Alfa Romeo may not be among the automakers returning to prototype racing with the introduction of the Hypercar class at Le Mans, but that doesn’t stop designers like Daniel Kemnitz from imagining what it could look like. Kemnitz, a talented transportation designer from Copenhagen, Denmark, created a rendering of an Alfa Romeo P7 during his studies at IED Torino. Although the final project he presented to his professors fell short of his initial vision due to various constraints, he has since worked on bringing the old project back to life.

Kemnitz’s vision for the study was to look back at Alfa Romeo when it was at its peak “from a point of design as well as engineering.” With racing being deeply ingrained in the brand’s heritage, he sought to envision how a racecar from Alfa Romeo’s glorious past would be reimagined for the modern era. The design of the hypercar is undeniably influenced by the automaker’s classic models, particularly the Tipo 33 Stradale. The sleek and flowing bodywork contributes to an overall appearance that is both simple and uncluttered, yet deceptively intricate in its complexity.

“My philosophy to capturing the essence of classic Alfa Romeo design values has been this trifecta,” said Kemnitz. “One, large volumes with flowing lines and uninterrupted surfaces. Two, surfacing that clearly communicates its purpose through material and shape. Three, few key details that have breathing room and can stand out properly without having to fight for attention.”

Observing the differences between the sketches and the finished rendering in terms of design details, the early design features fog lights that incorporate Kemnitz’s simplified Quadrifoglio logo, while the final product opts for a simpler front end without these elements.

To stay up to date with modern technology, Kemnitz envisions the hypercar as being powered by a hydrogen jet engine. The technology is environmentally sensitive, while also drawing on his passion for internal combustion engines. Although this is in no way related to Alfa Romeo’s internal product planning, it’s hard not to wish that the automaker would consider putting such a classically correct racecar onto the world’s racing circuits.

Secondary Headers:

The Inspiration Behind the Design

Capturing Classic Alfa Romeo Design Values

Design Details: From Sketches to Finished Rendering

A Vision for Modern Technology