Exclusive Pininfarina Battista Gets Magnus Walker’s Signature Style

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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Meet the Longbow EV Duo: Speedster and Roadster Redefining Electric Driving

Electric Elegance - In a world where electric vehicles increasingly chase luxury features, extended range, and futuristic flair, something refreshingly different has emerged from the UK. The Longbow Speedster and its sibling, the Roadster, aren't designed to dazzle with giant touchscreens or autonomous driving gimmicks. Instead, they focus on a purer thrill—the kind of electric sports car that asks not how connected you are, but how alive you feel behind the wheel. Built for drivers, not just commuters, these two machines are putting the soul back into electric mobility with a uniquely British flair.

The Longbow EV Duo: Speedster and Roadster from a bold British Startup redefining electric driving. (Picture from: Longbow Motors)

First Electric Cars in History: Everything You Need to Know

Electric Origins - In today’s fast-paced world, electric vehicles seem like a futuristic leap—quiet, sleek machines that glide through traffic without leaving a trace of pollution. But what may surprise many is that the electric car isn’t a 21st-century invention at all. Its roots go way back, deep into the early 1800s, long before smartphones or even light bulbs became common. The real story of electric vehicles begins in an era of gas lamps and steam engines, with a handful of pioneering minds who dared to imagine a different future.

1896 Riker Electric Tricycle. (Picture from: BlogCarlist)

As early as the 1830s, inventors such as Robert Anderson from Scotland and American Thomas Davenport began experimenting with electrically powered vehicles. Though their creations were primitive and short-ranged, they sparked a wave of innovation. Around the same time, Dutch inventor Sidbrandus Stratingh, Hungarian engineer Anyos Jedlik, and American Christopher Becker were also developing early concepts of electric transport. Each played a role in shaping what would become a growing obsession among inventors across the globe.

By the 1840s, things began to accelerate. Robert Davidson of Scotland and Thomas Davenport in the United States built some of the first practical electric vehicles using non-rechargeable electric cell batteries. These were still limited by the short life of their power source, but they marked an important shift: from theory to tangible, moving machines. Then came a game-changing moment in 1859, when Gaston Planté, a French physicist, invented the first rechargeable lead-acid battery. His discovery laid the foundation for the electric vehicle’s evolution, finally offering a power source that could be reused rather than replaced.

1896 Electric Construction Corporation's electric dog-cart. (Picture from: ElectricVehiclesNews)

The next big leap came in 1865 with the refinement of rechargeable batteries, and in 1881, Camille Faure—also from France—took the technology further by improving battery capacity and durability. Working alongside engineers Charles Jeantaud and Nicholas Raffard, they created an electric vehicle powered by these upgraded batteries. This wasn't just experimental anymore—electric cars were starting to look like a serious alternative to traditional vehicles.

The first electric car to exceed the speed of 100 kph was referred to as "Jamais Contente" and was built in Belgium in 1899. It was equipped with Michelin tires and adopted as a torpedo. (Picture from: NewTechnology22)

By 1882, the electric movement gained serious momentum in England with the formation of Elwell-Parker Ltd., founded by engineer Thomas Parker and financier Paul Bedford Elwell in Wolverhampton. The company focused on building high-capacity rechargeable batteries, based on Parker’s designs. Having previously worked together on early accumulators, Parker and Elwell expanded their scope to include motors, controllers, and dynamos. Their collaboration helped drive the electric vehicle concept closer to reality.

One of Thomas Parker's early electric cars. Thomas is in the middle and on the back seat is possibly his son Alfred. (Picture from: ElectricVehiclesNews)

Their efforts were soon amplified when Elwell-Parker Ltd. merged with several other firms to form the Electric Construction Corporation in 1889. This new enterprise produced a vast range of electrical equipment, from arc lamps and switchboards to powerful motors used in electric cranes and pumps. They weren’t just dreaming of an electric future—they were building it, one component at a time.

 

Electric vehicles reached a peak of popularity during the late 1800s. Even Thomas Edison joined the movement, creating a successful electric car in 1889 using nickel-alkaline batteries. That same year, Thomas Parker’s battery-powered trams were already operating in Birmingham, England, while his earlier trams had been running in Blackpool since 1884. Parker also claimed to have driven an electric vehicle as early as 1884, and by 1896, he introduced the "electric dog-cart," featuring advanced features like four-wheel steering and hydraulic brakes on all wheels—technologies still praised in today’s vehicles.

The New York city Electric Carriage Cabs in 1897. (Picture from: ElectricVehiclesNews)

As the idea of electric vehicles gained traction, their role in society began to evolve. In 1897, electric taxis hit the streets of New York, marking one of the earliest uses of electric transport in public service. Just a few years later, in 1901, the French postal service began using electric delivery vehicles produced by Levallois-Perret. These trucks could carry up to 1.5 tons, travel as far as 50 kilometers, and reach speeds of 15 kilometers per hour—solid performance for the time.

1897 Bersey electric cab, the London’s first self-propelled taxi. (Picture from: Blog.ScienceMuseum)

The electric vehicle’s growing influence was perhaps best symbolized by a groundbreaking achievement in 1899. That year, a Belgian-built electric car called La Jamais Contente—which means “The Never Satisfied”—became the first vehicle in the world to break the 100 km/h speed barrier. Designed by Camille Jenatzy, this bullet-shaped car stunned the world and proved that electric power could deliver not just clean transportation, but high performance too. It didn’t just set a record—it set a new standard for what electric cars could aspire to.

Thomas Edison's electric car in 1913. (Picture from: Carmudicoid)

But the electric car's promising rise faced a major obstacle: the rapid advancement of gasoline-powered engines. Everything changed in 1908 with the arrival of the Ford Model T. Cheap to produce, affordable to fuel, and easy to maintain, it reshaped the entire automotive industry. Compared to gas-powered cars, electric vehicles were more expensive and offered less range, causing their popularity to quickly fade.

1930 Harrods electric delivery van. (Picture from: Blog.ScienceMuseum)

Now, more than a century later, the world has come full circle. With rising fuel costs, growing environmental awareness, and rapid advances in battery technology, electric vehicles are not just making a comeback—they're becoming a symbol of tomorrow. What began in workshops powered by candles and curiosity has grown into an industry driving the global shift toward cleaner, smarter mobility. *** [EKA [18072013] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SEPTI | PIKIRAN RAKYAT 18072013 | BLOGSCIENCEMUSEUM | ENVIRONMENT911 | ELECTRICVEHICLESNEWS | NEWTECHNOLOGY22 | ]

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The American Corvette with a Modern British Twist

Anglo Muscle - When we think of iconic symbols of American culture, a few things come to mind—baseball under the summer sun, the sound of bald eagles echoing through national parks, and, of course, the unmistakable roar of a Chevrolet Corvette tearing down an open highway. The Corvette, long hailed as America’s definitive sports car, has always reflected the boldness and freedom associated with its homeland. But imagine if this symbol of American engineering had been conceived not in Detroit, but across the Atlantic in the heart of England. What would a British-born Corvette look like?

General Motors unveiled a unique British reinterpretation of the Corvette, blending its classic DNA with refined European flair from a seasoned local design team. (Picture from: TheVerge)

General Motors has recently opened the doors to a new advanced design studio in Royal Leamington Spa, just outside Birmingham, England. As part of this new chapter, GM unveiled a unique concept: a British reinterpretation of the Corvette. Designed by a local team with a pedigree in creating some of the most beloved European sports cars, this new vision blends traditional Corvette DNA with distinctly British finesse. The studio is led by Julian Thomson, a legendary designer known for his work on the original Lotus Elise, the Land Rover LRX concept, and several Jaguar designs such as Jaguar Vision Gran Turismo Coupe. His presence alone promises a fresh take on what performance vehicles can become.

The Brit-designed concept reimagines the Corvette as a fan-assisted electric hypercar, featuring a smooth, sculptural body with a clean white upper and bold black lower section that emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency shaped by elegance over aggression. (Picture from: TheVerge)

This futuristic concept doesn’t shy away from Corvette’s recognizable features—it still boasts a mid-engine layout and maintains the performance-oriented silhouette we’ve come to associate with the model. Yet, the design takes a dramatic turn toward sophistication and refinement. The concept features a smooth, sculptural body with a clean white upper section and a bold black lower portion, suggesting an aerodynamic sensibility shaped more by elegance than aggression. Instead of using oversized wings for downforce, this version cleverly channels air through underbody tunnels, reminiscent of the Aston Martin Valkyrie hypercar. The result? Sleek performance without the flash.

At first glance, it may not resemble a traditional Corvette, but details like the split window—named Apex Vision—serve as a nod to the 1960s Stingray and form a defining spine for the entire car. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

The attention to detail extends further. Distinctive split windshields at both the front and rear harken back to Corvette’s storied past while reimagining its future. Dramatic gullwing doors add flair and function, offering a cinematic entrance into a minimalist cabin. Inside, molded seats flow seamlessly from the car’s structure, and a futuristic yoke-style steering wheel anchors the driver’s seat in modernity. Even the car’s creation was ahead of its time—fabricated using additive manufacturing, or 3-D printing, to craft complex forms and fine details.

While the Corvette concept was shaped using a blend of digital tools and clay modeling, the vision is for the car to be built through 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)

Powertrain details remain under wraps, but GM has hinted at an all-electric architecture, with the battery system integrated directly into the vehicle’s core structure. This aligns with the company’s broader vision for the Corvette brand, which will see global influence and innovation shape future iterations.

Distinctive split windshields at both the front and rear showcase meticulous attention to detail, paying homage to the Corvette’s storied past while reimagining its future. (Picture from: TheVerge)

At 183.8 inches long, this concept mirrors the current C8 Corvette’s size but presents a broader and lower stance, reinforcing its presence. And while GM states there are no immediate plans for production, this design exercise signals a deeper exploration into what the Corvette can become as it begins a new journey outside its homeland. The British studio will also contribute to a range of other upcoming concepts, including a new GMC project set to debut later this year, further showcasing the potential of transatlantic collaboration. | AOSi-J7My1s |

This imaginative take on the Corvette invites us to see beyond borders and legacy. It offers a glimpse into a world where tradition meets transformation—a world where the American dream of speed and style finds a new accent and an even bolder future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | NEWS.GM | CARANDDRIVER | AUTOCAR.CO.UK | THEVERGE | PISTONHEADS | TOPGEAR | CARMAGAZINE ]

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Ferrari 296 VS Teased Ahead of Launch: What to Expect

Anticipated Brilliance - In the world of high-performance automotive engineering, innovation never sleeps. Each passing year brings new benchmarks, redefining what’s possible on both track and road. Among the elite brands constantly pushing these limits, Ferrari remains a symbol of relentless ambition and passion. This year, that passion takes the shape of something fiercely anticipated—an evolved beast that builds on brilliance. Meet the Ferrari 296 VS (Versione Speciale), a machine designed not just to thrill, but to honor a rich legacy of motorsport-inspired performance.

The Ferrari 296 VS will take cues from the new F80 and stands as the most ferocious V6 ever built, marking the pinnacle of the 296 lineup. (Picture from: F1Motors)

The Ferrari 296 GTB, already a revolution in its own right, broke away from tradition by introducing a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 engine coupled with a plug-in hybrid system. With 819 horsepower and 546 lb-ft of torque, it shifted perceptions, offering electrified performance that rivaled the mightiest V8 and V12 supercars. But for Ferrari, evolution never ends at the GTB. This April, the Prancing Horse is unleashing something even sharper: the 296 VS.

For Ferrari, evolution doesn’t stop at the 296 GTB—as pictured here in the Assetto Fiorano Hungaroring variant—and this April, the Prancing Horse is set to unveil the even sharper 296 VS. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

For years, Ferrari fans and collectors have speculated about a more track-focused version of the 296. Whispers filled forums, and excitement built quietly—until now. The 296 VS is no longer a rumor. It’s a real and roaring successor to Ferrari's celebrated lineage of lightweight, driver-centric masterpieces such as the 360 Challenge Stradale, 430 Scuderia, 458 Speciale, and 488 Pista. The unveiling is set for April 29th, and the anticipation couldn’t be higher.

The Ferrari 296 VS is reportedly more ferocious than its predecessor, the 296 GTB (as pictured), which is powered by a hybrid drivetrain combining a 2,992cc turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor. (Picture from: BlackXperience)

Borrowing design cues from Ferrari’s cutting-edge F80 hypercar, the 296 VS is rumored to embrace aggressive aerodynamics, including a fully enclosed engine bay and twin active flaps on the rear decklid. It could receive the same wheels as the F80 and much like the 12Cilindri, may these flaps reminiscent of the Pagani Huayra's active aero system, aim to improve braking and deliver greater downforce, making the rear axle more planted during high-speed maneuvers. This design evolution makes it not only look faster but also function with a purpose that honors Ferrari’s racing DNA.

The Ferrari 296 VS, scheduled for launch at the end of April, was still wrapped in camouflage when spotted during a road test session. (Picture from: F1Motors)

Performance enhancements don’t stop with bodywork. The 296 VS is expected to receive a newly tuned exhaust system, a more prominent rear diffuser, and crucial weight reductions that strip it down to its raw, exhilarating essence. Though official figures haven’t surfaced, insiders suggest that its power output may close the gap with Lamborghini’s monstrous 907-hp Temerario. One thing’s for sure—it will be faster, meaner, and more engaging than the standard GTB.

The Ferrari 296 VS, scheduled for launch at the end of April, was still wrapped in camouflage when spotted during a road test session. (Picture from: F1Motors) (Picture from: Carscoops)

Beyond the core model, Ferrari plans to release a special limited-edition Piloti version of the 296 VS. This variant, dressed in the livery of Ferrari’s GT3 or Le Mans race cars, could make a grand entrance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this June. With exclusivity almost guaranteed, this edition will be one for the collectors—celebrating not only Ferrari’s heritage but its continuing dominance on the racetrack.

The Ferrari 296 VS, scheduled for launch at the end of April, was still wrapped in camouflage when spotted during a road test session. (Picture from: F1Motors) (Picture from: F1Motors)

Ferrari has yet to reveal details on production numbers or pricing. However, Versione Speciale models are typically produced in limited quantities and command a premium over their standard counterparts. With its expected rarity, performance upgrades, and undeniable prestige, the 296 VS is poised to become an instant icon in Ferrari’s modern lineup—joining the ranks of the recently introduced 12Cilindri. | vlzPSx-Cgvw |

As the countdown to April 29th draws closer, Ferrari enthusiasts find themselves on the edge of their seats. The arrival of the 296 VS isn’t just about power or speed—it's about capturing the essence of Ferrari’s spirit in a form that both looks forward and nods respectfully to the past. For those lucky enough to get behind the wheel, this is more than just a drive. It’s an experience sculpted by legacy and fired up for the future. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ITALPASSION | F1MOTORS | CARSCOOPS | EVO.CO.UK | SUPERCARBLOG ]

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Kawasaki CORLEO Unveiled: A Four-Legged Robot Built for Extreme Terrain

Mechanical Majesty - In a world where mobility continues to evolve beyond wheels and wings, it's no surprise that innovation now walks—quite literally—on four legs. From drones that deliver to autonomous cars navigating bustling cities, engineers are constantly rethinking how we move. But Kawasaki Heavy Industries or Kawasaki, a name long associated with powerful motorcycles and heavy machinery, has taken a striking detour from the expected. Instead of unveiling a faster bike or a more rugged ATV, they’ve introduced something out of a science fiction storyboard: a four-legged horse robot named CORLEO.

Kawasaki, long known for its powerful motorcycles and heavy machinery, takes a bold leap into the future with CORLEO—a four-legged robotic rides set to debut at the Osaka Expo 2025 on April 13. (Picture from: TerasJabar)

CORLEO is not just an impressive showpiece—it’s Kawasaki’s bold statement on the future of exploration through rough, untamed landscapes. Set to make its public debut at the Osaka Expo 2025 starting April 13, this futuristic steed was designed with a purpose that goes beyond visual spectacle. Kawasaki envisions CORLEO as a revolutionary mode of transport that blends the mechanical strength of motorcycles with the adaptable grace of animals, allowing riders to conquer terrain that has long remained out of reach.

Kawasaki CORLEO is an innovative wheelless robotic ride concept that mimics horseback riding and uses hydrogen power to deliver clean energy for off-road travel. (Picture from: TMCBlog)

Looking at it for the first time, CORLEO might seem like a character straight out of a cyberpunk manga. Its four articulated legs, each ending in split rubber “hooves,” are crafted to grip and adapt to challenging surfaces like rocks, gravel, sand, or grassy trails. But this robot horse doesn’t merely walk—it responds to the environment. Thanks to an advanced independent suspension system installed on its rear legs, CORLEO can absorb shocks and stay level even when moving across uneven ground. It’s a clever mechanical nod to the swingarm design found in traditional motorcycles, now reimagined for quadruped locomotion.

The Kawasaki CORLEO four-legged robotic ride is powered by an eco-friendly hydrogen engine that drives its legs, while AI analyzes the terrain, maintains balance and stability, and helps the rider steer by detecting weight shifts in the saddle. (Picture from: TMCBlog)

The riding experience itself is immersive and intuitive. Instead of handlebars or throttles, the rider influences CORLEO’s movements through subtle shifts in body weight on the footrests. A detection system integrated into the handlebars works in tandem with these weight cues, allowing for control that feels more like a dance with the machine than a command. Kawasaki emphasizes that the goal is to replicate the synergy of horseback riding—where the machine and rider move as one. And despite its futuristic appearance, the CORLEO is intended to be user-friendly, even for those unfamiliar with off-road riding. Whether it’s climbing mountains, crossing streams, or tackling narrow woodland paths, this robotic mount aims to make it accessible for everyone.

The Kawasaki CORLEO robotic ride includes a dashboard that displays hydrogen levels, route information, center of gravity, and more, while projecting path markers onto the terrain at night to support a smooth and controlled ride. (Picture from: TMCBlog)

Powering this innovation is a forward-thinking energy solution. Instead of relying on fossil fuels or even conventional batteries, Kawasaki turned to hydrogen. A compact 150cc engine, mounted on CORLEO’s front leg, generates electricity from hydrogen stored in a cartridge placed at the rear. This electricity is then distributed to individual power units on each leg, enabling smooth and responsive movement. It’s clean, quiet, and entirely in line with a vision for sustainable future transport.

The Kawasaki CORELEO four-legged robotic ride represents the company's vision for its 'Transportation and Mobility' showcase at the Future Life Expo: Future City exhibition during Expo 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, under the theme 'Impulse to Move'. (Picture from: TheSuperBoo!)

To support the ride, an onboard display provides real-time information like hydrogen levels, route guidance, and even the rider's center of gravity. For night excursions or low-visibility conditions, the system projects directional lights onto the terrain, giving the rider both control and confidence no matter the environment.

Though it remains a concept for now, with no current plans for commercial release, CORLEO offers a compelling glimpse into how Kawasaki imagines mobility by the year 2050. It may not be galloping into dealerships anytime soon, but the message is loud and clear: the roads of tomorrow may not be roads at all—and Kawasaki intends to be among the first to guide us across them. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GLOBAL KAWASAKI | GTTHEMAXIMALIST ON X | GAGADGET | STREETBIKERSWORLD | THESUPERBOO! ]

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Vision Rapida: The Next-Gen Sports Car

Bold Innovation - The world of automotive design is constantly evolving, driven by innovation, creativity, and the desire to push boundaries. For aspiring car designers, the opportunity to bring their visions to life is a rare and invaluable experience. At the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Turin, students of the Transportation Design program are given a unique chance to do just that—designing and constructing a full-scale concept car in collaboration with industry leaders. 

The Vision Rapida shares similar dimensions with iconic '90s sports cars like the Mk4 Toyota Supra, capturing their timeless proportions in a modern design. (Picture from: Autocar)

In the 2023–2024 academic year, this dream became a reality with the creation of the Vision Rapida, a sports car concept developed in partnership with the renowned Italdesign. Designed with Generation Z in mind, the Vision Rapida embraces the spirit of classic Japanese sports cars from the 1990s, a decade that saw the rise of legendary models like the Mk4 Toyota Supra and Nissan Skyline GT-R. Measuring 4.51 meters in length, 1.86 meters in width, and 1.28 meters in height, the car boasts proportions that reflect these inspirations while maintaining a modern and dynamic aesthetic. 

The Vision Rapida features a fastback shape, deliberately chosen to enhance aerodynamics while improving practicality and cargo space. (Picture from: Autocar)

The fastback design not only enhances its sporty appearance but also improves aerodynamics and cargo space, making it a practical yet exciting vehicle. Aesthetically, the Vision Rapida exudes confidence with its aggressive front-end styling, sculpted bumper, and sleek headlights. The rear maintains a clean yet striking look, featuring an integrated spoiler that adds to its performance-driven persona. While rooted in the past, the design avoids falling into nostalgia, presenting a fresh and contemporary interpretation of the compact sports car segment. 

The Vision Rapida boasts a minimalist interior with a 2+2 layout, thoughtfully designed to balance usability, comfort, and a modern driving experience. (Picture from: Autocar)

The minimalist interior follows suit, with a 2+2 layout that prioritizes usability while incorporating a fighter jet-inspired cockpit. Instead of the button-heavy dashboards of older models, the Rapida embraces a digital-first approach, relying on an intuitive touchscreen interface to enhance the driving experience.

The Vision Rapida features a fighter jet-inspired cockpit with a sleek, digital-first design, replacing button-heavy dashboards with an intuitive touchscreen.. (Picture from: Autocar)

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Vision Rapida is its adaptability. Unlike conventional concept cars tied to a single manufacturer’s identity, this vehicle was designed with flexibility in mind. IED intentionally crafted it to fit multiple automotive brands, allowing room for different powertrain configurations, including internal combustion, hybrid, and fully electric options. 

The Vision Rapida was designed to balance affordability, sustainability, and style, offering a sleek yet practical sports car experience for modern drivers. (Picture from: Autocar)

This approach underscores the vision of the students—to create a sports car that is not just aspirational but also attainable for young drivers seeking an engaging yet affordable experience on the road. The journey from concept to reality spanned six months, with students working alongside Italdesign professionals and other industry mentors to refine their ideas. 

The Vision Rapida was captured in a photo session alongside its design and build team from IED and Italdesign. (Picture from: Carscoops)

The final full-scale prototype was constructed in collaboration with Italdesign and Scuderia Torino, with support from major technical sponsors such as Pirelli, OZ Racing, and Lechler. The unveiling of the Vision Rapida marks a significant milestone, not just for IED students but for the future of automotive design, proving that passion, creativity, and technical expertise can come together to shape the cars of tomorrow. | Hse6H23sILU |

For those eager to witness this creation firsthand, the Vision Rapida  will be showcased at the Fuorisalone in Milan from April 7–13 and is currently on display at the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile in Turin until May 4. With its blend of nostalgic influences and forward-thinking design, this concept car stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the next generation of automotive designers. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | IED TURIN | AUTOCAR | CARSCOOPS ]

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