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Images Courtesy of Artuciral Auction House In the automotive world, many brands were less known to automotive enthusiasts today. One of them is Serenissima, the automotive brand founded by Count Giovanni Volpi of Venice in the 1960s for his racing team under the full name of Scuderia Serenissima. As is known at first, Count Volpi's racing team used Ferrari-engined racing cars to achieve many victories on the racing circuit at the time. However, when its founder later funded a new company called ATS which several former Ferrari employees founded, so made Enzo Ferrari not pleased and decided not to sell his car anymore to Serenissima. So the company turned to De Tomaso, ATS, and Maserati, and it is also known that Volpi and Serenissima halted their operations in the world's automotive in 1970. This time, we will discuss another car model made explicitly for Giovanni Volpi's racing team: Serenissima Agena. The car was initially designed as a mid-engined high-end Grand Tourer, which was relatively new at the time. Only several famous manufacturers have chosen this engine set-up. The most prominent is the Lamborghini Miura, first presented at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, followed by De Tomaso Mangusta, carrying an American engine. Still, it said not as innovative as the Lambo's car. Inside the cabin of the Serenissima Agena's dashboard is an impressive number of instruments and a three-spoke steering wheel with six Allen bolts. The Serenissima Agena is designed by Piero Drogo and built on a boxy structure with tubular front, and rear subframes; and is powered by a Massimino Tipo 358 V engine. The drivetrain is a 3.5 liter overhead twin-cam V8 engine coupled with twin-spark ignition plus four Weber DCN14 carburetors; at first glance, this layout is identical to the Le Mans spyder. Besides that, the two-seater coupé has a reasonably light aluminum body made by the Modena-based coachbuilder Carrozzeria Sports Car. There are two leather-covered bucket seats, a gear lever in a solid grille with dog-leg first gear, and a lock for reverse inside the cabin of the 1967 Serenissima Agena sports car. (Picture from: RouteVecchie) As stated by the brand's owner, initially, the car installed louver lights, but then the front was modified by mechanics to install four lights. After finishing looking less elegant, the vehicle was redesigned to perfect its looks. As a result, the car is featured with closed headlights and more matched with lower air intake. While for several occasions, the rear spoiler was installed, but it was removed after the event ended. Inside the cabin are two leather-covered bucket seats, a gear lever in a solid grille with dog-leg first gear, and a lock for reverse. While on its dashboard, you could be found an impressive number of instruments such as a rev counter marked in red at 7,000 rpm, an oil temperature and pressure gauge, a water temperature gauge, a battery charger and voltage gauge, a clock, and even an air intake temperature gauge. These aviation-styled dials and gauges are four screw-mounted each, giving the dashboard an experimental feel, reinforced by a three-spoke steering wheel with six Allen bolts. The interior is featured with a touch of comfort, also completed with a Becker Grand Prix radio and a Philips cassette player with an eight-track cartridge. While the rear spoiler was attached to the Serenissima Agena sports car for specific events, it was removed after the event ended. The Agena is only made in one unit, which is intended as a prototype. Once completed, the Agena was not used much and is still in pristine condition, apart from the bodywork above modifications. Amazingly, the car was sold by none other than the marque owners responsible for the vehicle in the 1960s.

Images Courtesy of Artcurial Auction House Auction house Artcurial unloads treasure after treasure bound for the auction block on February 8, 2019, at the Rétromobile classic car show in Paris. Among the show stars, one car stands out: an unrestored survivor with fading paint and a constellation of dents betraying the lightweight construction of its body. Already partially disassembled, it exhales faint fumes of old petrol, grease, and dirty oil. Up to this point, the property of Count Volpi, founder of the manufacturer and race team Serenissima, this 1966 Serenissima Spyder appears to have been wheeled straight into storage after the '66 Le Mans 24-hour race. The car raced just once, at Le Mans in '66, and has remained untouched ever since. The Serenissima hasn't suffered patched-up race damage, bodywork alterations, engine swaps, and fumbled restorations which have sullied many other vintage race cars. It is the only surviving Spyder of the pair that were built, and Artcurial's pre-sale estimate for the vehicle is €1.3M – €1.3M ($1.48M – $2.05M). In that famous race, all eyes were on the battle of the egos between Henry Ford and Enzo Ferrari. The two automotive titans had spent months negotiating a deal whereby Ford would buy the Italian company so the former could go endurance racing. Still, Ferrari pulled out at the last minute, unhappy about losing control of his beloved racing team. In truth, the Commendatore probably never envisaged his company under the power of the Americans; he wanted to force Agnelli, owner of Fiat, to invest in his firm. Ford hit back with a vengeance, not just aiming to embarrass but to destroy Ferrari at their favorite playground—Le Mans. For the 1966 race, almost a third of cars entered were Fords, flush with high expectations even though all of the GT40s had retired from the previous year's race. Count Volpi had previously campaigned Ferraris, Maseratis, and a few Porsches wearing his coat of arms. In 1962, however, his relationship with Ferrari soured when he agreed to finance a fifth of a company called ATS. The firm in question was created by some of Maranello's pariahs following an internal schism at Ferrari in 1961 when several senior figures departed after serving Enzo an ultimatum: his wife (who had been involved in running the company) went, or they did. Ferrari stopped providing race cars to Volpi once he cast his lot with ATS. Volpi's relationship with the new company would not last the year. Still, this passionate lover of beautiful machines had now caught the scent of glamour which can only attend respected constructors. He had an itch to build something of his own. Girolamo Gardini, Ferrari's commercial and sports director until he left as part of the 1961 scandal, went to Volpi with designs for a passenger car engineered by Alberto Massimino. The latter's career had led him from Alfa Romeo to Ferrari via Maserati. In nine months, a newly-conceived 3.0-liter V-8 was coming together on the workbench. Three months later, the Serenissima's wheels turned for the first time. Massimino designed the tubular chassis and all the mechanical parts, including the gearbox, while Franco Salomone penned the body. Following the standard practice of the era, the first car was built as a draft, a kind of working prototype and design study. It quickly became a donor for the vehicles that followed. The second Serenissima, the 308V Jet Berlinetta fashioned by carrozzeria Fantuzzi, was more successful and gave birth to two Spyder variants, one of which is the car headed to Rétromobile. For Volpi, Serenissima was a laboratory, and its road models were capable of being driven by everyone (hence the synchronized gearbox). The Serenissima Spyder, sporting number 24 (with the numbers still visible on the white roundels), entered the '66 race at Le Mans with two Frenchmen at the helm, Jean-Claude Sauer and Jean de Mortemart. Unfortunately, the adventure was cut short; the Spyder had to bow out of the race with a broken transmission after five hours. More than a half-century later, the Dymo labels are still stuck below switches and rockers in an astonishing state of preservation, with each function typed out in French. Despite its poor performance, this Serenissima deserves attention. It's a rare survivor from this primarily forgotten manufacturer. The brand and the racing team disappeared in 1970 as competition became more professionalized, and rising operational budgets prevented Volpi and Serenissima from keeping up with the big teams. The sale of this Spyder this February is a reminder of how small companies could still compete in racing 50 years ago, one that feels particularly timely in light of the Automobile Club de l'Ouest's efforts to rein in the outrageous budgets needed to compete at Le Mans effectively. Always rare, the Serenissima has now been transformed by time into something else: precious and serene. Source: Hagerty; Artcurial

Images: Christian Martin, courtesy of Artcurial With its outstanding engineering, perfectly sketched lines, charismatic proportions, breathtaking race results, and great drivers, the 335 S perfectly symbolizes Ferrari in the 1950s. The heart of sporting Italians beats to the rhythm of the Mille Miglia, which was “the greatest race in the world.” In 1956, Ferrari entered a new V12 sports racer with their 4-cylinder cars to contest the event. The new 290 MM featured an overhead-cam, dual-ignition, 340-hp, 3.5-liter V12 engine derived from Ferrari’s Grand Prix single-seaters. The engine powered Eugenio Castellotti to victory. The 290 MM evolved into the quad-cam 290 S, then into a 3.8-liter 315 S. The final evolution of the line was the 4-liter Tipo 141 335 S. This four-cam, double-ignition, six-carb, 380-hp monster represented the most advanced engineering of its day. Ferrari chassis 0674 was built as a 315 S Barchetta. After a run in the 1957 Sebring and Mille Miglia, 0674 was returned to the factory and upgraded to 4-liter 335 S specs for the Le Mans 24 Hours race. After Le Mans, the Ferrari went back to the factory again, where the front was modified in the 250 Testa Rossa “pontoon fender” style to help cool the brakes for the Venezuelan Grand Prix. Venezuela was a battle between Ferrari and Maserati for the World Championship. The 2nd-place finish of Hawthorn-Musso in chassis 0674 played a significant part in winning the title. The Maseratis all retired, clearing the way for Ferrari, who finished 1-2-3-4. Luigi Chinetti then bought 0674, sending it to Cuba, where, sporting the NART livery of blue with a white stripe, it drove to victory with Masten Gregory and Stirling Moss at the controls. After Cuba, Chinetti rented the car for various races — often with Gaston Andrey and Lance Reventlow as drivers. They had some excellent results, including a victory in the Road America 500 and on Thompson and Watkins Glen circuits. In 1960, the Ferrari was sold to Robert N. Dusek. Dusek sold the car to Pierre Bardinon, one of the most knowledgeable Ferrari collectors in the world. Bardinon sent the car to Fantuzzi to be restored to its original, non-pontoon configuration. The pontoon nose was restored for display and accompanied the car. Despite several lucrative offers, Bardinon refused to sell the 335 S. He saw this car as an essential part of his collection. A racing car of this caliber is rarely available for purchase. It has a clear and direct history, with no uncertainty and few owners. Such provenance, racing history, and importance make this one of the most significant Ferraris in motorsport history. Source: Artcurial Motorcars

Secma reinvents the buggy of the '70s! Built based on Secma F16, the reliability and performance are very fine established; the Secma Fun Buggy takes you straight back to the 70s, with modern technology! In the city or the countryside, on the road or the sandy roads, escape aboard this reliable, efficient, and fun buggy! Street legal. It is made in France. Secma Fun Buggy Specs: ​0-100km/h: 5,9 seconds Power: 105CV Displacement: 1600cc Top Speed: 180km/h ​Weight: 593kgs ​ SECMA FUN BUGGY PRICE Starting at 22.640€

All images copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company. Photos by Mathieu Heurtault. Car Highlights Rare Factory-Built 904/6; One of Only Six Examples Produced Raced by the Porsche Works Team at Le Mans Test, Mont Ventoux, and Solitude Sold to Vasek Polak in 1968 and Campaigned in SCCA Events Through 1972 Restored by Gunnar Racing; Maintained by Emory Motorsports Vintage Racing Career Includes Monterey Historics, Tour Auto, and Le Mans Classic Beautifully Presented and Accompanied by Extensive Documentation Technical Specs 1,991 CC SOHC Air-Cooled Flat 6-Cylinder Engine Twin Weber Triple-Choke Carburetors Estimated 210 BHP at 7,500 RPM 5-Speed Manual Transaxle 4-Wheel Disc Brakes 4-Wheel Independent Double-Wishbone Suspension with Shock Absorbers

All images copyright and courtesy of Gooding & Company. Photos by Brian Henniker. The 1939 Alfa Romeo Tipo 256 Coupe by Touring is a very rare pre-war Alfa based on the 6C 2500. It was a racing car that was introduced in 1939. The 256 differs from other racing variants of the 6C, one being that the Tipo 256 was actually prepared by Scuderia Ferrari in Modena, and not by Alfa. Power is from a 125 horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-six. Other features include a shortened frame, a larger fuel tank, lowered radiator, three Weber carburetors, and a stiffer suspension. Car Highlights Rare Pre-war Competition Alfa Romeo Developed by Scuderia Ferrari Competed in Eight Races During 1939 and the 1940 Mille Miglia Fitted in 1941 with Elegant One-Off Coupe Coachwork by Carrozzeria Touring Formerly Owned by Acclaimed Automotive Historian Angelo Tito Anselmi Exquisite Restoration; First in Class, Mille Miglia Trophy, and Bulgari Award Winner at the 2015 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance® Presented with Exhaustive History File, Owner’s Manual, Literature, and Tool Kit Technical Specs 2,443 CC DOHC Inline 6-Cylinder Engine Three Weber 36 DO2 Carburetors 125 HP at 4,800 RPM 4-Speed Manual Gearbox (Original) 4-Wheel Hydraulic Finned Aluminum Drum Brakes Front Independent Racing Suspension with Coil Springs and Hydraulic Shock Absorbers Rear Swing-Arm Racing Suspension with Longitudinal Torsion Bars and Dampers

The Fulgur, developed by Simca in 1958, gives another idea of what the cars of the future may look like. The Simca Fulgur was a concept car designed in 1958 by Robert Opron for Simca and first displayed at the 1959 Geneva Auto Show. It was also displayed at the New York Auto Show and the 1961 Chicago Auto Show. The concept car was intended to show what cars in the year 2000 would look like. It was to be atomic-powered, voice-controlled, guided by radar, and use only two wheels balanced by gyroscopes when driven at over 150 kph (93 mph). Fulgur is Latin for “flash,” and Simca stands for “La Société Industrielle de Méchanique et de Carrosserie Automobile” Source: OldConceptCars.com; CultOfWeird.com

An open buggy “laboratory for idea” concept that will never make it into a Dacia showroom but some of the technology and materials might. It’s very lightweight with bodywork made from a new plastic called Starkle, which features 20% recycled and processed polypropylene to give the panels a flecked look. Tires are airless and designed to last the life of the vehicle. It will be presented at the Paris Motor Show in October. There’s no specific powertrain; it could be fuelled by petrol, LPG, hybrid, or fully electric. Source/Images: Dacia

Chevrolet confirmed it would sooner or later release an electric variant of the Corvette. The battery-powered sports car won't be the first of its kind when it does. Motorola Automotive built an electric Corvette prototype in the 1990s. The red convertible remained shrouded in secrecy for decades, but it was recently discovered gathering dust in what looks like the warehouse of a salvage yard in Gurnee, Illinois. Built with a V8 engine in 1987, the model was modified to run on electricity at some point in the 1990s. Many details about the conversion are murky at best. No one at Motorola or General Motors remembers this car or the project it emerged from, but a thick stack of documents details some of the modifications. Visually, nothing sets the prototype apart from a regular-production 1987 Corvette. It's red with a white top and sits on factory-fitted alloy wheels. It's a different story under the hood, where a series of boxes occupy the space usually reserved for the V8. Some are labeled "high voltage" and contain some of the deep-cycle batteries that power the car, according to The Drive. Motorola stuffed more batteries in the trunk; interestingly, a few seem to be integrated into the floorboards. Were engineers looking for ways to lower the center of gravity? Precisely what powers this prototype isn't known yet. It's an electric motor, that's a given, and it spins the rear wheels via a four-speed manual transmission. Some documents detail what to do (and, significantly, what not to do) when starting and driving the Corvette. Starting it sounds simple: turn the key to "on" without touching the throttle and wait until you hear a humming sound. Driving is straightforward, too: Motorola says to "use the throttle pedal as you would in any other car," though first can be engaged without pressing the clutch. While the car didn't run, it was allegedly reasonably quick. Some of the paperwork pegs its output at up to 428 horsepower. Motorola went to significant lengths to keep this project a secret, engineers notably weren't allowed to charge the car while visitors were in the building, and the prototype consequently asks more questions than it answers. Images: Kevin Williams

For sale on eBay, a unique Z-car that was built for the Nissan Motor Corporation USA as a factory sales prototype and given to the owner of the company who was making promotional material for Nissan. It is finished in Black Pearl Metallic with gold stripping, which never made it into series production. There are also custom Gotti wheels and a Stebro exhaust system. The car is immaculate have traveled only 7,484 miles (12,044 km). Current bidding is at $85,000 with one day to go! View it on eBay: https://www.ebay.com/itm/265868143128 📸/📚: eBay

René Stapp was a French racing driver. In 1932 he attempted to break the land speed record with one of the most outlandish and ugliest cars to attempt to do so. The car was built in Paris between 1930 and 1932, then taken to Daytona Beach to attempt the land speed record. Two Bristol Jupiter radial aero engines supplied power. Assuming a generous 600 bhp per engine in racing trim, this would have given a power comparable to Malcolm Campbell's cars, so it wasn't an impossible contender. However, the general engineering was at the Heath Robinson level and failed to inspire confidence. The car was destroyed by fire on the beach at La Baule, a popular motor-racing venue of the period. Source & Images: Wikipedia

Cupra’s upcoming sub-compact electric hatch has taken one more step towards production with the latest UrbanRebel concept. Previously shown as a massive-winged, highly exaggerated show car, the EV is now being presented as a more sober model that would be appropriate for public roads. The Cupra brand has presented the second version of the UrbanRebel concept. Firstly, the electric car has become closer to a production car, in particular, it has lost its aggressive body kit. Last fall, Cupra unveiled the UrbanRebel concept . The show car was not far from a production car, although it had an outstanding appearance and excessive power for its size: constant 250 kilowatts (340 horsepower) and peak 320 (435 horsepower). It was assumed that the hatchback will accelerate to the first “hundred” in 3.2 seconds, that is, it will be faster than the 640-horsepower Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. The second version of UrbanRebel turned out to be more relaxed. For example, the aggressive aerodynamic plumage has disappeared and the output of the power plant has noticeably decreased - up to 166 kilowatts, or 226 horsepower. Acceleration to a hundred now takes 6.9 seconds, in addition, information has appeared about the potential range of 440 kilometers. For the hatchback, parametric design, parts made from recycled plastic and biopolymers, as well as the widespread use of 3D printing and 3D knitting technologies are promised. The serial Cupra UrbanRebel will be based on the MEB Small front-wheel drive trolley. The hatchback will be produced at the plant in Martorell, which is not far from Barcelona. Actually, the electric car itself was developed and designed in Spain. The market debut is scheduled for 2025. From the Cupra Press Release: In 2025, CUPRA will bring the UrbanRebel - its Urban Electric Car - to the market. A vehicle that will take CUPRA far beyond its traditional boundaries. The UrbanRebel is driven by emotion, designed, and developed for a more rebellious electric world. The front-wheel drive Urban Electric Car uses the Volkswagen Group's MEB Small platform to deliver an emotional, high-performance urban vehicle. "The CUPRA UrbanRebel will be the biggest project for our company in the upcoming years, since it is key for our transformation as a fully electric brand. We are leading the cluster development, the family of vehicles that will democratise sustainable urban mobility, for different brands within the Volkswagen Group", said Werner Tietz, Vice-President for Research & Development at CUPRA. The 4.03m long vehicle has sustainability at its core, integrating advanced recycled polymers and bio-based materials to push the boundaries of what is achievable, and delivering a more environmentally-conscious vehicle. It mixes 3D printed and 3D knitted manufacturing approaches with parametric design to improve performance and value perception. Lightweight design both in the exterior and interior help the vehicle's 226PS (166kW) electric motor and battery pack push the Urban Electric Car to 100km/h in just 6.9 seconds and give it a range of up to 273 miles / 440km. Designed and developed in Barcelona, the CUPRA UrbanRebel will be launched in 2025; production is planned in Martorell, subject to the Strategic Project for Economic Recovery and Transformation program (in Spanish, PERTE) for the Electric and Connected Vehicle (in Spanish, VEC). "The UrbanRebel is more than just a car to CUPRA. This is the model that will democratise urban electric mobility. Emotional, sexy, and fun to drive and at the same time accessible. We prove that electric cars don't have to be boring. This will be the next generation's entry into our range.", said Wayne Griffiths, CEO of CUPRA. Source: motor.ru; Cupra Press Release Images: Cupra

Chrysler launched the Airflow Concept at CES 2022, previewing the brand’s electric future. The concept looks identical to the one previewed last summer and is a follow-up to the FCA Airflow Concept from two years ago. Chrysler's Airflow Graphite concept electrocross debuted at the New York Auto Show. It differs from the show car presented at the beginning of 2022 at CES only in color, but the company expects that the new color will distinguish it from numerous electric cars from other brands. By 2025, Airflow will be reborn as Chrysler's first mass-produced electric car. The Chrysler Airflow Graphite concept gets a Galaxy Black exterior finish. It is paired with the Cyprus Copper tint that accentuates the 22-inch wheels, exterior mirror housings, panoramic glass roof and interior décor. This is where the differences between the novelty and the January Airflow in Arctic White end. 04/13/2022 At the CES consumer electronics show, Chrysler unveiled a concept electric crossover with the historical name Airflow. This name was used for a model that was produced from 1934-1937: the Airflow was the first full-size American car with a faired body . The 2022 concept is built on the modular Stellatnis STLA platform and is powered by two electric motors, one on each axle. Chrysler gives some technical characteristics of Airflow: the power of each of the electric motors is 204 horsepower (150 kilowatts), and on a single battery charge, the electric car can travel from 563 to 643 kilometers. The car can drive in unmanned mode (autopilot corresponds to the third level of autonomy according to the SAE classification), namely, to move independently in the stream, brake, pick up speed and turn, but the driver is required to constantly monitor the situation on the road and be ready to take control. Airflow is intended to demonstrate Chrysler's focus on electrification of the model range: the brand's first production electric car will appear in 2025, and by 2028 all models in the company's portfolio will become battery-powered. In the meantime, Chrysler is represented by only two cars - a full-size Pacifica minivan and a business class sedan with an index of 300. 01/5/2022 From the Chrysler Press Release: The Chrysler brand revealed the Chrysler Airflow Concept at CES 2022, giving a glimpse at the leading-edge drive-system technology, fully connected customer experiences and advanced mobility features, wrapped in inspiring, dynamic design, which will fuel the Chrysler brand's future. Chrysler also announced that the brand's transformation will include the launch of its first battery-electric vehicle (BEV) by 2025 and a future all-electric Chrysler vehicle lineup. "The Chrysler Airflow Concept represents the future direction of the Chrysler brand, providing a peek at the dynamic design, advanced technologies and seamless connectivity that will characterize the full-electric portfolio we plan to reach by 2028," said Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand CEO - Stellantis. "Chrysler is an iconic American automotive brand, with a heritage in creating new advanced technologies and product segments. Our brand will serve at the forefront as Stellantis transforms to deliver clean mobility and connected customer experiences." Through more than 96 years, the Chrysler brand has earned a reputation for innovative engineering, groundbreaking style and affordable luxury. One recent innovation, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, the first and only plug-in hybrid minivan, served as a springboard to the brand's electrified future. The new connected vehicle isn't simply about moving from point A to point B. The Chrysler Airflow Concept reinvents the customer experience by integrating the STLA Brain platform and STLA SmartCockpit to deliver seamless connectivity to transform the experience for driver and passengers. The concept creates a connected hub that brings a consumer's digital lifestyle into the vehicle, using advanced technology to create a customized space for each occupant. "The Chrysler Airflow Concept represents the start of the brand's journey toward a fully electrified future. It is the result of a thoughtful synthesis of the full arsenal of Stellantis' connected vehicle technology - inside and out," said Ralph Gilles, chief design officer - Stellantis. "The design features a decisively elegant aerodynamic exterior and a modern, sophisticated interior that takes the customer on a new level of digital delight." Seamless Connectivity Optimizing Customer Experiences The Chrysler Airflow Concept is designed as a space to bring people together, both physically and virtually. Enabled by STLA Brain and STLA SmartCockpit, the user experience in the Airflow Concept is agile, intuitive and always fresh. The interior showcases ideas for giving every passenger a personalized experience that seamlessly connects them with their digital lives, as well as the other passengers. The Chrysler Airflow Concept unifies these advanced technologies, communicating through advanced visualization and thoughtful interaction. The Airflow Concept user experience employs multi-layered, high-contrast graphics and thoughtful details to provide a clean, sophisticated appearance that is safe, easy to use and easy to understand. Using a menu-based format, screens throughout the Airflow interior can be personalized, simplified and grouped based on individuals and interests. Information on the screens can be shared with all passengers by swiping. Customization and personalization are key, whether driving or acting as a co-pilot. Each screen is a personalized space to access the digital world via connected entertainment, apps and downloads. Each seat also features a built-in camera, enabling occupants to participate in a group video conference call from the comfort of the Airflow cabin. Over-the-air (OTA) updates keep Airflow Concept services current and let passengers quickly and easily add new and innovative features. That functionally keeps the vehicle fresh, exciting and capable, enhancing the overall ownership experience. The backbone of the Airflow Concept user experience is the new electrical/electronic (E/E) and software architecture, STLA Brain. This architecture is highly flexible, breaking today's bond between hardware and software generations. It enables software developers to create and update features and services quickly, taking advantage of capabilities built into the cockpit without waiting for a new hardware launch. The STLA SmartCockpit, demonstrated in the Airflow Concept and built on top of STLA Brain architecture, seamlessly integrates with the digital lives of vehicle occupants to deliver AI-based applications, such as navigation, voice assistance, e-commerce marketplace and payment services. Fully Electrified + Fully Connected Along with the fully connected ultimate user experience, the Chrysler Airflow Concept previews the brand's commitment to delivering a fully electric vehicle lineup by 2028, produced using clean manufacturing processes and made with recyclable and renewable materials. Through the use of industry-first technologies, the Chrysler brand will delight customers and influence the industry to make the world better, cleaner and safer. The Chrysler Airflow Concept is equipped with STLA AutoDrive, which delivers Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities and will be upgradable via OTA updates. The concept features all-wheel-drive capability and is powered by two 150 kW electric drive motors (EDMs), one in the front and one in the rear. The concept is designed to accommodate larger capacity EDMs, offering the potential for future high-performance applications. Drive motors are located toward the front and rear of the vehicle, maximizing interior space and enabling the large wheel size and wide stance of the Airflow Concept. The battery is designed to achieve between a 350- and 400-mile range on a single charge. Dynamic Design Language The sculptural, expressive design of the Chrysler Airflow Concept envisions the next generation of premium transportation and user experience. The concept reimagines how the driver and passengers interact with advanced technologies while delivering a first-class travel experience that balances technological needs within a serene environment. The Chrysler Airflow Concept features a dynamic design proportion, with a low ride height and streamlined, two-tone roof line that achieves an elegant yet athletic profile while increasing EV range. A long wheelbase and wide track, along with large 22-inch wheels and tires, are enhanced visually with Celestial Blue accent color cladding. The design elements work together to enable a dramatic stance and deliver excellent handling and performance dynamics. The Airflow's silent electric ride harmoniously supports the sleek design aesthetic, with the concept's dramatic expression completed by an Arctic White body color that conveys a sense of calm and serenity. Up front, the Airflow announces its electric aesthetic with the Chrysler wing logo tied into a cross-car grille/light blade illuminated with crystal LED lighting. A crystal LED taillight runs the full width of the vehicle, accentuating the wide stance. The Airflow Concept features welcome, departure and animated lighting, including a unique aqua that signifies the vehicle is charging. The diffuser shape of the lower rear fascia highlights the aerodynamic, smooth underbody, a key to achieving optimum driving range. The modern and spacious interior is also accented by a light and calming color palette, evoking an open, airy lounge area that delivers a comfortable space between home and work. The interior design is made to sooth and relax occupants, surrounding those inside with flowing lines that move throughout the space, creating a greater feeling of spaciousness and comfort. Technology is integrated seamlessly into the interior in the form of dark glass sculptures. The central control area integrates individualized climate controls near the C-shaped air slots. Crystalized textures throughout the vehicle add a sense of precision, providing an intricate transition from the exterior and aligning with the advanced interior design highlighted by premium refinement. Redefined interior touchpoints support ideas of tranquil, serene comforting spaces and combine illusionary weightlessness and grounding metals to give the Chrysler Airflow Concept a dynamic, dreamy design. Soft leather-wrapped seats help achieve a lighter, smoother atmosphere. Materials, including vegetable-tanned leather, as well as floor mats, fabric and carpeting made of recycled materials, imagine a future of sustainable design. Infotainment screens appear as gloss black sculptures, seamlessly integrating technology within the overall interior composition. Seating uses a unique slim structure that rests on a pedestal base, enhancing comfort and roominess while allowing for maximum legroom, shoulder space and personal storage for each passenger. Functional and ambient lighting helps the driver and passengers create a personalized inner sanctum, augmented by the Chrysler Airflow Concept's panoramic roof that allows daylight to stream into the cabin. The ambient lighting reveals itself in direct lines, adding modernity, and indirectly through perforations in the upper door bolsters and a cascade of light spilling out from under the armrests in all four doors. The lighting syncs to the mood of the interior and changes based on the passengers' preferences and the content on the displays. Subtle design choices create an overall feeling of serenity with craftsman-like attention to detail in accent points, such as the perforation and embossed pattern on the seats, unifying the refined interior. Source: motor.ru; Chrysler Press Release Images: Chrysler

Cadillac InnerSpace Concept Debuts As A Luxurious, Autonomous Coupe Cadillac unveiled the InnerSpace luxury concept car at CES. The car represents the American brand's vision of the personal autonomous mobility of the future. The two-seat prototype joins a portfolio of concepts from the Cadillac Halo line, designed to show that the car can be a means of transportation and a luxury item that can increase the comfort and well-being of a person. The concept, of course, is completely electric; there is not a single control in the cabin: everything happens through a smart autopilot system. The philosophy of this concept is based on the idea that a person can use the time on the road to relax and not strain even more, following the road. Full autonomy allows the driver to relieve himself of the need to drive a car, and a set of modern assistants and technologies is designed to help you relax and unwind as much as possible during the trip. Through biometrics and machine learning, Halo concepts can offer each person a personalized experience while traveling. Cadillac noted that the car would also help with recreational purposes in addition to the entertainment component. Instead of a windshield, the electric car has a giant curved screen, and where the pedals are usually installed, the concept has a special compartment with slippers. The roof opens with the doors for a more comfortable fit, and separate seats are pulled out toward the passenger. In addition, thanks to the use of Ultium Platform technology, the batteries are distributed along the entire body length, and not concentrated in one place. This allowed the car to sit lower and sportier, and it also helped to maximize the interior space in the cabin. From the GM Press Release: Cadillac expanded its vision of personal autonomous future mobility with the InnerSpace concept - a dramatic, two-passenger electric and autonomous luxury vehicle. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance the passenger experience and the increased personal time enabled by fully autonomous mobility, InnerSpace grows the Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio of vehicles envisioned to not only move passengers in a luxurious environment but enhance their well-being. The Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio represents future possibilities with a range of personal autonomous options and advanced connected vehicle features. "The vehicles of the Cadillac Halo Concept Portfolio are designed to provide effortless travel through extraordinary means," said Bryan Nesbitt, GM executive director, Global Advanced Design and Global Architecture Studio. "They are visions for the next decade and beyond, showing the possibilities enabled by General Motors' comprehensive approach to autonomous drive technology with the goal of a world with zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion." Cadillac introduced the first two Halo concepts at the 2021 CES: the PersonalSpace, a single-seat, personal vertical takeoff and landing concept designed to literally move its passenger above the din and congestion of ground traffic, and the SocialSpace, a roomy, autonomous vehicle for up to six, designed to help passengers relax and recharge. Conceptually, the portfolio repurposes how passengers use their time while traveling, providing a space for solace and respite. Full autonomy relinquishes the responsibility of vehicle control while dramatic design and advanced technologies maintain the sensation of arriving in a Cadillac. In fact, technologies such as biometric input and AI machine learning are harnessed and complement Cadillac's signature luxury environment to support unique wellness experiences. Through software-defined features and advanced vehicle connectivity, the Cadillac Concept Halo Portfolio could offer each passenger a truly personalized experience made possible by GM's Ultifi software platform. Ultifi enables seamless delivery of software updates to customers over the air. The experiences showcased within the Halo Portfolio demonstrate the potential as both Ultifi and autonomous technology continue to evolve. The PersonalSpace and SocialSpace will join the InnerSpace in GM's virtual CES experience this week, along with a video glimpse of future luxury travel with another concept - the OpenSpace - to be introduced later. "Electrification and autonomous driving will fundamentally change the role of vehicles and the experiences customers have with them," said Nesbitt. "We're exploring where that will go with these innovative concepts, envisioning mobility as an ally of wellness, giving customers the ultimate luxury, more personal time rather than taking it." Reimagining the luxury experience Early in Cadillac's history, compact and personal Runabout models enabled customers to explore new and wider horizons. The new InnerSpace concept reimagines that vision, with a fully autonomous experience that allows two passengers to focus on their journey and not driving. The vehicle's fully autonomous capability means they could explore more of the world around them, as well as inside the vehicle, with more personal and tailored experiences that add new dimensions to Cadillac's signature luxury experience. AI-driven biometric input and interfaces, accessible via a large, immersive and panoramic SMD LED display, allow passengers to select from Augmented Reality Engagement, Entertainment and Wellness Recovery themes for their drive. Thanks to Ultifi, Cadillac engineers and authorized third parties will be able to innovate additional themes and features that can be added over the air. With the Ultium Platform's wireless battery management system, the battery modules are spread about the concept vehicle, which allowed designers to optimize the cabin for spaciousness and serenity. This design freedom also allowed for a low-profile floor, providing an extremely low, sports car-like seating position. On the exterior, the dramatically designed InnerSpace features expansive, panoramic glass on the roof and part of the body sides for almost unimpeded views. The roof opens with the doors for more comfortable entry and egress, and the seats also pivot outward when the doors are opened, enhancing the effect. Even the InnerSpace's tires are designed to contribute to its solace. Developed by Goodyear for electrified vehicles, they feature SoundComfort technology designed to help mitigate soundwave resonance within the tire for a quiet ride, while soybean oil and rice husk-based silica replaces petroleum-based oil as a key ingredient in their construction. And because autonomous driving takes away some of the driver's connection with the road, Goodyear SightLine, Goodyear's tire intelligence technology, conveys important information about pressure, temperature, load and other performance factors. Source: motor.ru; GM Press Release Images: GM

Buick unveiled the Wildcat EV concept - an expressive vision of the brand's new design direction as it transitions to an all-electric future. Buick has unveiled the Wildcat EV concept. It demonstrates the vector of corporate identity development and hints at the upcoming transformations. In 2024, Buick will introduce its first electric car, and perhaps it will borrow some of the solutions from the Wild Cat. In the future, Wildcat will become a platform for introducing new features such as artificial intelligence, biometrics, and aromatherapy. The Buick Wildcat EV concept "sets the design direction for future models as we move towards an all-electric future." This is a rather large coupe with a 2 + 2 seating formula, shapes, and proportions reminiscent of the Koenigsegg Gemera (the length of the Swedish megacar is almost five meters). Dominating the look of the prototype are a sloping front with a trapezoid grille, micro-LED swoosh headlights and three-dimensional roof-mounted lights. Buick defines the Wildcat's interior by simple, graceful forms that "convey balance, harmony and a sense of warmth." There are four displays in the driver's field of vision. The widescreen instrument cluster on the front panel has side-view camera screens built into the doors and a touch panel on the cantilevered center armrest. Another important detail is the choice of colors. Buick uses a calm combination of white and dark green, orange accents and polished and brushed aluminum inserts. The Wildcat EV prototype will act as a platform for a range of exotic features. Artificial intelligence, biometrics and even aromatherapy will be widely used. For example, monitoring the driver's heart rate will automatically launch relaxation programs in case of stress. You can dim the lights, turn on the massage function or fill the salon with a pleasant aroma. This is all part of a larger plan to transform the Buick brand. According to the strategy, the brand will introduce the first electric car in 2024, and a fully electric line will be formed by the end of the decade. From the Buick Press Release: The Wildcat was developed to convey the all-new design language that will influence Buick production models for the foreseeable future. Buick's new tri-shield logo, mounted prominently on the body front and rear, symbolizes the design transformation and new production models will wear it starting next year. "The Wildcat EV concept represents the real design future for the brand," said Sharon Gauci, executive director, Global Buick and GMC Design. "Buick has always been forward looking and this expression is a glimpse of where we're going, and the optimism we have for the limitless possibilities of an electric future." The Wildcat EV concept also introduces a new, expressive face for Buick, distinguished by a bold, forward-leaning front-end appearance that features a low-mounted, trapezoidal grille. Sharp, high-mounted and horizontal check mark-shaped lighting flanks the vehicle, while the outer edges of the grille house primary lighting. The lighting elements are configured to create a unique welcome choreography when the driver approaches. Further, the vehicle - a 2+2 coupe - strikes a powerful, expressive presence, with an all-new, laid-back proportion complemented by a low, wide stance. The windshield wraps around and flows into the side glass, which tapers dramatically with the fast roofline to accentuate the aggressive profile. "From every angle, the vehicle looks like it's ready to pounce," said Bob Boniface, director, Global Buick Design. "It's the result of careful attention to the proportions and sculptural beauty derived from the intersection of forms, not lines." Additional exterior design highlights include: – Distinctive semi-swing doors for easy entry and exit. – Unique aluminum trim that appears to flow seamlessly into the interior seat structures. – Micro-LED lighting technology and thin-beam projector lenses for the front lighting. – Blade-style taillights embedded in the roof's sail panels, culminating in check mark-style horizontal lamps that echo the front lighting signature. – An external "state of charge" indicator visible in the exterior hatchback glass. – Jet Age-inspired 18-spoke "turbine" wheels. "The more you look at the Wildcat EV concept, the more the details reveal themselves," said Boniface. "Its timeless proportions acknowledge the brand's rich design legacy, while our latest technology moves you forward." A blend of modernity and warmth Inside, the Buick Wildcat EV concept's cabin has an inner glow that is inviting and comforting, all while integrating new technologies designed to make the riding experience more enjoyable. "It's a space intended to strike an emotional chord," said Therese Pinazzo, Buick exterior and interior design manager. "It is defined by simple, graceful forms that convey balance, harmony and a feeling of warmth." The 2+2 configuration, delineated by a prominent console that extends from the base of the instrument panel to the rear seating area, uses unique graphic and color contrasts to create the perception of visually floating elements intended to accentuate the cabin's lightweight feel and spaciousness. Color plays an important role in the warmth and comfort the interior conveys. Legato Green flows through the cabin and is accented with brushed or polished aluminum trim. Lively orange elements, including the seat belts, also add visual distinction. Additional interior design elements include cockpit-style seats with cantilevered headrests that appear to be floating, and a lightweight, flat-bottom steering wheel. When it comes to technology integration and infotainment interaction, a sweeping touchscreen is the access point on the instrument panel, along with a complementing screen on the console. The Buick Wildcat EV concept is built to be a platform for futuristic features such as artificial intelligence, biometrics and aromatherapy. The vehicle is designed to detect an elevation in driver heart rate and automatically adjust vehicle settings to calm them down. For example, when Zen Mode is activated, it will dim the cabin lights, disperse calming aromatherapy scents and activate massaging seats. Everything about the concept is intended to convey what's possible - in design, technology and the transformative experience of EV mobility. "We are on the cusp of true change, and this concept is a tangible vision of it," said Gauci. "It inaugurates the next chapter in Buick's design heritage, as we make the crucial transition to our all-electric future." Wildcat: A Concept Legacy For nearly 70 years, the Wildcat name has been reserved for innovative, progressive Buick concept vehicles that push the boundaries of design and technology. Like the new Wildcat EV concept, the first Wildcat - introduced in 1953 - was a show vehicle that previewed next-generation Buick design. The Wildcat II and Wildcat III concepts followed in 1954 and 1955, respectively, and the designs of all were overseen by legendary chief designer Harley Earl. In 1985, another Wildcat concept debuted. It was a futuristically styled, mid-engine and AWD supercar developed to showcase new engine technologies. Images: Buick Source: motor.ru; Buick Press Release

The Buick Electra-X Concept Is An Electric Coupe-Crossover For China The coupe-shaped Buick Electra-X was developed by the Pan-Asian Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), owned equally by SAIC Motor and General Motors. Based on the Ultium platform, the concept anticipates the next generation of electric vehicles for the Chinese market. The car's appearance is dictated by the Pure design concept and generally uses solutions already applied on the Wildcat EV show car. In the future, Buick will abandon complex lines; surfaces will flow into one another, creating the illusion of movement. On the Electra-X, sculpted shapes accentuate the satin white metallic finish and aerodynamically designed 21-inch wheels. A tilted front with a trapezoid grille, swoosh headlights, and three branded shields in a row will become a mandatory attribute of the brand's future models. Salon Buick Electra-X is designed for four riders. The cockpit is organized similarly to the Wildcat EV. In front of the driver is a 30-inch widescreen 6K display. An additional screen is integrated into the console center armrest to control the main functions. Multimedia runs on the Qualcomm platform with the top-end SA8155P chip and supports 5G networks, and over-the-air updates. And the voice assistant built into it understands about 50 commands - from starting navigation to choosing the position of seats. The concept seats are upholstered in a 3D weave made from recycled plastic bottles. The equipment includes the Super Cruise automated driving system and a digital key (you can use a smartphone instead of a regular key fob). From the Buick press release: With a sleek, dynamic, and expressive appearance, the Buick Electra-X concept SUV unveiled in China brings Buick's all-new design language and projects the brand's vision for an electric and intelligent future. Developed by GM's PATAC engineering and design team in Shanghai, backed by the global resources of General Motors, the Electra-X previews the production version of Buick's new generation of electric vehicles in China, underpinned by GM's revolutionary Ultium platform. It is designed to bring a safer, smarter and more captivating EV experience to a new generation of customers. Inspired by the PURE Design philosophy, the Electra-X represents the continued evolution of Buick styling, which will be forward-looking and future-inspired. It has an expressive new face, sleek proportions, sophisticated details and purposeful innovation, that will appear on future Buick products. "Buick is well known across China for its beautiful styling," said Matt Noone, executive director of SAIC-GM PATAC Design. "The Electra-X will be a significant game-changer for Buick in offering products that are not only electric but also sporty and attractive to younger customers. Many of the design elements from the concept will be applied on future production models." Expressive and Pure Exterior The exterior of the Buick Electra-X is a modern interpretation of Buick's signature sculpted beauty, leveraging form-based surfacing instead of complex lines. The fluid movement contrasts with tension to provide a sense of motion. The concept's fresh and youthful expression is accompanied by an all-new aggressive trapezoidal grille that sits within the bold, forward-leaning "shark nose" front end. This distinctive appearance illustrates a strong and confident personality. Buick's iconic sculpted flying-wing design elements have been reimagined in a futuristic way, featuring the new Buick badge mounted on the front fascia of the vehicle. High-mounted horizontal "check mark" lamps and separate aviation-inspired lamps at the edge of the grille will become new Buick signatures going forward. They support a distinctive welcome lighting animation that greets users when they approach the vehicle. The four-seat Buick Electra-X offers a coupe-like expression, distinguished by sporty proportions from the side and a low-profile silhouette, further elevating its athletic persona. Other design highlights include: – Information projection at the side and rear of the vehicle for added pedestrian protection. – 21-inch wheels with an optimal design for improved aerodynamics, improving EV range while heightening the sporty stance. – An alluring Satin White Metallic exterior that shows off the sculptural beauty. Airy and Modern Interior The interior of the Buick Electra-X conveys the same clean, modern and sporty design, balanced with thoughtful details and new technologies that evoke warmth and ensure a rich sensory experience. The four-seat layout takes full advantage of the Ultium electric vehicle architecture, maximizing the extension of the cabin through a long wheelbase and more efficient layout. A wraparound windshield and panoramic glass roof connect occupants with nature while providing a more open, spacious sensation. The driver-focused instrument panel is integrated with hidden slim air vents that are elegant. The color scheme gradually transforms from medium dark gray on the bottom of the interior to sky cool gray on top, contributing to the zero-gravity floating styling. Complementary flashy copper accents provide metallic warmth. In line with the Buick Electra-X's zero-emissions vision, the SUV's lightweight seats are wrapped in 3D knit fabric made from recyclable PET plastic bottles. In addition, the Electra-X features special GS graphic patterns subtly etched in the interior and exterior, previewing the future styling of Buick's sporty GS sub-brand in the digital era. Purposeful and Advanced Innovation The concept is also designed with GM's cutting-edge technologies and advanced hardware for a captivating experience. The all-new Virtual Cockpit System (VCS) enables new design thinking and a connected experience in a seamless digital ecosystem. It is powered by a QUALCOMM Snapdragon 8155 flagship chip, which represents the pinnacle of intelligence in the industry. With over-the-air (OTA) capability, the system can evolve over time to keep up with technology advances. The Buick Electra-X also incorporates a segment-only EYEMAX 30-inch Freeform display that produces clearer and higher-quality images with up to 6K resolution. It can reflect a billion colors with a pixel density that is close to the limit of the human eye. Additionally, it supports 5G connectivity, allowing a fast response and instant access to the world's fastest video transmission. The Electra-X offers customized voice control and personalized recommendations to enrich users' digital life. Its multi-zone voice command supports nearly 50 scenarios and functions, including navigation, the audio system, and setting adjustment of the air-conditioning, seats, interior ambience lighting and sunroof. With the innovative iKey functionality, the driver can remotely unlock, control, park and share their vehicle via their smartphone even after getting out of the vehicle. The Buick Electra-X is also equipped with enhanced Super Cruise driver assist technology. It supports lane change on demand and automatic lane change for a more comfortable and intelligent experience with peace of mind. Source: motor.ru; Buick Press Release Images: Buick

Audi has launched the third and last vehicle from the “sphere” range of concepts called the urbansphere. Following the Skysphere (roadster) and Grandsphere (large sedan) from last year, the Urbansphere (minivan) is a collaborative project between Audi’s design studios in Beijing, China, and Ingolstadt, Germany. The futuristic EV with a minivan silhouette is designed for use in the megacities of the future, prioritizing the passenger’s in-vehicle experience. (Image Credit: Audi) Audi has unveiled the third concept from the Sphere series - the urbansphere minivan (similar to the Quattro, the name is written with a lowercase letter). It was created with an eye on the Chinese market and became the largest show car in the brand's history. In length, the vehicle will stretch for five and a half meters, surpassing even the extra-long version of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class. The interior and exterior of the urbansphere were the responsibility of the Audi design studios in Beijing and Ingolstadt. First of all, the concept is addressed to wealthy residents of Chinese million-plus cities, but, according to the authors, it will be appropriate on the roads of a metropolis of any other country. Interestingly, the Germans designed the car "from the inside out." This approach involves first creating the interior and then forming an external “shell” around it, and at one time, it was used by Hyundai for the Staria van. The "urbansphere" turned out to be quite impressive. Wheelbase - 3.4 meters. Length - more than 5.5 meters. Width and height - two and 1.8 meters, respectively. This is not only the largest of the Sphere family cars but also the largest concept in the history of Audi. Meanwhile, there are cars and more among the commercial models - for example, the A8 L extended sedan, stretching for 6.36 meters. Traditionally, a lot of attention in the show car is paid to lighting technology. The Singleframe grille has lost its original functionality (electric vehicles, as you know, do not need it) and now plays the role of a “light canvas” (Audi Light Canvas). The honeycombs are covered with lightly tinted glass; they create a special three-dimensional light signature and are used to signal other road users. The dipped and main beam headlights are located on the side sections of the "octagon". The design of the narrow Audi Eyes modules imitates the pupil and dynamically changes shape depending on the environment and the mood of the passengers. A close connection with the culture of modern China is hinted at by the branded Audi Light Umbrella umbrella, the outer part of which is made of reflective material. It is stylized as a traditional Chinese umbrella, and thanks to sensors and artificial intelligence, it starts flashing rhythmically in case of danger. In addition, according to the developers, it creates the perfect lighting for selfies. The six-spoke 24-inch Urbansphere wheels are a nod to the 1991 Audi Avus Quattro concept. The minivan is distinguished by a monolithic body, an arched roofline, a flat windshield, and massive thresholds covering the traction battery. Massive hinged doors lead to the salon, openings without B-pillars and a “red carpet” projected onto the road. Inside there are four seats, multimedia screens for rear passengers, including a transparent OLED display for video conferencing and movies, as well as a scattering of information panels that are activated when the car is started. Physical switches have been preserved on the doors - this is a corrugated “washer” and several buttons. There are virtual reality glasses, a function for determining the level of stress, as well as support for voice commands and gestures. Following environmental trends, only safe materials are used in the decoration: hornbeam veneer, recycled Econyl polyamide, bamboo cellulose textiles and wool. The monocab is equipped with a level 4 autopilot, so it can move independently if necessary. In this mode, the pedals and steering wheel are retracted inside the front panel and the projection of the “tidy” on the wooden surfaces under the windshield is turned off. The Audi Urbansphere is based on the PPE platform with multi-link aluminum suspension front and rear. It is equipped with air struts, two electric motors, all-wheel drive, and batteries with a capacity of 120 kilowatt-hours. The combined output of the system is 401 horsepower and 690 Nm of torque. Range - up to 750 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. The monocab supports charging with a capacity of 270 kilowatts, which allows you to get 300 kilometers in 10 minutes. Source: motor.ru Additionally, here is Audi's Press Release: Systematically designed from the inside out, Audi has unveiled plans for the Audi urbansphere concept car. Designers and engineers initially created the Audi urbansphere for use in traffic-dense Chinese megacities, although the concept is also suitable for any other metropolitan center in the world. In these urban areas, where personal space is in particularly short supply, the concept car offers the largest interior space of any Audi to date. It intelligently coordinates this with technologies and digital services that appeal to all the senses and offer a whole new level of experience. "In order to meet the demands of our Chinese customers, Audi's design studios in Beijing and Ingolstadt worked together closely to jointly develop the Audi urbansphere concept car," says Markus Duesmann, Chairman of the Board Management at AUDI AG and responsible for the Chinese market. For the first time, potential customers in China could also take part in the development process, contributing their own desires and perspectives as part of a process known as "co-creation". The result can be seen in the Audi urbansphere concept and its particularly striking interior. The spacious automobile acts as a lounge on wheels and a mobile office, serving as a third living space during the time spent in traffic. To this end, the Audi urbansphere combines the luxury of complete privacy with a comprehensive range of high-tech features on board, even during the daily rush hour. Automated driving technology transforms the interior, in which a steering wheel, pedals, or displays are notably absent, into a mobile interactive space that provides a gateway to a wider digital ecosystem. Audi sphere - first class to the power of three Audi skysphere, Audi grandsphere, and Audi urbansphere are the three concept cars that the brand with the four rings has developed to showcase its vision for the world of premium mobility of tomorrow. In the process, Audi is creating a vehicle experience that goes far beyond the purpose of merely spending time in a car to get from point A to point B. Sphere number 1: The electrically driven roadster Audi skysphere concept debuted in August 2021. It presented a spectacular vision of a self-driving GT that transforms into a self-driving sports car with a variable wheelbase. Just a few weeks later, Audi unveiled the second model in the sphere series, the Audi grandsphere concept, at the IAA 2021. This large four-seater sedan exemplified the brand's ambition to define the future of progressive luxury. What both concept cars have in common with the Audi urbansphere is that the entire concept is based on level 4 autonomous vehicle technology. Audi is currently working with CARIAD, Volkswagen Group's software business, to introduce this technology within the second half of the decade. Interior size Even at first glance, the Audi urbansphere concept reveals itself to be the largest model in the sphere family and of all Audi concept cars to date. Its grand dimensions - 5.51 meters (18 feet) long, 2.01 meters (6.6 feet) wide, and 1.78 meters (5.8 feet) high - place it in the upper echelons of the automotive world, yet the Audi urbansphere concept radically breaks with the conventions of the segment. This is because it has been systematically designed around its passengers, from the inside out. The most important dimension is the unrivaled wheelbase of 3.40 meters (11.2 feet). The interior of the Audi urbansphere is not subject to the conventional maxim of squeezing as many seats, storage compartments, and functional elements as possible into a space limited by the physics of driving. Instead, it prioritizes the occupants' need to experience ample space as a distinctive comfort factor. "To make e-mobility even more attractive, we think about it holistically and from the customer's needs," says Markus Duesmann. More than ever before, it is not just the product that is decisive, but the entire ecosystem. That is why Audi is creating a comprehensive ecosystem with services for the entire car. The Audi urbansphere concept also offers everyone onboard a wide range of options to use that freedom to provide a highly-personalized in-car experience: communication or relaxation, work or withdrawal into a private sphere as desired. As such, it transforms from being strictly an automobile into an "experience device." Thanks to Audi's own options and the ability to integrate digital services from other providers, the possibilities are nearly endless. These can be used to access a wide range of services related to the current trip. The vehicle also takes care of everyday tasks that go beyond the ride itself - such as making dinner reservations or shopping online from the car. In addition, the autonomous Audi urbansphere concept picks up its passengers at home and independently takes care of finding a parking space and charging the battery. Customized infotainment offerings are also available, such as the seamless integration of onboard music and video streaming services. Audi will also offer customers exclusive perks, including access to concerts, cultural events, and sporting events based on their individual preferences. The architecture - from the inside out Even the "sphere" in the name sends a signal: the heart of the Audi skysphere, grandsphere, and urbansphere concept vehicles lies in its interior. That makes the inner space the foundation of the vehicle's design and technology and therefore the occupants' living and experience sphere while on the road. Their needs and desires shape this space, its architecture, and all of the integrated functions. As a result of this shift, the design process itself also changes. At the beginning of all discussions, the focus is solely on the interior. Only then are the package, exterior lines, and proportions designed, along with the technological specifications, turning the automobile into a complete work of art. Surface, form, function - the interior The doors of the Audi urbansphere concept are counter-hinged at the front and the rear; there is no B-pillar. As a result, the whole world of urbansphere interior opens up to passengers as soon as they climb in. Seats that swivel outward and a red carpet of light projected onto the ground next to the vehicle transform the very act of entering the car into an experience of comfort. A wheelbase of 3.40 meters (11.2 feet) and a vehicle width of 2.01 meters (6.6 feet) delineate what is a more than stately footprint, even for a luxury-class automobile. Together with 1.78 meters (5.8 feet) of headroom and expansive glass surfaces, these dimensions provide an exceptionally spacious experience of the interior. Four individual seats in two rows offer passengers luxurious first-class comfort. The seats in the rear offer particularly generous dimensions and a wide range of adjustment options. In Relax and Entertain modes, the backrest can be tilted up to 60 degrees while leg rests extend at the same time. The center-mounted armrests integrated into the sides of the seats and their counterparts in the doors create a comforting feeling of security. The seats also cater to passengers' changing social needs in a variety of ways. While conversing, they can turn to face each other on their swiveling seats. On the other hand, those who want some seclusion can conceal their head area from the person sitting next to them using a privacy screen mounted behind the headrest. In addition, each seat has its own sound zone with speakers in the headrest area. Individual monitors are also built into the backs of the front seats. When passengers want to use the infotainment system together, on the other hand, there is a large-format and transparent OLED screen that pivots vertically from the roof area into the zone between the rows of seats. Using this "cinema screen," which occupies the entire width of the interior, the two passengers in the back row can take part in a video conference together or watch a movie. Even split-screen use is possible. When the screen is not in use, it offers a clear view into the front thanks to its transparent design or - when folded upwards - through the glass roof area to the sky. Like in the Audi grandsphere concept, the interior of the urbansphere blends space and architecture, digital technology, and authentic materials into a single entity. The lines emphasize the vehicle's horizontal proportions. The open, wide interior supports the impression of a one-of-a-kind space. The steering wheel, pedals, and conventional dashboard can be hidden during automated driving, which enhances the feeling of transparency and spaciousness. The seating surfaces and backs of the two seats with integrated seat belts are visually separate. Between the rear seats - normally locked in place in a low position - is a center console that swivels upwards. It contains a water dispenser and glasses - another testament to the Audi urbansphere concept's first-class credentials. The Audi urbansphere also qualifies as a wellness zone thanks to innovative digital options that emerged in no small part through input from the co-creation process with Chinese customers. Stress detection is a prime example - this adaptive program uses facial scans and voice analysis to determine how passengers are feeling and offers personalized suggestions for relaxation, for example with a meditation app that can be used via the personal screen and the private sound zone in the headrests. Less is more - displays and operation In the Audi urbansphere, simplicity has become a design principle. Neither circular instruments nor black screens for virtual display concepts are visible before activating the driving functions. Instead, passengers find clearly structured and calm zones made from the highest quality materials. Wood and wool, as well as synthetic textile fabrics, are used in paneling, seat coverings, and floor carpets, all of which have a high-quality feel and are pleasant to the touch. Soft beige and gray tones structure the interior horizontally. A dark, toned-down green serves as the color of the seat shells and soothes the eye. The interior color zones become lighter from top to bottom and, together with the natural light entering the space, create a homogeneous, wide interior. The vehicle comes to life at the touch of a fingertip, along with a number of displays, albeit in the form of projections on the wooden surfaces below the windshield, which can be surprising at first. Depending on the driving status - whether manual with a steering wheel or level 4 - they are either distributed across the entire width of the interior or segmented for the driver and front-seat passenger, displaying all of the necessary travel information in ultra-high resolution throughout the journey. In addition, a sensor bar is integrated under the projection surfaces for quick switching between content - for instance, for music or navigation. It shows all the functions and applications that are active in the car. Icons flash for the different menus. One particular, extremely innovative control element is located near the door cut-out on the interior cladding: the MMI touchless response. If the passenger is sitting in the upright position, far forward in his or her respective area, they can use this element to physically select various function menus via a rotating ring and buttons and click their way through the individual levels, allowing for simple and intuitive operation. Even if the seat is fully reclined, passengers can still make use of this convenient feature thanks to a combination of eye-tracking and gesture control. A sensor directed at the eye detects the line of sight when the control unit is to be engaged. And the passenger only needs to make hand movements that are similar to physical operation - without leaning over - to operate the system without touching a thing. Whether it is eye-tracking, gesture or voice control, or touch, the same thing applies to all operation modes: the Audi urbansphere concept adjusts to the individual user and learns his or her preferences and frequently used functions - and on that basis, it can not only sensibly complete rudimentary commands but also give personalized suggestions directly to the user. Control panels are even integrated into the armrests on the doors. That way, the car always offers passengers invisible touch surfaces using an optic indicator to show its position. At the same time, there are VR glasses in the armrests on the left and right doors that can be used in conjunction with infotainment options - for instance for the Holoride system. Sustainability as a guiding principle Many of the materials in the interior of the Audi urbansphere concept, such as the hornbeam veneers, come from sustainable sources. This choice of material makes it possible to use wood that has grown close to the site, and the entire trunk can be utilized. No chemicals are used during the manufacturing process. The seat padding is made of ECONYL®, a recycled polyamide. This material can also be recycled after its use in the automobile - without any loss of quality. The fact that the respective materials are installed separately also plays an important role in the ability to recycle them, as mixing them would drastically reduce the potential for recycling. Bamboo viscose fabric is used in the armrests and in the rear of the vehicle. Bamboo grows faster than ordinary wood, sequesters a great deal of carbon, and doesn't require herbicides or pesticides to grow. Space concept for the luxury class - exterior design A grand, undoubtedly self-assured appearance - the Audi urbansphere concept is certain to leave a lasting first impression. A length of 5.5 meters (18 feet), height of almost 1.78 meters (5.8 feet), and width of more than two meters (6.6 feet) are undoubtedly prestigious enough to rub shoulders with the automotive elite. The flowing silhouette of the vehicle body features traditional Audi shapes and elements, which are combined here to create a new composition featuring the distinctive Singleframe, with the digital eyes of the adjacent lighting units, a widely curved, dynamic roof arch, a massive rocker panel that conceals the battery unit, large 24-inch six double spoke wheels (a reference to the iconic 90's Audi Avus concept car) which convey lightweight design and stability, reminiscent of functional motorsport wheels and the Bauhaus tradition of the brand's design. The implied wedge shape of the vehicle body is emphasized by the large, flat windshield. At the front and also at the rear, there are large digital lighting surfaces that leave their mark on the design and at the same time serve as communication elements. The Audi urbansphere defies classification into conventional vehicle categories. Nevertheless, it reveals itself to be a typical Audi at first glance. The similarities to the Audi grandsphere concept are particularly eye-catching. The monolithic design of the vehicle body shares commonalities with these two concept cars, as do the sculpted, soft shape of the wheel arches. A long wheelbase of well over three meters (9.8 feet) and short overhangs indicate that this is an electric vehicle. Elegance, dynamism, an organic design language - these are the attributes that immediately spring to mind despite the stately proportions of the Audi urbansphere, just as they do in the significantly flatter grandsphere. Visible technology - light In the front end, there is an innovative interpretation of the Singleframe that defines Audi's look: it is shaped like a large octagon. Even though the grille has lost its original function as an air intake on the EV, it still remains prominent as an unmistakable signature of the brand. The digital light surface lies behind a slightly tinted, transparent visor that covers a large area of the front. The three-dimensional light structure itself is arranged in dynamically condensed pixel areas. The upper and lower edges of the Singleframe are still made of aluminum and the vertical connections are formed by LEDs as part of the light surface. The entire surface of the Singleframe becomes a stage or canvas (known as the "Audi Light Canvas") and can be used for communication - with dynamic lighting effects to clearly signal to other road users in order to improve road safety. Low beams and high beams are implemented via light segments in the outer sections of the Singleframe and a similarly functioning matrix LED surface is located in the rear. The lighting units to the right and left of the Singleframe look narrow, like focused eyes. These digital lighting units, known as Audi Eyes, echo the logo of the brand with the four rings, as they enlarge and isolate the intersection of two rings to form a pupil - a new, unmistakable digital light signature. The illuminated surfaces - and therefore the expression of the eyes - can be adapted to the traffic situation, environment, or even the mood of the passengers. As a daytime running light, the gaze can be focused or open, and the iris can be narrow or wide. A digitally created eyebrow also functions as a dynamic turn signal when required. Thanks to its outstanding visibility, it makes an unmistakable statement in the service of safety. One special tribute to China is a luminous accessory that passengers can take with them when they leave their Audi urbansphere - the Audi Light Umbrella, a self-illuminating umbrella. Inspired by traditional Chinese umbrellas, this one acts as a protective companion and multifunctional light source - the inner skin of the umbrella is made of reflective material, so the entire surface acts as a glare-free lighting unit. The Audi Light Umbrella not only gives users a better view of their path, it becomes more visible - when crossing a street or in dangerous situations, activating a rhythmic flashing of the luminous cone by means of artificial intelligence and sophisticated sensor technology. And the Light Umbrella also literally places its wearer in the best possible light, given that it evenly illuminates their face for perfect selfies whenever needed. Drive system and charging The technology platform of the Audi urbansphere - the Premium Platform Electric or PPE - was designed exclusively for battery-electric drive systems and therefore takes full advantage of all the benefits of this technology. The key element of the PPE is a battery module between the axles, which - as in the Audi grandsphere - holds around 120 kilowatt hours of energy. Audi has succeeded in achieving a flat layout for the battery by using almost the entire base of the vehicle between the axles. Together with the large 24-inch wheels, this produces basic proportions that are perfect not only from a design perspective. The core benefits include a long interior and therefore legroom in both rows of seats. Additionally, the absence of a gearbox cover and a cardan tunnel increases spatial comfort in electric cars. The Audi urbansphere concept's two electric motors are capable of delivering a total output of 295 kilowatts and a system torque of 690 newton meters. These are impressive figures that are often not fully utilized when driving in dense urban traffic. Nevertheless, the Audi urbansphere is still equipped with permanent quattro four-wheel drive - an essential feature for the brand's high-performance models. The concept car has one electric motor on each of the front and rear axles which, by means of electronic coordination, implements the permanently available all-wheel drive as required, balancing these perfectly against economy and range requirements. One innovative feature is that the motor on the front axle can be deactivated as required in order to reduce friction and thus energy consumption when coasting. Fast charging, high range The heart of the drive system is the 800 volt charging technology. It ensures that the battery can be charged with up to 270 kilowatts at fast-charging stations in the shortest possible time. As such, charging times approach those of a conventional stop to refuel a car powered by an internal combustion engine: just ten minutes are enough to charge the battery to a level sufficient to power the car more than 300 kilometers (186 miles). In addition, the battery, which holds more than 120 kilowatt hours, can be charged from 5 to 80 percent in less than 25 minutes. This means that a range of up to 750 kilometers (466 miles) can be expected according to the WLTP standard - and even when used for more energy-intensive city and short-distance trips, it is generally possible to avoid making unexpected stops to charge. Air suspension for maximum comfort The front wheels are connected via a 5-link axle that has been specially optimized for electric vehicles. In the rear, there is a multi-link axle that, like the front axle, is made of lightweight aluminum. Despite the long 3.40 meter (11 foot) wheelbase, the steerable rear wheels provide excellent maneuverability. The Audi urbansphere concept, like its closest relative the grandsphere, features Audi adaptive air suspension - a single-chamber air suspension system with semi-active damper control. It offers outstanding comfort not only on city highways, but even on the uneven, often patched asphalt of downtown streets with no noticeable body movement.

The Acura Precision EV Concept points to future EV design inspired by Italian speed boats. The first electric car will appear in the Acura model line in a few years, called the ZDX. The index was borrowed from the recent past of the Japanese brand: under this name, a cross-coupe with a V6 engine was produced from 2009–2013. The new ZDX will debut in 2024, but already now, you can get an idea of ​​\u200b\u200bwhat it will be like - the debut of its precursor, the Acura Precision EV Concept concept crossover. Parent Honda has been producing electric cars for a long time, but Acura still doesn't have them. Two years ago, the Japanese automaker agreed to cooperate with General Motors, in which the American side provided the Ultium platform for electric vehicles. Honda has already tried this architecture on the Prologue concept; now it's Acura's turn. Ultium formed the basis of the Precision EV show car, a forerunner of the ZDX production electric crossover. The concept demonstrates the "future of Acura design": it has sharp edges that are in harmony with the overall smooth lines of the body, and in place of the radiator grille, there is a recognizable pentagonal cap with a light pattern. The nose has an unusual pointed shape - this stylistic decision of Acura designers was inspired by classic Italian boats. Another spectacular solution is fog lights, made from a scattering of luminous elements. Special attention deserves 23-inch wheels, the spokes of which are in harmony with the foglights: they are applied with a three-dimensional pattern, which received the brand name Particle Glitch. In the interior - minimalism and geometric shapes. Two transparent screens are installed in the cabin, and the butterfly steering wheel, more reminiscent of a steering wheel, retracts into the front panel when the autopilot is activated. In this mode, relaxing animations are played on the displays. As for the finishes, only environmentally friendly materials have been used: wood, recycled plastic, acrylic, and aluminum. Source: motor.ru Image Credit: Acura

Having been signed off in 1961, the Carrozeria Touring-styled Sunbeam Venezia, aimed at the more fashion-conscious Continental buyers, was finally unveiled in September 1963. Most appropriately, the launch took place in St Mark's Square, Venice, the stylish two-door coupé transported there by gondola. 'The car of today - and tomorrow' proclaimed the Turin Show publicity material for the new 100mph, disc-braked fixed head. Touring's other classics, such as the Lamborghini 350GT and Aston Martin DB4/5/6 series, their new GT for Rootes employed the traditional Superleggera construction method with a tubular steel frame clad in aluminum body panels. The Venezia was based on the well-proven Sunbeam Rapier floor pan, shared with other Rootes models, but bodied and completed by Touring in Milan. Hand-built and necessarily expensive, the Venezia struggled to find buyers. By 1965 a mere 203 had been produced, with only seven allocated to the UK. Just over 40 years later, only 26 Venezias are known to survive, fewer than half a dozen in this country. Source: www.bonhams.com Images: Touring Superleggera; www.sunbeamvenezia.com; www.viaretro.com; leroux.andre.free.fr

Sherwood Egbert, the President of the Studebaker Corporation, retained Brooks Stevens in 1960 as a consultant on current and future automotive design and styling. The Sceptre prototype was built in metal by Sibona-Bassano of Torino, Italy. It was a 2-door, 5- place coupe and destined to be the pattern for a 4-door family sedan and an 8-passenger station wagon. The Sceptre line became the most advanced-looking approach in the long-range program. It departed entirely from the Mercedes-like identity, which had begun with the Hawk in 1962 and perpetuated itself through 1965 in the new total sheet metal and chassis concept. The Sceptre pioneered body lines and introduced innovations in grill and headlight treatments, bumpers, side rub rails, warning lights, hood openings, rear deck openings, and "C" pillar design. It also represented a total departure in instrument panel function and esthetics. The first approach to the astronaut couch bucket seat and bench was pioneered here, as well as upholstery treatments using mylar and vinyl combinations and a new system of cushion breathing. The car was designed with the total concept in mind, and every detail was carried out in keeping with the overall theme. this was not to be a committee design or a mishmash of ideas borrowed from other concepts. It was the ultimate in Studebakers vain attempt to raise the money to tool all new cars, the basis of which could last for five years. Brooks Stevens referred to Sceptre as a 1966 Studebaker and still does on his company website. Today the Sceptre resides at the Studebaker National Museum in South Bend, Indiana. The Museum refers to the car as 1963. As with all history, there is always debate about times and places. Source: www.automotivehistoryonline.com Images: archive.mam.org; www.shorey.net; Alden Jewell's photostream