At the 2022 Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, a tongue-in-cheek award known as the “Car Park Concours de Quailegance” was presented to an intriguing creation that features a unique blend of design elements—a vehicle that looks like half of a Porsche 911 merged with the rear end of a classic tube-frame Formula 1 car. This innovative homebuilt project, aptly named the “Half11,” is the brainchild of twin brothers Ilya and Nikita Bridan. Both are seasoned automotive designers who have collaborated with various automakers and the aerospace sector before establishing their own design and consulting studio, Oilstainlab. Following its eye-catching debut at the Quail, the Bridans showcased the Half11 at the F.A.T. Ice Race in Aspen and even participated in the prestigious Hillclimb contest at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last summer. Recently, the brothers have introduced their latest endeavor, the HF-11 supercar.
True to its name, the HF-11 bears a resemblance to the Half11, yet it boasts a deliberately retro-inspired silhouette blended with the sleek, futuristic lines typical of hypercars. The HF-11 is constructed with a carbon-fiber monocoque enveloped in carbon-fiber bodywork, drawing design inspiration from the Porsche Carrera GT while also incorporating elements reminiscent of the Aston Martin Valkyrie. Inside, the design continues the minimalist theme, striking a balance between a vintage racing car and a contemporary supercar, highlighted by materials like carbon fiber, titanium, and Alcantara. A distinctive feature is the inclusion of space for a crash helmet within the door panels, paying homage to the iconic Lancia Stratos.
The Bridans have plans to offer the HF-11 with a range of powertrain options. Enthusiasts of Porsche will likely gravitate towards the air-cooled internal combustion flat-six engine, capable of revving to an impressive 12,000 rpm. Alternatively, the HF-11 will also accommodate an innovative battery-electric system known as “Thunder-Volt,” fitting seamlessly into the compact chassis.
We had the opportunity to visit Oilstainlab’s headquarters to gain further insights into the HF-11. During our visit, we experienced a VR demonstration that illustrated the exact dimensions of the new vehicle, which promises adequate space for drivers up to 6 feet 3 inches tall, even when wearing a helmet. Nikita Bridan elaborated on how the HF-11 signifies a significant progression from its predecessor, the Half11.
“A lot of restomods are not truly restomods [because] there’s almost no original car left,” Nikita shared with Robb Report. “For us, we’re not really a hypercar . . . we’re not chasing a performance metric. We’re not aiming to set world records or trying to be faster than anyone else. Our genuine goal is to bring the biggest smile to the driver’s face every time they get behind the wheel.”
The HF-11 captures a unique blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking design. While its retro-inspired aesthetic pays tribute to classic racing cars, the advanced engineering and modern materials ensure it stands firmly in the contemporary automotive landscape. The Bridans’ approach contrasts sharply with the current trend of hypercars that often prioritize performance metrics and speed. Instead, the HF-11 seeks to create a driving experience defined by enjoyment and satisfaction rather than just numerical achievements.
The design philosophy behind the HF-11 extends beyond mere aesthetics. The brothers aim to connect drivers with the joy of driving, evoking emotions reminiscent of classic cars while integrating modern technology and comfort. This dedication to the driver experience positions the HF-11 as a distinct offering in a crowded marketplace dominated by high-performance vehicles.
Moreover, the HF-11 represents a significant leap in the Bridans’ journey as designers. Having gained recognition and experience with the Half11, they have built upon that foundation to create a supercar that encapsulates their vision. With a commitment to craftsmanship and an emphasis on the driver’s connection to the vehicle, the HF-11 stands as a testament to the Bridan brothers’ unique approach to automotive design.
In conclusion, the HF-11 supercar showcases the Bridans’ evolution as designers and their dedication to delivering a remarkable driving experience. By blending retro aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, they aim to create a vehicle that resonates with both car enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. While the HF-11 may not aim for records or speed accolades, its essence lies in the joy it brings to those fortunate enough to take it for a spin. The Bridans have successfully carved a niche for themselves, promising to deliver a driving experience that prioritizes enjoyment, connection, and, ultimately, a smile on every driver’s face.
