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The Volkswagen XL1 is a two-seat, limited production, diesel-powered plug-in hybrid that VW introduced in 2014. Volkswagen was developing PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) technologies, and wanted to test them in real-world scenarios. While 250 examples were reportedly built, only 200 were made available for sale to the public. The XL1 car was touted as […]
Volkswagen XL1- 2014 Read More »
Dutch manufacturer Waaijenberg introduced this two-seat microcar, the Canta, in 1995. With its low step-in height and the availability of hand controls, the Canta was specifically created to ensure the independence of people with mobility restrictions. At only 44” wide, this car is narrow enough to be allowed to drive on bicycle lanes and pedestrian
Regrettably, little information is available regarding this electrically converted Citroën 2CV. The creator embarked on the endeavor using a 1977 2CV, retaining much of its factory design while removing the original engine to accommodate the electric motor and associated control systems. To power the electric motor and enhance front-to-rear weight distribution, a battery bank was
Citroën 2CV electric conversion- 1977 Read More »
While not a household name, Victor Bouffort (1912-1995) was a prolific French inventor of the mid-20th century. He began working as an aeronautics engineer in the 1930s, and decided to try his hand at designing automobiles after World War II. He is credited with designing several one-off microcars. The French military also commissioned Bouffort to
Valmobile Fold Away Scooter- 1950 Read More »
Victor Bouffort was known as a creative inventor, engineer, and developer of interesting vehicles and was a quizzical, forward-thinking man. He was commissioned by the French army just after World War II to develop small all-terrain Lohr vehicles that could be dropped from a parachute, thus the four-wheel drive Fardier was born. He also developed
Bouffort Three-wheeler Prototype- ca. 1950 Read More »
Following the introduction of the 850 Sedan in 1964, Fiat debuted the 850 Spider two-seater convertible in 1965 to compete with the MG Midget and Austin-Healey Sprite. While the Sedan and Coupe were styled and built in-house by Fiat, the Spider was designed and built by Fiat’s frequent stylist and carrozzeria (coachbuilder) Bertone. Famed stylist
Fiat 850 Spider- 1968 Read More »
While touring Germany in 1956, Soichiro Honda and financial chief Takeo Fujisawa noticed the popularity of mopeds and small motorcycles. Fujisawa had been thinking about a new product that would help Honda expand into other markets. Soichiro was given a new design brief: a small yet powerful motorcycle, in between a scooter and a full
Honda Cub 50- 1965 Read More »
Derny began production in 1949, specializing in the manufacture of auxiliary-engined bicycles and tandems, all powered by proprietary engines. The Derny Taon, or “Horse fly” was unveiled at the 1955 Paris Motorcycle Show. It was the creation of one of France’s most noted industrial designers, Roger Tallon, and looked like nothing else on the road.
Derny Taon T3- 1957 Read More »
The Pli-Solex is the folding version of the Solex 5000. The frame folds in the center, and the handlebars, seat, and engine may be removed to allow for easier transport or storage. While most Pli-Solexes came in orange, as seen here, they also came in a light blue color. Specifications: Manufacturer: SolexCountry of Origin: FranceEngine:
Solex Pli-Solex 5000- 1974 Read More »