At the end of an brilliant 2006, which saw Italdesign Giugiaro achieve extraordinary results in the field of engineering, having played a significant role in the development of the new Mini and the joint Fiat-Peugeot-Citroën project that used a common platform for the FIAT Scudo, Peugeot Export, and Citroën Jumpy, and chalk up several hits in style, with best sellers like the FIAT Grande Punto, the Nuovo Daily, a landmark in today’s light transport panorama thanks to the innovative and distinctive Giugiaro image, and with the mid-high segment Besturn sedan commissioned by FAW, 2007 opens in Geneva brimming with new design and economic challenges.

Three new presentations at this annual International Motor Show:

The Daihatsu concept car D-Compact X-Over, developed in collaboration with Daihatsu upon request by the Toyota group, is very close to becoming a production model. Realistic and in compliance with all standards, the prototype belongs in segment B with an unprecedented interpretation of the architecture: this small crossover that offers plenty of sunshine inside, an innovative form, and pleasant interior was welcomed with open arms by Daihatsu, who consider it a coherent expression of the concept of “harmony with nature”.

Giugiaro’s Ford Mustang prototype, in homage to the legendary sporty American icon and realistic and contemporary reinterpretation of the concept of popular sports car expressed by the Ford pony car developed by Lee Iacocca in 1964, calls attention to Italdesign Giugiaro's capacity to interpret models that reflect the history and image of the brand. Giugiaro’s Mustang appears more compact than the series version, with a much more tapered rear end that almost makes it a “fastback”.
 

The Vadhò prototype represents a niche theme destined to spur discussion. Conceived out of the traditional “box” of sports car design, Vadhò is instead a super-sporty two-seater inspired by aeronautics, with a cockpit that encloses pilot and passenger in tandem. The steering wheel has become a thing of the past because pilot functions are located on two joysticks planted on the armrests of the seat-pedal block unit, all of which are adjustable and conform to the driver’s body type. The structure is unique, functional, and independent from the chassis, while by-wire impulses facilitate the adaptation of right, central, and left-drive versions without costly interventions for an eventual series production. Fuelled by hydrogen, in response to the pressing necessity to promote and develop alternative and ecological propulsion systems, the engine is positioned centrally on the right side of the car next to the passengers. One last note: the Vadhò prototype was developed on a chassis custom-created by Italdesign technicians and for the first time sports the “G” logo that Giugiaro intends to use as the new signature for the firm’s creations.

Once again, Italdesign Giugiaro, after 40 years of hard-earned success, rather than resting on their laurels, rises to meet future challenges head on by seeking tantalizing yet concrete solutions.