White Motorcycle Concepts & Pininfarina Unveil Aerodynamic Hybrid Bike Design

Velocity Redefined - Innovation in motorcycle design has always been about pushing the limits of speed, efficiency, and aesthetics. From groundbreaking engine technologies to futuristic aerodynamics, every major leap forward has shaped the way we experience two-wheeled machines. Now, a bold new collaboration between British technology specialists White Motorcycle Concepts (WMC) and legendary Italian design house Pininfarina is set to redefine what’s possible in the realm of motorcycle aerodynamics.

White Motorcycle Concepts design sketch in collaboration with the legendary Italian design house Pininfarina. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

WMC first gained attention in 2021 with their WMC250EV, a land speed record electric bike that introduced an innovative aerodynamic duct system—a large cylindrical hole running through the body. This radical design reduced drag by an astonishing 70% compared to traditional road bikes. Since then, WMC has continued refining its aerodynamic technology, incorporating it into projects such as the hybrid WMC300FR three-wheeler used by Northamptonshire Police and a unique concept based on the Zero SR/S.

WMC’s duct concept focuses on enhancing efficiency across all power sources—electric, hybrid, or combustion—by reducing aerodynamic resistance for improved performance and fuel economy. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

The core philosophy behind WMC’s duct concept is simple: improving efficiency regardless of the power source. Whether it’s an electric, hybrid, or conventional combustion engine, reducing aerodynamic resistance leads to better performance and fuel economy. This principle has now been elevated to a new level through the partnership with Pininfarina. With decades of experience designing some of the world’s most beautiful supercars—most notably in collaboration with Ferrari—Pininfarina brings an unmatched understanding of both form and function to the project.

On March 6, at Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary celebration, WMC founder Robert White showcased how their patented aerodynamic duct system could transform future motorcycles. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

On March 6, during Pininfarina’s 95th anniversary celebrations, WMC’s founder, Robert White, was invited to showcase how their patented aerodynamic duct system could revolutionize future motorcycles. The first tangible outcome of this partnership is an exciting new set of design sketches, revealing a striking naked roadster. This machine integrates WMC’s signature duct system while being powered by a small, forced-induction combustion engine paired with a hybrid system. As with previous iterations, the air is funneled through the bike from beneath the handlebars and exits beneath the seat, dramatically reducing drag and enhancing efficiency.

The first result of this partnership is a striking naked roadster design, featuring WMC’s signature duct system and a small forced-induction hybrid engine that channels air from beneath the handlebars to exit under the seat, significantly reducing drag and improving efficiency. (Picture from: MotorcycleNews)

Pininfarina’s expertise in aerodynamics extends beyond cars, as their wind tunnel facilities—operational since 1972—allow precise testing of airflow dynamics and rider comfort. Their ability to evaluate real-world conditions using test riders or dummies ensures that the designs aren’t just visually appealing but also functionally superior. | 35XcavKcTO0 |

Combining WMC’s cutting-edge aerodynamics with Pininfarina’s design expertise, this collaboration marks an exciting leap in motorcycle development, bringing futuristic concepts to life with unmatched efficiency, style, and performance.

 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WHITE MOTORCYCLE CONCEPTS | MOTORCYCLENEWS | VISORDOWN ]

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Darryl Starbird's Electra: Transformed into X-Cel and Lost Forever

Lost Masterpiece - The late 1950s and early 1960s were a time of bold experimentation in the world of custom cars. The post-war economic boom, combined with advancements in automotive design, led to a surge of creativity among custom builders. Influenced by jet-age aesthetics and space-age futurism, many sought to push the boundaries of what was possible with car modifications.

Darryl Starbird's fifth bubbletop custom was a 1958 Ford Thunderbird named "Electra," featured one of his largest bubbletops, extending over all four passengers and most of the trunk. (Picture from: Kustomrama on Facebook)

GM Futurliners: The Iconic Vehicles That Brought the Future to America

Rolling Revolution - Progress has always fascinated people, driving innovations that shape the way we live. Throughout history, companies have found creative ways to introduce new technologies to the public, from grand expositions to live demonstrations. In the 1930s and 1940s—before television became mainstream—one of the most ambitious efforts to bring futuristic ideas directly to the people came from General Motors. Through its Parade of Progress, GM showcased cutting-edge technology across the United States, using some of the most unique and visually striking vehicles ever built: the GM Futurliners.

1950 GM Futurliner. (Picture from: Pinterest)

The origins of the Futurliners date back to the early 1930s when GM was inspired by the Century of Progress exposition held in Chicago. This massive event celebrated industrial advancements and technological achievements, leaving a lasting impact on those who attended. Wanting to create a traveling version of this experience, GM launched the Parade of Progress in 1936. At first, the company used a fleet of futuristic Streamliners, but by 1940, it introduced something even more dramatic—twelve massive, Art Deco-inspired vehicles known as Futurliners.

Harley Earl. (Picture from:
Motortrend)

Designed under the direction of Harley Earl, GM’s legendary chief designer, the Futurliners were unlike anything seen before. Standing 11 feet 7 inches tall and stretching 33 feet long, these vehicles had a high cockpit positioned above the road, giving drivers an elevated view. 

Their most distinctive feature was the massive side panels, which opened to reveal advanced displays and even a retractable stage. Each Futurliner was a self-contained mobile exhibit, showcasing groundbreaking innovations such as early microwave ovens, stereo sound, and even light-based communication.

1936 GM Streamliner. (Picture from: Pinterest)

1939 GM Futurliner by Harley Earl.
(Picture from: Blog.1AAuto)

The Parade of Progress initially ran from 1940 to 1941, traveling to 251 cities and drawing over 12.5 million spectators. However, the onset of World War II abruptly ended the tour, as many Futurliners were repurposed for the war effort. 

After the war, GM revived the Parade of Progress in 1953, refurbishing the Futurliners with upgraded mechanical components, including a 302-cubic-inch inline-six engine and a complex transmission system with 24 gear combinations. 

1941 GM Futurliner.
(Picture from: NATMUS.org)

Despite these improvements, the Futurliners remained challenging to drive. Their heavy steering made maneuvering difficult, and their braking system was so unreliable that drivers were instructed to maintain a 300-foot distance between vehicles to prevent accidents.

From 1953 to 1956, the Parade of Progress once again toured the country, introducing millions of Americans to the possibilities of the future. However, times were changing. With the rise of television, people could now learn about new technologies from the comfort of their homes. As public interest in live traveling exhibitions declined, GM discontinued the Parade of Progress in 1956. The Futurliners were sold, donated, or abandoned, and for decades, many of them disappeared from public view.

1950 GM Futurliner. 1950 GM Futurliner. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Despite their disappearance, the Futurliners were not entirely forgotten. Over time, at least nine of the original twelve were located, with several undergoing extensive restorations. One of the most significant restorations was carried out by the National Auto & Truck Museum (NATMUS) in Auburn, Indiana. NATMUS acquired a Futurliner and painstakingly restored it to its original Parade of Progress configuration, preserving an important piece of automotive and cultural history.

Dashboard of 1950 GM Futurliner. (Picture from: Autominded)

Another fully restored Futurliner is owned by Peter Pan Bus Lines, while a third has been used in corporate promotions in Canada. These restored vehicles offer a rare glimpse into the past, reminding people of an era when technology was showcased in grand, theatrical fashion. 

Technical Specifications of the GM Futurliners
Each GM Futurliner was an engineering marvel, built with a unique set of features that set it apart from conventional vehicles of the era:

• Dimensions: 33 feet (10 meters) long, 8 feet (2.4 meters) wide, 11 feet 7 inches (3.5 meters) tall
• Wheelbase: 248 inches (6.3 meters)
• Weight: Estimated at 30,000 pounds (13,600 kg)
• Cockpit: Elevated “cupola” driver’s seat, accessed by a staircase inside the vehicle
• Engine (Pre-1953): 4-cylinder diesel engine with a 4x4 manual transmission
• Engine (Post-1953): 302-cubic-inch inline-six-cylinder OHV GMC gasoline engine
• Transmission: Complex drivetrain system with a four-speed Hydramatic automatic transmission, bolted to a two-speed gearbox, offering a total of eight forward speeds; an additional three-speed PTO gearbox created 24 possible gear combinations
• Fuel Capacity: Twin 45-gallon (170-liter) gasoline tanks
• Braking System: Separate brake drums and bearings for each of the dual front wheels
• Steering System: Dual front wheels placed side by side, requiring tremendous force to turn (leading to frequent power steering failures)
• Speed: Maximum recorded speed was around 40 mph (64 km/h)
  
• Lighting & Display Features:

• 19 access and display doors
• Two massive 16-foot by 5-foot (4.8m x 1.5m) side doors opening to reveal built-in exhibit displays
• A retractable 16-foot lighting panel and a 7-foot tall rooftop light bar for additional illumination
• Powered by a twin 6-71 Detroit Diesel generator producing 200 kW of electricity

1950 GM Futurliner. (Picture from: ConceptCarz)

Although the Futurliners no longer travel the country, their legacy lives on. They remain some of the most iconic vehicles ever produced by GM, representing an age of optimism, creativity, and technological progress. Whether displayed in museums like NATMUS or making special appearances at automotive events, the Futurliners continue to capture the imagination of those who see them. Decades after their last Parade of Progress, they stand as rolling monuments to a time when the future wasn’t just imagined—it was brought to life on the open road.. (See another Harley Earl's creations.) *** [EKA [29122919] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | WIKIPEDIA | CONCEPTCARZ | NATMUS.ORG | BLOG.1AAUTO | MOTORTREND | AUTOMINDED ]

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America’s Smallest Electric Truck: Telo MT1 Redefines Compact Power

Mini Beast - The automotive industry is evolving rapidly, with electric vehicles (EVs) leading the way toward a more sustainable future. While large electric trucks have gained traction, there is growing demand for compact yet powerful alternatives that fit urban environments without compromising capability. 

The Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

Addressing this need, California-based startup Telo Trucks has introduced the Telo MT1, a groundbreaking mini electric truck that challenges the trend of oversized pickups. As reported by Fox News, Telo recently unveiled the preproduction prototype of the MT1 in Los Angeles, giving the public a closer look at what could be a game-changer in the EV truck market.

The Telo MT1 offers two configurations: a base model with a 300-horsepower single-motor rear-wheel drive and a 260-mile range, and an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel-drive version delivering 500 horsepower with a 350-mile range. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

Despite its small footprint—just 152 inches in length, comparable to a Mini Cooper SE—the Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate, it can accommodate large items like an 8-foot surfboard or 4-by-8 plywood sheets. This combination of practicality and space efficiency makes it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures.

The Telo MT1, despite its compact 152-inch length comparable to a Mini Cooper SE, offers the utility of a full-size pickup. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

Performance-wise, the MT1 comes in two configurations. The base model features a single-motor, rear-wheel-drive system producing 300 horsepower with an estimated range of 260 miles. For those seeking more power, an upgraded dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version delivers 500 horsepower, extends the range to 350 miles, and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just four seconds. Fast-charging technology allows a 20%-80% recharge in only 20 minutes, while optional solar panels on the cab roof or tonneau cover can add up to 15 miles of additional range per day, boosting efficiency.

The Telo MT1 boasts the utility of a full-size pickup. It comfortably seats five adults while offering a 60-inch truck bed, and thanks to a folding midgate. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

Beyond performance, the MT1 integrates innovative design features. Its adaptable layout allows the truck bed to extend into the cab, providing flexibility for different cargo and passenger needs. The interior is crafted with sustainable materials like biodegradable cork, ensuring a clean and minimalist aesthetic. Safety is also a priority, with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements designed to make the MT1 one of the most secure vehicles in its category.

The Telo MT1 prioritizes safety with advanced sensors and structural reinforcements, making it one of the most secure vehicles in its category. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

Telo has ambitious plans for the MT1, with an initial price of $41,520 for the base model. According to Fox News, the company has already secured over 5,000 preorders, representing more than $250 million in customer commitments. 

The Telo MT1 combines practicality and space efficiency, making it ideal for both city driving and outdoor adventures. (Picture from: Telo Trucks)

To bring the truck to market, Telo is working with the California-based Aria Group, a renowned manufacturer specializing in early-stage vehicle development and rapid prototyping for major automotive brands. While full-scale production is still a couple of years away, prototype testing is already in progress, with safety and durability evaluations set to take place before regulatory inspections next winter.

The Telo MT1 is a bold innovation in the electric truck segment, offering a compelling blend of compact design, impressive power, and eco-friendly features. While challenges remain—such as scaling production and maintaining affordability—this mini-truck has the potential to reshape the EV landscape. If Telo successfully delivers on its promises, the MT1 could become a top choice for drivers looking for a versatile, efficient, and sustainable truck tailored for modern living. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TELO TRUCKS | FOX NEWS ]

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FNM 2000 Onça: Brazil’s Rare Answer to the Ford Mustang

Forgotten ONES - The allure of sports cars lies in their ability to blend speed, style, and innovation into one remarkable package. Throughout automotive history, certain cars like the Porsche 911 or Ferrari have carved their names into global culture, becoming symbols of performance and design. Yet, behind these celebrated icons exist lesser-known gems—vehicles that, despite their obscurity, possess fascinating stories and unique features. One such hidden treasure is a Brazilian sports car that carries a striking resemblance to an American legend yet stands apart in its ingenuity.

The FNM 2000 Onça's crease along the side closely resembles the iconic design of the renowned American muscle car, the Ford Mustang. (Picture from: TopSpeed)

In the 1960s, Brazil’s state-owned FNM (Fábrica Nacional de Motores) company sought to make a splash in the sports car market. The idea was ambitious, especially for a country whose automotive scene was still developing. At the time, FNM was manufacturing vehicles under license from Alfa Romeo, producing modified versions for the Brazilian market. This partnership laid the groundwork for an intriguing creation: the FNM 2000 Onça, a car with both Italian and American influences that aspired to compete in the niche sports car segment.

The FNM 2000 Onça's crease along the side closely resembles the iconic design of the renowned American muscle car, the Ford Mustang. (Picture from: Motor-Junkies)

The FNM 2000 Onça was introduced in the mid-1960s, and its design immediately turned heads. Its resemblance to the first-generation Ford Mustang, which debuted in 1964, was impossible to ignore. The Onça’s sleek roofline, defined beltline, and side profile echoed the Mustang’s aesthetic. However, upon closer inspection, subtle differences emerged. The Onça was more compact, featuring a shorter wheelbase, and its fiberglass body was handcrafted with distinct design elements. For instance, its taillights and front fascia showed traces of Alfa Romeo’s signature styling, particularly reminiscent of the Giulia.

The FNM 2000 Onça made its debut as a prototype at the 1966 São Paulo Motor Show, with the company confidently starting its sales soon after. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

This captivating design was brought to life by Genaro "Rino" Malzoni, a visionary designer and entrepreneur who had already made a name for himself with models like the GT Malzoni. Malzoni’s workshop in Matao City, São Paulo, was responsible for shaping the Onça’s unique body, while the car’s mechanical components were assembled in Xerem, Rio de Janeiro. The result was a fusion of international influences, tailored for the Brazilian market.

The FNM 2000 Onça featured a 2+2 seating configuration, emphasizing its sporty yet practical design. (Picture from: QuatroRodas)

While the Onça’s outward appearance sparked comparisons to the Mustang, its engineering told a different story. Instead of the Mustang’s robust V8 engine, the Onça housed a 2.0-liter inline-four engine derived from Alfa Romeo’s mechanical lineup. With twin Weber carburetors, this engine delivered 115 to 131 horsepower, depending on the configuration. Power was transmitted to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox, a setup that offered respectable performance for the time. The car could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 9.3 seconds, with a top speed of 109 mph—impressive numbers for a small sports car.

The FNM 2000 Onça showcased an Alfa-style steering wheel and a rosewood-coated panel complemented by a horizontal speedometer. (Picture from: QuatroRodas)

Despite its merits, the FNM 2000 Onça faced significant challenges. One major obstacle was its cost. The intricate production process and reliance on imported components made the Onça prohibitively expensive for most Brazilian buyers. Additionally, its resemblance to the Mustang, while striking, likely limited its appeal to those seeking originality. As a result, production remained limited, and the car never achieved widespread popularity.

The FNM 2000 Onça was built on a chassis 22 cm shorter than the FNM TIMB and featured a fiberglass body covering. (Picture from: Motor-Junkies)

Beyond its market struggles, the Onça is a testament to Brazil’s ambition and ingenuity during a formative period in its automotive history. It stands as a reminder of the creativity that can emerge from collaborations across borders. Though it may be largely forgotten today, the Onça’s blend of Italian-Brazilian engineering and American-inspired design make it a unique chapter in the story of sports cars. | zk3KJQSFGbQ |

In a world where legendary models dominate conversations, the FNM 2000 Onça proves that even the lesser-known cars have tales worth telling. Its bold design, handcrafted bodywork, and distinctive character set it apart as a rare gem from an era of experimentation and innovation. For car enthusiasts and historians alike, it’s a reminder that the allure of sports cars extends beyond the icons to include those unsung heroes that dared to dream big.😴 *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | QUATRORODAS | TOPSPEED | AUTOEVOLUTION | MOTOR-JUNKIE ]

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Yamaha FFE 350: Revolutionary Forkless Custom Motorcycle

Radical Engineering - Motorcycle design has always been a delicate balance between innovation and practicality. Most manufacturers stick to conventional engineering, favoring tried-and-true methods that ensure reliability and ease of production. This is particularly evident in suspension design, where telescopic forks dominate the industry despite their well-documented shortcomings.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350, crafted by Julian Farnam, is a forkless custom motorcycle built upon the iconic 1990s Yamaha RZ350 two-stroke racer. (Picture from: Silodrome)

However, for those willing to challenge the norm, alternative front suspension systems offer intriguing possibilities—something Julian Farnam understood when he set out to create a motorcycle that defied tradition. With a passion for engineering and a desire to push boundaries, Farnam took on the challenge of building a forkless front suspension system of his own. 

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350's most radical feature is Julian Farnam's signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, completely eliminating the standard fork. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Lacking the massive resources of big-name manufacturers, he relied on skill, ingenuity, and sheer determination to bring his vision to life. The result was the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350—a remarkable machine that looks less like a home-built custom and more like an advanced prototype from a major factory R&D department. 

The remarkable Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 resembles an advanced factory prototype rather than a home-built custom. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

At its core, the FFE 350 is based on a Yamaha RZ350, a legendary two-stroke racer from the 1990s. Farnam’s modifications, however, set it apart from anything else on the road. The most radical change was his signature Forkless Front End (FFE) design, which completely eliminated the standard front fork. 

While forkless designs avoid traditional fork issues, they introduce challenges like slop and vibration, which Julian Farnam mitigated using tensioned dual linkages for a precise, connected feel. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Traditional telescopic forks, despite their widespread use, have inherent issues such as flexing under load and changes in geometry under braking. By removing the forks and implementing a system of linkages, Farnam aimed to create a more stable and responsive front suspension. Of course, forkless designs come with their own engineering challenges. They require intricate linkage systems, which, if not properly designed, can introduce slop and unwanted vibrations.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 features a custom twin-tube cradle frame without a headstock or backbone, using gusseted brackets for front suspension mounting. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

Farnam addressed this challenge with two sets of tensioned linkages, eliminating play and delivering a direct, connected feel akin to conventional forks—without their drawbacks. The result was a precision-handling bike that offered a truly unique riding experience. Following the completion of the FFE 350, Julian launched his own frame company, A-N-D Vehicles, but despite praise from seasoned racers and impressive performance, the venture ultimately did not succeed.

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 retains an OEM look with a standard RZ tank and a modified Ducati 916 tail, while its unfaired design showcases the innovative front suspension. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

The FFE 350 wasn’t just a concept or a showpiece—it was a fully functional machine that saw track action in Southern California, proving its capabilities in real-world conditions. However, despite its performance advantages, the radical design never gained commercial traction, and the bike eventually found its way into storage. Yet, true to his passion, Farnam remains dedicated to his creation. As of recent years, he has been working to restore the FFE 350 to its former glory, keeping alive the spirit of innovation that first inspired him to build it. | WsCtsyrXzFk |

The Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 was more than just a showpiece—it tore up local tracks in Southern California with impressive performance. (Picture from: Odd-Bike)

In an industry where convention often takes precedence over experimentation, projects like the Yamaha A-N-D FFE 350 serve as reminders that true progress comes from those willing to challenge the status quo. Farnam’s work stands as both an engineering marvel and a testament to the creativity of independent builders—proving that sometimes, the best ideas come from outside the mainstream.

 

Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of two-wheeled monster and stay alive with the true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CUSTOMFIGHTERS  | ODD-BIKE | SILODROME | HACKADAY ]

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