New TRACK-BEAST - In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive marvels, Red Bull Advanced Technologies (RBAT) is set to unveil a groundbreaking creation – the Red Bull RB17, initially codenamed Eta hypercar. Departing from the traditional race circuits, this hypercar is poised to rival esteemed counterparts like the Aston Martin Valkyrie, AMG One, and GMA T50.
Red
Bull RB17 (in pictured side profile of Autocar's rendered image) will
be a natural rival for Aston Martin Valkyrie, AMG One and GMA T50. (Picture from: Autocar)
Recently disclosed by Christian Horner, the mastermind behind the Red Bull Racing Team, the RB17 hypercar is gearing up for its grand debut in 2024. With an impressive 1,233 horsepower, this powerhouse is fueled by cutting-edge Hybrid technology, propelling the automotive realm into uncharted territories of performance.
Red Bull also assisted to develop the Aston Martin Valkyrie, which reached the first customers beck in 2021. (Picture from: Autonews.Europe)
Details surrounding the engine configuration are shrouded in secrecy, sparking speculation about a formidable twin-turbo V8 engine – a potential collaboration with industry giants like Porsche or Ford.
Red Bull Racing's CEO, Christian Horner, and visionary car designer Adrian Newey share the podium during the presentation of the RB17 project. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The clandestine nature of this partnership amplifies anticipation, capturing the imaginations of enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the grand unveiling.Beyond sheer power, the RB17 promises to be a fusion of F1 technology and groundbreaking innovations. Drawing inspiration directly from Formula 1 racing, this hypercar seamlessly integrates performance elements into its bodywork. The incorporation of the Energy Recovery System (ERS) technology further enhances its aerodynamics, ensuring a harmonious blend of speed and precision on the open road.
RBAT's technical director Rob Gray: RB17 has "a lot in common with the F1 car". (Picture from: Autocar)
Christian Horner sheds light on the ambitious weight target of 900 kilograms for the RB17, a testament to Red Bull's unwavering commitment to excellence. This hypercar aims to redefine standards with a lower center of gravity, an elongated wheelbase, and wheels exceeding 18 inches – surpassing the conventional specifications of an F1 car. Horner tantalizingly asserts, "It's going to sound fantastic, like a race car should," sparking excitement among speed enthusiasts globally.
Aston Martin Valkyrie was Adrian Newey's first hypercar. (Picture from: Autocar)
The visionary Adrian Newey, renowned for crafting the aerodynamic marvels of Aston Martin Valkyrie and Red Bull F1 team's racing cars, lends his expertise to the design of the RB17 hypercar. Newey's touch promises a lightweight marvel that outshines its main rival, the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR Pro.
Newey says new car will use "all the tricks we’ve learned in F1". (Picture from: Autocar)
A significant moment for Red Bull Powertrains, the RB17 marks the venture into mass car production. Derived from the intended name for the 2021 Red Bull F1 car, this hypercar symbolizes a leap into a broader automotive landscape. Despite its mass production label, the RB17 remains reserved for adrenaline-fueled circuits, with only 50 units scheduled for production, approximately 15 units rolling off the production line each year starting from 2025.
Turning to the specifics, each unit of the RB17 hypercar is expected to bear a substantial price tag, starting from $6.4 million or around Rp. 99.2 billion. This significant cost mirrors not only the state-of-the-art technology infused into each vehicle but also positions the RB17 as an emblem of luxury and exclusivity in the hypercar market. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR.CO.UK | CARSCOOPS | AUTOBLOG | EVO.CO.UK | AUTONEWS.EUROPE ]
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Ready 2 FLY - In recent years, the electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) rides market have experienced a rapid surge, witnessing the testing of various innovative concepts by numerous companies. While many designs lean towards drones or jet-like structures, there's a fascinating endeavor by Urban eVTOL (now LEO Flight Corporation) to transform everyday vehicles into personal flying cars, breaking away from the conventional drone-like appearance dominating the air taxi race.
The LEO Coupe is an eVTOL powered by an electric jet turbine that defies the typical drone or jet-like appearance associated with flying cars, instead resembling a luxury hypercar poised to soar through the urban skyline. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Founded in the spring of 2020 by Pete Bitar and Carlos Salaff, LEO Flight Corporation seeks to bridge the design gaps in VTOL flying cars. This collaborative venture between Bitar's Electric Jet Aircraft and Salaff's SALAFF Automotive aims to design and manufacture electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) flying cars for advanced air mobility (AAM). The company, currently seeking investors, stands out with its unique vision.
The LEO Coupe has such unique feature of hidden rotors within the wings ensures safety for those in proximity. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Pete Bitar, an accomplished VTOL and eVTOL inventor with over 14 patents and several aerospace awards, joined forces with Carlos Salaff, an automotive designer known for his work on futuristic concept and production cars including the Nagare, Furai, Mazda 3, MX-5 and SALAFF C2.
LEO Flight's LX-1 skeletal prototype on display at the Greentech Festival in New York City in 2022. (Picture from: AviationWeek)
Their collaboration birthed the LEO Coupe, an eVTOL powered by an electric jet turbine that defies the typical drone or jet-like appearance associated with flying cars, instead resembling a luxury hypercar poised to soar through the urban skyline.
The creators of the LEO Coupe envision a future where VertiStops on urban rooftops serve as not just transportation hubs but also as parking and charging stations for other electric vehicles, representing a strategic leap toward sustainable urban air mobility. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Unlike its counterparts, the LEO Coupe, slightly longer than an Aston Martin Valkyrie, boasts a size that fits into a standard 2-car garage. This makes it suitable for private ownership, air taxi services, and operation in confined spaces. The unique feature of hidden rotors within the wings ensures safety for those in proximity.
The LEO Coupe featured with spacious interior accommodates up to three passengers, with future plans to transition into fully autonomous vehicles once the technology matures. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Adding an extra layer of safety, the LEO Coupe incorporates a DARPA-funded propulsion system. Notably, the vehicle includes gull-wing doors, a distinctive feature that captures the attention of automotive enthusiasts. The spacious interior accommodates up to three passengers, with future plans to transition into fully autonomous vehicles once the technology matures. Until then, a driver is required, considering the remarkable speeds these cars can achieve – up to 250 mph (402 kph).
The LEO Coupe, slightly longer than an Aston Martin Valkyrie, boasts a size that fits into a standard 2-car garage. (Picture from: BlackXperience)
The flying car company envisions diverse applications for the LEO Coupe, ranging from fire rescue and medevac to coast guarding, tourism, and exploration. Renderings released by the company depict the vehicle seamlessly navigating various scenarios, highlighting its adaptability across different terrains without the need for extensive infrastructure development.
The flying car company envisions diverse applications for the LEO Coupe, ranging from fire rescue and medevac to coast guarding, tourism, and exploration. (Picture from: FutureRide)
Recently showcased at the 2024 CES, the LEO Coupe stood out among flying cars on displays, resembling more of a sports car than a conventional airplane. "We were determined to create a safe, compact vehicle that is simple to operate and feels intuitive to a culture accustomed to cars," emphasized Carlos Salaff, the designer behind the LEO Coupe.
As the company continues its pursuit of innovation, it is actively working on establishinga VertiStop pilot network for its eVTOLs. The plan involves developing VertiStops on existing urban rooftops, serving not only as transportation hubs for LEOs but also as parking and charging stations for other electric vehicles, marking a strategic move towards sustainable urban air mobility. The future seems to hold exciting possibilities as LEO Flight Corporation propels the concept of personal flying cars into new realms of accessibility and functionality. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | LEO FLIGHT CORPORATION | EVTOLNEWS | AVIATIONWEEK | FUTURERIDE ]
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Forgotten ONES - In the early months of 1987, Lamborghini embarked on a mission to craft a worthy successor to the iconic Lamborghini Jalpa, initiating the ambitious Lamborghini P140 project. Embracing collaboration, the renowned car manufacturer sought external design expertise alongside their in-house efforts, a customary practice in the dynamic automotive landscape.
In 1989, the Chrysler Design Center presented a design proposal for the Lamborghini P140 project. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Shortly after the commencement of the P140 endeavor, a pivotal shift occurred as Chrysler acquired Automobili Lamborghini from the Mimram Group in April 1987. This transaction, completed at a reported $25 million, marked a significant return on the Mimram's original $3 million investment. Amidst this change, the focus on the Jalpa's replacement intensified, aiming to rival the offerings from Maranello, Stuttgart, and the emerging Japanese sports car scene, notably the impending Honda NSX.
The Chrysler's P140 design proposal unveils an exterior reminiscent of the Lamborghini Portofino Concept, evoking echoes of the 1991 Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor 'Wraith.' (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
Parallel to the P140 project, Lamborghini was concurrently engrossed in developing a successor for the legendary Countach. This dual commitment stretched the company's research and development resources to their limits.
Technically, the P140 featured a bonded aluminum monocoque chassis, boasting a 2,522 mm wheelbase, an extension by 71 mm compared to its predecessor, the Jalpa. Suspension incorporated double wishbones, coil-sprung damper units on all corners, and anti-roll bars at both ends. Ventilated four-wheel discs handled braking duties, while the track dimensions were notably wider than the Jalpa.
Regrettably, the Chrysler model had to take a backseat as Lamborghini opted for Gandini's P140 design, given his rich history with the marque, having previously sculpted several Raging Bull masterpieces like the Miura, Espada, and Countach. (Picture from: CarsThatNeverMadeItEtc)
The quest for an exquisite body design led to evaluations of proposals from distinguished designers such as Marcello Gandini, the renowned Italian studio, Bertone, and the Chrysler Design Center. Ultimately, Lamborghini chose Gandini's P140 design, considering his extensive history with the marque, having previously crafted masterpieces like the Miura, Espada, and Countach.
The Marcello Gandini's designed Lamborghini P140 while sat on display at the Museo Lamborghini in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Meanwhile, the Chrysler Design Center's proposal, though intriguing, succumbed to the passage of time. A glimpse into Chrysler's P140 design surfaced through Story-Cars on X/Twitter, revealing an exterior akin to the Lamborghini Portofino Concept and evoking memories of the 1991 Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor 'Wraith.' Sadly, the fate of this Chrysler model, a full-scale prototype without an engine, remains shrouded in mystery.
The 1990 Lamborghini P140 boasts a carbon fiber body atop a purpose-built aluminum monocoque chassis, tailored for the 2,800 lbs (around 1,270 kg) lightweight supercar. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Despite nearing production readiness with a slated 1992 launch, Chrysler abruptly terminated the P140 program in its final developmental stages. The vehicle met an untimely demise, never getting the chance to grace the production line. Subsequently, Chrysler relinquished control of Lamborghini to the Malaysian investment group Mycom Setdco and the Indonesian group V Power Corporation.
The 1995 Lamborghini Calà Concept by ItalDesign, crafted upon one of the three P140 chassis, currently stands in the Lamborghini Museum alongside its predecessor, embodying a 15-year quest to follow in the footsteps of the cherished Jalpa. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Today, one of the three prototypes of Gandini's P140 finds its home in Lamborghini's museum, while another underwent a transformation into the striking Lamborghini Calà concept of 1995. This project, another endeavor to introduce a production-viable, V10-engined Lamborghini, met a similar fate. The Calà now resides alongside its predecessor in the Lamborghini Museum, symbolizing a 15-year journey to succeed the beloved Jalpa. In the realm of automotive history, the Lamborghini P140 remains a captivating tale of innovation, collaboration, and the twists and turns of the industry's evolution.
In the halls of Lamborghini's museum, these prototypes stand as testament to a bygone era, encapsulating the spirit of daring designs and unrealized dreams. The P140's legacy, though short-lived, echoes through Lamborghini's narrative, reminding enthusiasts of the brand's relentless pursuit of automotive excellence. The journey from the drawing board to the museum showcases the intricate dance between creativity and practicality, a dance that defines the ever-evolving landscape of luxury sports car manufacturing. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STORY-CARS ON TWITTER | EVO.CO.UK | SUPERCARNOSTALGIA | BA-BAMAIL | CONCEPTCARS | CARSTHATNEVERMADEITETC ]
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Futuristic RIDES - In the realm of extraterrestrial fascination, flying saucers often spark thoughts of encounters with aliens and UFO mysteries. However, not all saucers are bound for outer space; some find their origins right here on Earth, crafted by human ingenuity. This unlikely association between terrestrial design and celestial speculation is evident in various automotive creations, challenging the conventional narrative of unidentified flying objects.
The
Renault Reinastella flying saucer concept, a result of the French
automaker's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992, emerged as a
distinctive creation. (Picture from: lAutomobileAncienne)
In the automotive world, renowned designers like Alex Tremulis ventured into uncharted territory, conceptualizing flying saucer designs. This trend extended beyond the drafting board, with manufacturers materializing these imaginative ideas into real, tangible forms. Examples include the 1953 Alfa Romeo 1900 C52 Disco Volante, the futuristic 1958 Ford X-2000, the gyroscopic wonder of 1967 Gyro-X, and the contemporary 2016 Alfa Romeo Disco Volante Spyder, each defying expectations.
The Reinastella name of 1992 Renault's flying saucer originated to the classic luxury car model, Renault Reinastella, dating back to early of 1930s. (Picture from: Secret-Classic)
Yet, amidst these earthly endeavors, there exists an intriguing anomaly—a flying saucer not confined on wheels. Renault, the famed French automotive manufacturer, ventured into uncharted skies in the early 1990s. Known for its conceptual prowess, Renault's partnership with Euro Disney in 1992 led to the creation of a flying saucer projecting into the distant future, the Renault Reinastella, named after a luxurious Renault classic model from early of the 1930s.
The
Renault Reinastella, enveloped in innovative dermotylene and infused
with avant-garde biomechanics, surpassed the notion of a mere vehicle. (Picture from: Proektor)
Crafted with avant-garde biomechanics and coated in the innovative synthetic material dermotylene, the Reinastella was envisioned as more than a mere vehicle. Propelled by a bio-organic engine fueled by 'plasmelf' fluid, it transcended conventional transportation, almost resembling a living organism. Operating 15 cm above the ground at 50 kph or soaring at 150 m and 300 kph, the Reinastella adapted its architecture for optimal aerodynamics during flight.
The Renault Reinastella, an airborne marvel, epitomized futuristic luxury travel for five passengers controlled by voice commands.. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Silently transporting five passengers through voice commands, this airborne marvel represented the epitome of luxury in futuristic travel. Access to its passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed.
Access to the Reinastella's passenger compartment is from below through an open hatch, not from above, as the bubble remains closed. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Two examples were constructed and showcased on telescopic masts during Renault's partnership with Disneyland Paris. After the event, these futuristic saucers joined the Renault Classic Collection, destined to await their sale - scheduled a whopping 305 years into the future.😮
While
the Renault Reinastella may not soar through the skies, it invites us
to envision a future where innovation defies the limits of logic and
propels us into uncharted realms. (Picture from: Auto-Moto)
Today, the Reinastella may be considered an 'Identified Flying Object' or IFO, as it remains grounded. Despite its earthly tethering, it serves as a captivating decorative testament to Renault's imaginative prowess. A glimpse into a future more than a century away, this 'IFO' prompts us to keep dreaming, pushing boundaries, and contemplating the unimaginable.
New EV - The 2024 Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas witnessed a captivating unveiling by Honda – not one, but two futuristic concept cars that seem to have leaped straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster. These innovative vehicles have now become an integral part of the Honda 0 Series, marking a significant stride towards the future of automotive technology.
The 2024 CES in Las Vegas showcased Honda's captivating unveiling of two futuristic Honda 0 Series concept cars, the Saloon and Space-Hub, signifying a significant leap into the future of automotive technology. (Picture from: Jikayosha.jp)
The showcase not only included the sleek Saloon model but also featured the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub, signaling Honda's ambitious foray into the realm of electric vehicles (EV). While the Honda 0 Series Saloon takes design cues from the iconic wedge-shaped concepts of the 1970s, showcasing a blend of nostalgia and avant-garde aesthetics. On the other end of the spectrum, the Space-Hub takes a completely different approach.
Honda envisions the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub as a "flexible space" capable of adapting to diverse passenger needs, evolving into a dynamic "hub" connecting individuals with each other and the external world. (Picture from: CarAndBike)
Honda envisions it as a "flexible space" capable of adapting to diverse passenger needs, evolving into a dynamic "hub" connecting individuals with each other and the external world. The design appears reminiscent of a Starfleet space shuttle, hinting at a futuristic narrative that Honda is keen to unfold.
The Honda 0 Series Space-Hub design appears reminiscent of a Starfleet space shuttle, hinting at a futuristic narrative that Honda is keen to unfold. (Picture from: CarAndBike)
Despite lacking concrete plans for production, this conceptual minivan offers a tantalizing glimpse into the potential future of the Honda 0 Series. Its exterior boasts a panoramic roof stretching to the passenger side, providing a spacious and airy interior. The second-row seats, arranged facing each other, offer flexible configurations that transform the minivan into a communal space, fostering connectivity among passengers and the world beyond.
The Honda 0 Series Space-Hub second-row seats, arranged facing each other, offer flexible configurations that transform the minivan into a communal space, fostering connectivity among passengers and the world beyond. (Picture from: Mad4Wheels)
One standout feature of the Space-Hub is its unconventional rear design, characterized by box-shaped rear lights dominating almost half of the rear section. Interestingly, Honda opted not to include a rear glass, leaving enthusiasts to wonder about the reasoning behind this decision. Could it be a technological innovation or a strategic move influenced by production costs? The absence of a rear glass suggests a unique approach to visibility, perhaps relying on advanced technology to provide a clear view of the surroundings.
One standout feature of the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub is its unconventional rear design, characterized by box-shaped rear lights dominating almost half of the rear section. (Picture from: CarMagazine)
Beyond the captivating concept models, Honda introduced a fresh "H" logo designed exclusively for its upcoming EV models, including those within the 0 Series. This emblem, reminiscent of Honda's early logo, symbolizes "two outstretched hands," reflecting Honda's steadfast commitment to "expanding mobility possibilities and continuing to meet the needs of its customers." The logo encapsulates the brand's vision for the future – an open-handed embrace of innovation and a promise to usher in a new era of automotive excellence.
In essence, Honda's unveiling at the 2024 CES goes beyond mere automotive showcases; it marks a bold step into the future, where nostalgia intertwines with cutting-edge design, and where the concept of mobility evolves into a seamless connection between people and the world around them. The Honda 0 Series, with its futuristic concepts and visionary logo, sets the stage for an exciting era of automotive innovation and electric mobility. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HONDA | 0.HONDA | CTRL_AND_X | TOPGEAR | ENGADGET | AUTOCAR | AUTOBLOG | WAPCAR.MY | CNET ]
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ONE BIG DREAMS - In the ever-evolving realm of automotive innovation, a captivating narrative unfolds, revealing hidden treasures that ignite the passion of both car enthusiasts and industry insiders. One such gem is the Olmos 640 R One, a creation born from the ingenuity of the relatively unknown French car artisan, Manuel Olmos.
The Olmos 640 R One stands as a stunning automotive supercar, a creation of Manuel Olmos, a skilled automotive craftsman hailing from Meximieux in Ain, France. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)
The journey of this exotic sports car commenced in 2011 when Olmos, armed with a unique skill set spanning electrical engineering, pneumatics, mechanics, and goldsmithing, embarked on the transformative task of sculpting a foam block in his modest garage—a block destined to metamorphose into a luxurious automobile.
The Olmos 640 R One prototype underwent development for approximately six years, involving an impressive 18,000 work hours since 2011. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)
The driving force behind Olmos' ambitious project was his perception that France lacked an iconic luxury car on par with globally renowned brands like Pagani, Zenvo, or Lamborghini. Frustrated with the frequent disappointment of concept cars never making it to production, he invested not only his skills but also a substantial €1 million of his savings to breathe life into his visionary project.
The Olmos 640 R One boasts a captivating sporty design that prioritizes safety, incorporating various components crafted from titanium, carbon, and Nomex for enhanced durability. (Picture from: EncyclAutomobile.fr)
The culmination of six years and an impressive 18,000 work hours yielded the Olmos 640 R One prototype in 2017. This automotive masterpiece boasts a titanium Nomex-carbon fiber chassis, a flat, ground-effect underfloor, and is powered by a formidable yet unspecified LS V8, delivering an impressive 640 horsepower. Adding an extra layer of intrigue is the subtle indication of an unapparent hybrid setup in the production model, potentially propelling the power output to an astonishing 1,000 horsepower.
The formidable LS V8 powering the Olmos 640 R One is discreetly positioned in the rear center, enhancing its performance. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)
The meticulous evolution of the car's design and optics, entrusted to Pascal Fotia, a skilled compatriot coachbuilder, mirrors Olmos' unwavering commitment to perfection. The vehicle, resplendent in immaculate whiteness, made its grand debut at the Époqu’auto show in Lyon, serving as a testament to Olmos' unwavering dedication and craftsmanship.
The meticulous evolution of the 640 R One's design and optics, entrusted to Pascal Fotia, a skilled compatriot coachbuilder, mirrors Olmos' unwavering commitment to perfection. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)
Despite the technical prowess and aesthetic allure of the Olmos 640 R One, its substantial price tag, commencing at €600,000 or approximately £530,000, seems to have given pause to potential buyers. Nevertheless, this financial hurdle has not dampened Olmos' spirits; he remains steadfast in his commitment to the artisanal approach to car manufacturing, envisioning each car as a unique masterpiece, preserving exclusivity and individuality.
The Olmos 640 R One resplendent in immaculate whiteness, made its grand debut at the Époqu'auto Lyon 2018. (Picture from: Olmos Racing)
The Époqu'auto Lyon 2018 emerged as a pivotal stage for Olmos to gauge public interest and potentially attract investors or partners. The response was remarkable, with a captivated audience and professionals witnessing the unveiling of this automotive marvel. The subsequent stops on the Olmos 640 R One's journey included potential appearances at the Cannes Festival and the Grand Prix du Mans.
Regrettably, as of today, updates on Manuel Olmos and his 640 R One supercar remain elusive, as if both the car and its creator have vanished from the limelight. Questions linger unanswered—was the sports car actually produced, and if so, how many units found their way into the world?
The anticipation surrounding its release has left enthusiasts hungry for news, and any information about Olmos and his creation is eagerly welcomed through the comments section below. The automotive world holds its breath, eagerly awaiting the next chapter in the extraordinary story of this French-built supercar. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OLMOS RACING | OBSCURE SUPERCAR ON TWITTER | ENCYCLAUTOMOBILE.FR | LAVOIXDELAIN.FR | LEPROGRES.FR | FRANCE3-REGIOS.FRANCETVINFO.FR ]
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Turning to the specifics, each unit of the RB17 hypercar is expected to bear a substantial price tag, starting from $6.4 million or around Rp. 99.2 billion. This significant cost mirrors not only the state-of-the-art technology infused into each vehicle but also positions the RB17 as an emblem of luxury and exclusivity in the hypercar market. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOCAR.CO.UK | CARSCOOPS | AUTOBLOG | EVO.CO.UK | AUTONEWS.EUROPE ]
