Italdesign-Giugiaro presented their extreme VAD.HO concept car to the world press early last Tuesday morning. Presented by Fabrizio Giugiaro, the VAD.HO is a futuristic study based on BMW V12 hydrogen power.

 The V12 engine flanks a two seat jet-fighter inspired cockpit, with the passengers positioned directly behind the driver. Other than the advanced power unit, the VAD.HO presents Italdesign-Giugiaro’s innovative steering system which uses two joysticks fixed on the armrests of the driver’s seating and pedal unit. The performance and construction realism which this steering concept presents prompted Italdesign-Giugiaro to patent the system.

The spacious cockpit was designed for the “Oscar percentile”, measuring larger than the 95th percentile. In this respect the intriguing layout does not appear so far fetched, considering 500 litre boot space, mid-mounted V12 engine, and similar external proportions to a Ferrari 575 Maranello. Also within the advanced interior is the EFIS (Electronic Flight Information Systems) liquid crystal display which incorporates the digital instrumentation centrally underneath the rear-view video monitors.

The bodywork is exceptionally rational for a V12 exotic. Presented in matte silver paintwork, the design is basic with a Kamm tail and wasp waist. The rear designs present a novel rear diffuser solution, with rather organic styling. The rear lights incorporate the latest LED technology, with the diodes illuminating a frosted skeleton within the unit, and are perhaps the most interesting styling elements on the concept car.
 

The nose of the VAD.HO presents a screwed-on bumper block with ample air intakes. The lower zone of the bonnet features an adjustable spoiler in-between the aerodynamic “pagoda”-shaped ridges formed by the fenders that smooth off into the sides. The headlights are housed in a drop-shaped recess that begins with the bumpers and narrows towards the sides: this cavity houses the dual-function projector, the position and LED indicators.

Other cars presented on the Giugiaro stand on either side of the VAD.HO were the 500bhp Ford Mustang concept interpretation which was first unveiled at the Detroit Motor Show in January, and the compact Daihatsu "D-Compact X-Over". The latter vehicle is an innovative new sporty crossover concept model which is instantly distinctive for its full-length glass roof, which sweeps from the top of the windshield to finish above the rear seats, and its generous luggage space.