322 km/h (200 mph). Despite its ferocity, the car was engineered with emissions low enough to be considered for entry into the European market—an impressive feat for a hand-built American supercar.
Exclusivity is a major part of the F7's identity. With a target production run limited to just 20 units per year, owning one means being part of a very select club. And yet, as of today, only sevenFalcon F7s have ever been built—making it not just rare, but one of the rarest supercars to ever wear an American badge. Priced between $195,000 and $250,000 at the time, it enters a competitive arena but sets itself apart with features and craftsmanship typically reserved for vehicles costing significantly more.
The Falcon F7 doesn’t just offer performance—it offers a statement, one of individuality, passion, and a refusal to conform. Even today, more than a decade since it first made its mark, the Falcon F7 remains a symbol of what’s possible when ambition meets execution. It stands as a reminder that greatness doesn’t always come from size or history, but sometimes from a small garage in Michigan—where dreams of speed take flight.*** [EKA [01022014] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FALCON MOTORSPORTS | FORBES | CONCEPTCARZ | NEWATLAS | CARBUZZ ]
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Iconic ONES - In the world of classic cars, where elegance and craftsmanship meet, there’s always room for a true work of art that stands apart from the rest. One such masterpiece is the 1954 Ferrari 375 MM Ghia Coupé, a car that defies expectations and offers a fresh take on what a Ferrari could be. While Ferrari is typically associated with sleek, powerful designs and the iconic Pininfarina, this particular model found itself in the hands of Carrozzeria Ghia, bringing a unique flair that has captivated enthusiasts for decades.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: Road&Track)
Ghia, known more for its work with brands like Ford and Alfa Romeo, rarely applied its bold touch to Ferrari. This alone makes the 375 MM Ghia Coupé a remarkable standout in Ferrari's rich history. Commissioned for Robert Wilke, a wealthy client from Milwaukee, this car was designed by the talented Giovanni Michelotti, whose artistic vision brought something truly unexpected to life. Its combination of elegance and playfulness is unlike anything typically seen in a Ferrari of this era.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: TheAutopian)
The 375 MM Ghia Coupé exudes a sense of charm that feels more like a luxurious fashion statement than a performance machine. With its chrome-trimmed two-tone paint job, blending salmon and gunmetal grey, it stands out with a distinctive color palette that seems more fitting for American muscle cars than the traditionally reserved Ferrari. The striking design catches the eye immediately, and it only gets better the closer you look. Small details, like the carefully crafted character line trailing from the door, give the car a refined yet adventurous personality that truly sets it apart.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: Road&Track)
Ferrari’s post-war models were known for their precision and performance, but the Ghia-bodied 375 MM introduced a new level of creativity and expression. The proportions of the car stay true to the 375 MM series, yet everything about its design feels slightly more artistic. It’s a reminder that even in an era of conservative automotive design, there were bold designers willing to push the envelope and try something new.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: TheAutopian)
This Ferrari is not just an automobile, but a statement of artistic vision. It made its debut at the 1955 Torino motor show, where it turned heads with its glamorous 1950s aesthetics. To this day, it remains in excellent condition, showing only 13,140 kilometers on the speedometer. Its preservation is a testament to both its craftsmanship and the deep appreciation it commands among collectors and enthusiasts. More than just a car, the 375 MM GhiaCoupé represents an era where innovation in design was at the forefront of the automotive world.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: TheAutopian)
One of the most fascinating aspects of this particular Ferrari is how Ghia was able to take a platform that was already remarkable—the Ferrari 375 MM—and infuse it with a sense of fun and artistry that’s not often associated with the brand. From its bold color choices to the intricate, thoughtful design touches, it feels more like a custom piece of jewelry than a car meant for the road. Yet, under that playful exterior lies the heart of a Ferrari, a machine built for speed and performance.
The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM designed by Giovanni Michelotti and bodied by Carrozzeria Ghia. (Picture from: TheAutopian)
For those who appreciate automobiles as an art form, the 375 MM Ghia Coupé is a dream come true. It’s a rare combination of design flair and mechanical brilliance, a car that doesn’t just fit into the Ferrari legacy but also stands proudly apart from it. This uniqueness, combined with its limited production and rich history, makes it a prized possession among collectors. But more than that, it serves as a reminder of the beauty that can be found in creativity, even when it comes from the most unexpected places.
This one-off Ferrari continues to inspire and enchant, showing that sometimes, the most beautiful creations come from those willing to take risks and break the mold. The 1954 Ferrari 375 MM Ghia Coupé remains an extraordinary symbol of individuality, proving that true elegance lies in daring to be different. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ROADANDTRACK | THEAUTOPIAN | CARSTYLING.RU | ]
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Concept Royalty- When people think of supercars, brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, or McLaren often dominate the conversation. But every now and then, a lesser-known brand steps into the spotlight and leaves a lasting impression. Such is the case with Peugeot—a company more recognized for practical city cars than exotic performance machines. Yet in 2004, this French manufacturer shocked the automotive world with something truly extraordinary: the Peugeot 907 Concept. It wasn't just a car—it was a bold artistic statement, a technical showcase, and a glimpse of what Peugeot could achieve when imagination was given free rein.
2004 Peugeot 907 Concept car while sits on displat at the at the Musée de l'Aventure Peugeot-Sochaux, France. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
The Peugeot 907 made its grand debut at the 2004 Paris Motor Show, introduced alongside two other concept cars: the Quark and the 1007 RC. But it was the 907 that stole the show. Designed by Gérard Welter and Jean Christophe Bolle Reddat, this striking machine marked a symbolic transition for the brand. It celebrated the opening of Peugeot’s new design center in Vélizy while honoring the closure of their long-standing studio in La Garenne after 40 years. It wasn’t meant to hit production lines—it was a rolling tribute to design, engineering, and innovation.
The 2004 Peugeot 907 Concept showcased a dramatic long-nosed silhouette with sleek curves and assertive presence, blending elegance and power into a unique design that rivaled the visual drama of British and Italian luxury coupes.(Picture from: Supercars.net)
At first glance, the 907 drew instant comparisons to Italian grand tourers like the Ferrari 575M Maranello. Both featured a dramatic long-nosed silhouette, exuding elegance and power. But the 907 had its own identity. Gérard Welter managed to sculpt a body that blended sleek curves with assertive presence, delivering the kind of visual drama usually reserved for British or Italian luxury coupes. Instead of a metal roof, a sweeping glass canopy curved over the cockpit, flowing seamlessly into the rear. Glass was also used generously on the bootlid and even the hood—where a transparent section revealed the glorious intake trumpets of the engine beneath.
2004 Peugeot 907 Concept car has the interior in combination of brown leather and light grey alcantara and is used to cover both the interior and the seats. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Speaking of the engine, it wasn’t just for show. The 907 was built to move, and move fast. Under its carbon-fiber skin lay a beast: a V12 engine formed by merging two 3.0-liter V6 blocks, delivering a combined 507 horsepower. Mounted just behind the front axle, the engine’s placement allowed for a more balanced weight distribution and gave room for aggressive side exhausts that exited just behind the front wheels—a feature reminiscent of the Mercedes SLR McLaren. Despite its size and luxury, the car weighed only 3,086 lbs thanks to its carbon-fiber monocoque chassis. This gave it a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 347 hp per tonne, making it more than capable of keeping pace with some of the best in its class.
2004 Peugeot 907 Concept car is powered by two 3.0-liter V6 engines are combined together to form a V12 with a burst the power of 507 hp and features a sequentially controlled 6-speed manual gearbox.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
The interior was a masterclass in restrained luxury. A minimalist blend of leather, aluminum, Alcantara, and wood created a cabin that was both futuristic and warmly tactile. As an added touch of grandeur, a set of bespoke luggage matched the car’s opulent feel—because of course, a machine this special deserved nothing less than fully tailored accessories.
2004 Peugeot 907 Concept car was never designed for mass production, but rather was intended to be a prototype featuring Peugeot's new design techniques. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
Despite all this brilliance, the 907 was never meant for mass production. It wasn’t a car for the road, but a celebration of what Peugeot’s design team could achieve when limitations were removed. Still, unlike many concepts that are static displays, the 907 was fully drivable. It featured a four-wheel control arm suspension and a sequential transmission sending all that V12 muscle to the rear wheels. Every element, from the engineering to the aesthetics, served one goal: to showcase the depth of Peugeot's design capabilities.
Though it never made it past the concept stage, the Peugeot 907 remains one of the most captivating concept cars ever created. It proved that even manufacturers known for everyday vehicles could break out of the mold and craft something truly unforgettable. The 907 wasn't just a car—it was Peugeot daring the world to dream a little bigger. *** [EKA [25092021] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FLEETNEWS | WIKIPEDIA | SUPERCARS | DRIVETRIBE | FLEETNEWS | CARBUZZ ]
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Turbine Thrill- The world of automotive innovation is filled with bold experiments, and some of the most exciting vehicles ever built come from passionate individuals with a deep love for engineering and performance. One such creation is the GM EcoJet, a concept supercar that emerged not from a traditional manufacturer alone, but from the dream of one of the world’s most famous car collectors—Jay Leno. This biodiesel-powered marvel, introduced in 2006, is a testament to creativity, collaboration, and cutting-edge technology.
Jay’s sleek EcoJet turbine supercar draws inspiration from the 2002 Cadillac Cien show car and GM’s 1950s Firebird jet cars by Harley Earl. (Picture from: http://www.agentauto.com/)
Jay Leno, widely known for his career as a talk show host, is equally famous for his extensive car collection. His garage, dubbed the "Big Dog Garage," houses an extraordinary assortment of vehicles, from classic antiques to high-performance modern supercars. But being a collector wasn’t enough for Leno—he wanted a car that reflected his vision, his passion for technology, and his commitment to sustainability. That vision took shape through a partnership with General Motors, specifically with Ed Welburn, GM’s Vice President of Global Design. Together, they crafted the GM EcoJet, a supercar that blended jet-powered engineering with the strength and durability of a Cadillac.
Front view of Jay Leno's Turbine-Powered EcoJet Concept. (Picture from: Motortrend)
The idea was born from a discussion between Leno, Steve Anderson, and Frank Saucedo from GM’s Advanced Design Studios. Once Ed Welburn refined and approved the sketches, the real work began. GM designers collaborated closely with Leno’s Big Dog team, working tirelessly over two weeks to bring the concept to life. The result was a car that drew inspiration from fighter jets and Formula 1 race cars, with design elements reminiscent of the Cadillac CIEN concept. While the aesthetics were crafted by GM, the mechanical engineering was entrusted to Bernard Juchli, the lead mechanic of Leno’s collection.
Electronics International developed the aircraft-inspired glass cockpit display, while Microsoft and Azentek integrated navigation and audio systems that allow Jay to access the internet and manage emails from the front seat—when parked, of course. (Picture from: PopularMechanics)
At the heart of the EcoJet is a highly sophisticated Honeywell LT-101 turbine engine, the same type used in Bell 222 helicopters and U.S. Coast Guard Dolphin helicopters. This unique powerplant produces an astonishing 650 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, channeling its power through a four-speed automatic transaxle sourced from a C5 Corvette. Theoretically, the car could reach a blistering 394 km/h (245 mph), making it a true high-performance machine.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the EcoJet is its dual-fuel system. It features two separate fuel tanks—one for biodiesel and another for JP-4 jet fuel. The JP-4 is used exclusively for starting the turbine engine, after which the system transitions to biodiesel. However, the engine is not limited to biodiesel; it can operate on nearly any combustible liquid, demonstrating remarkable flexibility and efficiency.
Rear right side view of Jay Leno's Turbine-Powered EcoJet Concept. (Picture from: Motortrend)
Beyond its powertrain, the EcoJet showcases an advanced construction approach. The body is made from carbon fiber reinforced with Kevlar, while the engine is mounted within a modified Corvette Z06 hydroformed aluminum frame. Structural components are crafted from lightweight aluminum and magnesium, ensuring a balance of strength and agility. Many parts were sourced from GM’s performance lineup, including Brembo carbon-fiber brakes from the Corvette ZR1 and suspension arms from the Corvette Z06 C6.
True to its environmentally friendly ethos, the EcoJet’s interior avoids animal-sourced materials, opting instead for sustainable alternatives like Alcantara, a synthetic suede-like fabric that can be recycled. Inside, the car is controlled by an advanced onboard computer system developed by Microsoft and Azentek. This system not only manages the intricate turbine engine but also integrates entertainment, digital gauges, and even voice-activated controls.
The GM EcoJet is a unique fusion of extreme performance, futuristic design, and sustainable technology. Though it never entered production, it showcases how innovation flourishes when passion meets expertise. For Jay Leno and his team, the EcoJet wasn’t just a showpiece—it was a glimpse into the future of high-performance, eco-conscious driving. However, it's not the only biodiesel-powered supercar; another notable example is the UK’s Trident Iceni. *** [EKA [15122013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | POPULAR MACHANICS | AUTOBLOG | MOTORTREND ]
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Low Ride - The world of custom motorcycles is a fascinating blend of artistry, engineering, and passion, where creators push the boundaries of design to produce something truly unique. These machines often become an extension of their creators, reflecting their ingenuity and dedication. One standout example of this artistry is the Valkyrie, a striking creation by Kenny Yeoh of Kenstomoto, a bespoke motorcycle workshop in Malaysia. This one-of-a-kind masterpiece was designed for the Invitational Bike Build-off at the prestigious Art of Speed show in Serdang, showcasing not only the technical expertise but also the visionary creativity of its builder.
The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s right-side shot showcases the Arlen Ness front brake and its unique cable-operated hub-centre steering. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)
Unlike the Honda cruiser of the same name, the Valkyrie by Kenstomoto is a completely custom machine that embodies the essence of innovation. Built around a 650cc Kawasaki ER-6 parallel twin engine, it’s a bike that defies convention at every turn. From its low-slung profile to its meticulously crafted components, this motorcycle reimagines what a custom bike can be. Remarkably, the engine remains one of the few standard elements of the bike, though even it is given a radical twist with an entirely custom exhaust system. This unique setup features short, large-diameter header pipes positioned just ahead of the rider’s left foot, emphasizing the bike's bold and audacious design.
The
Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s left-side shot showcases unique setup features short, large-diameter header pipes positioned just ahead of the rider’s left foot, emphasizing the bike's bold and audacious design. (Picture from: Paultan.org)
The frame of the Valkyrie is a marvel of engineering. Measuring an impressive 2200mm between the axles, the tubular-steel construction not only defines the bike's elongated silhouette but also contributes to its groundbreaking performance characteristics. The rider sits a mere 500mm off the ground, with only 70mm of clearance between the frame and the road. This design choice emphasizes the bike's low center of gravity while giving it an aggressive, ground-hugging stance that is both functional and visually striking.
The Kenstomoto Valkyrie, designed and built by Kenny Yeoh, highlights just how impressively low this custom masterpiece truly is. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)
At the rear, the Valkyrie features a single-sided hardtail setup mated to a Ducati 916 hub. This hub supports a massive 17-inch eight-stud steel wheel fitted with an equally imposing 240/45 tire. The width and structure of this gumball-like rear tire not only provide stability but also enhance the bike's overall aesthetic, giving it a commanding presence that demands attention. Every detail of the rear assembly reflects Yeoh’s dedication to precision and style, with each element meticulously selected to balance form and function.
The front end of the bike is no less extraordinary. A single-sided swingarm, fabricated from elegantly curved S-shaped tubular steel, houses a 21-inch hub center-steered wheel. This wheel, machined from a single block of solid aluminum, wears rugged 90/90 tires designed to tackle rough terrain. The steering mechanism is operated by dual push-pull cables, a simpler solution than the typical rose-jointed linkages, though Yeoh admits there’s room for refinement. Future plans include a redesign of the frame to incorporate hydraulic steering, aiming for enhanced precision and responsiveness.
The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s custom spaceframe is crafted almost entirely from straight steel tube sections, except for its sleek, curved front swingarm. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)
Braking on the Valkyrie is equally impressive, featuring a combination of top-tier components. The front brake employs a Brembo radial-mount caliper from a BMW S1000 RR, clamping onto a 380mm Arlen disc, while the rear relies on the standard 220mm Brembo setup from the Ducati hub. These choices ensure that the bike’s stopping power matches its bold performance capabilities. Additional elements, such as the Japanese aftermarket Daytona switchgear and instrumentation, seamlessly integrate modern functionality into this extraordinary machine.
The Kenstomoto Valkyrie’s offset final-drive chain was needed to clear the huge 240/45 rear gumball. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)
Despite its imposing appearance, the Valkyrie is surprisingly light, tipping the scales at just 200kg in running condition. This is a testament to the thoughtful engineering and innovative construction techniques employed in its design. The spaceframe structure was carefully planned to maximize strength while minimizing weight, and the body panels, produced using advanced 3D printing technology, are another stroke of genius. These panels are ribbed for structural integrity but remain paper-thin in less critical areas, reducing weight without compromising durability.
The Kenstomoto Valkyrie features a 240/45 R17 rear tire mounted on a nine-inch-wide rear wheel. (Picture from: IOL.co.za)
The Valkyrie is more than a motorcycle; it is a testament to Kenny Yeoh’s vision and skill. By combining cutting-edge technology with traditional craftsmanship, he has created a machine that not only turns heads but also redefines what a custom motorcycle can achieve. For enthusiasts and casual admirers alike, the Valkyrie represents the boundless potential of human creativity, proving that the art of motorcycle building is alive and thriving in the hands of innovators like Yeoh.
Through this incredible creation, Kenstomoto has solidified its reputation as a leader in the world of bespoke motorcycles. The Valkyrie is not just a bike; it is a story, a dream brought to life, and a celebration of engineering brilliance. As Yeoh looks ahead to further refinements and future projects, one thing is certain: his passion for pushing the boundaries of design will continue to inspire and amaze, leaving an indelible mark on the world of custom motorcycles.
Kept spur your adrenaline
on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | KENTSOMOTO ON FACEBOOK | IOL.CO.ZA | PAULTAN ]
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The Chevrolet Corvette XP-987 GT represents a glimpse into a path not taken. Its story is one of creativity, collaboration, and resilience, embodying the relentless pursuit of progress that drives the automotive world. Though it never reached production, its legacy endures as a symbol of what could have been—a testament to the boundless imagination that defines innovation in every era. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CORVETTEMUSEUM | CORVSPORT | CONCEPTCARZ | CORVETTE FURMAN | CARBUZZ | HEMMINGS | LSXMAG | MOTORTREND ] 
