Bertone, one of the most influential design houses in automotive history, has unveiled a new car that stems from 1969. The all-new Bertone Runabout is officially hitting the market more than five decades since its initial debut at the Turin International Motor Show. The original concept was penned by Marcello Gandini in 1969 and featured radical designs with wedge shapes, sharp lines, and no doors or roof.
1-liter engine sourced from Autobianchi. Although the design never made it to production, its impact on the eventual Fiat X1/9 is clear. The modern reinterpretation of the design maintains pop-up headlights but incorporates LED lighting and exposed carbon fiber.
Bertone has opted to source a chassis for this project, with the Lotus Exige serving as the basis, and given it some tweaks during the conversion, bumping output to 469 hp and 361 lb-ft of torque. The production version will be limited to just 25 units, with customers having immense control over how the final product looks. Each car is expected to be wholly unique, starting at over $550,000.
The interior draws inspiration from naval ships, while top speed is reported at 168 mph. 1 seconds, this supercar promises to deliver exceptional performance. Bertone's revival of the Runabout concept showcases its commitment to innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship.
This reinterpretation of the Bertone Runabout is a testament to the enduring influence of Marcello Gandini's designs on modern automotive history. By combining the Lotus Exige chassis with Bertone's signature style, they have created a truly unique and exceptional supercar.
