Italian studio launches modernized version of the speedboat-inspired concept, presented in 1969, which served as the basis for Fiat's sports car
Bertone presented the Runabout 2026, a model that rescues one of its most emblematic concepts, originally created in 1969, and transforms it into a super sports car of extremely limited production. The new Runabout combines direct references to the past with modern engineering, reinforcing the brand’s strategy of valuing its historical legacy in the exclusive car segment.
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The original Runabout, signed by Marcello Gandini, never went into production, but it became a staple of Italian automotive design for its wedge-shaped proportions, clean surfaces and nautical inspiration. These elements have been preserved in the contemporary reinterpretation, now reinterpreted with current materials and technical solutions compatible with a high-performance sports car.
Presented to the public at the Rétromobile show in Paris, the Runabout 2026 maintains the low silhouette, the continuous horizontal line and the short rear. The body uses an aluminum structure combined with carbon fiber panels, reinforcing the proposal of lightness and structural rigidity.
The model will be offered in two versions: Barchetta, fully open, and Targa, with a removable carbon fiber roof. The interior follows a minimalist approach, with reduced instrumentation and handcrafted leather, aluminum and carbon fiber finishing. The driving position is low and prioritizes the direct connection between driver and car.
The engine consists of a 3.5-liter V6 with supercharger, mounted in a central transverse position, which delivers about 475 hp and 49 kgfm of torque, always associated with a six-speed manual transmission. According to Bertone, the model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just over four seconds and reaches a top speed close to 270 km/h.
Production will be limited to 25 units, all assembled by hand, with a high level of customization. The estimated price starts at around 390 thousand euros, excluding taxes.
