Galleria di Tom Automobili

Concept S            models

Nederlands English Français Italiano
concepts

Through a Split Windshield

 

History : A Bold Glimpse into an Open Future

Unveiled at the 2005 Geneva Motor Show, the Lamborghini Concept S was more than a show car—it was a radical design study that pushed the boundaries of what a roadster
could be. Conceived by Luc Donckerwolke, Lamborghini’s Head of Design at the time, the Concept S was envisioned as an extreme interpretation of the Gallardo, offering
a unique open-air driving experience unlike anything else on the road.

Initially introduced as a non-functional design model, the overwhelmingly positive reception led Lamborghini to produce a fully functional prototype later that year. Though
it retained the core mechanicals of the Gallardo, the Concept S was transformed by its twin-cockpit configuration and aggressive aerodynamic revisions. Plans to produce
a limited series of around 100 units were briefly entertained, but technical complications and cost considerations ultimately led to the project being shelved. Only one
functional Concept S was ever built.

Design : Twin Souls, One Body

The most striking feature of the Concept S is its bisected cockpit, two separate passenger compartments divided by a central spine that also channels air to the rear-mounted
V10 engine. This aerodynamic divider gave the car a dramatic presence, while also recalling classic single-seater racing aesthetics.

Gone was the conventional windshield, instead, each occupant had a small wind deflector, enhancing the sensation of speed and exposure. The bodywork featured sharper edges and
deeper cuts than the standard Gallardo, along with unique wheels and revised front and rear sections. The overall effect was that of a futuristic fighter jet on wheels, bold,
sculptural, and unmistakably Lamborghini.

Driving Experience : Open Air, Raw Power

Underneath the dramatic styling lay the beating heart of a Gallardo: a 5.0-liter V10 engine delivering over 500 horsepower through an all-wheel-drive system. Performance figures
were similar to the coupé, but the sensation behind the wheel was entirely different.

The open cockpits and absence of a full windshield made for a raw, visceral experience. Wind buffeted the driver and passenger directly, making even low speeds feel dramatic. The
car’s low weight and aerodynamic enhancements ensured agile handling, though the prototype was reportedly used sparingly,more of a rolling sculpture than a regular road machine.

Fun Facts : Radical Roadster DNA

- The Concept S was inspired by classic single-seaters and 1950s-style barchettas, filtered through a distinctly modern lens.
- Though intended for low-volume production, only one fully functional unit was ever completed.
- The prototype made appearances at events like the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, wowing crowds with its alien aesthetic.
- It was fully drivable, based on the Gallardo platform, and included functional controls and drivetrain.
- The name “Concept S” nodded to “Spyder,” but its execution was far more radical than a traditional convertible.

Legacy : A Singular Slice of Lamborghini History

The Lamborghini Concept S stands today as one of the brand’s boldest concept cars, both a visual statement and a reminder of the daring that defines the marque. Though it never
entered production, it captured the imagination of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

The one-off Concept S was sold at auction, eventually entering a private collection. Its value has only increased over time, thanks to its rarity, provenance, and sheer visual impact.
More than a concept, it remains a symbol of design freedom at its most expressive, a rare moment when Lamborghini looked to the future through two windshields and dared to split the
supercar formula in half.

The prototype itself is still at the Lamborghini's museum.


 
concepts
 
concepts
 
concepts
 
concepts
 
concepts
 
concepts


Specifications


Category 
Prototype Year2005
Build1 fully functional prototype
DesignerLuc Donckerwolke
Engine5.0L V10
Power Output520 hp (388 kW)
Torque510 Nm (376 lb·ft)
Top Speed~315 km/h (196 mph)
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)~4.0 seconds
Transmission6-speed manual
DrivetrainAll-wheel drive (based on Gallardo)
Length4,300 mm (169.3 in)
Width1,900 mm (74.8 in)
Height1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase2,560 mm (100.8 in)
Weight~1,380 kg (3,042 lbs)
Fuel Capacity90 L (23.8 US gal)
WheelsUnique forged alloy wheels
Front Tires235/35 ZR19
Rear Tires295/30 ZR19
Tire Brand/TypePirelli P Zero
ChassisAluminum spaceframe with carbon fiber panels
SuspensionIndependent double wishbone front and rear
BrakesVentilated disc brakes (ABS included)