Pellandini Cars, a niche automotive brand, was established by British designer Peter Pellandine in South Australia in 1970. The brand specialized in kit cars and was particularly known for its unique steam-powered vehicles. Pellandine’s first creation under the Pellandini banner was a curvaceous gull-wing coupe featuring a mid-mounted BMC Mini drivetrain, known for its lightweight and innovative design incorporating an integrated GRP chassis. This model exemplified Pellandine’s commitment to pioneering automotive engineering.

Despite the initial success and the technical prowess demonstrated by Pellandine, Pellandini Cars experienced limited commercial success. Only seven coupes were sold before the company ceased operations in 1978. The brand also dabbled in steam-powered cars, including a two-seater model intended to tackle pollution issues, funded by a state-sponsored initiative in South Australia. This vehicle is now displayed at the National Motor Museum in Birdwood, reflecting its historical significance.

After winding down Pellandini Cars, Pellandine returned to England and continued his work in automotive design with new models, maintaining his innovative approach but achieving limited success. His later years were spent further refining steam-powered vehicles, though none managed to achieve the breakthrough needed to resurrect his brand’s prominence in the automotive world. Today, Pellandini’s legacy is primarily upheld by automotive enthusiasts and historians who appreciate the innovative spirit and design prowess he brought to the industry during his career.

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