Here’s another jaw-dropping project from the 4 talented Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) students Matteo Bego, Mattia Chiodo, Damiano Miccichè and Gabriele Lattanzi—a retro-futuristic electric vehicle that’s not just about mobility but pure joy on wheels. This concept car blends the charm of arcade nostalgia with cutting-edge design, creating a vehicle that feels straight out of a sci-fi video game. It’s an exciting, playful take on urban transport, designed to make every journey as fun as hitting the high score in your favourite arcade game.
One of the most captivating features of this project is its unapologetic celebration of retro gaming nostalgia, seamlessly fused with modern design ingenuity. From the moment you step inside, it’s like being transported into an arcade wonderland. The interior is brimming with playful details that instantly evoke the golden days of gaming. Take the dashboard, for example—it cheekily displays a "404 Page Not Found" message, a clever nod to tech-savvy culture and a reminder of how much fun technology can be. The steering controls, inspired by gaming rings, mimic the feel of a joystick, making every turn and movement as thrilling as scoring a bonus level.
And just when you think it couldn’t get any more charming, your eyes land on a Poké Ball placed snugly in the console—a delightful touch that taps into the inner child of every passenger. It’s not just an accessory; it’s a symbol of the joy and wonder this vehicle brings. Every element of the design works together to transform this car from a mere mode of transport into a fully immersive experience. Whether you’re driving, riding along, or simply admiring it, this retro-futuristic masterpiece is a playful reminder that the journey matters just as much as the destination.
Exterior Design: Compact and Funky
The vehicle’s exterior design is a masterclass in blending practicality with cutting-edge style, resulting in a silhouette that’s both compact and eye-catching. Its boxy form isn’t just about saving space—it’s a deliberate nod to functionality, offering a design that thrives in urban life's bustling, space-conscious environment. Yet, practicality doesn’t overshadow style. The bold lines and sleek surfaces ensure the car feels modern and dynamic, appealing to the trend-savvy urbanite.
The bright neon light strips around the exterior add a futuristic feel, making the car stand out both during the day and at night. These lights don’t just look great—they highlight the car’s smooth design. The oversized wheels, with bold cross-shaped patterns, bring a playful touch while also being tough enough to handle tight corners and narrow streets with ease. The silver and amber colours on the body give the car a high-tech vibe, while also making it look elegant and refined. These colours help the car stand out on the road but also fit in beautifully with modern cityscapes.
Interior functionality meets creativity
Step inside, and the interior greets you with a bold personality that’s as functional as it is fun. Orange accent lighting floods the cockpit, wrapping the space in a warm, energetic glow that feels both inviting and dynamic. The asymmetrical dashboard is not just a visual treat—it’s cleverly designed with integrated storage spaces that keep everything tidy and within easy reach. Bright, cheerful colours combined with sleek, modern geometric shapes make the cabin feel vibrant and alive.
Adding to the charm is a playful nod to its retro-modern inspiration—a prominent "Start New Game" option near the controls. Whether it hints at customizable vehicle settings, interactive infotainment, or simply a creative way to invite you to begin your journey, it’s a feature that sparks curiosity and excitement.
Furthermore, the rear of the car is a testament to thoughtful design and functionality, seamlessly integrating modern features for urban living. A dedicated charging port is prominently positioned, emphasizing the car’s electric nature. The charging port’s clean and user-friendly design not only enhances accessibility but also reflects the vehicle’s commitment to sustainability, catering to eco-conscious urban commuters. Its placement and layout ensure that connecting the car to a power source is intuitive and hassle-free, aligning with the convenience modern drivers expect from an electric vehicle.
Practicality is further highlighted through the inclusion of two yellow straps at the back, which securely hold a bag in place. This clever addition is ideal for quick grocery runs, errands, or short trips, making the car a perfect companion for daily urban tasks. The design prioritizes convenience, showing how even small details can elevate the car’s utility and enhance its role in everyday life.
The vehicle’s minimal rear profile ties the design together with a sleek, futuristic aesthetic. Taillights embedded within vertical strips add a bold yet understated touch, perfectly complementing the overall design language. Despite its stylish appearance, the rear maintains a focus on aerodynamics and utility, ensuring the vehicle isn’t just visually striking but also efficient and functional. This blend of style, sustainability, and practicality makes the rear design a standout feature, perfectly suited to the demands of modern urban living.
Customization meets Nostalgia
The side profile commands attention with the bold number "03," a detail that feels like a deliberate nod to its concept model roots or perhaps a playful reference to gaming culture. This subtle yet intriguing element hints at the vehicle's unique identity, sparking curiosity about its story. What’s even more exciting is the car's potential for customization, tapping into the modern consumer's desire for personalization. From bespoke colour schemes to retro gaming-inspired accessories, this car invites owners to make it truly their own—a blank canvas for self-expression and creativity.
