Golden hues of Islamic art shine bright at auto expo

Sunaina Rana / Emirates Business

A $1 million unique metal-painted car stole the limelight at the 14 Edition of Automechanika Dubai 2016. The Nissan R35 GT-R sports vehicle named ‘Godzilla’ — showcased by ace tuners — was specially designed for Middle East consumers, with Islamic artwork of vine and leaves engraved on its bodywork.
Michael Dehn, Group Exhibitions Director, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, organiser of Automechanika 2016, told Emirates Business, “This special edition car has been winning many awards across the globe including USA, Paris and Geneva. It is a very popular piece of art that took Izawa, the artist, 6 months to customise the engraving. Priced at AED2.8 million, the car has been a superstar at the show.”
The exceptional piece of art created by Artis, Kuhl Racing and master engraver Takahiko Izawa was showcased at Automechanika was co-ordinated by Valorado — Luxury Lifestyle from Japan. The luxurious car is a unique display of art and innovation.
The state-of-art technology used to engrave the metal painting is a one-of-a-kind talent that has not been explored before.
Kazuyo Furusho, Accounts Executive at, Valorado, said, “The main inspiration behind the car is the Islamic art and culture; we have tried to engrave the traditional vine and leaves into the texture of the car.” This artwork is a true combination of premium design and a unique convergence of craftsmanship.
Further breaking the misconception regarding the gold car, she said, “The car had been misconceived as a gold car, it is metal painting. This is a very unique for of painting, where after few seconds of painting turns into metal. This technology took over 10 years to develop,” informed Furusho. “For preparing this magnificent piece of art (Godzilla) Izawa painted eight layers, which took approximately eight hours to dry in 80 degree rooms, followed by detailed engraving by hand.”
“We sold the 2015 model, Silver car in Shanghai for US$700,000, and as the gold car was much harder to
make so we priced at US$ 1 million,” said Furusho.
Elaborating on the response from the visitors and Middle East consumers, Furusho said, “We have received a great response and an overwhelming feedback from the people in the region. We have been receiving emails and queries. However, there has been a higher range of people will to get their car customised.”
The special gold paint sheen covers a 3.8 litre V6 twin turbo 545 hp engine, souped up with additional horsepower and additional torque. The car features enhanced aerodynamic features, a reinforced body and precision handling.
The technology used for the paint by Artis Izawa Custom paint Works is Takumi Technology and the result is an engaging and tangible sensation of luxury through a distinctive feat of ingenious engineering.