While Jaguar’s recent rebranding and the divisive Type-00 concept drew criticism for abandoning its storied design heritage, a new vehicle bearing similar cues has captured attention for an entirely different reason—its creators.
The Vision Rapida, a striking coupe concept revealed by the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Turin, Italy, was designed not by a major automaker but by a team of transportation design students. Collaborating with renowned design house Italdesign, the project has quickly gained traction within the automotive design community for its blend of bold aesthetics, practical layout, and creative execution.
Sleek Proportions, Performance Focused
The Vision Rapida showcases classic sports coupe proportions—long nose, short deck, and sweeping fastback silhouette. Created as a compact sports car for younger drivers entering the segment, the model features a 2+2 seating configuration, allowing it to merge style and usability.
Though still a concept, the Vision Rapida has been designed to accommodate a range of powertrains, including traditional internal combustion engines, hybrids, and potential electric drivetrains. This flexibility aligns with current industry demands and leaves room for possible production partnerships.
Driver-Centric Interior with Asymmetrical Flair
Inside, the Vision Rapida continues its bold expression with an asymmetrical, driver-focused cabin layout. A yoke-style steering wheel—minus its upper rim—opens up space for a centrally placed round speedometer. The gear selector is positioned diagonally, focusing on ergonomics and tactile engagement.
Color accents further emphasize the vehicle’s performance orientation. The driver’s seat is upholstered in red, contrasted by gray seats for passengers. Differentiated seatbelt buckles add another layer of intentional detail, while the rear window’s curvature doubles as a glass roof, thanks to the fastback’s steep angle.
Public Reception Surpasses Expectations
Despite originating as a student project, the Vision Rapida has received an enthusiastic response online. Its refined design and production-ready presence have prompted calls for mass production. An IED spokesperson noted that the concept “did not follow the design language of any specific automaker” and remains open to adoption by any brand interested in advancing the design into a commercial product.
In a market increasingly influenced by electric platforms and design convergence, the Vision Rapida’s sharp identity offers a refreshing alternative. It showcases the potential of next-generation designers to influence tomorrow’s vehicle aesthetics. As automakers search for fresh ideas and bold differentiation, concepts like this one may soon shape the future beyond the classroom.
