Quintessenza: Italdesign’s All-Electric Concept Car for City Dwellers Who Love Nature
Introduction:
It’s been a while since Lamborghini-owned Italdesign showcased a proper 4×4 concept car. The last time they took credit for a four-wheel-drive experiment was in 1980 with the Panda 4×4, which later evolved into the Lancia Delta. Now, Italdesign is back with the Quintessenza concept, unveiled at the Beijing Motor Show. This unique vehicle combines the features of a high-riding fastback GT and a pickup truck, all powered by electricity. The Quintessenza is targeted at the popular segment of youthful city dwellers who have a deep love for nature.
The City Mode: A Versatile GT with Latin Polish
In the city, the Quintessenza transforms into a stylish GT with seating for four adults. The front splitter lowers into position, enhancing aerodynamics during high-speed driving. An “aerodynamic flow control system” in the hood further reduces drag. The Quintessenza’s design is inspired by flexibility, freedom, and sportiness. It offers an elevated driving experience with Latin polish. Electrically powered scissor doors add a touch of convenience to ingress, while the generous frunk provides ample space for groceries or luggage. Inside, the futuristic cabin features controls projected onto eco-friendly fabric covering every interior panel. The gear selector sits on the right arm of the octagonal yoke, and a docked smartphone acts as the digital instrument panel, running an Italdesign app with all necessary gauges.
The Country Mode: Adventure-Ready Pickup with Stargazing Seating
When it’s time to venture into the countryside, the Quintessenza adapts to overcome trail obstacles. The front splitter raises to provide ample ground clearance. Equipped with 24-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, it can handle rough terrains with ease. The pickup bed is revealed by removing the hard fastback cover, and the pair of back seats can rotate on their base, allowing occupants to face rearward and enjoy stargazing. Access to the rear seats is made easy with an electrically operated tailgate. For added convenience, a minibar and refrigerator are located in the console between the rear seats, ensuring refreshments are always within reach. The cabin boasts a large digital compass under the windshield, with location mapping projected onto the interior fabric panels.
Design Elements: Illuminated Elegance with Cutting-Edge Technology
The Quintessenza’s composite laminate body panels are accentuated by illuminated design elements. These panels are supported by a lightweight aluminum structure. The repeated line motif found throughout the bodywork pays homage to Italdesign’s logo of 13 bars. At the rear of the roof, two fins house GPS and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) sensors. These fins also serve as high-mounted brake lights or indicators of the chosen driving mode.
Powerful Performance: Electric Motors and Extended Range
Underneath its sleek exterior, a 150-kWh battery powers three electric motors – one for the front wheels and two for the rear. Combined, they generate a staggering 778 horsepower. This impressive power enables the Quintessenza to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in under 3 seconds. On the European cycle, it boasts a range of 466 miles.
A Glimpse into the Future:
While the Quintessenza may currently only exist on show stages, it hints at potential trends in the automotive industry. Not long ago, Fiat showcased its Panda-based concepts during the Geneva Motor Show, including fastback convertible pickup concepts. This suggests that we may see more innovative hybrid designs hitting the market sooner than we think.
Conclusion:
Italdesign’s Quintessenza concept combines elegant design, high performance, and versatility into an all-electric vehicle. With its ability to seamlessly transition between city and country modes, it caters to the needs of youthful city dwellers who enjoy the great outdoors. The Quintessenza showcases Italdesign’s commitment to pushing boundaries and providing unique driving experiences. While it may be a concept for now, its potential impact on future automotive trends cannot be ignored.
