The Future of Coachbuilding: Embracing Technology and Tradition
Andrea Zagato, the CEO of Zagato, is leading the charge in embracing new technology for the future of coachbuilding. Rather than fearing the advancements in artificial intelligence and 3D stamping, Zagato sees them as beneficial for the small-scale projects his firm undertakes. He explains, “You don’t have to invest thousands of euros in moulds or tooling, because you can quickly build the parts to create one-off and few-off cars. We’re already building many one-offs with 3D stamping.”
Zagato acknowledges the ongoing technological challenge in the automotive industry, particularly with the shift towards electric vehicles. He predicts that if electric motors become the dominant force, standardisation in the industry will increase. This shift may lead consumers to prioritize unique design elements over mass-produced vehicles. Zagato believes that this trend towards individuality and personal expression could herald the resurgence of coachbuilding in the near future, with restomods serving as an intermediate step.
One of Zagato’s recent projects, the AGTZ Twin Tail, showcases the fusion of old and new. Priced at over £550,000, this collaboration with La Squadra transforms the modern Alpine A110 into a tribute to the iconic A220 endurance racer from the 1960s. The innovative removable longtail design allows the car to embody two distinct bodystyles, blending vintage inspiration with modern engineering.
Zagato distinguishes the AGTZ Twin Tail from traditional restomods, noting that it represents a modern interpretation of coachbuilding. While the car pays homage to the past, it incorporates contemporary safety features like airbags and modern technology to ensure a seamless blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge performance.
The Rise of True Restomods
While Zagato focuses on the future of coachbuilding, Italian counterpart Carrozzeria Touring Superleggera is carving out a niche for true restomods. Last summer, the company introduced the Veloce12, a reimagined Ferrari 550 Maranello that combines classic aesthetics with modern enhancements. The Veloce12 breathes new life into the iconic model with updated engine, chassis, and brake components housed within a refreshed body.
