“Design and Performance in Motion: Shaping Two-Wheel Aerodynamics” the exclusive event, organized by Pininfarina on the occasion of the opening of the celebrations for its 95th anniversary, highlighted the intersection of aerodynamics, performance, and design in two-wheel mobility.
Starting from the crucial role of the Pininfarina Wind Tunnel in aerodynamic and aeroacoustic research, with over 50 years of activity in different sectors, the event saw the participation of Farbrizio Valentini, Head of Design Management of Pininfarina and Alessandro Aquili, Head of the Pininfarina Wind Tunnel who interacted with representatives of some brands that are shaping the future of two-wheeled mobility such as De Rosa, Vmoto International, White Motorcycle Concepts and Aptera Motors. The presentations delved into how aerodynamics is revolutionizing the design and performance of electric motorcycles, high-performance bicycles and even solar-powered vehicles.
“This event,” explains Aquili, “comes at a time when Pininfarina is enhancing its Wind Tunnel facility to provide two-wheeler customers – OEMs, startups, and racing teams – with a crucial tool for product development. It is now possible to evaluate the aerodynamic performance (drag and lift) and cooling efficiency of motorcycles with rotating wheels while remotely adjusting the bike’s attitude using an active suspension system, allowing for a lean angle of up to 55°. Additionally, our Wind Tunnel can be used to assess aerodynamic and thermal comfort, either with a test rider or an instrumented dummy, in maximum safety. This facility is also an essential resource for racing teams, helping optimize riders’ positions on the bike.”
Special guest, Simone Origone, nine-time World Champion in speed skiing and the fastest non-motorized athlete on the planet. Origone talked about his experience in the aerodynamic tests in the Pininfarina Wind Tunnel, which were essential to reaching the record of 254.050 km/h.
White Motorcycle Concepts, thanks to the revolutionary V-Duct technology, a patented aerodynamic duct that passes through the center of the bike, significantly reducing air resistance and CO₂ emissions, aims to offer major manufacturers a solution applicable to production motorcycles capable of significantly improving efficiency. In collaboration with Pininfarina, WMC is also exploring the stylistic possibilities offered by this technological innovation, as demonstrated by the two concepts exhibited at the event.
De Rosa Bikes presented Settanta, the lightest bike in its category, designed by Pininfarina. Created for the 70th anniversary of the brand, the Settanta exemplifies how Pininfarina’s aerodynamic expertise improves both technical innovation and riding performance. With a frame of just 730 grams, the lightest in its category, the bike boasts cutting-edge aerodynamic solutions, such as an airflow-optimized head tube and a rear triangle designed to reduce weight and improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Unveiled at CES 2025, Aptera’s revolutionary three-wheeled solar electric vehicle, designed to never require charging for most daily commutes, represents a bold step forward in energy-efficient transportation. In collaboration with Pininfarina, Aptera is on track to achieve one of the lowest drag coefficients ever recorded for a production passenger vehicle.
