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Legendary Designer Marcello Gandini Passes Away at 85

Turin, Italy – The automotive world mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures as Marcello Gandini, the legendary Italian car designer, bids farewell at the age of 85. Born in Turin in 1938, Gandini’s legacy is deeply ingrained in the annals of automotive history, leaving an indelible mark on the industry with his innovative designs and visionary concepts.

Gandini’s illustrious career spanned decades, during which he revolutionized car design, particularly in the realm of sports and supercars. From the 1960s to the 1980s, he served as the chief designer at Bertone, where he crafted some of the most iconic and groundbreaking vehicles of his time.

Among his most notable creations are the breathtaking Alfa Romeo 33 Carabo concept, the futuristic Lancia Stratos Zero, and the iconic Lamborghini Miura, Marzal, and Countach. These supercars not only captivated enthusiasts with their striking aesthetics but also pushed the boundaries of automotive engineering and performance.

However, Gandini’s talent extended beyond the realm of high-performance automobiles. He also lent his creative genius to popular cars, including the Fiat X 1/9, Renault Supercinq, Citroën BX, and Innocenti Mini 90 and 120, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt his designs to a diverse range of vehicles.

Throughout his career, Gandini remained at the forefront of automotive innovation, developing numerous projects and patents for major manufacturers. His visionary ideas, many of which are still shrouded in secrecy, continue to inspire designers and engineers to this day.

Beyond his contributions to car design, Gandini also played a pivotal role in shaping the industrial cycle, proposing innovative solutions for more efficient vehicle production. His holistic approach to automotive design and manufacturing underscores his status as a true pioneer in the field.

“It was an honor to have received Marcello Gandini’s invaluable insights for our video on the Autobianchi Runabout last year, and we are deeply saddened by his passing.”
Andreas Scheidl – founder of carrozzieri-italiani.com

As news of Gandini’s passing reverberates throughout the automotive community, tributes pour in from colleagues, enthusiasts, and industry leaders alike. His legacy lives on through the timeless beauty of the automobiles he created, serving as a testament to his enduring influence on the world of transportation.

Grazie di tutto Maestro

The team at Carrozzieri-Italiani.com extends heartfelt condolences to Marcello Gandini’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. His unparalleled contributions to the automotive industry will forever be cherished and remembered by generations to come.

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Battista Reversario

Automobili Pininfarina has reached new heights of automotive craftsmanship with the introduction of the Battista Reversario, a bespoke creation inspired by the Battista Anniversario and the concept of balance. Representing the epitome of ‘Dream Cars. Made Real’, this latest offering underscores Automobili Pininfarina’s commitment to crafting truly unique vehicles in collaboration with its clients.

Each vehicle produced at Automobili Pininfarina’s Cambiano atelier is a testament to individuality, reflecting the distinct personality of its owner. The Battista Reversario stands as a prime example of this ethos, showcasing the level of personalization available to discerning clients.

Collaborating closely with Automobili Pininfarina designers, the client has conceived a one-of-a-kind vehicle that embodies their vision and preferences. Already a collector of automotive rarities, the client’s acquisition of the fifth and final Battista Anniversario model laid the groundwork for the creation of the Battista Reversario.

A standout feature of the Battista Reversario is its unique color scheme, meticulously crafted to be the inverse of the iconic Pininfarina heritage-inspired design theme that characterized the Anniversario. The lower body gleams in Bianco Sestriere gloss, contrasting elegantly with the upper body finished in Grigio Antonelliano gloss.

Continuing the theme, the pinstripes echo the upper stripe in the signature Iconica Blu hue. Custom inscriptions, including the vehicle’s distinctive ‘Reversario’ nameplate, adorn the carbon side wings and the underside of the active rear wing, both forward-facing and in reflection.

Inside the cabin, Pilota seats feature white-on-white Alcantara quilting against a perforated background in Iconica Blu. While the overall ambiance is predominantly black, accent details such as the cupholder retainer, headliner center bezel, and seatbelts are highlighted in Iconica Blu, lending a harmonious contrast.

Battista Reversario

Completing the ensemble is an exclusive three-piece luggage set tailored to the client’s lifestyle. Crafted from luxurious black leather with Iconica Blu accents and off-white Alcantara quilting, the set exemplifies the ultimate in bespoke craftsmanship.

Speaking on the creation of the Reversario, the client remarked, “Anniversario and Reversario were destined to be created by the Automobili Pininfarina team. I simply challenged them to understand what could be created if you follow your heart and passion. All credit goes to them.”

Dave Amantea, Chief Design Officer at Automobili Pininfarina, emphasized the significance of the Reversario as the ultimate expression of the company’s design philosophy. “Reversario was the ultimate commission. Taking inspiration from the original Anniversario, it is a reflection in every aspect, using a timeless combination of colors to create an opposite that works alone and together,” he stated.

Both the Battista Anniversario and Reversario stand as milestones in automotive history, representing the pinnacle of Italian engineering prowess. Powered by a cutting-edge electric powertrain, these hyper GTs offer unparalleled performance while embodying the luxury and elegance synonymous with the Pininfarina name.

With its blend of hypercar capabilities and GT comfort, the Battista series sets a new standard for automotive excellence, promising an exhilarating driving experience like no other. As the automotive world celebrates the harmony achieved through the creation of the Battista twins, Automobili Pininfarina reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation.