Concept cars: brilliant ideas or failed experiments?
Concept cars give designers the freedom to experiment without the constraints of mass production. They can create bold, sometimes even shocking designs—some become groundbreaking, while others are better off never being shown to the public.
Concept cars let designers push boundaries and explore freaky ideas.
Examples of unsuccessful concepts
For instance, the new Chevrolet Corvette concept impresses with its design but sparks controversy due to the absence of a V8 engine—it’s fully electric. For many fans, this is an unacceptable option, so they’re glad it remains just a design project for now.
Another bizarre example is the 1988 Lamborghini Genesis. It had a V12 engine and gull-wing doors, but… in the shape of a minivan. Even for experiments, this was too much.
The Buick Signia (1998) is another failed concept. It was a crossover before crossovers became popular, but its design looked like a mix of several cars from different classes. Particularly amusing was the interior with a “Star Trek”-style dashboard and a gearshift lever resembling a golf club.
Concept cars prove that not all ideas are worth realizing. Sometimes experiments lead to progress, but some projects are better left on paper. Which concepts, in your opinion, should never have left the design studio?