Radical Concept Apparently gloomy days have also been experienced by a well-known automotive company like Bugatti. In the 1960s, the Molsheim-based company had declared bankrupt and should ceased production for a long time before revived back in the 1980s. The idea of Bugatti’s revival was initially proposed by none other than Ferruccio Lamborghini together with ex-Lamborghini engineer and designer Paolo Stanzani to Romano Artioli.
The most radical proposed design concept for the Bugatti EB110 called Bugatti 110 PM1 by Paolo Martin in 1989. (Picture from: SportscarDigest)
This happened when Ferruccio wanted to start another project after selling his raging-bull logoed company in 1981. At that time Romano Artioli was known widely as a Bugatti collector, turn out also had a personal ambition to establish a company worthy of Ettore Bugatti’s legacy, Bugatti macaron, and the horseshoe grille. And made the initial idea to estabilish a new brand changed into a wildly ambitious plan to revive one of the all-time great auto marques.
The wooden maquette of the Bugatti 110 PM1 posed along with its creator Paolo Martin at the Turin Auto Show 1991. (Picture from: Carstbatnevermadeitetc)
Disagreement with Artioli’s ambition to go huge from the very start, then prompted Ferruccio Lamborghini retreated. Following the dispute, Artioli and Stanzani soon started working on a draft to acquire the Bugatti brand. After successfully acquiring the brand, they teamed up with like-minded enthusiast, automotive historian Jean-Marc Borel founded a holding company called Bugatti International in Luxembourg in 1987.
The Bugatti 110 PM1 featured with a panoramic windshield and a floating rear wing integrated within
the diagonal character line starting behind the front wheels. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Borel was managing the holding, while Ettore’s youngest son Michel Bugatti was among the board of directors. Romano Artioli himself led the Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. while 35% of the Bugatti International holding was held by Tecnostile, a highly regarded independent engineering company employing former Lamborghini personnel. In short to strategically place Bugatti at the center of the supercar industry, the company then established a modern production facility in Campogalliano, the outskirts of Modena.
It is interesting that in the Paolo Martin's design appears to reference the Luigi Colani’s extraordinary Lamborghini Miura Le Mans Concept of 1970. (Picture from: SportscarDigest)
In early days of this newly
resurrected auto brand the man in charges leading the project was Paolo
Stanzani together with Tecnostile, envisioning the underpinnings of the
car. Both Artioli, Stanzani, and the principal Tecnostile team of Achille Bevini, Tiziano Benedetti, and Oliviero Pedrazzi
agreed that the car had to go beyond the well-established concept
boundaries of the time, namely the mid-engined V12 supercar. Still, the
team spoke from experience, as they developed the chassis and the engine
of the Lamborghini Miura.
The Bugatti 110 PM1's design revolved around aerodynamic efficiency, but it proved to be too
far-out and definitely not elegant enough to be considered for
production. (Picture from: SportscarDigest)
In the car design later known as the forerunner of the Bugatti EB110, apart from involving its own designer team, the company also invited several well-known designers at the time such as Giorgietto Giugiaro, Paolo Martin, Marcello Gandini, and Nuccio Bertone to create the looks of the upcoming car. A quartet of accomplished designers returned their vision for the future Bugatti and each was special in its own right.
The Bugatti 110 PM1 concept sat on display as a wooden maquette at the the 65th Turin International Motor Show in 1991. (Picture from: Bestinsketch.it)
After some time ago we had discussed Giorgietto Giugiaro' designed car called the Bugatti ID90 Concept. Well, now we will discuss about the most radical proposal came from Paolo Martin (a former Pininfarina designer) who created a unique prototype called the Bugatti 110 PM1 in the 1989.
The Bugatti 110 PM1 concept shown as a model of sports car in 1: 1 scale and made entirely of wood. A structure whose shape exceeds the stylistic value. (Picture from: SportscarDigest)
The car appears in such an unusual shape with a panoramic windshield and a floating rear wing integrated within the diagonal character line starting behind the front wheels. Meanwhile, Bugatti 110 PM1 was a single seater sports car controlled by a joystick and “paddles” rather than a steering wheel. It
is interesting that in the Paolo Martin's design appears to reference
the Luigi Colani’s extraordinary Lamborghini Miura Le Mans Conceptof 1970.
The Bugatti 110 PM1 concept has a single-seater cabin consists of a capsule
in which the steering wheel is replaced by two handwheels located on
the arm rests, for a more ergonomic ride. (Picture from: Carstbatnevermadeitetc)
The designer said that the philosophy of the project was
essentially to create two distinct areas, that of traction and strength
tied to earth and that of the living cell with aerial shape and ideally
detached from the body. Inside its capsule cabin consists only one-seater in which the steering
wheel is replaced by two handwheels located on the arm rests, for a more
ergonomic ride. For safety, the driver has a four-point anchor belt
that incorporates an abdominal airbag.
For safety, the Bugatti 110 PM1 driver has a four-point anchor belt that incorporates an abdominal airbag. (Picture from: Carstbatnevermadeitetc)
Although they had made in a 1:4 scale model but this project reportedly did not run smoothly, due to the design proved to be too far-out and definitely not elegant enough to be considered for production and later the project was cancelled.😩
The Bugatti 110 PM1 concept in any case a reality resolved in a traditional way and presented so simply, to reawaken that intimate sense of taste and charm that always accompanies a valid work for a long time. (Picture from: SportscarDigest)
Furthermore, in 1991 this project had back on the track after Joshiro Kitami, a Japanese businessman was interested in it and wanted to revived the Ford Cobra's brand in which he had investments. Even in that time the designer had executed its polystyrene model to start engineering, but unfortunately this operation back to fail due to financial problems.😭
The Bugatti PM1 Concept known as a single-seater supercar made entirely of wood while sat on display at the National Automobile Museum (Il Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile) in early year of 2016. (Picture from: la Repubblica)
It made the designer then switched to build a 1:1 scale model out of wood. Finally, the wooden maquette of Bugatti 110 PM1 (only bodywork) finished and shown to the public for the first time at the the 65th Turin International Motor Show in 1991.
Observed in its unique technical aspects or appreciated simply as an "unusual mobile" car, the PM1 is in any case a reality resolved in a traditional way and presented so simply, to reawaken that intimate sense of taste and charm that always accompanies a valid work for a long time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BESTINSKETCH.IT | SPORTSCARDIGEST ]
If you often travel out of town, you will usually find miniature cars made of wood that are sold in souvenir shops. However, this is a different matter from miniatures, precisely in Bandung apparently there are some real vehicles that are made of wood. And who was the owner of those wooden bodied vehicles?
The wooden-bodied Suzuki LJ80 'Jimny' owned by Fawaz Salim of Bandung. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2D1TMgd)
The owner named Fawaz Salim, a businessman, and owner of a timber company in the city called 'Equator Wood.' When you look at his collection it turns out he has made several vehicles out of wood. In the collection there are Suzuki Jimny LJ80 (in Indonesia, it usually called 'Jimny Jangkrik,' and 'jangkrik' means 'cricket'), then VW 181 or VW Safari, and there is also a wooden body Vespa scooter, etc.
Suzuki LJ80 'Jimny' owned by Fawaz Salim made of 'sonokeling' type of wood. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3eXC6QZ)
The vehicles mentioned above can really be operated on the road like a vehicle in general. Because they all were built base on the original vehicles, just the body is changed of wood. Fawaz said that for the manufacture of wooden vehicles, it started from his fad and just trial and error.
The wooden-bodied Suzuki LJ80 'Jimny' needs one and a half years until all is completed at a cost of more than Rp.200 million. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2D1TMgd)
The wooden-bodied Suzuki Jimny for example, its body is not from plywood, but really made of original wood of 'sonokeling' type from Kalimantan. According to Fawaz, the wood is originated from legal cutting and already has an official permit, due to the wood taken from the trees directly in the forest, so there's should have an official permit from Perum Perhutani (Indonesian Forestry Institutes).
All details and instruments of the Suzuki LJ80 'Jimny' are installed and functioning properly. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2D1TMgd)
Initially, Fawaz bought the original Suzuki Jimny for Rp.14 million (approx $970). But when the car arrived it turned out that the conditions were not as expected. So then he decided to replace the Suzuki Jimny's body with wood. But because the original body has been wrecked and can not be used as a benchmark. So finally he borrowed a similar car body from one of his colleagues.
The wooden-bodied Suzuki LJ80 'Jimny' needs one and a half years until all is completed at a cost of more than Rp.200 million. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3eXC6QZ)
In the process of working on the car body, there are interesting things, namely the wooden body making process done by 1 person only. According to him the making of this body is a quite complex process, so there is a possibility the body will not be finished if done by many people. There are many mistakes that can be happened, such as the wooden joints that don't fit, or to pull different the cutting line, and others.
A portion of the wood joint details of the Fawaz Salim's wooden-bodied Suzuki LJ80. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2D5ZCxd)
Meanwhile, to form an intact car, at least 7 people are needed. Where other crews work on wooden bodies, while mechanic crews tidy up the car's legs, machinery, and electrical systems. After the car completed, turn out the use of wood on the car body made its weight increased heavier and according to Fawaz, the weight of this wooden car is around 2 tons in weight.
The weight of this Suzuki Jimny LJ80 increased dramatically after its body was changed to wood. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/3eXC6QZ)
This was also expressed by crews who participated in the work of this wooden car, they said that if the original body only needed three people to lift the whole body. And if the wooden-bodied needs about eight people, even then only the back. It is estimated that the weight ratio of this wooden car is three times heavier than the original body.
This is possible because the 'sonokeling' wood type used is more hardness than the teak wood, and of course far heavier than a metal plate. According to Fawaz to realize this wooden-bodied Jimny, it takes a time about one and a half years until all is completed at a cost of more than Rp.200 million (approx over more $13,800).
Italy is known to have many traditions, besides making supercars. It turns out that they make some of the best traditional lake boats, plus they are also a cultural and artistic hub of Europe. And on this occasion, we will discuss one of the Italian creations that combining all those elements above and then makes it very unique work.
This unique wooden Ferrari F50 car-shaped boat by Livio De Marchi made over five months in the process. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2VdIImy)
The Ferrari brand is one of the many famous brands from Italy that has become iconic for their automotive tradition, it's proved of more than 16 million people joining the Ferrari's fan pages. But due to the selling price of one unit of a Ferrari is fairly expensive so that not everyone can afford it. No wonder so many people dream of owning these Maranello-made supercars.
A wooden Ferrari F50 car-shaped boat running on the surface of the Venice River. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2zWYfj5)
To satisfy the desire to have a sports car, not a few people who conduct experiments even imitate one of the Ferrari car model shapes. If it's in the form of a four-wheeled vehicle, the easiest way to get it is to make a replica by using the base of the Pontiac Fiero or Toyota MR2. But a different thing was done by Livio De Marchi, who made a wooden boat that has a shape resembled the Ferrari F50.
The details of each part of this unique wooden Ferrari F50 car-shaped boat made in detail so that the shape is similar to the original supercar. (Picture from: https://bit.ly/2VdIImy)
As quoted by Autoevolution, De Marchi spent five months working on it. The time was used to pursue the details of each part of this replica workmanship even made in detail so that the shape is similar to the original vehicle ranging from glass to the iconic Ferrari's prancing horse logo.
Unlike the original car that uses a 65-degrees V12 4.7L DOHC engine, the Ferrari F50-shaped boat made by De Marchi uses a Yamaha boat engine capable of carrying it to run along the water surface at medium speed. Thus the 900kg car-shaped boat became the first F50 replica that could pass on the surface of the Venice river.
To all those of you who want a Ferrari but are constrained by its exorbitant price, so the Italian gentleman's way can be an inspiration. Only in five months, his dreamed Ferrari can be owned even if only a wooden Ferrari F50 car-shaped boat. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION]
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Wooden Icon - It’s often said that the love for creativity and engineering knows no bounds, and this rings especially true when it comes to the story of Al Sadad, a talented craftsman from Jepara, Indonesia. Driven by both his passion for woodworking and his admiration for Volkswagen cars, Sadad embarked on a unique project to bring an iconic Volkswagen Karmann Ghia to life – using only teak wood for the car’s entire body.
Other wooden automotive creations by Jepara craftsmen include a full-scale, driveable teak replica of the 1964 Karmann Ghia. (Picture from: OtoTrend)
This ambitious endeavor not only tested his skills in woodcraft but also sought to demonstrate the strength and durability of teak, a wood renowned for its resilience. Sadad’s journey combines the spirit of innovation with the art of traditional craftsmanship, showing the world that even unconventional materials can create something both beautiful and functional. Teak wood has long been celebrated for its durability, weather resistance, and striking grain patterns. However, its use as a material for a car body was virtually unheard of.
A teak wood-bodied 1964 Karmann Ghia replica made by Jepara craftsmen carries a 1,600 cc Mexican VW Safari engine. (Picture from: OtoDetik)
Sadad, undeterred by this unusual choice, chose teak precisely because it would be challenging to work with. Known for its density and hardness, teak offers a unique advantage in terms of longevity and aesthetics, but crafting an entire car body from it required an immense amount of patience, precision, and skill. Sadad, who had previously experimented with wooden cars, first tried his hand at creating a wooden-bodied Volkswagen Safari in 2015. Building on this experience, he decided to undertake a more complex project by constructing a Volkswagen Karmann Ghia with a full teak wood body, aiming to make this piece not only an art form but a fully operational vehicle.
The steering wheel and dashboard view of the teak wood-bodied 1964 Karmann Ghia replica. (Picture from: OtoTrend)
The Karmann Ghia project came with its own set of challenges, particularly because of the car’s distinct curves and aerodynamic body shape. Unlike other models, the Karmann Ghia features numerous curvatures that require high levels of precision, making it difficult to replicate in wood. Sadad understood that this project would demand a higher level of expertise, from carving complex curves to fitting every piece seamlessly. To overcome these obstacles, he enlisted the help of skilled artisans who specialized in traditional Jepara wood carving, ensuring that the project would stay true to the local craftsmanship traditions while meeting the demands of automotive design.
The Jepara's typical wooden-carved motifs with the VW logo on the front seats of the teak wood-bodied 1964 Karmann Ghia replica. (Picture from: OtoTrend)
Sadad sourced his teak wood from discarded materials found around his home and workshop, which speaks to his resourceful approach to the project. While he had easy access to raw materials, the intricate work required specialized equipment and expertise. Moreover, some of the car’s critical components, such as the rear lights, needed to be imported to match the original specifications of the Karmann Ghia. These imported parts added both time and expense to the project, yet Sadad remained committed, determined to make every detail authentic and functional.
Al Sadad (wearing an orange shirt) poses with a wooden-bodied 1964 Volkswagen Karmann Ghia replica of his-owned. (Picture from: MuriaNews)
One of the biggest challenges Sadad faced was creating frames for the car’s windshield, a task that demanded absolute accuracy. Any slight error could mean that the windshield wouldn’t fit properly, jeopardizing the car’s usability and safety. Similarly, crafting the car’s front hood, with its particular arch and shape, required significant skill and attention to detail. Every piece of teak had to be meticulously carved and shaped, a process that was both labor-intensive and time-consuming. Sadad mentioned that the most substantial cost was the craftsmanship itself, as the car’s intricate parts required the expertise of top-level artisans who could ensure each section was perfect.
Al Sadad-owned wooden-bodied Volkswagen Karmann Ghia replica while on display at the Jogja Volkswagen Festival (JVWF) contest event. (Picture from: TribunNewsJogja)
After dedicating four months of tireless effort, Sadad completed the wooden-bodied Karmann Ghia, equipped with a Mexican VW Safari engine under its teak wood hood. The car featured a 1,600 cc engine, giving it the power to drive just like any other car despite its unconventional body material. The finished car is a sight to behold, with its light brown teak color and distinctive wood grain visible across its curves. Traditional Jepara carving motifs were incorporated into various parts of the car, blending cultural artistry with automotive design in a way that highlights the beauty of Indonesian woodcraft.
In 2017, the teak wood Karmann Ghia was showcased at the Jogja Volkswagen Festival (JVWF), capturing the admiration of car enthusiasts and art lovers alike. The car, complete with the registration plate “K 4 YU,” symbolized not just Sadad’s dedication but also the potential of teak wood as a viable material for vehicle construction. This masterpiece of craftsmanship stood as a functional, drivable car rather than a static display, surprising audiences with both its beauty and functionality.
Sadad’s story serves as an inspiration, illustrating how passion and creativity can lead to incredible achievements. His journey in creating a wooden Volkswagen Karmann Ghia exemplifies the spirit of innovation and determination, proving that, with enough skill and imagination, even the most unorthodox materials can be transformed into something truly extraordinary. Sadad’s teak wood car is more than just a vehicle; it’s a moving work of art that bridges traditional craftsmanship with the forward-thinking world of automotive design. *** [EKA [07022020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MURIA NEWS | OTO DETIK | TRIBUNNEWS JOGJA]
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ART WORK - In the world of craftsmanship, few things capture the imagination like the intricate designs and dedication behind creating lifelike replicas. One such example, which garnered attention back in 2014, showcases the remarkable skill of Indonesian artisans. A workshop located in Boyolali, Central Java, became the center of attention when it revealed a stunning wooden replica of the Bugatti Veyron, one of the most luxurious cars in the world. This one-of-a-kind creation, crafted entirely from wood, not only highlighted the artistry of the craftsmen but also underscored Indonesia's growing reputation for producing high-quality, intricate works of art.
The Bugatti Veyron Super Sports replica made entirely out of teak. (Picture from: Carscoops)
The replica, which mirrors the French hypercar down to the finest details, was created to a 1:1 scale. Every curve, line, and feature of the Bugatti Veyron was carefully replicated using teak wood scraps, a material known for its durability and natural beauty. The craftsmanship that went into creating this wooden version of the luxury vehicle was nothing short of remarkable. With a price tag of around 40 million Indonesian Rupiah (approximately $3,362 or €2,600), this wooden masterpiece was not just a decoration—it was a functional, life-sized model. The details included a fully functional steering wheel, gear shifters, pedals, and even the seats, all crafted from wood with precision and care.
The owner of the workshop, Eko Lukistyanto, explained that the project was commissioned by a buyer in Europe, specifically in Germany. This marked a significant moment for the artisans of Boyolali, as it demonstrated the global demand for their unique creations. Beyond the Bugatti Veyron, the workshop was also known for producing other high-end car replicas, including a wooden version of the Mercedes Benz 300SL, a timeless German sports car. Additionally, the artisans crafted wooden replicas of various motorcycles, further showcasing their versatility and exceptional skill in replicating luxury vehicles.
The replica of Mercedes Benz 300SL made entirely out of teak. (Picture from: Information)
What makes this story even more captivating is not only the high level of craftsmanship involved but also the cultural fusion it represents. The artisans in Boyolali are blending traditional Indonesian woodworking techniques with the allure of Western luxury cars, creating a product that transcends geographical boundaries. The precision with which these models are crafted reflects the attention to detail that is deeply ingrained in Indonesian craftsmanship. Each piece that leaves the workshop is not merely a replica; it is a piece of art, combining both local heritage and global luxury.
In the years following this 2014 news, the reputation of Indonesian artisans has only grown, with more and more international buyers recognizing their skill and dedication. The wooden Bugatti Veyron is just one example of how local talent can capture the attention of the world, producing works of art that are both functional and visually stunning. As the global market continues to appreciate the value of handcrafted, unique pieces, we can only expect to see more extraordinary creations from workshops like the one in Boyolali.
The replicas of premium motorcycles made entirely out of teak. (Picture from: Otosia)
As the world becomes more connected and the demand for unique, high-quality, handcrafted items increases, Indonesia’s artisans are poised to continue impressing with their exceptional skills. The success of the Boyolali workshop demonstrates that no matter the material, whether it's wood, metal, or anything else, the combination of creativity, passion, and technical skill can turn even the most ambitious ideas into reality. This story is a testament to the ever-growing influence of Indonesian craftsmanship, showing that even in the most unexpected places, there are artisans capable of creating world-class masterpieces that are cherished worldwide. *** [EKA [26122019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSCOOPS | INFORMATION | OTOSIA ]
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Back to 2013, a Bosnian pensioner have a unique way to spend time with his favorite car, 1974 VW Beetle. He managed to overhaul almost the entire car body coating with a layer of wood.
Momir Bojic posed with his unique 1974 wooden VW Beetle. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1Yg7RX)
He is 71-year-old man named Momir Bojic does not want to be silent even though he is no longer young. VW Beetle initially usual classic look, add more epic, thanks to his creativity. In fact, he has prepared such a great idea, since 2005.
According to Slavorum some time ago, he had spend more than US $50,000 (Rp.579 million), the dream that he had planned for years proved to be true and looks unique.
Right side view of 1974 wooden VW Beetle by Momir Bojic. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1WETxq7)
Everything from the bonnet to the gearstick was carved in his garden workshop - with help from his wife. The couple also created wooden fittings for the pedals, wheel caps, bumpers, front turn signal lamps, tail-lights, wipers, side mirrors, steering wheel, parcel shelf, dashboard, glovebox lid, clock and even the radio antennae.
Dashboard view of 1974 wooden VW Beetle by Momir Bojic. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1Yg7RX)
The car features thousands of thumbnail-sized, finely sliced sections of oak designed to replicate the commonly seen wooden-tiled roofs in Bojic's homeland. Each tile involved 23 separate procedures, including cutting, chamfering, beveling, drilling and smoothing, before they could be applied to the vehicle.
Engine view of 1974 wooden VW Beetle by Momir Bojic. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1Yg7RX)
The level of detail was so much attention until the wooden parts enveloped entire body of the car including the hood, wipers, console, steering wheel and dashboard. Not to forget he also drive it wearing a hat that matching with the car's color.
Top rear view of 1974 wooden VW Beetle by Momir Bojic. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1WETxq7)
The car is perfectly roadworthy, and Mr Bojić says its draws crowds wherever it goes. Maybe golden years aren’t so bad, it makes people forget profit and makes them do what they love! *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VTIBET | SLAVORUM]
It's probably one of the most unique custom cars I've seen in that it isn't based on any particular car, and was actually built by a west-coast boat builder in 1959. Check it out, it looks like a cross between a rat rod, farm tractor, and so on. And according to VisualNews, the roadster was created based on the article in the September 1956 issue of Mechanix Illustrated magazine.
1959 All-Wooden Speedball Special Roadster. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1YgBrd)
As reported by Hemmings Daily, the Standard Catalog, as faulty and full of holes as it is, actually has an entry on the Speedball Special. They have it listed as a 1956 Buckboard, though they note that "it may have been known as the Bruce or Bruce Buckboard." That would be because they say a Donald S. Bruce designed the car. They list the manufacturer as Automotive Associates Co. in White Plains, New York.
Left side view of 1959 All-Wooden Speedball Special Roadster. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1YgBrd)
Here's the result: a modified version of the Speedball Special. The car is equipped with an impossibly rare 1952 Ariel Square Four motorcycle motorcycle engine and transmission and that the suspension was taken from a Citroen of the era, except lights, guages, etc., the rest was all hand fabricated.
Rear side view of 1959 All-Wooden Speedball Special Roadster. (Picture from: http://adf.ly/1YgBrd)
A smooth-running four-cylinder 1,000 cc engine able to push out about 42 hp. That might not seem like much, but when driving the sequential four-speed and with a weight of only a mere 750 lbs this little wooden car has got to be a rocket. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS DAILY | VISUALNEWS | JALOPNIK]
ART WORK - In the world of automotive enthusiasts, the term "expensive" takes on a whole new meaning when it comes to modifications. For many, it’s not just about the price tag, but about achieving uniqueness and expressing individuality. This is especially true in the motorcycle community, where creativity and craftsmanship are central to the culture. In recent years, a growing trend has emerged, with motorcycle enthusiasts transforming their bikes into one-of-a-kind works of art. A prime example of this is Carlos Alberto, a carpenter from Portugal, who crafted a unique wooden Vespa. In a similar spirit, Indonesian craftsman Eri Ashari has also captured attention with his extraordinary creation—a wooden Vespa that pushes the boundaries of expectations and showcases the beauty of skilled craftsmanship.
The wooden Vespa, made from 65 million pieces of pencil wood waste by Eri Ashari, was showcased at the 2018 Indonesian Scooter Festival at the Jogja Expo Center. (Picture from: TribunJogja)
Eri Ashari, from Indonesia, has taken something as simple as wood waste and turned it into an awe-inspiring masterpiece. His creation—a replica of the classic Vespa MP6 prototype—has a unique twist. Rather than using traditional materials like metal or plastic, Eri’s Vespa is made entirely from discarded wood, specifically sourced from the pencil-making industry. This innovative use of wood waste demonstrates the potential of recycling and reimagining materials that would otherwise be discarded.
Creating this one-of-a-kind wooden Vespa was no small feat. Over the course of two years, Eri meticulously assembled over 65 million pieces of wood waste to bring his vision to life. Each piece was carefully crafted and arranged to form the intricate details of the classic scooter design. While the scale of the project may seem daunting, Eri’s skillful hands and unwavering dedication turned what could have been an impossible task into a stunning reality.
Eri Ashari poses with his wooden creation of the Vespa MP6 prototype scooter.(Picture from: TribunJogja)
"This is all from pencil wood waste," Eri shared in an interview with Tribun-Jogja. "There are about 65 million pieces to make this scooter. Incidentally, we have so much wood waste in my area, so I decided to use it. Even the seats are made of wood." His statement underscores not only his talent but also the abundance of raw materials that can be found in unexpected places. The project marked a new chapter in Eri's career, as this wooden Vespa was his fifth scooter creation, and it was the first of its kind made from pencil wood waste.
A wooden Vespa scooter by Eri Ashari. (Picture from:Gudeg.net)
The process of building the wooden Vespa presented its own set of challenges. The rigidity of the wood made it difficult to shape, and Eri had to carefully arrange the pieces vertically to prevent breakage. Despite these challenges, Eri's determination and ingenuity prevailed. The result is a visually stunning scooter that captures the spirit of the classic Vespa while adding an artistic and environmentally-conscious twist.
In addition to its innovative construction, this wooden Vespa also boasts some modern features that enhance its functionality and comfort. One notable addition is the remotely controlled digital audio system, allowing the rider to enjoy music or other media while cruising. The seat itself is a work of art, with a large white ivory-colored stone embedded into it. This stone functions as a natural cooling element, ensuring that the seat remains comfortable even during long rides under the hot sun. The entire body of the scooter has been coated with a nano-coating layer, making it easier to maintain and adding an extra touch of durability.
The scooter’s design and functionality were put to the test during an extensive journey, with Eri taking the antique wooden Vespa on a round-trip ride of over 1,000 kilometers. The route stretched from Lembang to Pangandaran, West Java, Indonesia, and despite the unique materials used in its construction, the scooter performed flawlessly. Eri proudly shared that the scooter had received roadworthy certification from the authorities, proving that it wasn't just a piece of art but a fully functional vehicle.
The wooden Vespa, made from 65 million pieces of pencil wood waste by Eri Ashari, was showcased at the 2018 Indonesian Scooter Festival at the Jogja Expo Center. (Picture from:Gudeg.net)
With such an innovative creation, it’s no surprise that the wooden Vespa has attracted significant interest from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Eri revealed that he had received offers for the scooter, including one for €139,000 (approximately Rp. 1.9 billion). While the price tag is undeniably impressive, Eri's focus isn't solely on profit. "I want my wooden Vespa works to fall into the hands of someone who can appreciate it as an artwork," he explained. Despite the high offers, Eri has yet to part with his creation, as he believes it deserves a special home where it will be valued for its artistry and craftsmanship.
Looking ahead, Eri Ashari is considering the possibility of donating his wooden Vespa to a museum, either in Yogyakarta or Bandung. This would ensure that his work continues to inspire future generations and showcases the beauty of Indonesian craftsmanship on an international stage. Whether displayed in a museum or cherished by a private collector, Eri's wooden Vespa is a testament to the power of creativity and sustainability in the world of automotive design.
This unique project has not only captured the public’s imagination but also serves as a reminder of the endless possibilities that can emerge when we view everyday materials from a different perspective. Eri Ashari’s wooden Vespa is more than just a scooter; it is a statement of artistry, innovation, and environmental consciousness. For those fortunate enough to experience it firsthand, it represents the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, craftsmanship and technology. As the world continues to evolve, creations like Eri’s remind us that there is always room for something extraordinary, no matter how humble the origins. And if you're curious to see more, don't miss the unique wooden scooters crafted by two skilled artisans from Jepara. Let’s take a closer look!
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops..... *** [EKA [10122019] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TRIBUN-JOGJA | GUDEG.NET | MOTORPLUS-ONLINE | KUMPARAN | TEMPO-OTOMOTIF ] Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
This happened when Ferruccio wanted to start another project after selling his raging-bull logoed company in 1981. At that time Romano Artioli was known widely as a Bugatti collector, turn out also had a personal ambition to establish a company worthy of Ettore Bugatti’s legacy, Bugatti macaron, and the horseshoe grille. And made the initial idea to estabilish a new brand changed into a wildly ambitious plan to revive one of the all-time great auto marques.
Observed in its unique technical aspects or appreciated simply as an "unusual mobile" car, the PM1 is in any case a reality resolved in a traditional way and presented so simply, to reawaken that intimate sense of taste and charm that always accompanies a valid work for a long time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BESTINSKETCH.IT | SPORTSCARDIGEST ]
