Lamborghini is concealing a confidential prototype, a true “automotive sculpture” that would serve as a roadmap for the brand’s future design language. This revelation comes from Mitja Borkert, Lamborghini’s head of design, during the Monterey Car Week.
The Fenomeno: A Glimpse of Lamborghini’s Future
Presented at The Quail, the Fenomeno is currently the manufacturer’s most powerful road car with its 1,065 horsepower, resulting from the combination of a naturally aspirated V12 and three electric motors. Although celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Centro Stile and produced in only 29 units, its angular and aggressive design actually draws its roots from a much more secret project.
The Mystery Sculpture: The Inspiring Origin
Borkert revealed that the Fenomeno is based on the design principles of an internal and unprecedented “sculpture,” developed after Stephan Winkelmann’s return to lead the company at the end of 2020. Unlike the Terzo Millennio concept (2017), which inspired the future Temerario (replacement for the Huracán), this physical model has never been unveiled to the public.
An Ever-Evolving Design Language
However, the designer tempered expectations by refusing to establish this prototype as a new aesthetic dogma. For him, Lamborghini’s identity lies in surprise and perpetual questioning. The design language can thus become sharper, softer, or completely unpredictable.
The Well-Kept Secret of Sant’Agata
“It is not yet shared,” Borkert stated about this concept. “It is not yet decided if and how we want to show this design sculpture. Perhaps we can show it in the future, but it is now a new starting point.”
The Importance of the Unexpected at Lamborghini
This philosophy of secrecy and constant innovation is at the heart of Lamborghini’s DNA, a tradition dating back to the era of the Miura and the Countach. While Porsche has opened its archives with its “Unseen” initiative, Lamborghini prefers to keep its cards hidden to continually surprise and push the boundaries of automotive design.