Dutch Startup Seeks to Create Groundbreaking Supercar Engineered for Straddling Instead of Sitting

With numerous prestigious supercars available, entering the market as an unfamiliar startup is quite challenging. However, despite lacking a rich history or an iconic leader, Dutch startup Sanrivatti brings something distinctive: Instead of sitting in their upcoming supercar, you will straddle it.

Sanrivatti has introduced what it refers to as the “Apex Position,” a motorcycle-inspired seating arrangement that the company asserts will work in conjunction with proprietary technology to provide the driver with increased awareness, improved balance, and a stronger connection during acceleration, braking, and cornering. It’s about enhancing the driver’s relationship with the vehicle’s performance, explained Sanrivatti CEO Santiago Sánchez Rivero in a conversation with Top Gear.

Sanrivatti

“On a high-performance motorcycle, the rider and the machine act in unison,” Rivero stated. “In contrast, even the most proficient performance cars tend to disconnect driver and vehicle through layers of design, systems, and conventional architecture.”

How exactly Sanrivatti plans to realize this enhanced connection remains to be seen. The company mentions “immersive ergonomics” and “controls shaped around natural human motion.” According to Top Gear, the team includes seasoned experts from McLaren, Lotus, Bentley, and Singer. However, specifics regarding the vehicle’s construction, powertrain, or even a definite reveal date have yet to be shared.

Other manufacturers have attempted to emulate the motorcycle feel with additional wheels, focusing on the way bikes lean into turns rather than the seating arrangement. Also from the Netherlands, Carver was established in 1994 and went bankrupt in 2024, yet it managed to create a three-wheeled vehicle featuring traditional inline seating. A unique control system enabled the slim vehicle to lean when turning without tipping over. The Mercedes-Benz F400 Carving concept from 2001 was a more standard four-wheeled roadster that achieved a similar outcome by adjusting its wheels’ camber.

In terms of delivering a raw driving sensation, the Ariel Atom and BAC Mono are not exactly gentle in their treatment of drivers. Additionally, numerous actual motorcycles (and three-wheelers) are available for those seeking a more unfiltered experience. While it may not be essential, Sanrivatti will be able to claim it offers something no one else does, making a center-seat McLaren F1 or Czinger 21C seem conventional. Given the plethora of options supercar buyers have, this might be just as crucial for the company’s success as the engineering itself.

Stephen has always had a deep-seated passion for cars, which he transformed into a profession as a freelance automotive journalist. When he isn’t covering weekend events for The Drive, you can find him searching for his next book to dive into.


**Dutch Startup Endeavors to Create a Groundbreaking Supercar Meant for Straddling Instead of Sitting**

In a daring initiative that questions traditional automotive design, a Dutch startup has revealed intentions for a groundbreaking supercar that transforms the driving experience by enabling drivers to straddle rather than sit. This inventive concept seeks to deepen the connection between the driver and the machine, delivering an extraordinary amalgamation of performance, comfort, and forward-thinking design.

### Concept and Design

The idea of straddling in a supercar draws inspiration from various modes of transportation, comprising motorcycles and certain racing machines. The design showcases a sleek exterior that enables the driver to assume a position akin to riding a motorcycle, facilitating superior control and a more engaging driving experience. The startup’s design team prioritizes ergonomics, ensuring the vehicle accommodates diverse body shapes while sustaining comfort during high-speed operations.

### Performance Features

The anticipated supercar is projected to come equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a high-performance electric powertrain that provides immediate torque and acceleration. Emphasizing sustainability, the vehicle aspires to utilize lightweight materials like carbon fiber and advanced composites, boosting both velocity and efficiency. The startup intends to incorporate sophisticated aerodynamics to enhance performance, enabling the car to reach impressive speeds while retaining stability.

### Safety Innovations

Safety remains a critical focus for the startup, which is crafting innovative safety enhancements customized for the unique straddling position. The vehicle will encompass advanced stability control systems, improved braking technologies, and a resilient safety enclosure intended to safeguard the driver in case of a collision. Moreover, the startup is investigating the inclusion of smart technology capable of delivering real-time insights on driving conditions and vehicle performance.

### Market Potential

The automotive landscape is experiencing a rising interest in alternative vehicle designs, particularly among aficionados seeking unique driving experiences. The startup aims to attract this niche market, appealing to both supercar collectors and those in search of an exhilarating adventure. By situating itself at the crossroads of luxury and innovation, the startup aspires to carve out a noteworthy portion of the high-performance automotive sector.

### Future Developments

As the startup makes strides with its prototype, it plans to engage potential investors and car enthusiasts to refine its design and functionality. The company is also contemplating partnerships with tech firms to elevate its vehicle’s software capabilities, including options for autonomous driving and connectivity features.

### Conclusion

The Dutch startup’s ambitious aspirations for a straddling supercar signify a bold advancement into the future of automotive design. By challenging established ideas about vehicle interactions, this innovative approach could usher in a new era of driving experiences that emphasize both performance and connectivity. As the project unfolds, it will be intriguing to observe the evolution of this concept and its potential to capture the enthusiasm of car lovers around the globe.