2026 | Professional

French Design Awards Gold Winner

CUPRA Vértice

Entrant

Yizhou Jiang (Johnny)

Category

Conceptual Design - Automotive

Client's Name

Country / Region

United States

CUPRA Vértice is a fully electric hypercar created to define a new expression of performance for the electrified era. Conceived as the ultimate manifestation of CUPRA’s progressive and emotional character, it combines extreme proportions, active aerodynamics and an immersive two-seat cockpit within a singular performance-focused form.

Its design is inspired by the meeting of two contrasting expressions of Spanish craft and landscape: the precision of a forged Toledo blade and the tension of Mediterranean sailcloth shaped by wind. The body is treated as a tightly stretched technical skin, cut open by sharp aerodynamic incisions that reveal the structure and energy beneath.

A continuous line extends from the front axle toward the rear aerodynamic blade, visually pulling the car forward even at rest. Above it, the surfaces remain taut, clean and controlled; below it, deep cuts and negative volumes expose a more technical character. The result is a silhouette that feels compressed by invisible forces, as though energy is being held within the body before release.

At the front, a narrow white light signature emphasizes width and precision. At the rear, warm red-copper illumination is integrated into the active aerodynamic structure, creating a luminous blade that extends beyond the physical bodywork. The contrast between the dark exterior skin and its glowing internal elements recalls the relationship between metal, incision and inlay found in traditional Spanish craftsmanship.

Inside, a sculptural structural spine organizes the cockpit around the driver. Compact digital displays, tactile controls and a low seating position create an immediate connection between driver, vehicle and road. Vértice transforms electrification from an invisible technology into a physical expression of tension, movement and emotion.

Credits

Designer
Yizhou Jiang (Johnny)
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