Italian design studio Bertone has officially revealed what their new Runabout model will look like, a contemporary interpretation of one of the brand’s most radical concepts, originally presented in 1969. The new model is marked as the first car within the new Bertone Classic series, and its aim is to transform the historical design intuition into a modern, sculptural car that emphasizes purity of form and proportions.
Two variants
The design of the vehicle is shaped by two key visual determinants: a forward-leaning aggressive wedge line and a continuous horizontal belt line inspired by nautical shapes. Such an approach results in an architecturally light silhouette that is immediately recognizable as Bertone’s work. Customers will be offered two body configurations – Barchetta and Targa – celebrating design freedom and open-air driving pleasure.
The interior of the cabin follows the philosophy of reduction and clarity, with a horizontal instrument panel reminiscent of a ship’s deck. The interior’s focus is on the exposed mechanicals and sports car-inspired digital speedometer, which serves as the focal point of the driver’s environment. Every detail of the cabin is designed to emphasize the analog character of the vehicle.
Exclusive series
As for the technical specifications, the Runabout will be built by hand, using traditional manufacturing methods. The heart of the car is also an “analog” V6 turbo engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This specific configuration was chosen to ensure an intimate and direct driving experience, far removed from modern automated systems. The engine power will be around 470 HP, which will probably make the car weighing only around 1,180 kg very agile and fun to drive. It should accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 270 km/h.
The production of this model will be strictly limited to only 25 examples. Each car will be individually configured to the customer’s wishes through Bertone’s specialized atelier, guaranteeing a high degree of personalization and collector value. The world premiere of the new Runabout is scheduled for the Rétromobile fair, which takes place at the beginning of February in Versailles, France. Earlier information suggested that the starting price would be around 350,000, but now there is talk of a possible 460,000 euros.