Kathryn DeLorean, the daughter of DMC-12 creator John DeLorean, is spearheading a new project known as DeLorean Next Generation Motors (DNG) with the aim of creating a modern tribute to the iconic DMC-12. In an interview with Hagerty, Kathryn DeLorean expressed her commitment to offering an affordable car for the DeLorean enthusiast community.
DNG’s approach involves taking the C8 Corvette as its foundation and replacing its factory bodywork with a design inspired by the DMC-12, complete with the distinctive gullwing doors. This transformation is made possible by the C8 Corvette’s targa top design, which necessitated repositioning the roll cage structure to accommodate front-hinged doors.
While DNG has unveiled renderings of the project, the design itself is the brainchild of Ángel Guerra, a talented designer with experience at the Croatian EV company Rimac. The choice to use the Corvette Stingray as the platform for the tribute aligns with John DeLorean’s history, as he was formerly a General Motors executive. During his tenure, he advocated for a mid-engine platform for the Corvette, and this project brings his vision full circle.
DNG is also collaborating with aftermarket companies to implement mechanical enhancements to the base Corvette Stingray platform. Additionally, the company is planning to produce a limited run of the Model JZD, a high-end hand-built sports car with only 42 units slated for production. While the Corvette Stingray serves as a benchmark with a price tag of approximately $70,000, it is expected that the reimagined DeLorean will command a significantly higher price due to the extensive modifications involved.
It’s worth noting that DNG’s initiative is not the only one aimed at reviving the DeLorean name. DeLorean Motor Company, based in Texas, announced plans for an electric DeLorean known as the Alpha5 in 2022. While it retains the signature gullwing doors, the Alpha5 features a more contemporary design, deviating from a purely retro aesthetic. Initially planning to produce 9,531 Alpha5 coupes, a number symbolic of the original DMC-12’s intended production, they have since revised this to 4,000 units over a similar five-year timeframe.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about DeLorean Next Generation Motors
What is the DeLorean Next Generation Motors (DNG) project all about?
DNG is a project led by Kathryn DeLorean, aiming to create a modern tribute to the iconic DMC-12 by using the C8 Corvette as a foundation. It involves replacing the factory bodywork with a design inspired by the DMC-12, including gullwing doors.
Who is behind the design of the C8 Corvette-based DMC-12 tribute?
The design for this project comes from Ángel Guerra, a designer known for his work at the Croatian EV company Rimac.
How does the project utilize the C8 Corvette platform?
The C8 Corvette serves as the base platform for the tribute. DNG retains the Corvette’s mechanical underpinnings but transforms its exterior and interior to pay homage to the classic DMC-12.
What is the significance of using the C8 Corvette for this project?
John DeLorean, the creator of the DMC-12, was a former General Motors executive who advocated for a mid-engine platform for the Corvette. This project aligns with his vision, as it utilizes the C8 Corvette, which features a mid-engine layout.
Will there be any mechanical modifications to the C8 Corvette used in this project?
Yes, DNG is working with aftermarket companies to implement mechanical enhancements to the base Corvette Stingray platform, ensuring the performance meets the expectations of the DeLorean community.
What is the pricing strategy for the reimagined DMC-12 tribute?
While the Corvette Stingray serves as a benchmark with a price of around $70,000, the reimagined DMC-12 tribute is expected to cost significantly more due to the extensive modifications involved in transforming it.
Yes, apart from DNG’s project, DeLorean Motor Company in Texas is working on an electric DeLorean called the Alpha5. This model retains gullwing doors but features a more contemporary design. Initially, they planned to produce 9,531 Alpha5 coupes, a nod to the original DMC-12’s intended production, but they have since revised this to 4,000 units over a similar five-year timeframe.
More about DeLorean Next Generation Motors
- Hagerty Interview with Kathryn DeLorean
- Ángel Guerra’s Design Portfolio
- DeLorean Motor Company’s Alpha5 Announcement
- Chevrolet C8 Corvette Information
- John DeLorean’s GM Career
4 comments
Wait, didn’t John DeLorean used to work at GM? Mid-engine Corvette was his idea? Neat!
wow, dis sounds cool, a new DeLorean based on Corvette, sweet!
So, how much dey gonna charge for da new DeLorean, any guesses?
Alpha5 electric DeLorean, 4000 units, that’s a change, man!