Image: Makkina
Image: Makkina
Image: Makkina
Image: Makkina
New ModelsBy: Siyavuya Mbaduli
Makkina has recently unveiled their intriguing TR25 project at the Goodwood Festival of Speed instilling a sense of nostalgia from their bygone TR2 glory with current technology borrowed from BMW.
Image: Makkina
The Triumph brand, now owned by BMW, holds a significant place in automotive history; particularly with its success in the American market during the 1950s and 1960s. Makkina’s all-new TR25 concept pays tribute to the original TR2, with the ‘Jabbeke’ TR2 MVC575 being a direct source of inspiration. The retro rebirth also commemorates Makkina’s 25th anniversary and Triumph’s 100th anniversary for good measure.
While the BMW i3S serves as the basis for the TR25, Makkina has made notable modifications. Although the powertrain remains largely unchanged, featuring a 42,2 kWh battery and a 135 kW motor, the TR25 benefits from a lighter carbon fibre body, shedding over 205 kg from the greatly different Bavarian hatchback. This weight reduction enables the TR25 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5,2 seconds, an improvement of 1,7 seconds compared to the i3S. However, the top speed of the TR25 is limited to 185 km/h, slightly slower than the original Jabbeke TR2.
Image: Makkina
The TR25’s design embraces the aerodynamic elements of the TR2, with a tonneau cover for the passenger seat, a prominent front intake, and compact LED headlights replacing the older halogen lamps. Makkina aimed to preserve the TR2’s distinctive styling while incorporating modern updates, resulting in a more angular appearance and the addition of an aero fin behind the driver.
Inside the cabin, the focus remains on the driver, with a minimal layout featuring a seat, pedals, and a steering wheel.
Image: Makkina
The instrument cluster displays only the speed and battery status, while a self-levelling screen in the centre of the steering wheel allows for an easy selection of driving modes. Notably, the TR25 concept offers a single permanent seat, however, a passenger can join the driver by removing the tonneau cover and utilizing the raised jumper seat on the left side of the vehicle.
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It is unknown whether Makkina’s TR25 concept will ever evolve into a production model but as it is now, it serves as a sultry and retro reminder of what Triumph used to be.
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