Geneva 2010: I.DE.A Institute Sofia concept inspired by the female form

Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, MISC

I.DE.A Institute Sofia – Click above for high-res image gallery

What’s the one thing that would fix the automotive industry today? Fresh ideas, you say? Well, this isn’t quite that. In fact auto shows these days – Geneva particularly – have become packed with legions of swoopy, stylish four-door hybrid concepts. What this is, though, is one of the more attractive ones we’ve seen to date.

Created by the quizzically-abbreviated I.DE.A. Institute, the Sofia‘s hourglass shape is (according to the press release after the jump, at least) inspired by the female form. And we don’t have much trouble believing that line, curvaceous as it is. The hybrid part, though, is pure fantasy. Because like many design studies, the I.DE.A. Sofia is an empty body shell. It’s got no interior, but more to the point, it has no mechanicals inside. Its creators say it could theoretically accommodate a V8 engine, with or without the assistance of an electric motor, driving either the front wheels or the rear.

Like it? Don’t get too excited by the prospect of production. The I.DE.A Institute claims to have contributed to designs for numerous major automakers, but in its 30-year history has produced more household appliances and furniture. But for the next upstart looking to join the likes of Fisker and Tesla, the sumptuous shape could be just the ticket. Don’t take our word for it; have a closer look for yourself in the galleries below.

Gallery: Geneva 2010: I.DE.A. Institute Sofia