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Sbarro roadster concept car (photos)

Franco Sbarro shows off a new concept car at the 2009 Geneva auto show, featuring hubless wheels and a unique roadster design. But the Delphi vehicle interface is probably the most practical and innovative part of the car.

Wayne Cunningham

March 4, 2009 1:57 a.m. PT

Wayne Cunningham

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Legendary designer Franco Sbarro brings a new concept car to the Geneva auto show, a compact roadster featuring hubless wheels and an innovative software interface by Delphi.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.

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The concept has an engine mounted between the rear wheels, which are on a much narrower track than the front wheels.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.

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Franco Sbarro invented the hubless wheel in 1989. On the current concept, the front wheels seem to float on aerodynamic struts. The wheel turns on a fixed ring attached to the strut.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.

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Hubless wheels are also used on the rear. The brake discs are configured as rings mounted to the insides of the wheels, with calipers facing outwards.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.

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The tight cockpit has room for two. A touch-screen LCD is mounted on the console and handles controls for climate and infotainment. The unique interface was designed by Delphi.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.

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All of the buttons on this interface are virtual and respond to touches and gestures. For example, you can swipe a finger around the volume control to adjust the audio level. The navigation map can be moved around by swiping, as well.

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Touch a function button on the side of the screen, and you can switch from navigation to stereo to phone.

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The phone system has this keypad, along with a phonebook. Although the Sbarro roadster concept might not see production, Delphi could use this interface technology in other cars.

See more coverage of the 2009 Geneva auto show.