Bizzarrini, the renowned automotive brand, is making a comeback with its first modern car in decades – the Giotto. Named after Giotto Bizzarrini, the talented engineer who played a crucial role in developing iconic cars like the Ferrari 250 GTO and Lamborghini’s first V-12 engine, the Giotto represents the brand’s revival under the ownership of Kuwaiti investor Rezam Al Roumi.
In recent years, the U.K.-based Bizzarrini has worked on producing a limited run of 5300 GT continuation cars, paying homage to the company’s history. However, the long-term vision for the brand is to create modern performance machines that prioritize design and driving pleasure, with the Giotto serving as the first step in this direction.
Rezam Al Roumi, the custodian of the Bizzarrini brand, expressed his commitment to restoring Bizzarrini’s place in the luxury automotive sector and delighting discerning clients with their offerings. This dedication to upholding Giotto Bizzarrini’s legacy spanning over 60 years sets the stage for the brand’s promising future.
Following an initial tease in February, Bizzarrini has now locked in the design of the Giotto after conducting a series of aerodynamic tests. The prototype testing is scheduled to begin in 2024, with the first customer deliveries expected in 2026.
While the development of the Giotto is ongoing, Bizzarrini has confirmed some key details about the car. It will feature a carbon-fiber body, a motorsports-derived chassis, and a unique 6.6-liter V-12 engine. To ensure the engine meets emissions regulations worldwide, Bizzarrini has partnered with renowned engineering firm Cosworth. Cosworth has an impressive track record, having supplied power units for Formula 1 and developed engines for high-performance road cars like the Aston Martin Valkyrie and Gordon Murray Automotive’s T.50 and T.33 models. By meeting emissions standards, Bizzarrini aims to make the Giotto accessible to global markets, potentially including the United States.
The design of the Giotto is entrusted to automotive design legend Giorgetto Giugiaro, the founder of Italdesign, and now running the design company GFG Style with his son. Giugiaro’s involvement in the original 5300 GT’s design while working for Stile Bertone further solidifies the connection between the past and present iterations of Bizzarrini’s cars. The Giotto includes design elements that pay homage to the 5300 GT, such as the dual vents at the front, which now incorporate slim lights. Additionally, the car features a reimagined triangular B-pillar and a rear windshield that stretches toward the rear of the vehicle, reminiscent of its predecessor.
To ensure the engineering excellence of the Giotto, Bizzarrini brought on board Chris Porritt, a highly experienced engineer. Porritt’s impressive resume includes serving as chief engineer for Aston Martin between 1997 and 2013, where he played a pivotal role in developing the acclaimed One-77 supercar and other V-12 models. His career also includes stints at Tesla, Apple, and Rimac, further highlighting his expertise in the field.
The Giotto represents a new chapter for Bizzarrini, a brand with a rich history and an unwavering commitment to excellence. With its modern design, cutting-edge engineering, and the combination of talents from industry legends, the Giotto is set to capture the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide. As Bizzarrini aims to regain its place in the luxury automotive sector, customers can expect an unparalleled experience that merges the brand’s heritage with contemporary innovation. The Giotto is not just a car; it symbolizes the revival of Bizzarrini and the beginning of an exciting new era in the automotive industry.