Photo Story

In pictures: Alisea, a concept hypercar paying tribute to the Pagani Zonda

The team worked hand-in-hand with Pagani.

Published: Apr 13, 2024 08:25 PM EST

Amal Jos Chacko

5 months ago

Alisea- A prototype paying tribute to the Pagani Zonda

IED/ YouTube

The Pagani Zonda’s legacy is one of unparalleled style and performance, having made a lasting impact on the automotive world since its debut in 1999.

Originally supposed to be named the “Fangio F1” after five-time World Driver’s Championship winner Juan Manuel Fangio, the Zonda took on its actual name from a term used to refer to “a hot South American wind, especially in Argentina.”

The Zonda debuted at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show in its C12 variant, powered by a 6.0L Mercedes-Benz V12 engine mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Over the 20 years the Zonda has been in production, Pagani released several model variants, including the Zonda Cinque, which Horacio Pagani, the company’s founder, meant to be the last iteration of the Zonda.

While the Zonda has been a dream and a bedroom poster for most, several high-profile individuals have been known to own one, with seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton being perhaps the most famous of the lot.

As the legendary supercar celebrates its 25th anniversary, a group of students from the Istituto Europeo di Design (IED) in Turin took on the remarkable, yet ambitious challenge of reimagining the Zonda for a new era.

1/6
Front view of the Alisea
Their efforts resulted in the Alisea, a stunning 1:1 scale model that blends elements of Zonda's design with a modern twist. Designed by 24 students enrolled in IED's Transportation Design master's degree, the Alisea pays homage to Zonda's iconic design.
2/6
Alisea carries over the Zonda's recognizable quad exhaust pipes
Alisea's design is a masterclass in aerodynamic efficiency. The absence of large vents and scoops creates a smooth, uninterrupted surface enhancing the car's curvaceous silhouette. Bulging wheel arches and a low-slung stance give the concept design an imposing presence, while the canopy-style roof, inspired by endurance race cars, adds a touch of motorsport flair.
3/6
Alisea's curvaceous silhouette
While Alisea pays tribute to Zonda's legendary design, it also features several contemporary touches that set it apart. Slim, high-mounted mirrors and a modernized re-interpretation of Zonda’s signature quad headlights give the car a sleeker, more refined appearance. Curved taillights, reminiscent of the track-focused Zonda R, further enhance Alisea's sporty character.
4/6
A work of art
Alisea's dimensions are similar to the Zonda C12. While the absence of vents and intakes could spark fear of a switch to electric power, the team emphasizes that there would be an AMG V12 behind the seats if "this were more than a design study," reports CarScoops.
5/6
A blend of classic and modern
The team's approach to Alisea's interior is undistilled, just as Horacio Pagani approached the Zonda's. Renders reveal analog gauges, a digital dash, and lots of leather, exuding a luxurious air. While the Alisea remains a concept for now, it wouldn't surprise many if Pagani were to borrow some design cues from the Alisea for some wealthy buyer. After all, the Cinque did not end up being the last Zonda variant, as Horacio intended.
6/6
The team behind Alisea
Alisea was designed by students from diverse nationalities, including Italy, India, Spain, Russia, and China. The team worked hand-in-hand with Pagani, reports TopGear. "We got the chance to lead young talents, tapping into the consolidated knowledge and everyday practices that we, as designers and automotive engineers, apply to the industry," stated Alberto Piccolo, advanced design lead at Pagani. "We have benefited from their fresh and uncontaminated approach," he added.