Gone Too Soon - The world of automotive innovation is filled with fascinating creations, many of which remain unknown to the wider public. Among these hidden gems is the Elite Laser 917, a kit car that left its mark in the 1970s and 1980s. Born from a blend of creative engineering and a love for racing-inspired designs, the Laser 917 stands as a tribute to a bygone era of automotive ingenuity. Its unique origins, captivating design, and notable performance have cemented its place as a memorable piece of car history.
The Laser 917, pictured here in the classic Gulf Oil livery restored by Gotham Garage, was the brainchild of Gary Knapp's Elite Enterprises, inspired by the legendary Porsche 917, a car synonymous with Le Mans dominance. (Picture from: HotCars)
The Elite Laser 917 was the brainchild of Elite Enterprises Inc., a small automotive company founded in November 1969 by Gerald “Jerry” Knapp in Cokato, Minnesota. As a relatively small player in the industry, Elite Enterprises focused on creating specialty vehicles that stood out from the mainstream market. The Laser 917, launched in 1972, was the company’s standout creation, designed to pay homage to the legendary Porsche 917, a car synonymous with dominance at Le Mans.
The 1969 Porsche 917 K Long Tail coupé, specifically the 917-001 chassis, celebrated as one of the most successful Porsche race cars ever made for its dominance at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the late 1960s, served as the inspiration for the Elite Laser 917.(Picture from: ConceptCarz)
However, this was not a replica but a reimagined version with a unique charm of its own. It was a car that could be built by enthusiasts, combining the passion for racing aesthetics with the hands-on satisfaction of constructing a vehicle. The Laser 917's exterior was nothing short of a head-turner. Designed by Harry Bradley, a renowned transportation designer and instructor at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, the car showcased a sleek, curvaceous body. Its low stance and wide proportions gave it an aggressive look, while the addition of gull-wing doors added a dramatic flair.
The Elite Laser 917, designed by renowned transportation designer Harry Bradley, featured a sleek, curvaceous body that made it a true head-turner. (Picture from: HotCars)
The Laser 917 was intended to fit on the chassis of a VW Beetle or a Karmann Ghia, making it accessible to hobbyists with these platforms. The design, while clearly inspired by the Porsche 917, was more of an artistic reinterpretation, making it a bold yet approachable project for car enthusiasts.
The Elite Laser 917, shown here in an image from a vintage advertisement by Elite Enterprises, highlights the car’s unique design and its appeal to automotive enthusiasts during its time. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Inside, the Laser 917 continued to impress with thoughtful features that prioritized both aesthetics and functionality. The kit included adjustable fiberglass bucket seats, a range of vinyl upholstery options, and a dashboard equipped with VDO gauges. These elements combined to create an interior that felt sporty yet practical.
The Elite Laser 917 gained fame with its cinematic appearance in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. (Picture from: IMCDB.org)
While not luxurious, the cabin reflected the car's purpose: to deliver an exciting driving experience while staying true to its DIY roots. Performance was a key focus of the Laser 917, though it was heavily influenced by the donor car's mechanicals. Using the chassis of a VW Beetle or Karmann Ghia meant that the Laser 917 inherited the engine and drivetrain from these vehicles.
The Elite Laser 917 replica featured in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
This setup kept the car lightweight and nimble, while its aerodynamic body added an extra edge. The assembly process required some modifications to the Beetle’s floor, but Elite Enterprises provided a comprehensive builder’s manual with over 500 diagrams to guide buyers. The company even claimed that the car could be completed in just 100 hours—a bold assertion given the intricacies of the build.
The Elite Laser 917, an excellent example of this iconic kit car, is proudly owned by Facebook user Vic Sn, showcasing its enduring appeal among collectors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Over the years, the Laser 917 gained a degree of fame, even making a cinematic appearance in the 1977 film Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo. In the movie, it was portrayed as the race car of German competitor Bruno Von Stickle, played by Eric Braeden. Painted in the colors of the German flag and sporting the number 17, the Laser 917 became an iconic part of the film, further solidifying its place in pop culture.
The Elite Laser 917, featuring a meticulously maintained interior, is proudly owned by Facebook user Vic Sn, reflecting the car's unique charm and craftsmanship. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
However, challenges loomed on the horizon. A legal dispute with Chrysler over the use of the "Laser" name forced Elite Enterprises into negotiations, resulting in a licensing agreement. While the company navigated this obstacle, the untimely death of founder Jerry Knapp in the mid-1980s dealt a devastating blow. Though a successor company, Quint Enterprises, attempted to carry the torch, production eventually ceased in 1991. By the end of its run, only 679 units had been built—a modest number by industry standards, yet impressive for a specialty kit car.
The story of the Elite Laser 917 is one of boundless creativity and ambition that burned brightly before fading too soon. For those who built, owned, or simply admired the car, it remains a symbol of what can be achieved with vision and determination. Though its time in the spotlight was brief, the Laser 917 continues to inspire as a reminder of the artistry and passion that define the world of niche automotive creations. Its legacy lives on, not only in garages and private collections but also in the hearts of those who still dream of the road less traveled. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONTCARS | HOTCARS | AUTOWEEK | COKATOMUSEUM | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | IMCDB.ORG ]
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Legendary Rarity - Over the years, Carroll Shelby and Ford have collaborated to produce some of the most legendary muscle cars in history. Their partnership led to the creation of vehicles that pushed the boundaries of performance, engineering, and design. Among these remarkable machines was the Green Hornet, a prototype that introduced innovative technology to the Mustang lineup. However, years later, a special tribute was built, one that retained the essence of the Green Hornet but with a striking new look—this was the 1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet.
The 1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet was a direct descendant of the Green Hornet Shelby GT500, mirroring much of its mechanical prowess. (Picture from: FordAuthority)
This unique Mustang was a direct descendant of the Green Hornet Shelby EXP500, mirroring much of its mechanical prowess. Under the hood, it housed a Cobra Jet 428 V8 engine, generating an impressive 335 horsepower. The setup was enhanced by Edelbrock aluminum heads, a top-loader 4-speed transmission, power steering, and power brakes. The car also featured the signature Shelby 10-spoke wheels, maintaining the aggressive stance and classic styling that defined the era of high-performance Mustangs.
The 1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet featured the signature Shelby 10-spoke wheels, maintaining the aggressive stance and classic styling that defined the era of high-performance Mustangs. (Picture from: AllForMustang)
The Black Hornet paid homage to its predecessor, which originally served as a rolling testbed for experimental automotive technologies. The Green Hornet had been a platform for innovations such as electronic fuel injection, independent rear suspension, a power antenna, and four-wheel disc brakes. While the Black Hornet did not incorporate all these features, it retained much of the original character, positioned at a transitional phase—after receiving disc brakes but before adopting EFI or an independent rear suspension.
The
1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet built based on an original 1968
Mustang and painted it in Stetson Black, a tribute to the hat famously
worn by Carroll Shelby himself. (Picture from: FordAuthority)
The man behind the Black Hornet’s construction was Barry Smith, owner of Legendary G.T. Under a licensing agreement with Carroll Shelby Licensing, Smith meticulously built this car as an official continuation of the Shelby EXP500 program. He started with an original 1968 Mustang and painted it in Stetson Black, a tribute to the hat famously worn by Carroll Shelby himself. The result was a strikingly bold Mustang that commanded attention both for its looks and its performance.
The 1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet retained its authenticity with a standard interior, original seatbelts, a 1958 Cobra steering wheel, and a center console featuring a manual transmission shifter for a true muscle car experience. (Picture from: AllForMustang)
Beyond being a showpiece of automotive engineering, the Black Hornet also had a noble purpose. It was created to support the Carroll Shelby Children’s Foundation, a charity dedicated to helping children with medical needs. The car was also associated with Restoration Hardware, further enhancing its connection to preservation and legacy. For a time, this special Mustang resided in Carroll Shelby’s personal collection, making it an even more coveted piece of automotive history. Adding to its authenticity, the title itself bore Carroll Shelby’s signature, solidifying its status as an officially recognized Shelby vehicle.
The 1968 Shelby EXP500 CSS Black Hornet powered by a Cobra Jet 428 V8 engine, generating an impressive 335 horsepower. (Picture from: AllForMustang)
Mechanically, the Black Hornet was equipped with a Holley high-volume fuel pump, a Cobra Jet manifold exhaust system, a Mallory Unilite ignition system, and a Shelby intake manifold. The engine was topped with a Cobra air cleaner, ensuring optimal performance. Other features included power steering and brakes, a Griffith aluminum radiator, tinted glass, and a standard interior setup without a roll bar. The center console housed the manual transmission shifter, staying true to the muscle car experience. Original seatbelts and a 1958 Cobra steering wheel further enhanced the car’s authenticity. Its exterior was completed with Shelby 10-spoke wheels wrapped in Goodyear GTII tires, sequential taillights, and Lucas fog lights, giving it a signature Shelby look.
The car was officially recorded in the Shelby Worldwide Registry, cementing its place in history. While the Green Hornet remains in the possession of Craig Jackson and Steve Davis of Barrett-Jackson, making it unlikely to ever be sold, the Black Hornet has made its way to the market. At one point, it was available for purchase, carrying a hefty price tag of $850,000, reflecting its rarity, significance, and undeniable appeal. *** [EKA [15072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | FORDAUTHORITY | MOTORAUTHORITY | AUTOEVOLUTION | ALLFORMUSTANG ]
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Futuristic Power - Speed, design, and technology have always been at the heart of automotive evolution. From the earliest race cars to today’s hypercars, manufacturers constantly push the boundaries to create vehicles that are faster, more aerodynamic, and more advanced. The desire to blend performance with futuristic aesthetics has led to some of the most revolutionary concepts in the industry. In early 2025, GAC Motors took this vision a step further by introducing the G-Force, a supercar concept that redefines what is possible in automotive design.
The GAC G-Force is more than just a concept car—it is a bold statement innovation of GAC Motors, known for its commitment to cutting-edge design. (Picture from: ViralNews.id)
Unveiled at the first-ever Digital Cars & Coffee event, the G-Force is more than just a concept car—it is a bold statement of innovation. GAC Motors, known for its commitment to cutting-edge design, has crafted a vehicle that blends high performance with an aesthetic inspired by science fiction, video games, and classic Le Mans prototypes. Created by Axel, an exterior designer at GAC Milano, in collaboration with the GAC Design team, the G-Force is an expression of limitless creativity and technological advancement.
The GAC G-Force is a vehicle that blends high performance with an aesthetic inspired by science fiction, video games, and classic Le Mans prototypes, created by Axel, an exterior designer at GAC Milano, in collaboration with the GAC Design team.(Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Stephan Janin, Head of GAC Advanced Design Europe, emphasized the significance of the project, calling it a breakthrough in digital automotive design. Unlike conventional supercars limited by traditional manufacturing constraints, the G-Force was developed entirely in a digital space. This approach allowed for an unprecedented level of design freedom, resulting in a hypercar that looks and feels like a glimpse into the future.
The GAC G-Force is an expression of limitless creativity and technological advancement.(Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The most striking feature of the G-Force is its sharp, aggressive lines and aerodynamic precision. Every curve and angle is engineered to optimize airflow while delivering an unmistakable visual impact. Even at a standstill, the car exudes a sense of speed and power. The cockpit blends nostalgia with modern innovation, creating a unique driving environment that prioritizes immersion and control.
Beyond its striking design, the GAC G-Force represents GAC Motors’ broader vision of the future. It is not just about building cars but redefining the automotive experience.(Picture from: OtoBlitz)
GAC’s Milan-based design studio, under Janin’s leadership, has a reputation for creating daring concepts that merge bold aesthetics with advanced technology. The G-Force exemplifies this philosophy, proving that digital-first design is not just an experiment but a new frontier in automotive development. By embracing digital platforms, GAC has eliminated traditional design barriers, allowing for limitless creativity and engagement with car enthusiasts worldwide.
The
most striking feature of the GAC G-Force is its sharp, aggressive lines
and aerodynamic precision with every curve and angle is engineered to
optimize airflow while delivering an unmistakable visual impact.. (Picture from: ViralNews.id)
Beyond its striking design, the G-Force represents GAC Motors’ broader vision of the future. It is not just about building cars but redefining the automotive experience. By integrating digital interaction with automotive design, GAC provides a unique space where enthusiasts and collectors can directly engage with the creative process. This approach not only pushes design boundaries but also inspires a new generation of automotive visionaries.
With the unveiling of the G-Force, GAC Motors continues to solidify its place as a pioneer in futuristic car design. By merging revolutionary concepts with digital innovation, the company proves that the future of the automotive world is shaped by bold ideas and technological ambition. Each step forward brings new inspiration, ensuring that GAC remains at the forefront of the next automotive revolution. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARSTYLINGRU ]
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Hidden GEMS - In the world of high-performance automobiles, the pursuit of innovation and boundary-pushing design has always been at the forefront. Some vehicles are born from a place of tradition, while others are radically altered to challenge and reshape what’s possible. The 1971 De Tomaso Pantera, an iconic sports car originally handcrafted in Turin, Italy, is one such example.
The 1971 De Tomaso "NOTYCAT" Pantera is a heavily modified, twin-turbocharged masterpiece wrapped in matte black, meticulously crafted by Shad Bruce. (Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT On Facebook)
However, the Pantera that has captured the automotive world’s attention in recent years is not the one that rolled off the production line in the '70s. It is the custom-built "NOTYCAT,"a heavily modified Pantera crafted by Shad Bruce in the United States. This twin-turbocharged masterpiece takes a classic Italian design and turns it into an aggressive, high-performance machine capable of competing with modern supercars.
The De Tomaso "NOTYCAT" Pantera was created by Shad Bruce, built upon a yellow 1971 "Pushbutton" Pantera that he acquired in 2004.(Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT on Facebook)
The journey of the NOTYCAT began in 2004 when Shad Bruce acquired a 1971 De Tomaso 'Pushbutton' Pantera with the intent to restore and enhance it. What started as a routine restoration soon evolved into a complete re-imagining of the car. Over the course of more than a decade, Bruce worked tirelessly on modifying every single aspect of the Pantera, reworking its powertrain, structure, and styling to create something truly extraordinary. By 2016, the NOTYCAT was born—a twin-turbocharged beast that had left behind the traditional confines of the original Pantera to become a car unlike any other.
The 1971 De Tomaso "NOTYCAT" Pantera commands attention with its aggressive design, featuring sharp futuristic lines and a widebody stance that embodies power, perfectly reflecting Shad Bruce's vision. (Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT on Facebook)
The custom-built Pantera’s appearance alone is enough to turn heads. Bruce's vision for the NOTYCAT was one of aggressive design, combining sharp, futuristic lines with a widebody stance that exudes power. The front end of the car is striking, with bold features that give the Pantera a modern, edgy look. The rear of the car, however, is where the real spectacle lies. Here, the engine bay is fully exposed, revealing the powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine in all its glory. Massive intercoolers flank the engine, adding to the high-performance aesthetics, while the quad-exhaust system promises a spine-tingling soundtrack to match its aggressive looks.
The 1971 De Tomaso 'NOTYCAT' Pantera boasts a striking front end with bold, modern features, while its rear steals the spotlight with an even more dramatic and eye-catching design. (Picture from: NOTYCAT Pantera on Instagram)
Clearly, this custom-built Pantera boasts several standout features that set it apart from the rest. The front hood, for instance, showcases a striking paint design with the word "NOTYCAT" outlined in yellow, positioned horizontally over a black-and-white photo collage that depicts the Pantera assembly process in Turin, Italy—an artistic tribute to the De Tomaso brand. Adding to the uniqueness, just nearby, there's a custom aluminum air duct and grille intricately crafted with the De Tomaso emblem motif, further enhancing the car’s distinctive character.
The 1971 De Tomaso 'NOTYCAT' Pantera features a striking front hood design with "NOTYCAT" outlined in yellow, set horizontally over a black-and-white photo collage of the Pantera assembly in Turin, Italy, as a tribute to the De Tomaso brand.. (Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT on Facebook)
One of the most captivating aspects of this build is its beautifully designed engine compartment. It’s not just about the aggressive wide-body stance; the goal was also to create a way to highlight the heart of the machine. What stands out is the engine cover itself—a truly one-of-a-kind design featuring tempered glass cut with precision using a water jet. The glass is further enhanced by a bold, CNC-routered aluminum ornament in a striking "X" shape, adding both visual appeal and a sense of craftsmanship that reflects the car’s extraordinary level of detail.
The 1971 De Tomaso 'NOTYCAT' Pantera features a uniquely designed engine cover with precision water-jet-cut tempered glass, enhanced by a bold CNC-routered aluminum "X" ornament that showcases its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.(Picture from: NOTYCAT Pantera on Instagram)
Under the glaas-covered rear hood of the NOTYCAT lies a heavily modified 351 Cleveland iron-block V8, now expanded to a monstrous 408 cubic inches. The engine’s raw displacement is just one part of the equation—Bruce overhauled every single component with high-performance upgrades to ensure that the car would reach new heights of power and speed. The addition of twin turbos, twin intercoolers, twin fuel cells, and other advanced components helped push the power output to a staggering 900 horsepower, transforming the once modest Pantera into a hypercar capable of competing with some of the most cutting-edge vehicles on the road today.
The 1971 De Tomaso "NOTYCAT" Pantera is powered by a heavily modified 351 Cleveland iron-block V8, expanded to a monstrous 408 cubic inches, with twin turbos, twin intercoolers, twin fuel cells, and other advanced components boosting its power output to a staggering 900 horsepower.(Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT on Facebook)
But NOTYCAT isn’t just about power; it’s also about the philosophy of the build. Bruce is a strong advocate of the "built, not bought" mentality, and every element of the NOTYCAT reflects that philosophy. Each modification, from the engine upgrades to the bespoke styling choices, was executed with meticulous attention to detail. This wasn’t a quick project—it was a labor of love, crafted over many years, and with every upgrade, the car evolved into a refined yet outrageous machine that balanced performance and design flawlessly.
The 1971 De Tomaso 'NOTYCAT' Pantera boasts a race-inspired cockpit with a bold yellow-accented dashboard, modern gauges, and a sleek, functional center console.(Picture from: DeTomaso Pantera NOTYCAT on Facebook)
As word of the NOTYCAT’s radical transformation spread, it quickly became a sensation on social media, particularly on Instagram, where automotive enthusiasts from around the world were captivated by its aggressive stance and unmatched performance. While some purists may argue against the extensive modifications, there’s no denying that the NOTYCAT represents a new era for the Pantera. It blends the old with the new, honoring the car’s classic Italian roots while embracing modern performance engineering.
The 1971 De Tomaso "NOTYCAT" Pantera redefines the concept of a classic car, transforming it from a mere upgrade into a bold reimagining of what’s possible in the hands of a true innovator. (Picture from: @Retromania4ever on X)
What makes the NOTYCAT so special is its ability to redefine the concept of a classic car. It is not just an upgraded Pantera; it is a reimagining of what a classic can become when placed in the hands of a true innovator. With its monstrous power, radical design, and fearless performance, the NOTYCAT is a statement in the automotive world. It shows that there are no limits to what can be achieved with a classic chassis, a visionary mindset, and a relentless commitment to performance and design.
Rare Icon - If I had wings... Fly high above the clouds. Hidden within the rich tapestry of the automotive world, certain names rise with a blend of creativity and ambition, even if they ultimately fade into obscurity. Eagle Cars Limited, a small English automaker, epitomized this mix. Its story, filled with innovations, challenges, and transitions, showcases a unique piece of automotive history that still intrigues enthusiasts today.
The Eagle SS (in pictured MkI model) lineage by Eagle Cars Ltd. gave a unique flair, blending British ingenuity with American boldness, manufactured between 1981 and 1998. (Picture from: NVAutomotive)
This British company was founded by Allen Breeze in Lancing, West Sussex, during the early 1980s. Initially, the company gained attention with its Jeep-inspired RV model. However, it was the Eagle SS, a striking sports car with gull-wing doors, that cemented its place in the automotive landscape.
The Eagle SS (in pictured MkI model) drew its inspiration from the Cimbria, an American kit car derived from the British Nova. (Picture from: Auta5p.eu)
Breeze's vision was taken forward by Rob Budd, a skilled trials motorcycle rider who acquired the company in 1989. The company relocated multiple times, including a notable move to Storrington in 1988, reflecting the shifting tides of a business striving to stay afloat. The Eagle SS drew its inspiration from the Cimbria, an American kit car derived from the British Nova. This lineage gave the car a unique flair, blending British ingenuity with American boldness.
Manufactured between 1981 and 1998, the Eagle SSfeatured lightweight fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GFRP) bodywork mounted on a Volkswagen Beetle chassis. This pairing offered a low curb weight of just 750 kilograms and promised thrilling performance. With a tuned VW engine, the car could achieve speeds of up to 200 km/h (124 mph), making it a standout option for kit car enthusiasts.
The Ford-based models of the Eagle SS MkII brought innovations like longer side windows. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Over the years, the Eagle SS saw three major iterations, each showcasing distinct improvements. The MkI version introduced a separate internal roll cage and ribbed sections on the trunk lid for enhanced airflow. The MkII brought innovations like longer side windows and Ford-based models, while the MkIII featured a taller roofline and integrated steel bars for added safety. The company even explored variations like a front-engined version with a tubular-framed chassis, incorporating Ford Cortina running gear and occasionally Rover’s robust 3.5-litre V8 engine.
The Ford-based models of the Eagle SS MkIII featured a taller roofline and integrated steel bars for added safety.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
Despite these efforts, Eagle Cars faced mounting challenges. Production had dwindled by the 1990s, and the company ceased trading in 1998. The molds and rights to the cars were scattered among various entities, leading to the gradual disappearance of Eagle SS components. The last documented sale of these molds occurred in 2012, yet their current whereabouts remain a mystery.
The Eagle SS MkIII version introduced a targa-roofed 2+2-seater variant, known as the '2 Plus,' to the lineup.(Picture from: RareComponentCars)
For all its promise, Eagle Cars Limited left behind a legacy defined by ambition and innovation. The Eagle SS, with its dramatic design and versatile configurations, remains a symbol of an era when small manufacturers dared to dream big. While only a fraction of the 680+ units produced remain, their enduring appeal serves as a testament to a company that dared to think differently. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | EAGLEOWNERCLUB | RARECOMPONENTCARS | WIKIPEDIA | CARTEFACTS | AUTA5P.EU | NVAUTOMOTIVE ]
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Unique Creation - In the world of automotive history, there are certain vehicles that stand out due to their distinctiveness, often resulting from collaborations that merge different industries. One such unique creation came from the merging of Italian motorcycle expertise and automotive innovation. It was the collaboration between Cagiva, an iconic Italian motorcycle manufacturer, and Lomar, a small but ambitious car company, that birthed the remarkable three-wheeled car known as Honey. This unusual vehicle, which used a motorcycle engine and was targeted at a niche market, quickly gained attention for its innovative design and functionality, although it would not see widespread production. Despite its short-lived commercial existence, the Honey has since become an intriguing piece of automotive history.
The Lomar Honey was presented by Giampiero Lombatti (left) to a visitor at the stand during the 1985 Salone del Ciclo e Motociclo di Milan (Milan Motorcycle Show). (Picture from: AutoTecnica)
The story behind the creation of the Honey car begins with the two founders of Lomar, Giampiero Lombatti and Fulvio Martini, both from Parma, Italy. The name "Lomar" is actually an acronym derived from their surnames. Lombatti hailed from a family with a strong connection to the automotive world, specifically Fiat’s historic dealerships. On the other hand, Martini came from the Coenzo family, known for their involvement with expanded resins. Their diverse backgrounds would contribute to the creation of a lightweight car that was quite ahead of its time. Their collaboration was made even more interesting by the support they received from Cagiva, a well-known name in the world of motorcycles.
The Lomar Honey was equipped with two gull-wing doors that could be easily removed during the summer months, transforming the car from a coupé to a convertible. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)
The design of the first Honey prototype was overseen by Walter Cugini, a skilled designer with experience in the automotive world. The chassis was developed by a studio already working with renowned car manufacturers in Modena, a city famous for its automotive legacy. Initially, the bodywork was crafted using steel sheet metal, meticulously hand-stroked by Gianni Gobbi, an experienced bodyworker from Italcar. However, as the project progressed, the design switched to fiberglass and polyester resin, a decision that allowed for significant weight reduction, making the vehicle more agile and efficient.
The Lomar Honey, approved as a motor-carriage, was powered by a 20-horsepower, liquid-cooled Cagiva 125 motorcycle engine and required an A-carriage license to drive.(Picture from: AutoTecnica)
The car’s debut at the 1985 Salone del Ciclo e Motociclo di Milan (Milan Motorcycle Show) caught the attention of many visitors and industry professionals. It was instantly recognized for its innovative use of a small three-wheeled layout, powered by a single-cylinder 125cc engine from Cagiva. This engine, a two-stroke design, was already popular in Cagiva’s motorcycles, particularly the Aletta Rossa 125 model. With a maximum power output of around 20 horsepower, the engine was capable of propelling the Honey to a top speed of 90 kilometers per hour, which was impressive for a vehicle of its size and design.
The Cagiva Aletta Rossa, shared the single-cylinder two-stroke 125cc engine and the modified gearbox with the Lomar Honey. (Picture from: DannataVintage)
One of the most eye-catching features of the Honey was its streamlined, modern coupé design. The body of the vehicle was compact, measuring just 3.6 meters in length and 1.6 meters in width. Its low height of 1.25 meters gave it a sleek profile. The Honey was equipped with two gull-wing doors that could be easily removed during the summer months, transforming the car from a coupé to a convertible. This unique feature added to the vehicle's appeal, as it combined the practicality of a small car with the fun of an open-air driving experience. The vehicle’s frame was made of steel tubes, ensuring strength and durability, while the use of fiberglass for the body panels kept the overall weight to just 300 kilograms.
The Lomar Honey featured a well-appointed interior with a sports steering wheel, and a dashboard with complete instrumentation.(Picture from: AutoTecnica)
The Honey was designed with comfort in mind, offering a well-appointed cockpit for its passengers. Inside, the car featured two comfortable armchairs, a sports steering wheel, and a dashboard with complete instrumentation, similar to what you might find in more mainstream vehicles like the Fiat Ritmo. The gear lever was located on the central tunnel, making the driving experience more intuitive. The car's design was clearly intended to appeal to a younger audience, particularly those aged 16 and above, who would only need an "A" license in Italy to drive it.
The Lomar Honey featured a well-finished, elegant interior with two seats designed in a sporty and ergonomic shape, enhancing both style and comfort. (Picture from: AutoTecnica)
However, despite the initial enthusiasm and interest from both the public and the industry, the Honey faced significant challenges when it came to production. The costs of industrializing the car proved to be far too high for Lomar and its small-scale operations. The two founders, unable to secure the necessary capital, had no choice but to abandon their dream of becoming car manufacturers. The Honey, which had been created with so much promise, remained a one-of-a-kind prototype and has since become a rare collector's item.
The Lomar Honey's bodywork was initially crafted from steel sheets by Gianni Gobbi, but during the start of series production, it transitioned to fiberglass and polyester resin.(Picture from: AutoTecnica)
Although the Honey was not destined for mass production, it remains an intriguing part of automotive history. The combination of Cagiva’s motorcycle engineering and Lomar’s car design was a bold attempt to break the mold and offer a unique solution to the challenges of urban mobility. Today, the Honey is still carefully preserved, a testament to the vision of its creators and the potential that could have been. The vehicle represents an early example of a light, compact car that could have paved the way for future innovations in small-scale transportation.
The Lomar Honey featured a compact body measuring 3.6 meters in length, 1.6 meters in width, and a low height of 1.25 meters, giving it a sleek profile.(Picture from: AutoTecnica)
The story of the Honey serves as a reminder of the often unpredictable nature of automotive innovation. While the car did not achieve commercial success, its design and engineering principles have influenced later developments in the field of small vehicles and microcars. The Honey's legacy lives on in the form of its unique engineering, the ingenuity of its creators, and the fascination it continues to inspire in automotive enthusiasts. It is a shining example of how bold ideas, even when faced with insurmountable obstacles, can leave a lasting impression on the world. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | DANNATAVINTAGE | AUTOTECNICA | ALLCARINDEX | WIKIPEDIA ]
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The story of the Elite Laser 917 is one of boundless creativity and ambition that burned brightly before fading too soon. For those who built, owned, or simply admired the car, it remains a symbol of what can be achieved with vision and determination. Though its time in the spotlight was brief, the Laser 917 continues to inspire as a reminder of the artistry and passion that define the world of niche automotive creations. Its legacy lives on, not only in garages and private collections but also in the hearts of those who still dream of the road less traveled. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARECOMPONTCARS | HOTCARS | AUTOWEEK | COKATOMUSEUM | FIBERCLASSICS.ORG | IMCDB.ORG ]
