Leveraging the illustrious legacy of Škoda Motorsport, the Škoda Design Team crafted a visionary rendition of a single-seat, all-electric conceptual race car. Dubbed the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo, this creation was created exclusively for the Gran Turismo gaming series, marking the company's debut in this realm. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Škoda 1100 OHC Spyder race car of 1957, originally conceived for the esteemed 24 Hours of Le Mans, the Vision Gran Turismo paid homage to this legendary vehicle in a contemporary guise. It pledged an immersive and dynamic driving encounter, echoing the spirit of its revered predecessor.
The Škoda Vision Gran Turismo project began in 2019 when the design team revisited the iconic Škoda 1100 OHC. Initially, the team was debating whether to restore the 1100 OHC or create a futuristic iteration for the digital age. After consulting with Chief Designer Oliver Stefani, the Škoda Design team opted for a fresh innovative approach, creating a fusion of past and future.
This race concept pays homage to its legendary predecessor as well as incorporating the defining features of Škoda’s Modern Solid design language, as seen in its T-shaped headlights. What’s more, the Vision Gran Turismo showcased two distinct liveries: one reflecting the heritage of the famous Škoda 130 RS race car from the 1970s, and the other inspired by the Vision 7S concept car, which embodies Škoda´s Modern Solid Design philosophy.
The Škoda Vision Gran Turismo boasts a sleek exterior with crisp, clear lines and pronounced edges, mirroring the aesthetics of current Formula E racers. Its design is optimized for superior handling through active aerodynamics. Features like the aerodynamically sculpted body, and the striking, adaptive two-piece rear wing, all work together to dynamically adjust to driving conditions and boost performance. The vehicle incorporated independent wishbone push-rod type suspension systems, mounted to a carbon monocoque similar to those found in Formula E cars, improving high-speed stability, reducing body roll, and lowering the vehicle’s center of gravity.
Efficiency and excellent driving dynamics are at the heart of the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo design. It came equipped with two 200 kW (268.2 HP) electric motors, one on each axle, delivering a combined power output of 800 kW (1071 HP). The inclusion of all-wheel drive with intelligent torque distribution across both axles ensured a balanced and responsive driving experience. This was complemented by a smooth, single-speed transmission, providing seamless acceleration.
The design of the Škoda Vision Gran Turismo harmonizes the exterior and interior, giving the driver the feeling of being one with the car – especially once they take a seat in the cockpit of the cutting-edge carbon monocoque chassis.
The cockpit emphasizes technical precision and a driver-centric design. Drawing inspiration from Formula 1, the driving position has been ergonomically tailored to fit the pilot’s physique, ensuring optimal comfort and control. The driver steers with a futuristic, flattened steering wheel, directly influenced by Gran Turismo 7.
The Škoda Vision Gran Turismo came equipped with onboard proximity sensors that alerted the driver to nearby vehicles, significantly reducing the risk of side collisions. Also, ultra-lightweight titanium was used for the pedals, which came anchored to the floor, complete with a titanium grip footplate for greater stability. Safety remained paramount. The driver is secured by a six-point seat belt and surrounded by a lightweight carbon structure. This frame not only provided maximum rigidity but also provided passive safety. Made from carbon fiber, the steering framework further underscored the vehicle’s blend of high performance and safety.
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