If there is one country that’s completely forgotten in the automotive world, it might be Malaysia. But it has its own automotive industry, including Proton, a mass-market carmaker which used to build recycled Mitsubishis but now has its own unique lineup and happens to own one of our favorite sports car manufacturers, Lotus.
While you know about Lotus and possibly Proton, you have probably never heard of Bufori. The small company started building cars in 1986 and, in 1998, production moved from Australia to Malaysia. Bufori started out with retro sports cars, but the new models are getting more modern and interesting. For the Geneva auto show, the company is launching a four-door sedan called the Geneva.
Hot-Rod Construction and Lightweight Skin
The Geneva's body is made from Kevlar and carbon fiber, stretched over a specially developed tubular frame. The rear doors are hinged at the back, just like those on a Rolls-Royce Phantom. The big fenders and long hood are decidedly retro, but the six headlights are integrated into the fender—a modern touch.
Power comes from Chrysler's 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemi V-8. With the Geneva, Bufori hopes to increase its production volume from its current 60 vehicles annually to 100. And the upcoming CS sports car should give the company an additional push. Bufori’s maximum production capacity is around 300 units a year, but it has a way to go to get there.
With the sporty and rather modern CS and the Geneva, Bufori aims to present a very distinct alternative to traditional luxury cars. But if you are thinking about trading in your Stutz IV Porte, don't hold your breath. Bufori's focus is on China, Russia, and the Middle East—besides the Malaysian market, where the company enjoys strong local support.
No comments:
Post a Comment