There’s a good chance that no car will ever appear this radical in terms of style ever again, but thanks to the legendary German industrial designer, Luigi Colani, we have projects such as this one here still lingering in today’s existence. This is the unbelievable looking 1991 Colani Stingray, and in the most simplistic form, the car was supposed to represent an Automobile Groupe C / AppC Racing Car, but with ‘Stingray-Aerodynamics’. Current day, the car is held in permanent collection of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, however, back in the early 1990’s when it was created, Colani was trying to figure out a way to create cars that not only were unprecedented in terms of performance, but also in terms of design as well. While Luigi’s unconventional approach to design impressed other designers, automakers, and the general public, it generally left him to become slightly left out of the mainstream industrial design industry. As you look into the design work of Mr. Colani, you’ll find what appears mostly design studies, and aerodynamic ideas that attempt to demonstrate far more capabilities than just you’re average road vehicle. The Stingray is inspired by the Manta ray, which is a large ray species belonging to the genus Mobula, demonstrates unique body lines and characteristics that make it appear as though it should be swimming instead of driving, such as the front two fins which are very reminiscent of an aquatic animal. One of the most notable elements of the Colani Stingray, is that is is reported to have been designed to generate up to two tons of downforce, solely due to the styling and shape of the car’s body. Colani was challenged with making a design that featured no rear fins, and could produce such downforce, and so he did, however, it’s not quite clear whether or not this vehicle ever functioned. One of my favorite Luigi Colani designs, what do you think?
How many made? 1 of 1
Engine: N/A
Debut: N/A
Top Speed: N/A
0-60mph: N/A
Photo Credit: Colani Design
Research: @rarecarsonly