Hagerty

Not What You Might Think...

The video spotlights the Ital Design Columbus, a 1992 concept vehicle that combined a BMW M70 V12 with a mid‑engine, all‑wheel‑drive architecture and a centrally located driver’s seat. Dubbed a double‑decker minivan, the 19‑foot‑long, 7‑foot‑tall machine was built to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage, embodying an over‑engineered vision of the American dream on wheels. Key specifications include a five‑speed manual transmission, seating for up to nine passengers, and a chassis that could accommodate massive leather chairs equipped with individual TV monitors, temperature controls, and the ability to swivel or be removed entirely. The interior’s opulence contrasted sharply with its utilitarian form, creating a paradoxical blend of luxury and practicality that few concept cars have attempted. The presenter humorously notes that many viewers might mistake the Columbus for a McLaren F1, underscoring how its dramatic design cues—central driving position and V12 power—evoke high‑performance supercars despite its minivan silhouette. Only a single fully functional prototype was ever constructed, and the vehicle never progressed beyond the factory floor, leaving its exact market viability a mystery. Although it never reached production, the Columbus remains a striking example of how concept cars can push the boundaries of automotive design, challenging conventional vehicle categories and inspiring future designers to explore bold, cross‑segment ideas.