Motor Show: EDAG Biwak

The Biwak has taken the basic bug-shape and extended it into a station wagon-style rear end, giving good luggage space and rear passenger room, and hiked up its suspension for greater ground clearance.

EDAG proposes a range of different trim and upholstery finishes to suit different customers - 'high-gloss and chrome elements for the bank clerk, crinkle-finish, steel rims and denim for the young rebel' - and says there are plenty of possibilities for individualisation.

The Geneva show car is said to have been inspired by 'The spirit of the grunge movement of the early 90s', and while it doesn't smell quite like Teen Spirit, it has a matt crinkle-effect paint finish with an aged patina effect and natural leather/denim upholstery, which gives it a fairly utilitarian look.

'We are giving the customer the freedom to make full use of the vehicle, dispelling his or her worries about that first, inevitable scratch on the paintwork,' said an EDAG spokesman. Just like buying ready-ripped jeans, then.

The Biwak 'has the potential of a volume (production) vehicle,' says EDAG hopefully, no doubt casting around for wealthy backers to help make it happen. The company also suggests 'It would be the ideal second car for a family, though it could just as easily prove popular as a stylish leisure vehicle for surfers or divers, or even do service as a delivery truck for crafts- or tradesmen.'

We wonder what Volkswagen will make of it. Here's its modern-day Type-62/82, aka the Kubelwagen, Safari or 'Thing', ready-made under contract.

EDAG's other concept on show is a hard-topped version of the Pontiac Solstice roadster, with a removable tin-top to go over the standard fabric hood for extra winter warmth and comfort. The shape of this is said to have been inspired by the Pontiac Safari station wagons of the 50s and 60s. It's a pretty tenuous connection, but anyway, a hard-top is a useful accessory for a roadster owner.

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