To commemorate the 50th anniversary of the introduction of the Audi Asso di Picche concept, Italdesign, a company owned by the Volkswagen Group that designed the original concept, has unveiled a modern interpretation named the Asso di Picche In Movimento. At this stage, the new concept remains a digital design only.
The original Audi Asso di Picche, which translates to “Ace of Spades” in Italian, was based on the platform of the original Audi 80. It was commissioned by Karmann, a former contract manufacturer known for building niche models like coupes and convertibles for various automakers, including several from the Volkswagen Group. The concept featured a distinctive wedge-shaped body that would later be adopted by multiple automakers, including Lancia and even the DeLorean Motor Company.
The modern Asso di Picche concept, like its predecessor, is a coupe with 2+2 seating. However, it departs from the original by ditching the gasoline engine in favor of an electric drivetrain. Additionally, it incorporates lightweight aluminum body panels and polycarbonate windows. These elements are seamlessly combined to create near-effortless surfaces, contributing to enhanced aerodynamic efficiency.
Moving to the interior, Italdesign has reinterpreted the two cylindrical components that formed the dashboard in the original concept. In the modern version, these components have been transformed into a thin, rollable screen that can be adjusted as needed. Above the passenger compartment, there is a single panel that extends across the entire roof and the front and rear windshields. This panel has been treated with a polarized filter, similar to sunglasses, to block out harmful UV rays.
As for the future of the Asso di Picche In Movimento concept, Italdesign has not disclosed any specific plans beyond its current digital design. However, the unveiling of this modern interpretation serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the original Audi Asso di Picche concept and its influence on automotive design.
Referring back to the original concept, it marked a significant milestone not only for Audi but also for the automotive industry as a whole. The distinct wedge-shaped body of the Asso di Picche became a design trend that was emulated by multiple manufacturers, highlighting the concept’s groundbreaking nature. Its influence was felt even in the iconic DeLorean DMC-12, which featured a similar wedge-shaped design.
It’s worth noting that Italdesign is known for its rich history of designing iconic vehicles. Founded by Giorgetto Giugiaro in 1968, the company has contributed to the creation of numerous groundbreaking concepts and production cars. Some of its most notable designs include the Volkswagen Golf Mk1, the first generation of the VW Scirocco, and the iconic DeLorean DMC-12, which gained global fame through its appearance in the Back to the Future movie franchise.
The Asso di Picche In Movimento concept represents a convergence of past and present. By reimagining and updating a 50-year-old design, Italdesign showcases its ability to adapt to changing times and embrace new technologies. The shift from a traditional gasoline engine to an electric powertrain demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainable mobility solutions.
Beyond the technological advancements, the modern Asso di Picche also boasts aesthetics that embody the spirit of its predecessor. The sleek and aerodynamic design evokes a sense of speed and sophistication, while the seamless surfaces highlight the attention to detail and craftsmanship.
While the Asso di Picche In Movimento is currently a digital design, it offers a glimpse into the future of automotive design. As electric vehicles become more prevalent, concepts like this provide a vision of what the next generation of cars may look like. Moreover, the focus on sustainability and efficiency reflects the industry’s ongoing commitment to reducing emissions and combating climate change.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the Asso di Picche In Movimento concept by Italdesign serves as a celebration of the original Audi Asso di Picche concept’s 50th anniversary. By reinterpreting and updating the design for the modern era, Italdesign demonstrates its ability to adapt to changing times and embrace new technologies. The concept’s electric drivetrain, lightweight materials, and seamless surfaces represent advancements in sustainability and aerodynamic efficiency. Although the Asso di Picche In Movimento currently exists as a digital design, it offers a glimpse into the future of automotive design and highlights the industry’s commitment to reducing emissions and adopting sustainable mobility solutions.