Brado Carbon Buggy Brings Carbon Fiber Engineering to the Classic Dune Buggy

Updated on May 28, 2026 • 3 min read

Italian startup Brado has introduced the Carbon Buggy, a modern restomod concept inspired by the classic Volkswagen-based Meyers Manx dune buggy.

Debuting at Motor Valley Fest in Italy, the concept combines American beach-buggy spirit, Italian design flair and modern carbon fiber construction.

A carbon fiber monocoque dune buggy

The biggest difference between the Brado Carbon Buggy and traditional dune buggies is the structure.

Instead of relying on a modified Volkswagen Beetle chassis, Brado uses a full carbon fiber monocoque.

This could offer:

• lower weight
• higher torsional rigidity
• stronger structural integration
• improved handling precision
• greater design freedom

Customers will be able to choose from painted, tinted or exposed carbon fiber bodywork.

Low power, lightweight philosophy

Unlike most modern carbon-bodied vehicles, the Carbon Buggy does not chase huge horsepower.

Planned engines include:

• 1.8-liter flat-four, 85 hp
• optional 2.0-liter flat-four, 110 hp

Both are paired with a five-speed manual gearbox.

That may sound modest, but with a lightweight carbon structure and minimalist interior, the buggy is expected to rely on low mass rather than high power.

Retro design with modern materials

The concept keeps classic dune buggy cues such as:

• rounded fenders
• open cabin feel
• freestanding headlamps
• high door sills
• short overhangs

Modern upgrades include:

• LED lighting
• titanium accents
• custom interior materials
• adjustable shock absorbers
• four-wheel disc brakes

Brado will also offer a limited initial run using forged carbon construction.

Built in Italy’s Motor Valley

Brado is based in Parma, placing it within Italy’s famous Motor Valley, home to brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Pagani.

The company was founded by Matias Mussetta, with design led by Juan Manuel Diaz, former Alfa Romeo chief designer involved in models such as the 8C Competizione, MiTo and Giulietta.

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Editorial Perspective

The Brado Carbon Buggy is interesting because it applies supercar-style carbon fiber construction to one of the simplest and most playful vehicle formats ever created.

Instead of using composites only for extreme speed, Brado uses them to reinterpret lightness, tactility and driving fun.

That makes the project stand out in a crowded restomod market. It is not trying to be the most powerful. It is trying to make a classic idea feel sharper, lighter and more collectible through advanced materials.