Electric Cars

The Corbin Sparrow, a distinctive three-wheeled electric vehicle, has recently appeared for auction, offering a glimpse into early EV innovation. This compact, banana-yellow car, with its peculiar yet practical design, is an interesting piece of automotive history. Despite its comical appearance, it represents a thoughtful approach to urban commuting, initially designed by an individual renowned for electric vehicle speed records.

Conceived by Mike Corbin, a former Navy electrician and a trailblazer in electric vehicle technology, the Sparrow was a product of his extensive expertise. Corbin’s prior achievements include setting a land speed record of over 165 mph in 1974 with his battery-electric motorcycle, Quicksilver, a record that endured for nearly four decades. This background highlights the serious engineering behind the Sparrow, despite its whimsical aesthetic. Although the vehicle's initial market performance was hampered by the limitations of early lead-acid battery technology, its fundamental concept of a single-seater, weatherproof, space-efficient urban commuter was well-founded. The Sparrow even made a memorable appearance in an Austin Powers movie, showcasing its unique charm.

Currently, the example up for auction, having resided in a Texas museum, requires some restoration. However, advancements in battery technology, particularly the increased capacity and reduced cost of lithium-ion batteries, present an exciting opportunity for its next owner. Modernizing its power source would not only make the restoration process simpler than dealing with traditional internal combustion engines but would also significantly enhance its performance and practicality, potentially transforming it into a highly efficient and eye-catching electric vehicle for contemporary city use.

The Corbin Sparrow stands as a testament to pioneering spirit and innovative design in the electric vehicle landscape. Its journey from a visionary concept to a unique auction item underscores the continuous evolution of automotive technology and the enduring appeal of unconventional solutions. Restoring this vehicle offers a chance to honor its legacy while embracing the future of sustainable transportation, proving that practicality and personality can indeed coexist on the road.

Artist Dr. Phyllis Yes has reclaimed her unique 1967 Porsche 911S, a vehicle she transformed into a distinctive art piece in the mid-1980s, playfully named "Por-She." This acquisition underscores the enduring value of both the classic automobile and her artistic vision. The car, adorned with an intricate lace pattern, served as a powerful artistic statement challenging the conventional perception of sports cars. After years in another's care, during which it underwent careful restoration with Dr. Yes's own touch-ups, its return to her ensures its future as a museum-worthy exhibit, preserving its legacy for art and automotive enthusiasts alike.

The story of "Por-She" begins in 1984 when Oregon-based artist Dr. Phyllis Yes embarked on a project to merge art with automotive design. Her choice of a 1967 Porsche 911S, a car that was not yet the highly sought-after collectible it is today, allowed her to create a compelling commentary on gender roles and societal norms associated with high-performance vehicles. By painting the car with a delicate lace pattern, she aimed to subvert the traditionally masculine image of the sports car, presenting a blend of power and femininity.

Initially exhibited as a mobile art installation throughout the mid-1980s, the "Por-She" gained recognition for its innovative concept. The painstaking process involved using lace as a stencil to lay down the intricate design, followed by hundreds of hours of meticulous hand-painting. Despite the 911's compact size, it offered a challenging and expansive canvas for Dr. Yes's vision. Her work, which often critiques established social constructs, also extended to painting a Colt 1911 pistol with a similar pattern, further illustrating her unique artistic perspective. The Wall Street Journal notably described the finished Porsche as "the world's fastest doily," highlighting its unusual and thought-provoking nature.

Years later, in 2010, the "Por-She" found a new owner who understood and appreciated its artistic significance. This individual undertook a sympathetic restoration, meticulously preserving the original paintwork. Dr. Yes herself participated in this revival, providing touch-ups to ensure the art car returned to its former splendor. This collaborative effort culminated in the car's exhibition at Monterey in 2013, where it earned the prestigious People's Choice Award at the Legends of the Autobahn show, a testament to its enduring appeal and the artist's long and distinguished career. The car's recent appearance on Bring a Trailer reignited interest, prompting Dr. Yes to place a winning bid of $250,000 to bring her creation back into her possession, with plans to house it in a museum for public enjoyment.

The reacquisition of the "Por-She" by Dr. Yes marks an ideal outcome for this remarkable piece. It transcends its identity as merely a vintage automobile, elevating to the status of an undeniable work of art. While many classic Porsches are meant to be driven, this particular 911, with its delicate and expressive artwork, finds its true home in a setting where it can be admired and studied without the risks of daily use. Its continued existence provokes discussion among purists and art lovers alike, showcasing how Dr. Yes's original canvas choice continues to resonate and remain culturally relevant today. This artistic masterpiece has now returned to its creator, securing its place in history.