~Forgotten ICON~ In the realm of automotive design, there are moments when innovation takes a daring leap, and the Bizzarrini Manta concept car of 1968 epitomizes such a daring leap. This iconic vehicle marked the inception of ItalDesign, one of the world's renowned automobile design firms.
The genesis of the Bizzarrini Manta traces back to a racing pedigree, the Bizzarrini P538. Giorgetto Giugaro, a talented car designer with prior experience at various Italian automakers and design houses, envisioned this retired racing champion as his opportunity to chart his own course.
One of the most striking features of the Manta, aside from its flamboyant color scheme, is its seating arrangement. Positioned at the center is the driver's seat, resembling a bench, with passengers flanking on either side. This unique configuration had all three occupants riding shoulder to shoulder, making for an unconventional but captivating experience.
Left side view of 1968 Bizzarrini Manta. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Entering the Manta as the driver requires opening one of its extravagantly long doors, initially occupying the passenger seat, and then gracefully sliding over into the driver's position. Remarkably, negotiating the gearshift lever posed no significant challenge.
Given its status as a concept car, the Manta's seats and steering column lack adjustability. This leaves an average-sized driver in a somewhat awkward situation, with the steering wheel positioned between their knees.
Interior view of 1968 Bizzarrini Manta. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Despite its Italian origins, the Manta boasts a heart of Detroit steel. Nestled behind the passenger compartment is a potent 400-horsepower 5.4-liter Chevrolet V8 engine. Opting for a rear-mounted engine, Giugario chose to let the car's form flow organically from its engineering. He refrained from elongating the hood unnecessarily or concealing the extended rear, resulting in a clean, uncluttered profile that gracefully rises over the engine, passes through the passenger compartment, and descends to meet the ground in front.
Rear side view of 1968 Bizzarrini Manta. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
Debuting at the prestigious 1968 Turin Motor Show, the Bizzarrini Manta has since earned its place as one of the most influential concept cars of the 1960s. In its heyday, it graced the cover of Road & Track magazine, and Motor Trend hailed it as "one of the major stars of the exhibit." After its captivating premiere in Turin, the Manta embarked on a global tour, captivating audiences in Tokyo and Los Angeles as well.
Ultimately,
the Manta reemerged from obscurity, shedding light on its whereabouts
during its mysterious hiatus. Its reappearance only added to its
enigmatic allure, cementing its status as an icon of automotive design
and history.
A 400 hp 5.4-liter Chevrolet V8 engine in the 1968 Bizzarrini Manta. (Picture from: Supercars.net)
The Bizzarrini Manta's tale serves as a testament to the audacity of innovation in the world of automobiles. It embodies the spirit of breaking boundaries, pushing the envelope, and venturing into uncharted territory. Giugaro's vision and the car's captivating design remain timeless, reminding us that even in the world of lost legends, greatness can resurface and captivate anew.
In conclusion, the Bizzarrini Manta concept car, with its unconventional seating, Detroit power, and iconic design, stands as a testament to the audacity of innovation in the automotive world. Its mysterious disappearance and eventual reappearance only add to its legend, making it a symbol of timeless design and the enduring spirit of automotive creativity. *** [EKA [25072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | CLASSICDRIVER | LSXMAG ]
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A group of planets discovered by the NASA's Kepler space telescope which contained a planet that have characteristics similar to Earth named Kepler-452b.
Kepler-452b perform orbit the star at a distance equal to the radius of the Earth to the sun, though the planet is 60 percent larger than the Earth. And the scientists believe this is the most Earth-like planet so far.
This artist's rendition provided by NASA shows the Kepler space telescope. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1uDwr4x)
Planet like this attracted the attention of astronomers because its size is quite small and the temperature is cold enough to store water on its surface, so it is likely to support life.
The orbital period of Kepler-452b is very similar to that of Earth. (Picture from: http://bbc.in/1ejIrps)
NASA-led science, John Grunsfeld, said that this new world is the most similar to Earth so far.
Scientists said that Kepler-452b might be entering a runaway greenhouse phase. (Picture from: http://bbc.in/1ejIrps)
Leader of the Kepler data analysis at NASA Ames Research Center in California, John Jenkins, adding, "It is truly an honor to convey this message to you today. There is a new kid in this place who just moved in next door."
Artist's impressions of exoplanets discovered by Kepler, alongside Earth. From left: Kepler-22b, Kepler-69c, the just announced Kepler-452b, Kepler-62f, Kepler-186f and, finally, our planet. (Picture from: http://bbc.in/1ejIrps)
This new planet joined with other like exoplanet such as Kepler-186f that have many similarities with our Earth. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | BBC]
Yamaha continues to tease the public with the introduction of newer products. The latest, one of renowned Japanese motorcycle manufacturers displayed the Yamaha XSR700.
As quoted from Visordown on Thursday, July 23, 2015, the Yamaha XSR700 is custom-style edition of the Yamaha MT-07. Therefore, the engine and the chassis is ensured 100 percent the same as the MT-07. Only the language of design in this brand-new motor leads to differentiated and more retro stream.
Retro characters try to be raised through the design of the front and rear lights and a speedometer that round. Gas tank was also made slimmer.
Order the stern slightly trimmed so that it shorter. While upholstery leather coated with a blend of the two colors.
Another difference between XSR700 with MT07 is a wheel and tire models and colors on the exhaust. Based on the information, Yamaha XSR700 will be marketed in Europe in November.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and
stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and
so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VISORDOWN]
Scientists and engineers managed to achieve significant progress in the world of prosthetics, by creating artificial limbs that can be controlled by the wearer's brain. Thanks to advanced sensors capable of picking up signals from the brain, an amputee Iceland citizen showing those technology can be used successfully. Gummi Olafsson prosthetic foot can move smoothly.
Prosthetic technology creates the mind-controlled artificial limbs. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1dpwgr4)
"It took me about 10 minutes to learn to control this prosthetic leg, then I could stand up and walk," he said. Olafsson said it was like moving his leg muscles themselves. Last year, the sensors are very small, which was developed by the Alfred Mann Foundation implanted to the rest of the muscle tissue into the lower part of his right leg amputated ten years ago.
Thorvaldur Ingvarsson, an orthopedic surgeon who did the operation said, "We installed sensors in the muscles, which will capture the signal from the brain and distribute it to the prosthetic leg, so that the prosthetic leg was moving as ordered by the brain."
Sensors embedded in the muscle tissue as it has been used before, but Ingvarsson says this is the first time the amputated people could move the bionic legs without the need to focus intensively on the task.
Olafsson said that with practice, he is getting good at controlling the artificial leg. "Every day I learn more about how to run well, up and down hills, up and down stairs, even sitting and rising from a chair," he said.
Other orthopedic patients in Iceland also got the same result, while three patients in Austria earlier this year began using the same technology to control their bionic hand. The researchers say the next step is to develop a bionic organ that can make users really feel what they touch. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VOA NEWS]
Indeed, the last few decades MV Agusta was never launched the scrambler models. Not long ago was born a dashing scrambler through naked models of MV Agusta Brutale 800, which was modified by Viba Motor, a French home modifications.
Perhaps Yann Bakonyi, the owner of Viba Motor feels disturbed when Ducati, another Italian motorcycle manufacturer made its new Scrambler models some time ago.
Then the Viba Motor team transformed the Brutale 800 into a Scrambler-styled motorcycle. Viba also add the name of Lara behind their modidified bike. These motorcycles are produced in limited quantities only as many as 23 units.
Lara must undergo radical change in the body, the most striking is that now mattenya aluminum tank and handmade worked well, for front tire use larger tires are 120/17 of Avon Trailriders. And the radial rim of his fingers was Borrani. Rear frame was trimmed so that the seat can be placed with the typical scrambler proportionally.
Some of Brutale's plastic body parts had been removed and replaced to be more elegant carbon fiber and solid impression of course. While the framework and handlebar coated in black-matte.
Brutale does have a high performance yet lightweight, where the engine is capable of producing up to 125 hp and weighs only 167 kg. For that Viba replacing some components with carbon fiber and aluminum in order to make the Lara remains light, such as a foot control, riser and radiator guard. MV round headlights have been replaced with Delrim plastic cover.
The muffler has been positioned rises typical scrambler, Viba use products Zard for the muffler. The air filter grill uses a carbon composite-based copolyster and 3D colored. All LED lights have been replaced.
Lara rear suspension uses a special product from Elka, sport front suspension with an internal gas spring capable of reducing vibration, which certainly will be more robust, appropriate role as a dashing Scrambler.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and
stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and
so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | VIBA MOTORS]
~ONE-OFF~ When you catch a glimpse of this car, it's like stepping back into the heyday of 1950s and 1960s sci-fi, where visions of jets and spaceships ruled the design world. This automobile could easily transport you to an era when people fantasized about the cars of the future, imagining vehicles gliding effortlessly with a touch of retro charm.
The Beatnik Bubbletop, a custom 1955 Ford created by Gary Fioto, sports a tinted Lexan bubble. (Picture from: USAToday)
Meet the Beatnik Bubbletop, a one-of-a-kind automotive masterpiece had set to make waves at the Auctions America event in California back in 2015. This unique car is expected to change hands for a sum between $150,000 and $250,000, which translates to approximately Rp.1.99 billion to Rp.3.32 billion!
The Beatnik Bubbletop is a fusion of 1955 Ford aesthetics with a blend of customized features borrowed from various other cars. Sporting a modified 1988 Lincoln Town Car chassis, it boasts a rear bumper that pays homage to the 1958 Cadillac front bumper.
Auto designer Gary "Chopit" Fioto customized a 1955 Ford into a Bubbletop, giving it the nickname Beatnik after his famed car club. (Picture from: USAToday)
This automotive work of art was meticulously crafted by the skilled hands of Gary 'Chopit' Fioto, a modifier extraordinaire who lives up to his moniker by "chopping up" cars with precision and flair. According to Fioto, the essence of a custom car lies in its attitude.
"When I set out to modify a car, I search for that unique, distinctive attitude," says Fioto. "Anything that enhances a car's cool factor, I'll incorporate. The car must exude a sense of perpetual motion, even when it's standing still."
Instead
of lowering the roof of his original 1955 Ford, designer Gary "Chopit"
Fioto raised it while creating his custom Beatnik Bubbletop, creating
the largest-ever Bubbletop custom. (Picture from: USAToday)
Beneath the hood, the Beatnik Bubbletop conceals a custom V8 350 Chevy engine with a robust 5.7-liter capacity. This powerhouse is equipped with a six-carburetor induction system, a serpentine belt setup, Hedman Hedders, and finely detailed Moon Valve covers. Over the years, this remarkable creation has earned its fair share of accolades, including the prestigious 'George Barris Kustom d'Elegance Award' a few years ago.
This automotive gem is not just a car; it's a time machine that transports you to the era of sleek, futuristic visions. Its retro-futuristic design captures the essence of an age when people dared to dream big about what the future of transportation might look like. The Beatnik Bubbletop's blend of classic and modern elements creates a truly captivating aesthetic that stands the test of time.
The
1955 Ford custom-built Beatnik Bubbletop is not just a car; it's a time machine that transports you to the era of sleek, futuristic visions. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
As you gaze upon the Beatnik Bubbletop, you can't help but be reminded of a bygone era when the automotive world was filled with imagination and innovation. It's a testament to the enduring allure of retro-futuristic design, where the past and the future collide in a harmonious symphony of style and innovation.
The
1955 Ford custom-built Beatnik Bubbletop's retro-futuristic design captures the essence of an age when people dared to dream big about what the future of transportation might look like. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
So, as this unique automotive masterpiece goes under the hammer at the Auctions America event, it's not just a car that's up for grabs; it's a piece of history and a glimpse into a world where the sky was not the limit but only the beginning. The Beatnik Bubbletop is a rolling work of art, a tangible representation of the dreams and aspirations of a generation that believed in pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
In conclusion, the Beatnik Bubbletop is more than just a car; it's a time capsule, a symbol of an era when automotive design knew no bounds, and a reminder that the future is limited only by our imagination. As it prepares to find its new home, this extraordinary creation continues to inspire awe and admiration for its unique blend of classic charm and futuristic flair. *** [EKA [22072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | USA TODAY | OTOBLITZ ]
Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone.
Various World's automotive companies compete with each other creating a vehicle with alternative fuel, one of which is electricity. It was also done by a designer from London named Jans Slapins.
By presenting a design of electric motorcycle concept, Jans hopes to create two-wheeled vehicle that is energy efficient for the World's bikers.
As reported by Greencarreports on Sunday, July 19, 2015, this e-motorcycle named 'Tesla Model M' which is inspired by Tesla Motors, the famous company that made electric cars. This bike armed with an electric motor and claimed to have the power up to 201 hp.
Right side view of Tesla Model M by Jans Slapins. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1fhzs9e)
In addition, this motorcycle has adopted a computer-based advanced technology, in which the motorcycle is able to run with four modes, namely Race, Cruise, Standard, and Eco.
Rear side view of Tesla Model M by Jans Slapins. (Picture from: http://bit.ly/1fhzs9e)
The bike uses lithium-ion batteries and mounted very low, to pursuit of stability. Its weights increasingly lighter because the transmission system is not used on this bike. The place is usually used as a fuel tank converted into the helmet storage.
Kept spur your adrenaline on the power of the two-wheeled monster and
stay alive with true safety riding. May God will forgive Your sins and
so does the cops...... *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GREENCARREPORTS]
One of the most striking features of the Manta, aside from its flamboyant color scheme, is its seating arrangement. Positioned at the center is the driver's seat, resembling a bench, with passengers flanking on either side. This unique configuration had all three occupants riding shoulder to shoulder, making for an unconventional but captivating experience.
In conclusion, the Bizzarrini Manta concept car, with its unconventional seating, Detroit power, and iconic design, stands as a testament to the audacity of innovation in the automotive world. Its mysterious disappearance and eventual reappearance only add to its legend, making it a symbol of timeless design and the enduring spirit of automotive creativity. *** [EKA [25072015] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | SUPERCARS.NET | CLASSICDRIVER | LSXMAG ] 
