Electric Cars

In a remarkable demonstration of automotive artistry and speed, the already striking Lamborghini Revuelto underwent an extreme makeover at the hands of RDB LA, emerging as a widebody marvel within an astonishingly short timeframe. The transformation involved the meticulous application of a 1016 Industries carbon fiber Vision Widebody kit, alongside a suite of other high-performance aesthetic enhancements from the renowned supercar modifiers. Despite the Revuelto's initial price tag exceeding $600,000, the customization alone added a significant six-figure sum, with components like the widened front and rear fenders priced at nearly $30,000 before even considering paint or fitting.

The modifications extended to every aspect of the vehicle's exterior, significantly enhancing its aggressive stance and aerodynamic profile. At the front, the OEM bumper received a carbon fiber lip and grille inserts, complemented by extensions around the headlights and vented front fenders. A new carbon fiber hood introduced an aggressive aesthetic reminiscent of the Aventador SVJ, while carbon mirrors completed the cohesive front design. Over the roof, a substantial two-piece carbon fiber scoop and an engine cover fin were installed, evoking the styling of Le Mans hypercars. Along the sides, carbon fiber side skirts with fins seamlessly integrated with the original door design, and the side intakes were also widened with additional carbon fiber elements, creating a visually commanding presence.

The comprehensive upgrade, totaling an eye-watering $122,025 for parts alone, did not include any mechanical alterations, as the Revuelto's factory 1,001 horsepower engine already delivers unparalleled performance. This cost encompasses a detailed list of carbon fiber parts, including a front lip ($5,995), upper central add-on ($3,995), DRL surrounds, hood ($10,995), vented front fenders ($7,995), door blades ($4,495), mirror covers ($2,995), side skirts ($8,995), side intake vents ($4,595), a rear diffuser ($12,995), a lower rear spoiler ($6,995), a fixed race wing ($6,995), a roof scoop ($8,995), and a roof scoop fin ($1,995). The final touches included custom RDB wheels, starting at $10,000, which necessitated modifications to the rear fenders for proper fitment, and a satin silver wrap that completed the car's bold new look.

This extensive and costly transformation of the Lamborghini Revuelto into a widebody powerhouse exemplifies the boundless creativity and passion within the automotive customization world. It demonstrates that even the most exotic and high-performing vehicles can be reimagined and elevated to new levels of uniqueness and personal expression. Such projects inspire us to embrace innovation and to continuously push the boundaries of what is possible, showcasing how dedication and vision can transform an already extraordinary machine into an unparalleled work of art.

Porsche has declared that a plug-in hybrid variant of its revered 911 sports car is improbable. The core obstacle lies in preserving the vehicle's signature aesthetics and balanced weight distribution. Incorporating the necessary components for a plug-in hybrid, such as a larger battery and charging infrastructure, would demand substantial alterations to the 911's fundamental architecture, a compromise the manufacturer is unwilling to make. While the current 911 has evolved to be more substantial, safer, and luxurious than its predecessors, its electrification path will diverge from a full plug-in system.

Frank Moser, the Vice President overseeing Porsche's 911 and 718 lines, recently conveyed to Australian media his reservations regarding a plug-in 911. He emphasized that the 911 possesses a highly intricate design, and any expansion of its dimensions is deemed unacceptable. This steadfast stance underlines Porsche's dedication to the 911's iconic form factor and dynamic integrity, which they believe would be compromised by the demands of a plug-in hybrid system.

Achieving an extended electric range for the 911 through a plug-in hybrid setup would necessitate a bigger battery, a dedicated charging system, and additional hardware for purely electric propulsion. These additions would inevitably force a redesign of the car's packaging. Moser explicitly stated, 'We do not wish to alter the vehicle's overall structure, nor its weight balance, hence our decision to pursue a performance hybrid, despite the challenges of integrating all electrical elements into the existing design.'

The hybrid 911 currently employs a 400-volt battery that cleverly fits within the same space as the traditional 12-volt unit in the front trunk, thanks to its compact packaging. This demonstrates Porsche's ingenious engineering in working within stringent spatial constraints. The company remains open to future advancements in battery technology, where smaller and more efficient energy storage solutions could potentially revolutionize the possibility of a plug-in 911. Until then, the focus remains on performance hybrids.

Porsche has recently patented a hybrid system utilizing compact, lightweight axial-flux motors, ideal for meeting the brand's performance criteria. The forthcoming 2026 911 Turbo S already incorporates Porsche's T-Hybrid system, delivering an impressive 701 horsepower, making it the most potent 911 to date. This raises the question of whether a plug-in 911 with even greater power is truly necessary, especially if it compromises the vehicle's core characteristics.

The integration of a plug-in hybrid system into the Porsche 911 faces significant hurdles due to the marque's unwavering commitment to the sports car's fundamental design and performance characteristics. While the brand continues to innovate with performance-oriented hybrid solutions and explores advancements in battery technology, a fully plug-in variant that would necessitate a larger footprint and altered weight distribution appears to be off the table for the foreseeable future. The priority remains to enhance power and performance without diluting the essence of what makes the 911 a legendary automobile.