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With the Lancia Design Day on November 28, 2022, the Italian brand is heralding the future. Before that, throwbacks show how iconic classics have influenced the design of upcoming Lancia models. The journey leads from the Aurelia to the Flaminia, from the Fulvia to the Beta HPE and the Gamma Coupé. The sporty side is represented by the models Stratos, 037 rally and Delta, which have become famous in rallying. While these vehicles are vastly different - some graceful and elegant, others uncompromising and efficient - they all have one thing in common: timeless style. This is exactly what makes the Lancia classics unique ambassadors of Italian design to this day.
Lancia Design Day
"The design and style of these automotive masterpieces inspired us in the development of future Lancia models," says Luca Napolitano, Lancia CEO. "With the new Lancia Ypsilon, we are presenting the flagship of the future in 2024, with which we will be present in Europe's largest vehicle segment. In 2028 the new Lancia Delta will follow, which will delight car lovers across Europe with its sculptural and muscular lines. We characterize Lancia as a 'Progressive Classic'. With 'Classic' we refer to Lancia's great heritage, which we respect and cherish. With 'Progressive' we express our ability to be ambitious about the future.
Innovation and timeless design have always been Lancia brand values, to which we now add sustainability, customer satisfaction and social responsibility. We always place the customer at the center of our mission. These are the guidelines of the ten-year plan for Lancia's renaissance. With this strategy, Lancia will become a trusted and respected brand in the premium segment. Core elements of the plan are three new models. They will feature design elements typical of Lancia: the radiator grille reminiscent of a goblet, sensual lines on the one hand and clear geometric shapes on the other.
Inspired by the front of the Aurelia and Delta
Inspired by the front of the iconic Lancia Aurelia and Lancia Delta models, the classic design of the grille is reinterpreted in a modern way. Characteristic features are retained: the horizontal alignment with a vertical line that draws attention to the brand logo. In addition, the three new models will feature the curved lines on the side of the vehicle that are typical of historic models such as the Lancia Aurelia B20. Finally, a third element of classic Lancia design returns: the geometric shapes, both front and rear. An example of this from history are the round rear lights, which refer to the technical spirit of the brand, which can be seen on the legendary Lancia 037 rally and Lancia Stratos models, among others. Like the Lancia Delta, they are among the vehicles with which the brand has dominated international rallying for more than 20 years.”
Another aspect of Lancia design is the ability to draw inspiration from different, even contrasting, sources to create a harmonious and cohesive whole. For example, when designing the original interiors of the Lancia Gamma and Lancia Beta, the designers took their inspiration from living spaces. The same refinement of the interior can also be found in the Lancia Fulvia Coupé, which combines elegance and sportiness.
Lancia Beta HPE - one of the first sports suits
With the Beta HPE presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 1975, Lancia was one of the founders of a new vehicle segment. HPE stands for "High Performance Estate", which can be translated as a sports suit. The Lancia Beta HPE convinced as an elegant and powerful car, which also had a spacious trunk. Drawn by the Pininfarina design studio and finally produced in three series, the HPE is certainly the most fascinating variant of the Lancia Beta series. The rear of the station wagon is comparatively flat. The tailgate has an internal blind that reduces solar radiation and provides a glare-free view to the rear. This innovative solution is rounded off by two panels on the C-pillar, which visually merge with the rear window.
The passengers in the rear sit on comfortable upholstery, which merges into the side surfaces with additional elements. The rear headrests can be stowed in the backrest. The Lancia Beta HPE's spacious and innovative interior evokes the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a living room. Or a bedroom. Because if necessary, the rear seats can be folded down, creating a spacious lying surface.
Lancia Gamma Coupé - the living room on wheels
The futuristic Lancia Gamma Coupé celebrated its world premiere at the 1976 Geneva Motor Show. With classic exterior lines and a comfortable interior, the coupe was considered a living room on wheels. Unique style and high quality of interior materials are the result of Lancia's collaboration with renowned fashion brands, including Ermenegildo Zegna. The instrument panel, which was heavily inspired by the typical product design of the 1970s, also contributed to this reputation.
At first glance, the Lancia Gamma Coupé looks much more elegant and sporty than the five-door sedan of the series. The Lancia Gamma Coupé was the latest evolution of Lancia's large Gran Turismo models at the time. The forerunners included Lancia Aurelia and Lancia Flaminia.
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Outlook for the Lancia Design Day: Iconic classics inspire future models of the brand
Photo credit: Stellantis
