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The Pininfarina Enigma is a hydrogen-powered vision of the future

It has a very interesting mixed propulsion powertrain

The latest Pininfarina concept is quite literally an enigma. IMAGE FROM PININFARINA

Pininfarina has unveiled a digital version of its vision for the future: a sleek, hydrogen-powered 2+2 GT called the Enigma that made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show.

So far, it only exists in digital form, but this being a rather famous Italian design and coachbuilding firm, we have no doubt that a real-life version might follow and the company has already hinted at this as well.

For now, we get to marvel at the purely virtual curves of this machine that stands 4,580mm long, 1,950mm wide, and just 1,230mm low.

This has a very interesting powertrain underneath. IMAGES FROM PININFARINA

Power comes from two sources for a mixed propulsion all-wheel-drive setup: a 440hp 2.5-liter turbocharged V6 hydrogen-powered internal-combustion engine that drives the rear wheels, and a 270hp electric motor on the front axle.

This much oomph is enough for an estimated 0-100km/h time of under four seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

Thanks to its carbon-monocoque layout and body panels, the final item will weigh just 1,690kg. That number includes the 10kWh battery pack and the 9kg hydrogen tank which, combined, give it a range of up to 700km if the driver’s right foot is disciplined enough. Go a little harder on the gas and it will still do an estimated 550km based on the mixed-test cycle.

You gotta love it when aerodynamics and design come together. IMAGES FROM PININFARINA

This riddle on wheels not only looks sleek, but it also features plenty of clever active aero bits to make it glide through the wind with the minimum resistance.

There are active grille shutters to minimize drag caused by the cooling system; active front wheel deflectors to reduce wheel-induced drag; an active aero tail; and even active base bleeding that is said to help reduce aerodynamic resistance by connecting the high-pressure zone at the front of the car to its rear.

The cabin looks cozy. The tiller doesn't. IMAGES FROM PININFARINA

The interior is supposed to give you a GT experience similar to flying, and the renders do make it look like a nice place to hang out while traveling to faraway destinations.

It is accessed by lifting the huge canopy bubble that is more than a slight nod to Pininfarina creations from times gone by, and gives the car a beautiful futuristic visual kick.

We have no doubt Pininfarina will bring this concept to life. IMAGES FROM PININFARINA

An augmented-reality windscreen and a fancy multifunction steering wheel continue the futuristic theme, and the real car will also feature various driver-assistance systems as well as sustainable materials.

With a refueling time of just six minutes, space for four, and proper spaceship looks, this machine wouldn’t have been out of place in an episode of The Jetsons. Except it will hopefully become a reality, and if the sports cars of the future look like this, then we say yes, please!



Frank Schuengel

Frank is a German e-commerce executive who loves his wife, a Filipina, so much he decided to base himself in Manila. He has interesting thoughts on Philippine motoring. He writes the aptly named ‘Frankly’ column.



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