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)
Road BEAST - In the fast-paced world of supercars, innovation and performance are always in the spotlight. Every new model is expected to push the limits of speed, design, and technology, as manufacturers compete to deliver the next big leap. Among these giants, Ultima Sports has consistently carved out its own niche, known for producing raw, powerful machines that stand out in a crowded market. Now, they’ve taken another bold step forward with the introduction of their latest supercar: the Ultima Evolution. With both coupe and convertible options, the Evolution steps in to replace the revered GTR and Can-Am models, signaling a new era for the British automaker.
England's Ultima Sports intoduces a new 1,000 hp Evolution supercar. (Picture from: LeftLaneNews)
One of the defining features of the Evolution is its focus on aerodynamics. Drawing inspiration from the LMP2 cars that compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Evolution is designed to slice through the air with minimal resistance, making it not only fast but also incredibly stable at high speeds. This advanced aerodynamic design is further complemented by a stunning interior that promises both comfort and technological sophistication. Buyers have the choice of assembling the car themselves through a kit, or opting for a fully built version straight from the factory, catering to different preferences of supercar enthusiasts.
Right side view of the Ultima Evolution supercar.(Picture from: LeftLaneNews)
On the outside, the Evolution proudly displays its racing DNA, with an aggressive design that reflects its high-performance capabilities. But it’s not just about looks—the car is packed with modern technology to enhance the driving experience. The interior comes equipped with an Alpine touchscreen infotainment system, offering navigation, Bluetooth, rear parking assistance, and more. Luxurious leather and Alcantara upholstery complete the package, making the cabin as comfortable as it is high-tech, ensuring drivers can enjoy the thrill of the road in style.
Interior view of the Ultima Evolution supercar. (Picture from: LeftLaneNews)
Performance, however, is where the Evolution truly shines. With 15 different power outputs available from a selection of Chevrolet LS V8 engines, the Evolution offers a wide range of options to suit various driving styles. The entry-level model, featuring a 350-horsepower engine, starts at just over £38,000 for the kit version, while a factory-built model comes in at £65,995. For many, choosing the factory-built version might be the best option to ensure optimal assembly and performance right out of the gate.
Dashboard view of the Ultima Evolution supercar. (Picture from: LeftLaneNews)
For those seeking the pinnacle of performance, the top-of-the-line Evolution is where things get serious. Priced at £95,995, this version is equipped with a 6.8-litre supercharged V8 engine that produces an astonishing 1,020 horsepower—more than a Bugatti Veyron. And despite this immense power, the Evolutionweighs only 950kg, half the weight of the Veyron, giving it an exceptional power-to-weight ratio that translates to mind-blowing performance on the road.
Rear three quarter view of the Ultima Evolution supercar. (Picture from: LeftLaneNews)
The numbers speak for themselves. The range-topping Evolution accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.3 seconds. It reaches 100 mph in just 4.9 seconds, and hits 150 mph in an astounding 8.9 seconds. The quarter-mile is completed in 10.3 seconds at a speed of 156 mph. These figures put the Evolution in the realm of elite hypercars, and for speed enthusiasts, this car delivers the kind of performance that few others can match.
Rear view of the Ultima Evolution supercar. (Picture from: TopGear)
One of the most impressive feats of the Evolution is its 0-100-0 mph time, completing the task in just 8.8 seconds—about a second faster than the Bugatti Veyron. Unlike many modern supercars that rely on advanced electronics and four-wheel drive systems, the Ultima Evolution remains true to its purist roots, offering a manual gearbox and requiring true driving skill to unlock its full potential. It’s a car designed for those who seek an unfiltered, raw driving experience without the interference of electronic aids.
Ultima Sports has truly created something special with the Evolution. Combining modern luxury with extreme performance, it’s a car that appeals to both traditional supercar fans and those looking for the next level of speed and engineering. Whether you’re assembling it yourself or enjoying the thrill of a factory-built version, the Ultima Evolution offers an unmatched blend of power, precision, and excitement. As Ultima pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in supercar design, the Evolution stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to creating thrilling, high-performance vehicles that leave a lasting impact on the automotive world. *** [EKA [20042015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ULTIMA SPORTS | LEFTLANENEWS | TOPGEAR | CLASSIC | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Visionary Engineering - In the dynamic world of automotive design, concept cars often serve as bold statements—glimpses of what could be, rather than what is. They are snapshots of creativity, technology, and design thinking that push the boundaries of convention. Among the many Japanese automakers known for such visionary experiments, Mazda has consistently stood out. While today’s enthusiasts might rave about the Toyota GR86 for its balance of style and performance, there was a time when Mazda brought forth its own youthful, sporty contender—one that never made it to production, but still turns heads among those who know: the Mazda Kabura Concept.
The Mazda Kabura Concept made its debut at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. (Picture from: CarAndDriver)
Unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Mazda Kabura was an attempt to rethink what a small sports coupe could be. Its name, “Kabura,” is steeped in symbolism, referencing the “Kabura-ya”—a whistling arrow historically used in Japan to signal the beginning of a battle. This choice of name wasn’t random; it represented Mazda’s intention to launch forward with fresh energy and innovation. More than just a stylish prototype, the Kabura was Mazda’s metaphorical first arrow in a new direction, aimed squarely at the hearts of young car buyers.
The Mazda Kabura Concept reimagined the small sports coupe, its name drawn from “Kabura-ya,” a whistling arrow that once signaled battle in Japan. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Built with a youthful demographic in mind, the Kabura wasn’t meant to be a family car, but it also wasn’t purely a toy for weekend drives. It was designed to carry a couple and a friend or two, plus some cargo, with clever packaging and a refreshing take on interior space. This blend of sportiness and light practicality was perfectly aligned with Mazda’s “Zoom-Zoom” philosophy, which emphasized the pure joy of driving. Rather than following in the footsteps of more traditional two-door coupes, Mazda decided to explore what would happen if the typical 2+2 layout was reimagined. What they created instead was a unique 3+1 configuration.
The Mazda Kabura Concept symbolized a bold step forward for the brand, serving as a metaphorical first arrow of innovation aimed at young car buyers. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
This unconventional layout was a direct response to the lifestyles of younger drivers. Mazda’s research revealed that most of them drove solo or with one passenger, but occasionally needed to accommodate an extra friend or two. The team, led by then-design chief Franz von Holzhausen, decided to shift the front passenger seat forward, remove the glove box, and make extra legroom for the rear passenger behind it. On the driver’s side, the rear seat remained small and was considered more of an emergency option than a full-time place to sit. This clever reconfiguration allowed the Kabura to feel both compact and surprisingly accommodating.
The Mazda Kabura Concept housed a 2.0-liter MZR inline-four engine under the hood, delivering power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
The exterior design of the Kabura was just as inventive. With a body inspired by the sleek lines of aircraft fuselages, it combined taut surfaces and strong, sculpted curves to give it a sense of movement even at a standstill. The flowing lines had no abrupt endings—everything connected, with wheel arches stretched tight like a spider’s web, enhancing the car’s aggressive stance. One of the most striking features was the two-piece glass hatch behind the B-pillar.
The Mazda Kabura Concept features an interior trimmed in a distinctive combination of white, black, and tan Alcantara, a premium material used seamlessly across both the cabin surfaces and the seats to create a refined yet sporty atmosphere. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
The upper section lifted electrically, not just as a visual gimmick, but to serve both as a spoiler and an air vent. It even helped increase rear headroom when opened. Integrated into this hatch was a solar panel—an unexpected green feature for a car designed nearly two decades ago—capable of recharging the battery and regulating interior temperature.
The Mazda Kabura Concept presents a driver-focused dashboard layout, showcasing uniquely designed instrument panels and buttons that emphasize control and modern styling. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
The innovation didn’t stop there. The windshield and part of the roof were crafted from a single piece of glass, running from the cowl to the B-pillar. This gave the cabin a bright, open feel, enhancing the sense of space and airiness inside. To prevent discomfort from too much sunlight, the roof panel featured an adjustable tinting function, allowing drivers to control the amount of light and heat entering the cabin with the simple turn of a knob.
The Mazda Kabura Concept, inspired by the sleek lines of aircraft fuselages, combined taut surfaces and sculpted curves with seamlessly flowing lines and tightly stretched wheel arches to create an aggressive stance and a sense of motion even at rest. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Under the hood, the Kabura wasn’t just a pretty face—it was driven by a 2.0-liter MZR inline-four engine, sending power to the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. This setup echoed the rear-wheel-drive formula that driving purists love, promising an engaging and responsive experience behind the wheel.
Mazda also found a creative solution to improve rear seat access without sacrificing the coupe’s sleek profile. Instead of a bulky second door, the passenger side featured a compact sliding door tucked behind the main door. At the push of a button, it would retract neatly into the body, making it easier for rear passengers to get in and out without the need for contortionist moves.
Though it remained just a concept, the Mazda Kabura stands as a fascinating example of how a carmaker can blend design, practicality, and fun into a single package. It reflected Mazda’s willingness to challenge norms and create something truly original. While the Kabura never reached production, its spirit lives on in every innovative curve and detail. It’s a reminder that sometimes the boldest ideas aren’t the ones that make it to the showroom floor, but the ones that dare to redefine what a car can be. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | SUPERCARS.NET | CARANDDRIVER | ]
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Speedcraft Elegance - In the world of hypercars, the chase for speed, precision, and visual drama never truly ends. Each year, new innovations push the limits of performance, and automotive fans are gifted with machines that seem to defy physics. But even in this elite realm, some creations manage to stand above the rest—not just because they are fast, but because they tell a story.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, already an apex predator among hypercars, has recently spawned two rare breeds—Senshi and Kronos—that embody power, elegance, and legend. (Pictures from: Koenigsegg.regestry, and Generated by ChatGPT)
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut is already an apex predator among hypercars. Introduced in 2021, it was designed with minimal drag and a razor-sharp focus on achieving a theoretical top speed of 310 mph. Beneath the sleek carbon fiber shell lies a beastly 5.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8, capable of delivering up to 1600 horsepower and 1106 lb-ft of torque when fueled by E85. Paired with a 9-speed multi-clutch transmission, the Jesko Absolut channels all that energy to the rear wheels, promising not only blistering acceleration but also precise control at extreme velocities.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Kronos commissioned by UK-based automotive YouTuber Zach Lewis of ‘Zach’s Garage’, this right-hand-drive hypercar is nothing short of automotive royalty. (Picture from: Koenigsegg.regestry on Instagram)
Among
these rare breeds is the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut, a machine engineered
for one goal: to be the fastest Koenigsegg ever made. Now, two
exclusive versions of this engineering masterpiece have emerged, and
their names alone—‘Kronos’ and ‘Senshi’—evoke power, elegance, and
legend. This foundation serves as the canvas for two truly exceptional one-off creations.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Kronos draped in Poseidon Blue-tinted carbon fiber and adorned with 24K gold leaf accents, Kronos is as much a work of art as it is a mechanical marvel. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)
The first, known as ‘Kronos’, is a rolling tribute to the Greek god of time, perfectly fitting for a car with chassis #7389 meant to rewrite the very concept of speed. Commissioned by UK-based automotive YouTuber Zach Lewis of ‘Zach’s Garage’, this right-hand-drive hypercar is nothing short of automotive royalty.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Kronos continues to dazzle with Blue Alcantara upholstery stretches across the cabin, laced with meticulous gold stitching that mirrors the car’s exterior finesse. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)
Draped in Poseidon Blue-tinted carbon fiber and adorned with 24K gold leaf accents, Kronos is as much a work of art as it is a mechanical marvel. The gold can be seen highlighting the edges of the body, including the rear diffuser, while the signature AirCore Carbon wheels wear delicate gold pinstripes.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Kronos's gold accents can be seen highlighting the edges of the body, including the rear diffuser, while the signature AirCore Carbon wheels wear delicate gold pinstripes. (Picture from: TheSupercarBlog)
Step inside, and Kronos continues to dazzle. Blue Alcantara upholstery stretches across the cabin, laced with meticulous gold stitching that mirrors the car’s exterior finesse. Even the door handle crests shimmer in gold, reinforcing the car’s identity as something both powerful and precious. The cohesive design extends to the rear wheel aero covers, which match the Poseidon Blue tone, completing an aesthetic that is sophisticated, aggressive, and unforgettable.
Yet Kronos is not alone in its glory. Another masterpiece, chassis #7273, has been named ‘Senshi’—a Japanese term meaning “soldier” or “warrior.”This naming is more than symbolic; it represents a car built for battle, specifically the race to be crowned the fastest production car on Earth.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut #7273, named Senshi—a Japanese word for “soldier” or “warrior”—is a battle-born masterpiece built to conquer the title of the world’s fastest production car. (Picture from: Koenigsegg.regesty on Instagram)
Delivered to Lebanon, Senshi is finished in blue-tinted carbon fiber with subtle Moon Silver detailing, including its Apex and Pebble Beach stripes. This contrast adds a sense of stealth and refinement, while the aluminium badges and Moon Silver brake calipers provide a crisp visual balance.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Senshi’s interior adds a unique layer of character, with a Moon Silver G-Force Meter that blends luxury with purposeful performance. (Picture from: Koenigsegg.regesty on Instagram)
Senshi shares the same mechanical ferocity as its sibling, equipped with the 1.19MW power upgrade that enables its 1600hp output. But it’s the interior that adds a unique layer of character. Wrapped in Blueberry Alcantara and stitched in a snowy Drift Pattern, the cabin offers a stunning contrast of textures and tones. A Moon Silver G-Force Meter adds a functional touch of elegance, reinforcing that even the most luxurious detail can serve a performance purpose.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Senshi's interior wrapped in Blueberry Alcantara with snowy Drift Pattern stitching. (Picture from: Koenigsegg.regesty on Instagram)
Both Kronos and Senshi represent the pinnacle of bespoke automotive design—machines that fuse form, function, and storytelling into one unstoppable force. In a world where speed records are measured in fractions and performance is pushed to near-impossible extremes, these two hypercars stand out not only for what they can do, but for the identities they wear with pride.
The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut Senshi finished in blue-tinted carbon fiber with subtle Moon Silver detailing, including its Apex and Pebble Beach stripes. (Picture from: Koenigsegg.regesty on Instagram)
Rotary Reverie - In an era where the automotive industry is accelerating toward electrification and self-driving technology, it’s often the unseen, the unrealized, and the never-produced that leave the most lasting impressions. While showrooms today are dominated by practical innovations and efficiency-driven design, the world of concept cars continues to captivate our imagination. These vehicles, untethered from the constraints of mass production, allow designers and engineers to dream boldly—pushing the limits of what’s possible and hinting at what’s to come.
Mazda’s RX dream cars never made it to the streets, but they sparked the creation of legendary model like the RX-8. (Pictures from: Carbuzz and Wikipedia, Generated by ChatGPT)
For Mazda, that spirit of exploration was vividly expressed through its RX Concept series. These rotary-powered visions, spanning decades of development and innovation, weren’t just design exercises—they were emotional statements tied deeply to the brand’s heritage. Though none of these stunning machines made it to the production line, their presence still resonates. They symbolize a philosophy of passion over practicality and stand as powerful reminders of Mazda’s relentless commitment to its unique identity and engineering legacy.
1. Mazda RX-01: A Return to Simplicity
Back in 1995, Mazda unveiled the Mazda RX-01 at the Tokyo Motor Show, a sleek and modestly-sized coupe designed to deliver fun without frills. It was created in response to a tough economic climate and fading enthusiasm for luxury sports cars. Inspired by the philosophy behind the original RX-7, the RX-01 focused on pure, lightweight performance.
The Mazda RX-01 Concept, a sleek and modestly-sized coupe built to deliver pure driving fun without the frills, was developed in response to a challenging economic climate and declining interest in high-end sports cars. (Picture from: Carbuzz)
Under its hood was the improved 13B-MSP Wankel rotary engine, offering not just more power, but also better fuel economy and cleaner emissions. Everything about the RX-01 screamed “driver’s car”—affordable, straightforward, and genuinely exciting. Still, despite its promise and the hope of rotary fans worldwide, the RX-01 never made it into production.
The Mazda RX-01 Concept was powered by an improved 13B-MSP Wankel rotary engine, delivering not only increased power, but also better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
Mazda’s financial constraints and market trends at the time leaned heavily toward SUVs, leaving this gem to exist only as a concept. However, its engine laid the groundwork for the RENESIS unit that would eventually power the RX-8.
2. Mazda RX-Evolv: Performance with a Practical Twist
Mazda’s rotary ambitions didn’t stop there. Four years later, at the 1999 Tokyo Motor Show, they introduced the Mazda RX-Evolv—a striking and unconventional four-door coupe. This wasn’t just a sports car; it was a fresh take on what a performance vehicle could look like.
The Mazda RX-Evolv Concept, a striking and unconventional four-door coupe, offered a fresh take on what a performance vehicle could look like.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
Mazda wanted to appeal not just to lone drivers, but to groups of friends who could enjoy the ride together. At its heart was the Renesis rotary engine, still under development but already projected to hit up to 280 horsepower with a screaming 10,000 RPM redline. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive, it embodied everything Mazda stood for.
The Mazda RX-Evolv Concept was powered by the Renesis rotary engine—still in development at the time, but already projected to deliver up to 280 horsepower with a high-revving 10,000 RPM redline.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
Despite its radical looks and strong engineering, the RX-Evolv also never made it past the concept stage. Yet, many of its ideas—especially the engine and layout—would shape the eventual RX-8 that debuted just a few years later.
3. Mazda RX-Vision: Beauty in Motion
Fast forward to 2015, and Mazda once again stole the spotlight at the Tokyo Motor Show with the Mazda RX-Vision. If the RX-Evolv was bold, the RX-Vision was breathtaking. It showcased Mazda’s most refined design philosophy, KODO—or “the soul of movement”—blending elegance and aggression in a package that looked ready to race.
The Mazda RX-Vision Concept embodied Mazda’s most refined design philosophy, KODO—'the soul of movement'—seamlessly blending elegance and aggression in a form that looked born for the track.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
Beneath the sculpted bodywork was the Skyactiv-R engine, a modern take on the rotary powertrain focused on lighter components and improved efficiency. While specifics on the engine’s configuration were limited, its GT3 Concept counterpart later revealed a four-rotor setup designed for racing in 2020.
The Mazda RX-Vision Concept was powered by the Skyactiv-R engine—a modern interpretation of the rotary powertrain, designed with lighter components and improved efficiency in mind.(Picture from: Carbuzz)
The RX-Vision wasn’t just admired by fans—it was voted “Most Beautiful Concept Car” in 2016 at the International Automobile Festival in Paris. Still, it too remained a dream, never progressing beyond the show floor or video game simulators like Gran Turismo Sport.
The Mazda RX-Vision GT3 Concept featured a four-rotor setup engineered for racing, but it remained a dream—never advancing beyond the show floor or virtual tracks in games like Gran Turismo Sport.(Picture from: CintaMobil)
The RX-01, RX-Evolv, and RX-Vision may never have reached dealerships,
but their stories continue to inspire. Each car represented a unique
moment in Mazda’s journey to keep the rotary engine alive—not as a relic
of the past, but as a symbol of identity and innovation. These were
more than just concepts; they were bold statements in an industry that
often plays it safe.
Through their creativity and courage, Mazda reminded the world that cars can still be emotional, personal, and thrilling. While these RX concepts may not have become tangible realities, they live on as the embodiment of what makes driving—and dreaming—so powerful. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARBUZZ | CARMEMMORIES | CLUB.SHANNON.COM.AU | WIKIPEDIA | CARSTYLING.RU ]
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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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