In a breathtaking fusion of automotive craftsmanship and visual artistry, the "WYVERN" concept car—developed by MODI, a renowned Japanese carrozzeria, in collaboration with the visual design studio WOW—took center stage in an exhibition held at the AXIS building in Tokyo. Titled "WYVERN born by the wind", this unique installation exemplified the synergy between cutting-edge engineering and design, celebrating MODI's 20th anniversary and highlighting their expertise in bespoke car creation.
MODI: A Legacy of Innovation
MODI, based in Ichinoseki City, Iwate, is part of the larger Murakami & Co. group, founded in 1957. Since its establishment in 1992, MODI has specialized in developing custom prototype vehicles. Their dedication to high-quality, speedy manufacturing is driven by a team of master craftsmen, state-of-the-art equipment, and extensive technical know-how. Over the years, they have built an impressive portfolio of concept and trial vehicles, positioning themselves as one of Japan's leading carrozzerias.
The WYVERN was crafted as a tribute to their 20-year history, symbolizing the evolution of Japanese automotive design and showcasing MODI’s exceptional in-house development process. Unlike mass-produced vehicles focused solely on performance and functionality, the WYVERN was conceived to stimulate the senses—emphasizing driving pleasure, aesthetic beauty, and emotional engagement.
Design Inspiration: The Dragon in the Wind
The WYVERN, named after the mythological two-legged, winged dragon, is a mid-engined two-seater sports car that brings together timeless automotive artistry and modern engineering. Its exterior is a contemporary homage to the sleek, powerful race cars of the 1960s, particularly reminiscent of the iconic Ferrari Dino. The design, led by Yusuki Hoshimiya, Senior Manager at MODI, aimed to capture the essence of classic racing machines while offering a modern twist, creating an aggressive yet elegant visual profile.
Key design elements include the dramatically raised front fenders and the side air intakes, which underscore the car’s mid-engine configuration. The combination of functionality and visual harmony in the WYVERN’s body lines creates an immediate impact, blending engineering precision with artistic flair.
Technical Precision Meets Visual Performance
Beneath the flowing bodywork, the WYVERN is powered by a 1,795cc, 4-cylinder DOHC VVTL-i supercharged engine, delivering 220 horsepower at 7,800 RPM and 21.4 kg/m of torque at 5,500 RPM. Weighing just 870 kilograms, this lightweight, aerodynamic sports car promises thrilling acceleration and performance, making it a joy to drive as well as behold.
To emphasize the fluidity of the car’s design, MODI integrated sophisticated aerodynamic technology into the WYVERN. The careful management of airflow over the car’s body is crucial to achieving superior stability and acceleration. MODI’s expertise in aerodynamics is apparent in the car’s graceful, dynamic form, which conveys a sense of motion even when stationary.
A Sensory Exhibition: Art in Motion
The exhibition, held from October 31 to November 4, 2012, was not just about showcasing the car—it was an immersive experience that merged art and engineering. MODI partnered with WOW, a visual design studio known for creating cutting-edge installations, to craft a presentation that captured the energy and vitality of the WYVERN.
Two delicate sheets of organza fabric floated above the vehicle, gently animated by programmed controls to simulate the sensation of wind sweeping over the car. Onto these sheets, WOW projected stunning visuals that evoked the life force of the WYVERN. The display began with the flash of blue lights resembling the car’s headlights, transitioning to pulsating beats mimicking the heartbeat of a dragon, and finally culminating in a brilliant display of flowing light, mirroring the car's imagined movement across the road. The result was a breathtaking visual representation of speed and power, bringing the WYVERN to life in the minds of the audience.
A Symbol of Resilience and Revival
The WYVERN is more than just a concept car; it is a symbol of resilience. Following the devastating 2011 Tohoku earthquake, MODI’s headquarters in Iwate sustained significant damage, forcing the team to relocate. Despite these challenges, the company continued to innovate, using this project to not only showcase their craftsmanship but also inspire hope for the recovery of Tohoku’s manufacturing industry. The collaboration with WOW, also based in Sendai, reflects the region’s commitment to combining creativity and technical skill to overcome adversity.
Conclusion
The WYVERN concept car, born from the wind, represents the pinnacle of MODI’s 20 years of craftsmanship, a testament to their innovative spirit and dedication to artistry in motion. It stands as an example of how bespoke automotive design can push the boundaries of functionality and emotional connection, making it a masterpiece that is sure to leave a lasting legacy in the world of custom car design.
