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The year 2024 is shaping up to be thrilling for automotive aficionados, as manufacturers worldwide reveal remarkable concepts in their pursuit of a zero-emissions future. Concept cars are particularly captivating because they aren’t bound by the same regulations—and often the laws of physics—as traditional production models, which enables them to stretch the limits of design and performance, resulting in truly impressive vehicles. While many of these concept cars may never reach the production line, there are instances where companies have a change of heart, as seen with Hyundai’s commitment to bring certain concepts to reality.
However, not all concepts are created equal; some certainly stand out more than others. Coolness is subjective, and that’s part of what makes cars so fascinating. What might seem like a masterpiece to one person may evoke a different reaction from another. To celebrate this diversity, we have compiled a wholly subjective list of the coolest-looking concept cars unveiled so far this year, each of which challenges the boundaries of automotive design. If fortune smiles upon us, maybe one or two will make it to production.
All information regarding these concept cars comes directly from the respective manufacturers.
Alpine Alpenglow Hy4
Powertrain |
Hydrogen fuel cell |
---|---|
Performance |
340 horsepower |
Top Speed |
220 mph (estimated) |
0-60 mph |
2.5 seconds (estimated) |
Body Material |
Lightweight composites |
The Alpine Alpenglow Hy4 is a hydrogen-powered hypercar embodying both Alpine’s racing legacy and a visionary design:
“Alpenglow offers an insight into the roadgoing and racetrack vehicles of the future for Alpine. It serves as more than just a concept; it’s a brand manifesto that outlines our vision and development strategy, representing a physical embodiment of the Reaulution plan and paving the way for the upcoming Dream Garage models.”
The Alpenglow’s sleek and aerodynamic design is highlighted by its striking light signature, offering a visual impact that resembles it being sculpted from ice, and it’s poised to dominate the prototype class at the next 24 Hours of Le Mans. While the aesthetic attractiveness is undeniable, some performance aspects may not fully meet expectations, even with its hydrogen powertrain. Fortunately, the company has plans for a more robust V6 hydrogen engine scheduled for unveiling in the coming months.
Acura Integra Type S HRC
Powertrain |
Turbocharged 2.0L Inline-4 |
---|---|
Performance |
350 horsepower (est.) |
Top Speed |
155 mph (limited) |
0-60 mph |
5.0 seconds (estimated) |
Body Material |
Carbon fiber and aluminum |
The Acura Integra Type S is considered a high point in premium front-wheel-drive performance. However, criticisms regarding its limits led Acura to introduce the Integra Type S HRC Prototype at Monterey Car Week, enhancing its performance significantly. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s Integra Type S DE5 race car, this prototype features numerous enhancements in its aerodynamics, chassis, and powertrain, providing a comprehensive upgrade akin to the Subaru STI. This aggressively tuned vehicle seems poised to attract potential buyers, and with its polished appearance, it might very well see a limited production run within the next few years.
Subaru WRX Project Midnight
Powertrain |
Turbocharged 2.4L Boxer-4 |
---|---|
Performance |
670 horsepower |
Top Speed |
Unknown |
0-60 mph |
Unknown |
Body Material |
Carbon Fiber and aluminum |
Subaru’s WRX Project Midnight serves as a bold reminder of what the brand can achieve, offering a dark, stealthy rendition of its rally-born sports sedan designed to make a statement against its competitors. The current WRX model is impressive, yet enthusiasts miss the high-performance STI variants that Subaru has phased out. This new race car, unveiled to conquer the Goodwood Hill Climb, boasts nearly 700 horsepower, complemented by an aggressive aerodynamic kit. While production is not likely, a toned-down version might be conceivable; a still-powerful model with around 400 horsepower and a modest wing would hit the mark.
Nilu27
Powertrain |
6.5-liter naturally-aspirated V12 |
---|---|
Performance |
1,070 horsepower |
Redline |
Over 10,000 RPM |
Top Speed |
249 mph (limited) |
Body Material |
Recycled composites |
Establishing a new hypercar company requires a specialized skill set honed over many years, and Sasha Selipanov, former lead designer at Koenigsegg, has delivered a true marvel with his debut creation, the Nilu27. This striking vehicle captivates with its futuristic, low-slung profile. At its heart lies the world’s most powerful naturally aspirated engine—a 6.5-liter V12 generating 1,070 horsepower, which is itself an art piece. With its sleek lines, seamless glass finishes, and an eye-catching LED light bar wrapping around the front and rear, it stands out among the concept cars of 2024.
Polestar Concept BST
Powertrain |
Dual electric motors |
---|---|
Performance |
875 horsepower (estimated) |
Range |
300 miles (estimated) |
Top Speed |
155 mph (estimated) |
Body Material |
Aluminum and composites |
To generate excitement for its inaugural true sports car, Polestar showcased the BST concept at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. It truly impresses, merging Polestar’s characteristic minimalist style with a robust, track-oriented design. Based on the forthcoming Polestar 6, the Concept BST features broad wheel arches, a low profile, and multiple aerodynamic enhancements, appearing ready to compete with high-performance competitors like the Porsche 911 GT3. Although no performance specs were disclosed yet, anticipation for its arrival in 2026 is palpable.
Cadillac Sollei
Powertrain |
Dual electric motors |
---|---|
Performance |
600 horsepower |
Range |
300 miles (estimated) |
Top Speed |
140 mph (estimated) |
Body Material |
Carbon fiber and lightweight aluminum |
The Cadillac Celestiq represents the company’s most ambitious attempt in decades to reclaim its “standard of the world” mindset, with the new Sollei concept expanding on this vision of ultra-luxury. Boasting a sleek, elongated shape and a striking roofline, the Sollei radiates style and sophistication in a beautiful ‘Manila Cream’ finish. Will it be as opulent as the Rolls-Royce Droptail or the Bentley Batur Convertible? It’s certainly on par, if not superior, and we believe Cadillac wouldn’t have any trouble selling all units if it goes into production.
Chrysler Halcyon Concept
Powertrain |
Fully-electric drivetrain |
---|---|
Performance |
Unknown |
Range |
Unknown |
Top Speed |
Unknown |
Body Material |
High-strength, lightweight materials |
The Chrysler Halcyon Concept is a bold, full-sized electric sedan that outshines its predecessor, the Airflow concept. The brand’s new leadership recognized that the original design lacked ambition, prompting a redesign that led to this impressive vehicle. The Halcyon features an elegantly elongated body with smooth contours and a distinctive front grille reminiscent of classic American sedans. Inside, it showcases a modern cabin crafted from nearly all recycled materials, replete with large digital displays and Level 4 advanced autonomous driving capabilities. Details remain scarce, but it’s set to be built on an 800-volt architecture using the STLA Large platform, and we’re eager for its release.
Italdesign Quintessenza
Powertrain |
Fully electric powertrain |
---|---|
Performance |
788 horsepower (estimated) |
Range |
466 (estimate) |
0-60 mph |
3.0 seconds (estimated) |
Body Material |
Carbon fiber and aluminum |
The Italdesign Quintessenza combines elements of a performance sedan and an off-road vehicle with its rugged grand tourer design. Fueled by a fully electric powertrain, the Quintessenza showcases flowing lines that enhance its luxurious and sporty essence. Its interior features premium materials such as leather and wood, integrated with the latest technology. Noteworthy elements like a removable rear roof allow versatile options for either an open-air experience or additional cargo space. Although this striking car is impressive, the likelihood of seeing it on the roads is very low.
Genesis X Gran Racer Vision Gran Turismo Concept
Powertrain |
V6 hybrid powertrain |
---|---|
Performance |
1,540 horsepower |
Top Speed |
233 mph (estimated) |
0-60 mph |
2.7 seconds (estimated) |
Body Material |
Lightweight composites |
Genesis is pushing boundaries with its Magma performance sub-brand concepts. The company has unveiled multiple models showcasing stunning designs and supercar performance, with the latest—the Gran Racer VGT—easily stealing the spotlight. With its hybridized V6 engine, this track-only supercar is designed to shatter racing records. Its wide stance, striking aero features, and aggressive colors signal its speed. If Genesis is committed to its performance ambitions, bringing this to racetracks is imperative.
Honda Saloon
Powertrain |
All-electric drivetrain |
---|---|
Performance |
Unknown |
Range |
Unknown |
Top Speed |
Unknown |
Body Material |
Lightweight aluminum |
Honda’s Saloon concept features a sleek, retro-futuristic design that merges advanced technology and minimalist aesthetics as part of the company’s innovative 0 Series of EVs. Its smooth silhouette is both sophisticated and discreet, complemented by full-length lighting and a sizable open grille reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz’s Vision One-Eleven concept from the previous year. The design prioritizes comfort over performance, creating an inviting interior space. We anticipate this concept will make its way to the U.S. market in some variation, although the production model may not be as groundbreaking.
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