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The 2005 EDAG Show Car No. 8 debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show, showcasing an innovative approach to vehicle design and manufacturing. Developed by EDAG Engineering + Design AG, this roadster concept combined aesthetic appeal with a cost-effective production strategy, emphasizing the fusion of product and production. The car was designed to be manufactured using existing production facilities, making it a practical solution for niche market demands.
The design of the EDAG Show Car No. 8 was centered on pure driving pleasure. With a low-slung body, a forward-angled beltline, and aggressive aerodynamic styling, the roadster exuded speed and agility. Its sharply inclined bonnet, severe-looking headlights, and centrally mounted twin exhausts gave it an unmistakable presence. The lack of a roof reinforced its purist driving experience, appealing to enthusiasts who sought an open-air thrill akin to motorcycle riding.
One of the standout aspects of the Show Car No. 8 was its innovative production approach. Instead of developing an entirely new platform, EDAG repurposed the SMART Roadster's chassis and self-supporting body from the Hambach, France, plant. This decision extended the facility’s lifespan and optimized manufacturing costs while delivering a unique product. The concept demonstrated how simple modifications to an existing vehicle could create a distinctive and marketable model.
EDAG intended to gauge industry and consumer interest in the concept at IAA 2005 in Frankfurt, gathering feedback from test drivers and specialists. The company planned to refine the prototype further before unveiling a fully functional on-road version at the 2006 Geneva Motor Show, marking its world premiere. By blending design innovation with efficient production strategies, the EDAG Show Car No. 8 highlighted the potential for creative, cost-effective vehicle development in the modern automotive industry.
