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Kids love playing grown-up. You’ve got toy cars, toy mobile phones, and toy bricks that you can build into a variety of things – the world is condensed down into playable toys that help kids learn, grow, and mimic the adults they see on a daily basis. The Z56 isn’t one of those things. Calling the Z56 a toy would be foolish, just because of how incredibly fleshed-out it is. Designed as a proper dirt bike, but for kids, the Z56 isn’t about mimicking grown-ups, it’s about literally stepping into their shoes, or their saddles. Imagined as a ridable vehicle for children aged 6-11, the Z56 is a concept that marries the nostalgia of traditional dirt bike aesthetics with the sleekness of modern design, all packaged into a two-wheeler that’s built for young riding enthusiasts.

Designers: Zukun Design Studio & Matt Barnum

One of the core design philosophies behind the Z56 is its blend of classic motorsport aesthetics with a modern twist. Unlike many futuristic concepts that diverge significantly from traditional design, making them less relatable, the Z56 strikes a balance. It retains recognizable elements of dirt bikes, such as their rugged, adventurous look, while infusing clean, streamlined design elements that are practically synonymous with electric vehicles today. “Current dirt bike design trends seem hell-bent on adding excessive styling lines and graphics, and many future-vision concepts alienate consumers by deviating so far from the norm that they sacrifice reliability,” the designers mentioned, highlighting their objective to stay away from such practices. “By blending classic motorsport style with sophisticated, modern lines and forms, Z56 points toward a cleaner, simpler, and more efficient future.”

At the heart of the Z56 concept lies its 10Ah 56-volt power source, a central feature that’s boldly highlighted rather than hidden, signaling a proud departure from the internal combustion engines of old. This design choice not only emphasizes the bike’s electric nature but also celebrates the shift away from petroleum dependence. The bike’s electric identity is further reinforced by its performance capabilities: equipped with a maintenance-free 1000-watt DC brushless motor, the Z56 promises ample torque and instant acceleration, ensuring a spirited yet manageable ride for young enthusiasts.

The battery life of this conceptual bike is impressive, offering about an hour of riding time on a single charge, with the added convenience of a one-hour recharge period. The possibility of swapping in a second battery for continuous, all-day riding is a thoughtful touch, showcasing the practicality embedded in this futuristic vision. The lightweight lithium pack not only contributes to the bike’s efficiency but also enhances its agility, making it easier to handle and more enjoyable to ride.

The bike operates noiselessly and emission-free, opening up new riding territories previously off-limits to gas-powered bikes. This aspect not only makes the Z56 a more environmentally friendly option but also a more versatile and accessible one, free from the constraints of noise and pollution regulations. The lack of oil and gas requirements further simplifies ownership and transport, underscoring the bike’s user-friendly nature.

The Z56 Dirt Bike Concept by Zukun Design Studio is more than a children’s toy; it’s a glimpse into a future where the thrill of motorsports coexists with sustainability and environmental consciousness. By marrying traditional design elements with modern, eco-friendly technology, the Z56 presents a vision of a world where fun, performance, and responsibility go hand in hand. Sure, it’s merely conceptual for now, but we’d love to see some prototypes test-driven by kids on the slopes. I imagine concerned parents would have an entirely different reaction, though…

DeLorean DMC 12 is a cult favorite even after so many iconic cars have made their presence felt and then faded away eventually. The rear-engine two-passenger sports car spiced up the early 80s with its futuristic appeal but couldn’t manage to survive in the closely contested power domination landscape owing to its underpowered engine.

The company revived this nostalgic ride after decades of anticipation as an electric avatar last year with production promised for 2024. That gives concept designers yet another chance to muster up their imagination of a DeLorean with a refreshing new perspective.

Designer: Jeremy Dodd

Look at this imaginative concept that pits the sports car against the rugged terrain with a makeover. Dubbed the DeLorean All Roader, this is also an electric version but with some modifications to the original’s blueprint to appeal to the adventurous kind. The 4×4 drivetrain makes it capable enough to venture on the dirt tracks, but the ride hide makes me believe otherwise.

Jeremy has reinterpreted the original to have roof rails for carrying your skis in winter or loading other adventure gear that fits. The engine sits on the rear and the front hood has ample space to stash luggage and trip essentials so that the interiors can be used just for relaxing when parked. That rear windshield flows down to make space for an extra wheel carrier, and to be frank, it adds character to this DeLorean’s rear profile.

The front grille section has been modernized with sharp LED headlights and the rear follows suit with peppy taillights. Overall aesthetics have the sharpness balanced down by the white paint job. The black rims add contrast to the look, but as I earlier, the ride height needs to be increased with dampers if you want to confidently take it on rough roads.

Compared to the upcoming Alpha 5 – that’s got a very boxy, contoured profile – this one retains the original’s DNA in a subtle way. I would any day choose this personality of a DeLorean over the inevitable Alpha 5 that’s going to look like any other sports car out there.