Introducing Midsummer: Morgan Motor and Pininfarina Forge a Limited-Edition Barchetta Masterpiece
Morgan Motor Company and Pininfarina S.p.A. proudly unveil Midsummer, a limited-edition marvel showcasing the prowess of two of the most established coachbuilders globally. This exclusive release of just 50 units reimagines the classic European barchetta designs, merging Morgan's iconic silhouette with Pininfarina's innovative craftsmanship.
Midsummer, a standout among Morgan’s special projects, flaunts the versatility of Morgan’s designs and the exquisite craftsmanship of artisans who meticulously hand-shape each element. Built on Morgan’s advanced CX-Generation Bonded Aluminium Platform, Midsummer boasts a six-cylinder turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Massimo Fumarola, CEO at Morgan Motor Company, expresses immense pride in Midsummer. This project celebrates two centuries of refined coachbuilding and epitomises Morgan’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. Midsummer caters to enthusiasts craving an unfiltered, sensory driving experience, blending tradition with a fresh aesthetic.
Giuseppe Bonollo, SVP of Sales & Marketing at Pininfarina, emphasises the fusion of Morgan's 115-year legacy with Pininfarina’s nearly 95-year history in bespoke vehicle design. This partnership creates a pioneering coachbuilding movement, culminating in the Midsummer adorned with the 'Pininfarina Fuoriserie' badge—an industry first.
The creation of Midsummer sparked from a spontaneous conversation, leading to a collaborative effort that redefines sports car aesthetics. This collaboration included numerous site visits and deep dives into each brand’s philosophy, ultimately delivering a vehicle that remains true to Morgan’s core while previewing future design directions.
Midsummer’s design elements, such as its barchetta style, enhance the driving experience by fostering a direct connection with the environment. Its rear three-quarter view highlights new design cues like a prominent shoulder line and modified surfacing that hint at the future of Morgan’s design language.
The side profile shows evolved wing shapes influenced by aerodynamic needs, with the introduction of a new shoulder line achieved through exposed wooden structures. Additionally, the vehicle features a lightweight 19-inch forged wheel explicitly designed for Midsummer and new Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres that add a classic touch to the car's modern capabilities.
The vehicle’s artisanal details, like hand-formed stainless steel sills and Morgan’s signature silver-finished headlights, underscore Midsummer's bespoke nature. Every aspect, from the hand-formed piano key louvres on the bonnet to the custom-designed analogue dials, exemplifies the fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary technology.
Jonathan Wells, Chief Design Officer at Morgan, and Felix Kilbertus, Chief Creative Officer at Pininfarina, highlight the collaborative and immersive design process that brought Midsummer to life. From virtual reality modelling to handcrafted prototypes, every step reflects a blend of artistic creativity and technical precision.
Midsummer is not just a car; it's a testament to the synergy between Morgan and Pininfarina, combining timeless design with cutting-edge engineering. Set to debut publicly at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Midsummer marks a new chapter in luxury sports cars, emphasising bespoke design, intimate customer involvement, and celebrating heritage. Production begins in 2024, with all 50 units already spoken for, highlighting the model’s exclusivity and appeal to discerning collectors and enthusiasts alike.
