If you aren’t familiar with the term ‘concept car’, they’re basically a way for car firms to showcase new technology and styling features. Normally put on display at motoring shows, these prototypes help manufacturers gauge their customers’ reaction to radical or extreme car designs — but rarely go on sale just as they are.
Over the years, there have been some incredible concept cars that have never seen the light of day, and that’s a shame, because we’re convinced true driving fans would have loved some of them. To celebrate the concepts that never made it to the forecourt, here’s 6 concept cars that we think deserve to be made.
Peugeot Fractal
With its incredible all-electric engine and modern cockpit that looks straight out of the Starship Enterprise; the Peugeot Fractal is a concept looking to redefine the small city car. To boost its futuristic looks, 80% of the Fractal was made using a 3D printer, something that has enabled Peugeot to go all out on whacky design features. The Fractal concept isn’t due for general release, but with its space-age styling and economical electric engine, we think Peugeot should give it a shot.
Audi E-Tron Spyder Hybrid
With a name like E-Tron Spyder, it’s clear Audi have gone all out to make this hybrid concept car as futuristic as possible. As well as excellent performance, the E-Tron Spyder delivers superb economy thanks to its diesel and electric hybrid engine. Combine that with its sleek, contemporary styling, and we reckon the E-Tron could definitely hold its own on an Audi forecourt. To prove just how amazing this car could be, here’s some stats for you — the E-Tron will sprint from 0-62mph in 4 seconds, but also has a range of 621 miles between fuel stops. Amazing stuff.
BMW Gina
If there’s one thing all car manufacturers agree on, it’s that cars should be tough and rigid. Not so with the BMW Gina. For this concept, BMW threw the rulebook out the window — creating a car that’s essentially made of fabric. There is some science behind this lunacy though; thanks to its mouldable shell, the Gina can change shape to meet certain driving conditions. For instance, at high speed, a spoiler will pop out of nowhere to help with the downforce. Get it built BMW.
Lamborghini Gallardo Concept S
As if Lamborghinis weren’t already desirable enough, the Italian manufacturer has gone and created a concept that’s sure to leave diehard fans pining. Like the Caterham R500 but way cooler, the Gallardo Concept S has a twin-seat cockpit design which maximises its race car appeal. At one time, Lamborghini promised to sell 100 models of the Concept S, but canned the idea before production — leaving some eager, super-rich customers absolutely gutted.
Volkswagen XL1
If you’re a fan of Thunderbirds, you’ll love the look of the Volkswagen XL1. Designed with obsessive attention to detail, the XL1’s design came after months spent in a wind tunnel — giving the car an incredible aerodynamic profile. Inside, the car looks as functional and austere as a Golf, but on the outside, the XL1’s extreme styling gives it bags of appeal. Recently VW announced that they’re putting 200 XL1s into production, but with all their recent controversies, we’re doubtful that’ll happen.
Mazda Furai
When you think of supercars, Mazda probably isn’t the first manufacturer that springs to mind. But, the Japanese firm could change all that by putting its new concept into production — the mighty Furai. From its striking looks to its ferocious engine, the Furai has all the right attributes to make it a great supercar — so why Mazda hasn’t built a few for people to buy is beyond us.
While you might have to wait a long time before any of these concept cars are built, you don’t have to wait to benefit from Prestone’s car care range. Our products are developed to perform in all extremes, so your car can excel in all weathers. To find out more, visit the Prestone website.
Image sourced via Audi Media Center. Credit: Audi.