Electric Foreshadowing - In an era when tailfins and V8 engines dominated American roads, the idea of a small electric car seemed more like science fiction than an industry goal. Yet within the design studios of Ford in the early 1960s, there were hints—subtle, easily overlooked—that some minds were already drifting toward a different kind of future. Among those whispers of change stood the Astrion, a concept cloaked in mystery and layered intention.
The Ford Astrion Concept's proportions suggested performance; and its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird.(Picture from: Hemmings)
At first glance, the Ford Astrion didn’t scream “electric.” Its proportions suggested performance; its styling hinted at a sleeker evolution of the Thunderbird. The sharp haunches, formal roofline, and sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe. But behind that stylish exterior, a second, lesser-known chapter adds new depth to the story.
The
Ford Astrion Concept features sharp haunches, formal roofline, and
sculpted sides looked like they belonged to a grand touring coupe.(Picture from: Hemmings)
After the completion of the 1961 Lincoln Continental project, Ford's Roy Lunn initiated a small, internal experiment. He approached the Styling department to develop a compact electric vehicle—an idea radically ahead of its time.
Behind the stylish exterior of the Ford Astrion Concept lies a lesser-known chapter that adds depth to Ford’s earliest visions of a personal, possibly electric future—shaped not by specs or features, but by form, emotion, and the freedom to dream.(Picture from: Hemmings)
Under the guidance of Elwood Engel, the project was assigned to designers Colin Neale and Alex Tremulis, with Gale Halderman supervising. What followed was an unusual and clever design exercise: the team sculpted a single clay model and split it down the middle. Neale designed one half, calling it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. | 9r7wy1k97oo |
Both sides were compelling enough to move forward. The designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was created—outfitted with a small electric motor and battery. Initially called the Astrion, the tiny car was later renamed the Hummingbird. Despite its top speed of just five miles per hour, the Hummingbird served a memorable role: ferrying Bill Ford across the cobblestone courtyard at Ford’s facilities.
This might have been the Hummingbird, a compact vehicle—possibly envisioned as an EV—initiated by Roy Lunn after the 1961 Lincoln Continental project as a quiet internal experiment within Ford’s Styling department. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
What makes this especially interesting is the name “Astrion” itself. While the sleek coupe and the electric Hummingbird appear unrelated in form, they may share something deeper—an origin rooted in imagination rather than production intent. The name might not have been model-specific, but rather an internal label passed around to represent bold, experimental thinking. In this light, the Astrion becomes more than a mystery car; it becomes a symbol of Ford’s willingness to explore what came next.
Roy Lunn’s team crafted a single clay model, splitting it down the middle—Neale designed one side, naming it the Firefly, while Tremulis and Halderman shaped the other. (Picture from: Concept Cars & More on Facebook)
Looking back, the Astrion’s story straddles two very different interpretations. One is sculptural and expressive—a design vision that may have flirted with Thunderbird lineage. The other is technical and humble—a quiet electric prototype made not for showrooms, but for curiosity’s sake. Both are valuable. And the coincidence of them sharing a name may not be a coincidence at all.
Furthermore, the designs were cast in fiberglass, and a prototype was built—equipped with a small electric motor and battery.
(Picture from: Hemmings)
So while the automotive world looks back at the Astrion and wonders whether it was a sporty Thunderbird offshoot or just another unused design, maybe it’s worth looking at it differently. Maybe the Astrion was one of Ford’s earliest visualizations of what a personal, possibly electric vehicle of the future might look like—not through the lens of specs or features, but through form, feeling, and the freedom to dream.
The
electric Hummingbird, though seemingly unrelated in form to the sleek
Astrion coupe, may share a deeper origin rooted in imagination over
intent. (Picture from: Hemmings)
And if that's the case, then the Astrion was never "just a concept car." It was the start of a conversation Ford designers would keep having—quietly at first, then loudly, decades later—about how we move forward, and what it means to drive tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | EN.WHEELAGE.ORG | CONCEPT CARS & MORE ON FACEBOOK ]
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Legend Reborn - Automobiles have always been more than just a mode of transportation; they represent history, engineering marvels, and in some cases, cultural icons. Among the many legendary vehicles that have left their mark on the automotive world, the Lancia Delta Integrale holds a special place in the hearts of rally enthusiasts.
The Lancia Delta Futurista, created by Automobili Amos, pays tribute to the legendary Lancia Delta Integrale.(Picture from: idMotor1)
This iconic car, known for its dominance in motorsports, has been given a new life thanks to Automobili Amos, an Italian company dedicated to reviving classic vehicles with modern technology. Their ambitious project, the Lancia Delta Futurista, was a tribute to the golden era of rally racing, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge craftsmanship.
When it debuted in 2018, the Lancia Delta Futurista featured the iconic Martini Racing livery. (Picture from: idMotor1)
When Automobili Amos introduced the Lancia Delta Futurista in 2018, it was met with enthusiasm and admiration from car aficionados. The project aimed to breathe new life into the original Delta Integrale by transforming it into a modern-day masterpiece while retaining the essence that made the original so beloved. Unlike conventional restorations, this was a full-fledged restomod, incorporating extensive modifications to both the exterior and interior. Despite its remarkable appeal, the company decided to limit production to only 20 units, making it an exclusive collector’s item.
The Lancia Delta Futurista features a refined interior with red Alcantara on the seats, dashboard, and door panels, enhancing both luxury and sportiness. (Picture from: idMotor1)
After four years, the final Delta Futurista made its debut, adorned in an unmistakable Martini Racing livery. This distinctive design featured a white base color accented with red and blue racing stripes, paying homage to Lancia’s victorious past in rally history. On the rear spoiler, the words "Martini Legacy" stood proudly, emphasizing the deep connection between this car and its racing heritage. Every detail of the Futurista was carefully designed to balance aesthetics and performance, ensuring it remained a true embodiment of the legendary Delta Integrale.
The Lancia Delta Futurista is meticulously crafted with lightweight carbon fiber, replacing the original steel components to significantly reduce weight. (Picture from: idMotor1)
Automobili Amos meticulously crafted the Futurista with lightweight materials, replacing the original steel components with carbon fiber to reduce weight significantly. The bumpers, hood, trunk, rear spoiler, and even the engine cover were all constructed from this advanced material, helping the car achieve an impressive weight of just 1,250 kilograms (2,755 pounds). These weight-saving measures contributed to improved handling and agility, making the car feel more dynamic and responsive on the road.
Under the hood, the Delta Futurista packed a powerful punch. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine underwent extensive modifications, including upgraded internal components and a refined turbo system. The result was an output of 330 horsepower (243 kilowatts), all delivered to an all-wheel-drive system similar to the original Delta Integrale. This boost in performance, combined with a redesigned suspension featuring two-stage dampers, allowed the Futurista to offer a more exhilarating driving experience while maintaining the rally spirit of its predecessor.
The Lancia Delta Safarista became Automobili Amos’ next project after the Delta Futurista, designed as a hardcore off-road version inspired by the 1988 Safari Rally-winning Delta. (Picture from: AutomobiliAmos)
Inside the cabin, Automobili Amos elevated the Futurista’s luxury and sportiness. The interior was adorned with red Alcantara, covering the seats, dashboard, and door panels, adding both style and comfort. Aluminum pedals and custom-made door panels further emphasized the car’s premium yet performance-oriented nature. Every detail inside was carefully curated to create a cockpit that felt both modern and connected to the Delta’s racing lineage.
Following the completion of the Delta Futurista, Automobili Amos shifted its focus to a new project: the Lancia Delta Safarista. Unlike the Futurista, which aimed for a refined balance of heritage and modernity, the Safarista was designed as a hardcore off-road version inspired by the legendary Delta that conquered the 1988 Safari Rally. It featured a simpler two-tone paint scheme and was even more limited in production, with only 10 units planned. With a price tag of €570,000 per unit, this off-road beast catered to a niche audience seeking extreme rally-inspired performance.
The Lancia Delta Futurista, one of 20 units produced, has a notable owner in Joel, a car enthusiast, whose model is one of four specially built versions with official documentation for legal import into the United States. (Picture from: NMAA)
Among the 20 Delta Futurista units produced, one notable owner is a passionate car enthusiast named Joel. His particular model is one of four specially built versions that retain official documentation, allowing it to be legally imported into the United States. Despite the modern enhancements, the car still proudly retains the unmistakable silhouette of the original Delta Integrale, preserving its historical significance while embracing innovation.
Inside Joel’s Delta Futurista, vintage charm and modern craftsmanship blended seamlessly, with brown leather seats and an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard creating a luxurious, driver-focused atmosphere. (Picture from: NMAA)
Inside Joel’s Delta Futurista, a blend of vintage charm and modern craftsmanship was evident. The cabin featured brown leather seats paired with an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard, maintaining a luxurious yet driver-focused ambiance. While most of the interior components were carefully restored to retain their authenticity, the meticulous attention to detail elevated the Futurista into a class of its own.
The Lancia Delta Futurista features a refined 2.0-liter engine with a custom Motec ECU, enabling the driver to adjust performance settings and boosting power to an exhilarating 350 horsepower. (Picture from: NMAA)
For Joel, owning this piece of automotive history was more than just an acquisition—it was the realization of a lifelong dream. He described his Delta Futurista as a "walking dream," a testament to the passion and dedication behind Automobili Amos’ vision. With only a handful of these exceptional cars in existence, each one represents a unique fusion of past and present, preserving the spirit of the Lancia Delta Integrale for future generations. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOMOBILIAMOS | ID.MOTOR1 | NMAA ]
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Mechanical Madness - When talking about motorcycles that blur the line between art, engineering, and insanity, it's impossible not to bring up creations that push every known limit of design and performance. In a world where customization often leans into subtlety and refinement, some builders choose instead to throw caution to the wind—and fuel on the fire. That’s exactly what French customizer Ludovic Lazareth did when he unveiled a machine that looked more like a concept from a dystopian sci-fi film than a street-legal motorcycle. Welcome to the world of the Lazareth LM 847, a vehicle that still turns heads nearly a decade after its jaw-dropping debut in 2016.
The Lazareth LM 847, created by Ludovic Lazareth, made its debut at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. (Picture from: Autoblog)
Built around the heart of a Maserati Quattroporte, the LM 847 is a monument to mechanical audacity. Lazareth didn't just borrow the spirit of a sports car—he transplanted its very soul. At the center of this beast roars a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter V8 engine, a 32-valve powerhouse capable of unleashing 470 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 620 Nm of torque at 4,750 rpm. Originally designed for a luxury sedan, this massive engine now sits exposed, right beneath the rider, in a layout that defies conventional logic and aesthetics. It’s raw, it’s aggressive, and it doesn’t pretend to be anything less than outrageous.
Front view of Lazareth LM 847.(Picture from: Motorcycle)
With a build that stretches 2.6 meters in length and tips the scale at around 400 kg, the LM 847 is no lightweight. But despite its heft, it doesn’t sacrifice performance. Instead of opting for a traditional multi-gear transmission, Lazareth chose a single-speed gearbox paired with a hydraulic clutch, simplifying the drivetrain and focusing all that monstrous power through a chain to the twin rear wheels. Yes—twin. Because if one tire wasn’t enough to keep this machine grounded, two certainly make a bold statement.
Left side view of Lazareth LM 847. (Picture from: Autoblog)
From an engineering standpoint, the use of dual wheels both front and rear isn’t just for show. Stability and balance are essential when dealing with this level of power and weight. The front end features massive 420 mm Brembo discs with eight-piston Nissin calipers, while the rear relies on a 255 mm disc setup with four-piston Brembos. Suspension is handled by TFX at the back, ensuring the LM 847 can tame even the most uneven roads—should anyone be brave enough to ride it that far.
Lazareth LM 847 packs a Maserati V8 into a leaning quad frame. (Picture from: Motorcycle)
What truly sets the LM 847 apart isn’t just the numbers or its bold appearance, but the philosophy behind it. Ludovic Lazareth isn’t new to the world of wild builds. The French designer has built a reputation on his ability to merge automotive components with two-wheeled platforms in ways most wouldn’t dare. From flying motorcycles to military-inspired concepts, his workshop is a laboratory of bold experimentation. But the LM 847 was something else entirely. Revealed at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, the bike quickly became a centerpiece—not just because of its specs, but because of its sheer presence.
Rear side view of Lazareth LM847. (Picture from: Autoblog)
And while questions remain about its roadworthiness, production plans, or even its test results, that was never really the point. The LM 847 wasn’t created to dominate racetracks or fill showroom floors. It was built to show what happens when imagination is allowed to run free, when performance is measured not just in horsepower but in sheer spectacle. It’s a rolling work of art, an engineering challenge brought to life, and a statement on the limitless possibilities of custom motorcycle culture.
Even today, long after its first appearance, the Lazareth LM 847 continues to inspire and provoke conversation. It’s proof that in a world full of safe, sensible choices, there’s still room for something truly wild.
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 [10062016] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOBLOG | MOTORCYCLE ]
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Bold Innovation - When innovation meets artistry in the automotive world, it often results in masterpieces that capture the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide. The creation of unique sports cars isn’t always the sole domain of major manufacturers. Instead, independent players often push the boundaries of design and performance. One such intriguing example surfaced recently, capturing the attention of enthusiasts through its extraordinary and unconventional aesthetics. This vehicle, a rare creation by the esteemed Italian tuner Giannini, brings a compelling blend of history, design innovation, and technical prowess.
The Bravo Windsurf, a standout Giannini creation designed in collaboration with renowned designer Nicola Crea, debuted as a prototype in 1996. (Picture from: Wikipedia)
Giannini, headquartered in Rome, is widely celebrated for its expertise in enhancing Fiat models. Over the years, the tuner has cultivated a reputation for crafting vehicles that merge functional upgrades with captivating designs. The Bravo Windsurf, one of Giannini's most distinct projects, epitomizes this ethos. Conceptualized in collaboration with Nicola Crea, an acclaimed designer formerly associated with the I.De.A. Institute and Fiat, the Bravo Windsurf was unveiled as a prototype in 1996. This car was built on the robust foundations of the Fiat Bravo and Brava, models known for their versatility and reliability.
The Bravo Windsurf impressed with an exterior inspired by the bold, expressive designs of 1950s and 1960s classic automobiles. (Picture from: @ObscureSupercar on X)
The Bravo Windsurf stood out immediately with its striking exterior design. Inspired by classic automobiles of the 1950s and 1960s, the car featured elements that harkened back to an era of bold and expressive automotive styling. Its most eye-catching components included a massive rear wing and a front spoiler, both of which could be adjusted by the driver to suit varying road or track conditions. Nicola Crea's artistic vision also drew inspiration from the Fiat Turbina, a mid-20th-century prototype designed by the legendary engineer Dante Giacosa. This influence was evident in the distinctive shape of the radiator grille and the aerodynamically crafted rear spoiler.
The car’s name, "Windsurf," was aptly chosen to reflect its fluid, wind-friendly design and remarkable on-road agility. (Picture from: Drive2ru)
The aerodynamic sophistication of the Bravo Windsurf was no accident. Giannini invested significant resources in wind tunnel testing to ensure the car achieved exceptional stability and performance. The result was a drag coefficient of just 0.24, a figure that rivaled even the most advanced sports cars of the time. This achievement was a testament to Giannini's commitment to combining aesthetics with engineering excellence. The car’s name, "Windsurf," was aptly chosen to reflect its fluid, wind-friendly design and remarkable on-road agility.
The Bravo Windsurf's aerodynamic sophistication, achieved through extensive wind tunnel testing, resulted in an impressive drag coefficient of 0.24, rivaling top sports cars. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Step inside the Bravo Windsurf, and the commitment to quality and innovation continues. The interior was a blend of classic and modern elements, emphasizing driver comfort and control. The design was minimalist yet purposeful, with high-quality materials and an ergonomic layout. Giannini ensured that every detail was meticulously crafted to enhance the driving experience, whether on a leisurely road trip or a high-speed track session.
The Bravo Windsurf featured a powertrain engineered for thrilling performance, with Giannini's expertise in tuning Fiat engines ensuring a balance of power and efficiency.(Picture from: AllCarIndex)
Under the hood, the Bravo Windsurf carried a powertrain designed to deliver thrilling performance. While details about the engine specifications remain elusive, it was clear that Giannini's expertise in tuning Fiat engines translated into a machine that balanced power and efficiency. The Bravo Windsurf was capable of impressive acceleration and top speeds, making it a formidable presence on both the road and the track.
The
Bravo Windsurf featured a massive rear wing and adjustable front
spoiler, allowing drivers to adapt to different road or track conditions. (Picture from: AllCarIndex)
The Bravo Windsurf’s debut at the Torino Auto Show in 1996 marked a significant moment for Giannini. It was a bold statement of the company's ability to create something truly original while paying homage to the rich heritage of Italian automotive design. Though it remained a prototype, the Bravo Windsurf left an indelible mark on the world of bespoke sports cars, showcasing the potential of blending historical inspiration with modern innovation. Since no videos of this car can be found, here’s a video about the Fiat Bravo - Studio Shot.
Cars like the Bravo Windsurf remind us of the creative spirit that drives the automotive industry. They are a celebration of visionaries who dare to dream beyond the ordinary, crafting vehicles that are as much works of art as they are feats of engineering. Giannini’s Bravo Windsurf may not have achieved mass production, but its legacy endures as a symbol of what’s possible when passion, skill, and imagination converge on four wheels. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OBSCURESUPERCAR ON X | STORY-CARS | CARSTYLING.RU | ALLCARINDEX | FIATBRAVO.HU | DRIVE2.RU ]
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Throttle Vision - In an era where motorcycles are evolving faster than ever, blending performance with aesthetics, it’s no surprise that manufacturers have occasionally dared to dream beyond conventional boundaries. One such bold experiment came from a company not typically in the limelight of the international motorcycle stage—Sachs. Though primarily known for its utilitarian bikes, Sachs made a dramatic statement with an ambitious concept that left an unforgettable impression: the Sachs Beast 1000.
The Sachs Beast 1000 was a bold fusion of design and engineering by Hartmut Huhn of Target Design, featuring sleek café racer lines and a striking futuristic stance.(Picture from: Target-Desgn)
Retro Revolution - As we move into 2024, the world of electric vehicles (EVs) is buzzing with new innovations, futuristic designs, and cutting-edge technologies. Most people are used to seeing electric cars that boast sleek, modern designs with all sorts of high-tech screens, buttons, and flashy dashboards. However, there's a new player in the market that takes a completely different approach, blending the best of both worlds: the Olympian Model O1. This electric vehicle offers a unique twist by combining a classic car aesthetic with minimalist technology, making it stand out from the growing competition.
The New York-based startup Olympian Motors uses an innovative "modular" vehicle and drivetrain system to build its two electric vehicles, the Model O1 and Model 84. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)
Manufactured by Olympian Motors, headquartered in New York, the Olympian Model O1 is designed to captivate those who appreciate the charm and elegance of vintage cars, while still embracing the power and performance of electric propulsion. The vehicle features a classic sedan look with a modern twist. It has four doors and comfortably seats up to four passengers, all on a rear-wheel drive chassis. Built with military-grade carbon fiber and titanium, the Model O1 is incredibly strong and lightweight, ensuring durability and strength on the road.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle offers a unique twist by combining a classic car aesthetic with minimalist technology, making it stand out from the growing competition. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
The design of the Olympian Model O1 is not only focused on strength but also efficiency. Its Super Board "skateboard chassis," developed by the Chinese electric car company U Power Tech, serves as the foundation for the vehicle. The electric motor in the Olympian Model O1 generates an impressive 310 horsepower (228 kW), paired with 305 lb-ft (414 Nm) of torque.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle is designed to captivate those who appreciate the charm and elegance of vintage cars, while still embracing the power and performance of electric propulsion. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
This powerful combination allows the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) in just 5.7 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience while maintaining a smooth, quiet ride. The car’s top speed is a respectable 160 mph (257 km/h), though you’re more likely to experience its impressive range, thanks to its 400V/82 kWh lithium-ion battery. This battery delivers a claimed range of around 305 miles (491 km) on a single charge, making it suitable for longer road trips as well as daily commuting.
Olympian Motors' Model O1 electric vehicle's cabin is adorned with exotic wood finishes and luxurious silk fabric decorations, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
What truly sets the Olympian Model O1 apart from other electric cars is its interior design. Unlike many modern cars that are cluttered with screens and buttons, this sedan boasts a refined and classic aesthetic. The cabin is adorned with exotic wood finishes and luxurious silk fabric decorations, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. There are no traditional buttons or switches to be found, as 80% of the car’s controls are replaced with cutting-edge technology. A combination of heads-up displays (HUD) on the windshield and a voice command system allows the driver to control the infotainment system, climate control, seat adjustments, lighting, and various other functions, making for a more intuitive, hands-free experience.
The Olympian Model O1 features nine airbags and laminated glass for all windows and the roof canopy, ensuring enhanced safety and durability. (Picture from: AutoMoto.id)
Safety features have not been overlooked in the design of the Olympian Model O1. The car comes equipped with nine airbags, providing an added layer of protection for all passengers. Additionally, all windows and the roof canopy are made from laminated glass, ensuring greater strength and durability in the event of an impact. This emphasis on safety, combined with the car’s performance capabilities, creates an overall driving experience that is both enjoyable and secure.
Olympian Motors' Model 84 electric vehicle is an electric open-top SUV with a boxy exterior and an asymmetrical front-end design. (Picture from: OlympianMotors)
For those interested in experiencing this groundbreaking vehicle, Olimpian Motors is accepting refundable down payments of $500 for buyers in the United States, Canada, and China. The price for the Olympian Model O1 starts at $80,000, which is competitive given the blend of classic design and modern electric technology. Test drives for the Model O1 already done in various cities across the U.S. in April 2024, with the first deliveries expected to start in May 2024.
Both the Olympian Model O1 and Model 84 EVs are based on Super Board "skateboard chassis" made by Chinese electric mobility company U Power, with their bodies forged in military-grade carbon fiber and titanium. (Picture from: OlympianMotors)
Looking ahead, Olimpian Motors is also working on a futuristic limited-edition electric vehicle, the Model 84, which promises even more advanced features and cutting-edge technology. But for now, the Olympian Model O1 is turning heads with its mix of vintage charm, modern performance, and groundbreaking tech. | zOK1BF1mVuA |
In a world where electric vehicles are increasingly dominating the automotive industry, the Olympian Model O1 stands as a reminder that innovation doesn’t always have to mean futuristic designs and screens. With its blend of classic styling and modern electric power, it’s a car that appeals to those who appreciate timeless elegance while still wanting the benefits of cutting-edge technology. As the year progresses, it will be exciting to see how the Model O1 performs on the road and how it resonates with drivers who crave something different in the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | OLYMPIAN MOTORS | AUTOEVOLUTION ]
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And if that's the case, then the Astrion was never "just a concept car." It was the start of a conversation Ford designers would keep having—quietly at first, then loudly, decades later—about how we move forward, and what it means to drive tomorrow. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | HEMMINGS | EN.WHEELAGE.ORG | CONCEPT CARS & MORE ON FACEBOOK ]
