The Coolest Car Made by Non-Car Makers
The car industry is dominated by a few giant corporations that produce millions of vehicles every year. However, there are also some companies that have ventured into the automotive field, either as manufacturers, designers, or innovators. Some of these companies have created some of the coolest cars ever made, even if they are not widely available or practical for everyday use. Here are some examples of the coolest cars made by non-car makers.
Sony Vision-S
The Sony Vision-S is a futuristic concept car that was unveiled at the 2020 CES show. It is not a production vehicle, but rather a showcase of Sony’s vision for the future of mobility. The Vision-S features a sleek and aerodynamic design, with smooth lines and curves that resemble Porsche vehicles.
It also has 33 sensors inside and outside, widescreen displays, and high-tech components sourced from big names such as Blackberry and Bosch. The Vision-S is powered by an electric motor that can reach speeds of up to 155 mph. It also has a self-driving mode that can navigate complex urban environments with ease. The Vision-S is not meant to be sold to consumers, but rather to inspire and challenge the automotive industry.
Outspan MINI
The Outspan MINI was built in the 1970s as a promotional car for a South African orange company, Outspan. The company commissioned a Sussex-based Brian Thwaites to create the car for the European market.
Based on the standard Mini, the Outspan MINI is among the smallest cars ever made. It has a lifelike orange body, complete with real orange peel texture. It also has four doors, two seats, and a top speed of 40 mph. Only six cars were built, and three are still in existence today. The Outspan MINI is considered one of the most unique and quirky cars ever made.
Siemens Elektrische Viktoria
Siemens was made popular by its telegraph-like inventions of the 1840s. In 1905, the company jumped into strange waters and created an electric car, the Elektrische Viktoria. The name means “victory electric” in German.
The Viktoria had three body types: a convertible with four seats, a pickup truck with two seats, and a van with four seats. It also had various features such as headlights that could be turned on or off individually or together, horn buttons on both sides of the steering wheel, and an electric starter button on top of the dashboard.
The Viktoria had a driving range of 37 miles and a top speed of 19 mph. Only about 100 units were produced between 1905 and 1907.
Bugatti Type 35 Bicycle
Bugatti is known for making some of the most expensive and exclusive cars in the world. But did you know they once made bicycles too?
The Bugatti Type 35 Bicycle was made in the 1920s and featured a lightweight frame, curved handlebars, and a leather saddle. It was designed by Jean Bugatti himself as part of his personal collection. Only one unit was ever made before he sold it to an unknown buyer in France for an unknown price. The Type 35 Bicycle is considered one of the rarest bicycles ever made.
These are just some examples of the coolest cars made by non-car makers. There are many more out there that deserve recognition for their creativity and innovation. Who knows what other surprises these companies have in store for us?
Maybe one day we will see them make their own cars or collaborate with other automakers to create something amazing. Until then, we can admire their work from afar or try them out if we get lucky enough to find one.
