SHERIDAN, WYOMING – August 20, 2024 – The prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance, a globally recognized celebration of automotive excellence, recently concluded its 73rd edition, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive world. Amidst a breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the lush greens of the Pebble Beach Golf Resort in California, Lancia, the iconic Italian automaker, stole the spotlight with its futuristic 1970 Strato’s Zero prototype.
The Strato’s Zero, a masterpiece of Italian design, not only triumphed in its class, "Wedge Concepts and Prototypes," but also earned a coveted spot among the top four contenders for the "Best of Show" award. This remarkable feat underscores the enduring legacy of Lancia's innovation and its profound impact on automotive design.
The Strato's Zero: A Visionary Icon
The 1970 Lancia Strato’s HF Zero, owned by a U.S. collector, captivated onlookers with its revolutionary lines and bold features. Unveiled at the 1970 Turin Motor Show, this fully functional prototype, designed by Marcello Gandini and built by Nuccio Bertone, pushed the boundaries of automotive aesthetics. Its low-slung profile, just 85 centimeters off the ground, combined with innovative lighting, a distinctive wedge shape, and a futuristic interior, made it an instant sensation.
The Strato’s Zero's influence extended far beyond its initial debut. It served as the foundation for the legendary 1971 Lancia Stratos HF, a rally car that dominated the racing scene and etched its name in motorsport history. The Stratos HF's iconic round taillights, a signature element of Lancia design, can be traced back to the Strato’s Zero, highlighting the concept car's lasting impact.
Lancia's Renaissance: A Blend of Heritage and Innovation
Lancia, with its 117-year history, has long been synonymous with timeless Italian elegance. The brand's illustrious past boasts a collection of iconic vehicles, from the elegant Flaminia and Aurelia B24 Spider to the high-performance Delta,Stratos, and 037.
Today, Lancia is undergoing a renaissance, driven by a 10-year strategic plan that emphasizes innovation, sustainability,and customer-centricity. The recent launch of the New Ypsilon, featuring design elements inspired by the Strato’s Zero,exemplifies Lancia's commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing the future.
A Bright Future Ahead
Lancia's triumph at Pebble Beach serves as a powerful reminder of the brand's enduring legacy and its unwavering pursuit of automotive excellence. As Lancia continues its journey of reinvention, it remains dedicated to creating vehicles that inspire and delight, blending timeless design with cutting-edge technology and a deep respect for the environment.
About Lancia
Lancia is an iconic Italian automotive brand with a rich history of innovation and design. Founded in 1906, Lancia has produced some of the most celebrated vehicles in automotive history. Today, the brand is focused on a sustainable and customer-centric future, building on its legacy of timeless Italian elegance.