This Porsche 911 Was Transformed into an Urban Safari Vehicle
A Chicago-based design studio reimagines the iconic sports car for off-road adventures.
1Introduction to the Urban Safari 911
Tangent Design Group reimagined the Porsche 911 by lifting it three inches, widening its stance, and adding chunky off-road tires. This transformation turns the iconic sports car into a vehicle ready for urban escapes rather than racetracks. The project began in 2019 in Chicago, aiming to rethink what a modern Porsche can be without conventional client constraints. The base model chosen was a 2021 Porsche 911 Carrera 4, known for its all-wheel-drive platform.
2Design Process and Initial Modifications
Tangent approached the project as a product-development exercise. The original 992 was digitally scanned, including its bumpers, fenders, wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear engine cover. This data became the foundation for developing new components that integrate seamlessly with the factory body and its complex electronics. Full-scale parts were 3D-printed and fitted to refine proportions and attachment points before final production.
3Custom Lift System and Suspension
The most significant change lies beneath the body: a bespoke three-inch lift system. This modification retains the Porsche’s stock suspension architecture while avoiding software errors. The additional clearance accommodates larger off-road tires, fundamentally altering the 911’s stance. Such a lift is transformative on a low-slung sports car, completely changing its proportions and functionality.
4Wheel Design and Production
Tangent designed custom forged aluminum wheels in-house, collaborating with Brixton Forged for production. Full-scale printed versions were used during development to ensure the design complemented the widened body. The final wheels enhance the vehicle’s off-road capabilities while maintaining a sleek, modern aesthetic.
5Exterior Enhancements and Visual Identity
The Urban Safari 911 features wide fender extensions, revised rocker panels, a custom front bull bar, and a pronounced ducktail-style rear wing. Auxiliary lighting and roof-mounted adventure equipment reinforce its rally-inspired character. The graphics package draws from historic Porsche rally liveries without directly replicating them, creating a unique contemporary look.
6Inspiration and Historical Context
Tangent’s project predates Porsche’s factory 911 Dakar, conceived in 2019. It draws from Porsche’s history of competition cars built for off-road surfaces. Unlike retro-inspired designs, Tangent’s creation feels purpose-built and modern, avoiding clichés while honoring the brand’s legacy.
7Potential for Future Applications
Currently a one-off, the Urban Safari 911 has sparked interest, and Tangent is accepting inquiries about the Urban Safari kit. This opens the possibility for the design language to be applied to other 992-generation cars, potentially influencing future Porsche modifications.
8Significance of the Urban Safari 911
Tangent’s Urban Safari 911 represents a bold reimagining of Porsche’s iconic sports car. By blending off-road functionality with modern design, it challenges traditional notions of what a Porsche can be. This project not only showcases Tangent’s innovative approach but also highlights the evolving possibilities in automotive design.
Original article: Yanko Design — This Porsche 911 Was Transformed into an Urban Safari Vehicle