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The ItalDesign Quintessenza Concept, presented at the 2024 Beijing Auto Show, is an innovative electric vehicle that blends two distinct functionalities into one striking design. The concept is a versatile dual-purpose vehicle, combining the elegance and sportiness of a Gran Turismo (GT) with the practicality and adaptability of a pickup truck. Its design is driven by the themes of flexibility, freedom, sportiness, and duality, making it a highly functional yet visually compelling concept.
Exterior Design
With a wheelbase longer than that of the BMW i7, the Quintessenza features a bold, muscular design complemented by fluid, dynamic lines that merge sporty and off-road elements. Its exterior showcases the integration of active aerodynamics, including a double-rod-supported front splitter, which adjusts based on speed to optimize downforce. The front of the vehicle takes inspiration from high-performance Italian GTs, with aggressive fenders and a bar headlight assembly.
The rear is where the duality of the vehicle is most apparent: the Quintessenza transforms from a GT into a pickup with the removal of a hardtop section above the trunk. This change exposes a spacious load bed, and the rear seats can rotate 180 degrees for a “stargazing” experience. A large, electrically-powered tailgate allows easy access to the rear, further underlining its dual-function capability.
The vehicle also features large 24-inch wheels and a distinctive light bar running across the rear, referencing the Italdesign logo's iconic lines. The vehicle’s body includes a removable hardtop and integrated multifunction aerodynamic fins for added functionality and off-road capabilities.
Interior and Technology
The interior of the Quintessenza is designed with minimalist aesthetics, embracing the philosophy of "shy tech," where technology remains hidden until needed. A central dashboard made from marble-based fabric features hidden multimedia and climate controls that are revealed when activated through projections. The steering wheel incorporates all vehicle controls, and a smartphone installed in a docking station on the steering wheel serves as the vehicle’s dashboard, displaying critical information such as speed, battery level, and navigation.
The car is equipped with a three-motor powertrain, delivering 789 horsepower, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in under three seconds. The vehicle’s battery has a capacity of 150 kWh, providing a range of up to 750 km on a single charge. Additionally, the car's ground clearance is adjustable between 200-280 mm, making it capable of handling both urban and off-road conditions with ease.
The Quintessenza also features an advanced UX/UI system based on the "never lost" concept, which keeps passengers connected with the external environment through projections. The system continuously displays navigation information, compass directions, and details about nearby points of interest, ensuring the vehicle’s occupants never feel disoriented.
Interior Comfort and Functionality
Inside, the cabin offers a dynamic and comfortable experience. The two rear seats can be rotated to face the rear for an immersive stargazing experience, allowing the car to serve as an ideal vehicle for road trips in nature. The central console is electrically powered and slides along the vehicle, providing access to various features like a refrigerated compartment and a mini-bar.
The rear seats also feature a chaise-lounge position, enhancing comfort during long drives or while parked for stargazing. As a unique touch, the vehicle’s scenting system creates a multisensory experience, offering a fully customized journey.
Future Vision
The ItalDesign Quintessenza is more than just a vehicle; it’s a glimpse into the future of automotive design, reflecting Italdesign’s 55-year heritage of blending human-centric design with cutting-edge technology. This concept car not only reimagines the boundaries of GT and pickup truck categories but also integrates advanced technological solutions that provide an immersive and personalized user experience. The Quintessenza is designed for free-spirited individuals who crave a connection with nature, flexibility in their travel choices, and the thrill of both urban and off-road adventure.
With its unique blend of performance, technology, and versatility, the Quintessenza marks a bold step in the evolution of future vehicles, combining sportiness with off-road practicality and offering an unprecedented experience for those willing to embrace both.
