Electric Legacy- Amidst the rapid evolution of electric vehicles, there was a time not too long ago when bold concepts captured the imagination of the automotive world. Back in 2016, while many manufacturers were still tiptoeing around electrification, Italdesign made a statement that blended vision, design, and innovation. At the Geneva Motor Show—a prestigious platform known both for mainstream launches and rare automotive artistry—a small Italian manufacturer with a deep-rooted design legacy introduced something refreshingly ahead of its time: the Italdesign GTZero Concept.
The Italdesign GTZero electric supercar unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show 2016. (Picture from: Autocar)
Italdesign, a name revered among car enthusiasts and design aficionados, has long stood as a beacon of automotive creativity. Founded in the late 1960s by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro, the company played a key role in shaping numerous iconic vehicles across decades. Now operating under Audi's umbrella, Italdesign continues to push boundaries—not only in design but also in embracing future technologies. The GTZero is a prime example of how a boutique firm can deliver a futuristic vision with the polish of a large manufacturer.
The Italdesign GTZero is a prime example of how a boutique firm can deliver a futuristic vision with the polish of a large manufacturer. (Picture from: Autocar)
The GTZero was not just a showcase of striking design; it was a technological manifesto. Fully electric, the vehicle was built on a modular monocoque carbon fiber frame, making it lightweight yet robust. This foundation houses an integrated battery and three electric motors—two at the front and one at the rear—that together produce a powerful 490 horsepower. This allows the GTZero to hit a top speed of 250 kilometers per hour, while still delivering an impressive driving range of 500 kilometers on a full charge. Even by today's standards, those numbers remain highly respectable.
Left side view of Italdesign GTZero electric supercar concept. (Picture from: Autoexpress)
Practicality wasn’t ignored in the quest for performance. Italdesign engineered the battery system for fast charging, capable of reaching 80% capacity in just 30 minutes. Beyond speed and range, versatility was also at the core of the GTZero's design. The modular architecture allowed for flexible cabin configurations—ranging from a 3+1 layout to a hybrid-compatible setup. Inside, the cabin was designed to comfortably seat two adults and two children, but could be adjusted to accommodate three passengers in the front and a child behind the driver, depending on needs.
Sketched Interior View of the Italdesign GTZero Electric Supercar Concept.(Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Visually, the GTZero made an instant impression. Its sharp, flowing lines and aggressive stance drew clear inspiration from the Lamborghini Huracán, another Italian icon. But Italdesign didn’t stop there. They infused the GTZero with design cues from a variety of past concept models, including the Alfa Romeo Scighera, Daewoo Bucrane, Bizzarrini Manta, and the Ferrari GG50. Each influence was carefully woven into the car’s silhouette, creating a modern form that paid homage to automotive history while looking firmly toward the future.
Rear side view of Italdesign GTZero electric supercar concept. (Picture from: Autocar)
Inside the cockpit, the GTZero embraced a minimalist, tech-forward approach. Traditional controls were replaced with a touch-sensitive interface capable of recognizing different finger inputs to access various functions. The steering wheel, stripped of conventional paddle shifters, featured buttons to control lighting, wipers, indicators, and even the digital dashboard display. Only the parking brake remained analog—a small but intentional nod to tactile interaction in an otherwise digital environment. The concept also marked the debut of Italdesign’s new brand logo, signaling a refreshed identity to accompany its leap into electrification.
While the GTZero never went into production, its impact was undeniable. It served as a bold expression of what Italdesign stood for: innovation without compromise, heritage infused with modernity, and performance driven by sustainability. Today, as the automotive industry continues to move swiftly toward an electric future, concepts like the GTZero remind us that sometimes, the most compelling ideas come from those who dare to be different. *** [EKA [14032016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALDESIGN.IT | AUTOCAR | AUTOEXPRESS | CARANDDRIVER ]
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Electric Foreshadowing - In an era when tailfins and V8 engines dominated American roads, the idea of a small electric car seemed more like science fiction than an industry goal. Yet within the design studios of Ford in the early 1960s, there were hints—subtle, easily overlooked—that some minds were already drifting toward a different kind of future. Among those whispers of change stood the Astrion, a concept cloaked in mystery and layered intention.
The Ford Astrion Concept's proportions suggested performance; and its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird.(Picture from: Hemmings)
At first glance, the Ford Astrion didn’t scream “electric.” Its proportions suggested performance; its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird. The sharp haunches, formal roofline, and sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe. But behind that stylish exterior, a second, lesser-known chapter adds new depth to the story.
The
Ford Astrion Concept features sharp haunches, formal roofline, and
sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe.(Picture from: Hemmings)
After the completion of the 1961 Lincoln Continental project, Ford's Roy Lunn initiated a small, internal experiment. He approached the Styling department to develop a compact electric vehicle—an idea radically ahead of its time.
Behind the stylish exterior of the Ford Astrion Concept lies a lesser-known chapter that adds depth to Ford’s earliest visions of a personal, possibly electric future—shaped not by specs or features, but by form, emotion, and the freedom to dream.(Picture from: Hemmings)
Under the guidance of Elwood Engel, the project was assigned to designers Colin Neale and Alex Tremulis, with Gale Halderman supervising. What followed was an unusual and clever design exercise: the team sculpted a single clay model and split it down the middle. Neale designed one half, calling it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. | 9r7wy1k97oo |
Both sides were compelling enough to move forward. The designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was created—outfitted with a small electric motor and battery. Initially called the Astrion, the tiny car was later renamed the Hummingbird. Despite its top speed of just five miles per hour, the Hummingbird served a memorable role: ferrying Bill Ford across the cobblestone courtyard at Ford’s facilities.
This might have been the Hummingbird, a compact vehicle—possibly envisioned as an EV—initiated by Roy Lunn after the 1961 Lincoln Continental project as a quiet internal experiment within Ford’s Styling department. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
What makes this especially interesting is the name “Astrion” itself. While the sleek coupe and the electric Hummingbird appear unrelated in form, they may share something deeper—an origin rooted in imagination rather than production intent. The name might not have been model-specific, but rather an internal label passed around to represent bold, experimental thinking. In this light, the Astrion becomes more than a mystery car; it becomes a symbol of Ford’s willingness to explore what came next.
Roy Lunn’s team crafted a single clay model, splitting it down the middle—Neale designed one side, naming it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
Looking back, the Astrion’s story straddles two very different interpretations. One is sculptural and expressive—a design vision that may have flirted with Thunderbird lineage. The other is technical and humble—a quiet electric prototype made not for showrooms, but for curiosity’s sake. Both are valuable. And the coincidence of them sharing a name may not be a coincidence at all.
Furthermore, the designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was built—equipped with a small electric motor and battery.
(Picture from: Hemmings)
So while the automotive world looks back at the Astrion and wonders whether it was a sporty Thunderbird offshoot or just another unused design, maybe it’s worth looking at it differently. Maybe the Astrion was one of Ford’s earliest visualizations of what a personal, possibly electric vehicle of the future might look like—not through the lens of specs or features, but through form, feeling, and the freedom to dream.
The
electric Hummingbird, though seemingly unrelated in form to the sleek
Astrion coupe, may share a deeper origin rooted in imagination over
intent. (Picture from: Hemmings)
And if that's the case, then the Astrion was never "just a concept car." It was the start of a conversation Ford designers would keep having—quietly at first, then loudly, decades later—about how we move forward, and what it means to drive tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | EN.WHEELAGE.ORG | CONCEPT CARS & MORE ON FACEBOOK ]
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Retro Revolution - As we move into 2024, the world of electric vehicles (EVs) is buzzing with new innovations, futuristic designs, and cutting-edge technologies. Most people are used to seeing electric cars that boast sleek, modern designs with all sorts of high-tech screens, buttons, and flashy dashboards. However, there's a new player in the market that takes a completely different approach, blending the best of both worlds: the Olympian Model O1. This electric vehicle offers a unique twist by combining a classic car aesthetic with minimalist technology, making it stand out from the growing competition.
The New York-based startup Olympian Motors uses an innovative "modular" vehicle and drivetrain system to build its two electric vehicles, the Model O1 and Model 84. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Manufactured by Olympian Motors, headquartered in New York, the Olympian Model O1 is designed to captivate those who appreciate the charm and elegance of vintage cars, while still embracing the power and performance of electric propulsion. The vehicle features a classic sedan look with a modern twist. It has four doors and comfortably seats up to four passengers, all on a rear-wheel drive chassis. Built with military-grade carbon fiber and titanium, the Model O1 is incredibly strong and lightweight, ensuring durability and strength on the road.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle offers a unique twist by combining a classic car aesthetic with minimalist technology, making it stand out from the growing competition. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
The design of the Olympian Model O1 is not only focused on strength but also efficiency. Its Super Board "skateboard chassis," developed by the Chinese electric car company U Power Tech, serves as the foundation for the vehicle. The electric motor in the Olympian Model O1 generates an impressive 310 horsepower (228 kW), paired with 305 lb-ft (414 Nm) of torque.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle is designed to captivate those who appreciate the charm and elegance of vintage cars, while still embracing the power and performance of electric propulsion. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
This powerful combination allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in just 5.7 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience while maintaining a smooth, quiet ride. The car’s top speed is a respectable 160 mph (257 km/h), though you’re more likely to experience its impressive range, thanks to its 400V/82 kWh lithium-ion battery. This battery delivers a claimed range of around 305 miles (491 km) on a single charge, making it suitable for longer road trips as well as daily commuting.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle's cabin is adorned with exotic wood finishes and luxurious silk fabric decorations, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
What truly sets the Olympian Model O1 apart from other electric cars is its interior design. Unlike many modern cars that are cluttered with screens and buttons, this sedan boasts a refined and classic aesthetic. The cabin is adorned with exotic wood finishes and luxurious silk fabric decorations, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. There are no traditional buttons or switches to be found, as 80% of the car’s controls are replaced with cutting-edge technology. A combination of heads-up displays (HUD) on the windshield and a voice command system allows the driver to control the infotainment system, climate control, seat adjustments, lighting, and various other functions, making for a more intuitive, hands-free experience.
The Olympian Model O1 features nine airbags and laminated glass for all windows and the roof canopy, ensuring enhanced safety and durability. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
Safety features have not been overlooked in the design of the Olympian Model O1. The car comes equipped with nine airbags, providing an added layer of protection for all passengers. Additionally, all windows and the roof canopy are made from laminated glass, ensuring greater strength and durability in the event of an impact. This emphasis on safety, combined with the car’s performance capabilities, creates an overall driving experience that is both enjoyable and secure.
Olympian Motors' Model 84 electric vehicle is an electric open-top SUV with a boxy exterior and an asymmetrical front-end design. (Picture from: OlympianMotors)
For those interested in experiencing this groundbreaking vehicle, Olimpian Motors is accepting refundable down payments of $500 for buyers in the United States, Canada, and China. The price for the Olympian Model O1 starts at $80,000, which is competitive given the blend of classic design and modern electric technology. Test drives for the Model O1 already done in various cities across the U.S. in April 2024, with the first deliveries expected to start in May 2024.
Both the Olympian Model O1 and Model 84 EVs are based on Super Board "skateboard chassis" made by Chinese electric mobility company U Power, with their bodies forged in military-grade carbon fiber and titanium. (Picture from: OlympianMotors)
Looking ahead, Olimpian Motors is also working on a futuristic limited-edition electric vehicle, the Model 84, which promises even more advanced features and cutting-edge technology. But for now, the Olympian Model O1 is turning heads with its mix of vintage charm, modern performance, and groundbreaking tech. | zOK1BF1mVuA |
In a world where electric vehicles are increasingly dominating the automotive industry, the Olympian Model O1 stands as a reminder that innovation doesn’t always have to mean futuristic designs and screens. With its blend of classic styling and modern electric power, it’s a car that appeals to those who appreciate timeless elegance while still wanting the benefits of cutting-edge technology. As the year progresses, it will be exciting to see how the Model O1 performs on the road and how it resonates with drivers who crave something different in the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OLYMPIAN MOTORS | AUTOEVOLUTION ]
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Visionary Innovation - In the 1960s, the automotive world was captivated by the allure of bold designs and powerful engines. Amidst this era of grandeur, a quiet revolution was brewing—a movement toward innovation and efficiency that would one day shape the future of transportation. One remarkable outcome of this foresight was the AMC Amitron, a small but mighty electric car created by American Motors Corporation (AMC). Although it never reached mass production, its legacy as a pioneer in electric vehicle design remains a testament to the ingenuity of its creators.
The AMC Amitron was an experimental electric subcompact car built in 1967 by American Motors Corporation (AMC) in collaboration with battery manufacturer Gulton Industries. (Picture from: Noticias.Coches)
The AMC Amitron was introduced in 1967, a direct result of the Electric Vehicle Development Act of 1966 in collaboration with Gulton Industries, which aimed to encourage research into electric vehicles. Unlike its competitors, AMC chose not to retrofit an existing model but instead designed a vehicle from scratch. The Amitron stood out not just for its futuristic concept but for its trailblazing approach to urban mobility. At only 85 inches (2.16 meters) long and weighing a mere 1,100 pounds, the car was a compact marvel, offering efficiency without compromising functionality.
The 1967 AMC Amitron EV concept was a compact marvel, measuring just 85 inches (2.16 meters) in length and weighing only 1,100 lbs, offering efficiency without sacrificing functionality.(Picture from: Wikipedia)
What set the Amitron apart from other vehicles of its time was its bold design and advanced engineering. The polygonal shape and clamshell-style canopy were strikingly unconventional. Unlike traditional doors, the canopy opened upward and backward, giving the vehicle a distinct appearance. Despite its compact size, the Amitron was designed with practicality in mind. The wheels were placed at each corner, maximizing interior space and providing stability. Its near-square footprint allowed three passengers to sit side-by-side in comfort—a feat remarkable for a car shorter than today's Smart car. Even the seats were innovative; they could be deflated when not in use, creating additional storage space.
The AMC Amitron EV concept featured a groundbreaking power system that combined lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries with nickel-cadmium batteries. (Picture from: Hemmings)
Technologically, the Amitron was light-years ahead of its peers. It featured a groundbreaking power system that combined lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries with nickel-cadmium batteries, a configuration that was unheard of at the time. The lithium-nickel-fluoride batteries recharged the nickel-cadmium units while the vehicle was in motion, enhancing its range and efficiency.
The
AMC Amitron EV concept faced insurmountable battery costs and technical
challenges, leading to its cancellation despite plans for a 1972
production model. (Picture from: Noticias.Coches)
Moreover, the Amitron was the first American car to incorporate regenerative braking, a feature now standard in modern electric vehicles. This technology allowed the car to recover energy during braking, further extending its range—a reported 150 miles at speeds of up to 50 mph.
The 1977 rebadged AMC Amitron EV concept, now called the AMC Electron, was updated with rear-view side mirrors. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Despite its many innovations, the Amitron faced significant challenges that ultimately prevented it from reaching production. The high cost of battery technology and technical hurdles proved insurmountable in the late 1960s. AMC had initially hoped to bring a production model to market by 1972, but these obstacles, combined with limited consumer interest in electric vehicles at the time, led to the project's cancellation.
The Amitron did not disappear entirely. It made a reappearance in 1977 under a new name, the Electron, at the Chicago Auto Show, showcasing a fresh coat of paint and reminding the public of its potential. Its story, however, took an unusual turn when Chuck Mashigan, head of the AMC design studio, decided to preserve the vehicle.
The 1967 AMC Amitron EV concept scale model discovered in a barn alongside its full-sized prototype. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Rather than letting it fade into obscurity, Mashigan took the Amitron home, ensuring its survival for decades. The car was eventually passed down to his grandson, Justin, who kept it safe until it found a new home at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Today, the AMC Amitron stands as a symbol of visionary engineering and a reminder of how far electric vehicle technology has come.
The 1967 AMC Amitron Concept electric car was discovered in a barn after Chuck Mashigan, head of AMC's design studio at the time, decided to preserve it in his garage. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Currently undergoing a light restoration at the Petersen Museum, it will soon take its rightful place on display, allowing visitors to marvel at this unique piece of automotive history. From its futuristic design to its innovative technology, the Amitron serves as a beacon of creativity and ambition from a time when such ideas were often ahead of their era.
The story of the AMC Amitron is not just about a car but about the power of vision and perseverance. It highlights how daring innovation can leave a lasting impact, even if it doesn't achieve immediate success. For those who see it today, the Amitron is more than just a relic—it is a source of inspiration, a reminder that progress often begins with bold, unconventional ideas. Its legacy continues to fuel the imagination of those dreaming of a sustainable, electrified future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | AUTOEVOLUTION | HEMMINGS | NOTICIAS.COCHES | AUTOS.YAHOO | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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Thrillcrafted Engineering - In the world of supercars, heritage is more than just a legacy—it’s a challenge. Every new model carries the weight of its predecessors, and each innovation must both respect the past and redefine the future. In this spirit, Ferrari has once again ignited the imagination of enthusiasts with its latest creation: the Ferrari 296 Speciale. With racing DNA flowing through every component, this car isn’t just a successor to the 296 GTB—it’s a thoroughbred built to honor Ferrari’s relentless pursuit of performance and passion.
The new Ferrari 296 Speciale was officially launched on April 29, 2025, in Maranello, Italy. (Picture from: Reuters)
Born in Maranello and developed with insights pulled straight from Ferrari’s motorsport playbook, the 296 Speciale represents a bridge between road-going exhilaration and track-honed precision. This model inherits the soul of legends like the Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista. Designed for those who understand the thrill of a perfectly executed corner and the satisfaction of raw, unfiltered acceleration, the 296 Speciale is Ferrari’s answer to purists who crave more than just speed—they seek sensation.
The Ferrari 296 Speciale is available in two versions: the Coupe starts at €400,000, while the Aperta variant, equipped with a retractable hardtop that opens in just 14 seconds, starts at €460,000. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
At the core of the 296 Speciale lies a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, a compact powerhouse engineered with relentless attention to detail. Paired with a high-performance electric motor, the hybrid setup produces a staggering total output of 880 horsepower—an increase of 50 hp over the standard 296 GTB. The combustion engine alone pushes out 700 hp, thanks to precision upgrades like titanium connecting rods and a lighter crankshaft, enhancements drawn directly from the race-proven 296 GT3 and Challenge programs.
The Ferrari 296 Speciale features a distinctive front vent called the aero damper, positioned just before the windshield and linked to a duct that channels air from a prominent intake above the center of the splitter. (Picture from: ItalPassion.fr)
But it’s not just about power—it’s also about balance. Ferrari stripped away 60 kilograms from the car’s total weight, utilizing carbon fiber extensively throughout the body and cabin. The result is not only a lighter car but a more agile and responsive machine. Acceleration figures speak for themselves: 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds and 0 to 200 km/h in a blistering 7.0 seconds, edging out the 296 GTB in both benchmarks.
The Ferrari 296 Speciale features an interior familiar to modern Ferrari models, but distinguished by extensive use of carbon fiber and Alcantara trim.(Picture from: ItalPassion.fr)
Chassis dynamics have been completely reimagined for maximum engagement. Borrowing suspension components from the GT3 race car and gripping the asphalt with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, the 296 Speciale delivers both stability and excitement. Advanced aerodynamics contribute up to 435 kilograms of downforce, helping the car remain planted during aggressive maneuvers. The center of gravity has been lowered, ABS Evo has been fine-tuned, and the overall driving experience is now more immersive and race-like than ever before.
The Ferrari 296 Speciale builds on the legacy of its predecessors with true performance enhancements, as Ferrari’s engineers and designers have refined every element of this exotic sports car to elevate its capabilities to new heights. (Picture from: ItalPassion.fr)
Every detail is engineered for heightened emotion. From lightning-fast gear shifts to the redesigned single-outlet exhaust that enriches the V6 soundtrack, this Ferrari is meant to be felt as much as driven. Braking has been sharpened, hybrid response calibrated, and handling tuned to deliver a driving experience that feels immediate and raw. On Ferrari’s Fiorano circuit, the 296 Speciale posted an impressive lap time of 1 minute and 19 seconds—2.5 seconds faster thanthe 488 Pista.
The
Ferrari 296 Speciale incorporates underbody ducts to cool the front and
rear brakes, while small scoops on the rockers ahead of the rear wheels
channel airflow to streamline movement around the wide rear tires.(Picture from: ItalPassion.fr)
Available in two versions, the Coupe starts at €400,000 while the Aperta variant, featuring a retractable hardtop that opens in just 14 seconds, begins at €460,000. Deliveries for the coupe are set for early next year, with the spider version arriving in the following quarter.
The
Ferrari 296 Speciale features new "Gamma" wings at the rear—short side
elements that enhance downforce, reduce drag, and optimize cooling for
the inverter and oil cooler—flanking a central movable rear spoiler that
rises almost vertically from the tail.(Picture from: ItalPassion.fr)
Of course, Ferrari isn’t alone in this high-stakes arena. The Lamborghini Temerario, its most direct rival, enters the fray with a mighty 920 hp V8 hybrid. Although it narrowly edges out the 296 Speciale in the 0-100 km/h sprint by a tenth of a second, Ferrari’s advantage in weight allows it to outperform its rival in the dash to 200 km/h. Still, Lamborghini’s power advantage casts a long shadow, keeping the rivalry alive and fierce in the hybrid supercar space.
The
Ferrari 296 Speciale Aperta variant, equipped with a retractable hardtop that opens in just 14 seconds.(Picture from: CarAndDriver)
While not a limited-edition model, the 296 Speciale is being kept intentionally exclusive. Its production cycle will be shorter than Ferrari’s typical four-to-five-year span, and order preference is given to clients who’ve interacted with Ferrari dealerships within the last five years. It’s a car designed not to broaden the customer base, but to reward loyal enthusiasts who crave authenticity in every detail.
The Ferrari 296 Speciale (pictured here in the Aperta variant) is a car crafted not to expand the customer base, but to reward loyal enthusiasts who value authenticity in every detail.(Picture from: CarAndDriver)
This launch also sets the stage for a turning point in Ferrari’s journey. With the company preparing to reveal its first all-electric vehicle this October, the 296 Speciale marks the final chapter of a hybrid era that still embraces combustion’s visceral magic. Ferrari's dedication to diverse powertrains—including petrol, hybrid, and electric—demonstrates its intent to evolve without compromising its essence. | QdllBipwjT8 |
The Ferrari 296 Speciale isn’t just a car—it’s a declaration. A precise, powerful, and passionate tribute to everything Ferrari stands for, it embodies the spirit of motorsport while looking firmly toward the future. For those who understand that true performance is about connection as much as speed, this Speciale delivers in ways numbers alone never could. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FERRARI | ITALPASSION.FR | REUTERS | MOTOR1 | CARANDDRIVER | NDTV ]
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Electric Rebellion - In a world where automotive boundaries are constantly redefined by electrification, artistry, and innovation, a rare breed of creators continues to bridge the gap between heritage and the future. One of the boldest and most dazzling examples of this connection has emerged through an unexpected collaboration: Magnus Walker—the gritty, dreadlocked legend of custom Porsches, including the iconic Porsche 935 "Moby X"—teaming up with Automobili Pininfarina, the Italian masters of high-design automotive elegance.
A rendering of the Pininfarina Battista hypercar wearing a livery designed by Magnus Walker. (Picture from: RobbReport)
The result? A one-of-a-kind Pininfarina Battista, unlike anything the world has seen. This isn’t just another high-end custom job. It’s the meeting point of two worlds that, on paper, shouldn’t mix. Walker, often called the “Urban Outlaw,” is famous for his hands-on, rough-around-the-edges approach to car culture—favoring patina, hand-done pinstripes, and analog creativity.
A rendering of the 1,900 hp Battista hypercar sporting a livery that comes from the collaboration between Automobili Pininfarina and Magnus Walker. (Picture from: RobbReport)
Meanwhile, Pininfarina represents the pinnacle of polished European sophistication, with a legacy of designing Ferraris, Maseratis, and Alfa Romeos. And yet, from this unlikely duo came something truly electric—literally and figuratively. The Pininfarina Battista, an all-electric hypercar pushing out an astonishing 1,900 horsepower and commanding a price tag close to $3 million, served as the blank canvas.
Magnus Walker (left) and Davide Amantea, chief design officer for Automobili Pininfarina, discuss the collaborative Battista’s livery. (Picture from: RobbReport)
But bringing Walker into the fold wasn’t part of some marketing stunt—it all started with a pair of sneakers. During Monterey Car Week in 2022, Walker noticed Pininfarina’s Chief Design Officer Davide Amantea wearing custom Nike SB Dunk Highs that he himself had co-designed. A conversation sparked over shared taste and style, and soon, a transatlantic friendship blossomed—fueled by good food, a test drive in Italy, and eventually, a creative vision that demanded collaboration.
Davide Amantea and his team were tasked with turning Magnus Walker’s stylistic concepts into reality. (Picture from: RobbReport)
Designing the Battista with Walker was no easy task. Known for his instinctive, analog approach, Walker began sketching out livery ideas using colored vinyl tape on a scale model. Photos flew back and forth between LA and Italy, as the two refined and evolved the car’s aesthetic. The fusion of Walker’s urban punk style with Pininfarina’s refined touch required compromise, adaptation, and above all, trust. In Walker’s own words, “I traded in my leather jacket for a pinstriped blazer.”
Magnus Walker was given a scale model of the car to work with.. (Picture from: RobbReport)
The final creation is what Amantea affectionately calls “Irreverent Elegance.” Its custom livery features striking vertical accents along the doors that seem to suggest movement even when the car stands still. The roof and rear are adorned with a barcode-inspired design that mirrors the bronze hues of its one-off wheels. And while the exterior commands attention, the interior offers whispers of artistry only the most observant will notice—embroidered Poltrona Frau leather seats with turquoise plaid inlays, and hidden hand-painted patterns nestled in places most would overlook. They're the kind of details that reward curiosity and speak directly to the future owner’s appreciation of hidden gems.
Magnus Walker began “doing basic line drawings” on the Battista using vinyl tape.. (Picture from: RobbReport)
This isn’t just a one-off; it’s a statement. The Battista by Magnus Walker represents what’s possible when creative worlds collide without boundaries. Pininfarina, known for their tailored excellence, embraced the raw, rebellious energy of Walker’s approach. And Walker, in turn, discovered the joy—and challenge—of working within the hyper-precise world of electric hypercars.
Automobili Pininfarina’s Davide Amantea describes the final product as embodying “Irreverent Elegance.”. (Picture from: RobbReport)
Now showcased in a compelling “Fireside Chat” video, the collaboration marks the beginning of a long-term partnership between the two icons. It’s more than a car. It’s a story, a philosophy, and a vision of what automotive design can be when rules are rewritten, and new paths are explored. | AKL0ZuTH8ys |
In a rapidly electrifying world, it’s rare to find something that feels truly original. But this one-of-a-kind Pininfarina Battista, reimagined through the eyes of Magnus Walker, is exactly that—a celebration of craft, contrast, and collaboration. It’s proof that even the wildest roads can lead to beauty when you’re bold enough to take them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA | AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA ON YOUTUBE | YAHOOFINANCE | ROBBREPORT | DUPONTREGESTRY | THEEVREPORT | SUPERCARBLONDIE ]
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While the GTZero never went into production, its impact was undeniable. It served as a bold expression of what Italdesign stood for: innovation without compromise, heritage infused with modernity, and performance driven by sustainability. Today, as the automotive industry continues to move swiftly toward an electric future, concepts like the GTZero remind us that sometimes, the most compelling ideas come from those who dare to be different. *** [EKA [14032016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALDESIGN.IT | AUTOCAR | AUTOEXPRESS | CARANDDRIVER ]
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