Boutique Cars

Famous for hosting the wildest, most forward-thinking products in the automotive world, the Geneva Motor Show has always been a haven for the avant-garde and futuristic. The 2005 show did not disappoint in this regard, as the big players in the car industry showed off their new toys -- cars that, for the most part, look like they belong in a science-fiction film.
In addition to the Fords, Hondas and Toyotas of the world, the Geneva Motor Show is also a venue for the projects that smaller carmakers are working on. These companies, often referred to as boutique carmakers, usually produce extremely small fleets, and market only to the very specific demographic that has the gall, and the wealth, to drive such rarities.


1- 2005 Laraki Fulgara
Estimated price: $555,750

The brainchild of Casablanca-based manufacturer Laraki, the Fulgura is only one of two beautiful specimens produced by this boutique carmaker. Laraki has stated that one of their missions is to design some of the most innovative cars in the world, and they certainly achieved this feat with the Fulgura. With its aggressive nose, sleek headlights and a large skirt kit, this car looks like a Lamborghini Murcielago on steroids. Just as with our favorite ladies, however, all the action is at the back , where the Fulgura's abrupt behind is highlighted by six cool-looking taillights and a centered dual-exhaust setup.


Under the hood, a twin turbo V12 engine pushes to a maximum of 680 horsepower, propelling the Fulgura from 0 to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds. A 2,700 mm wheelbase and recent refinements to its handling allow the six-speed Fulgura to follow the winding streets of its native Morocco with ease, without having to forgo speed.

Cool feature: A sleek, lightweight, carbon-fiber body lets the Fulgura fly that much faster on the road.