Lancia introduced the Concept Delta HPE as a preview of the reissue of the famed Delta model that will return to the streets in 2008. It has been a long time since its discontinuation in 1999, now Lancia wants to relaunch this vehicle with so much history and winning tradition, as it won six world championships in the Rally specialty.
The design of the Lancia Delta HPE Concept is based on the classic Lancia Beta HPE of the 1970s. On the front stands a very refined and elegant grill whose outline is defined by chrome edges. Optics also provide category without neglecting the sporty and dynamic aspect of the car.
The rear sector has a very unusual cut. The waist line accompanies the base of the side windows to the rear door, where the window profile rises to meet the ceiling and the waist line descends and fades into the rear optics.
If you look at a photo of the front and another of the rear, it seems that they were two different vehicles, but not because of disharmony but because of a mix of styles. It is partly due to the bicuerpo condition of the model in question.
This concept car presented is actually a sample of the trend that will govern the subsequent design, because the production Delta will not look the same as this prototype. The overall proportions and dimensions of the concept are expected to remain faithful. This is because he will surely share the platform with the next generation of the Alfa Romeo 159.
The Delta concept is prepared to receive the same engines as the production model would have. Engine options range from 1,400 and 1,800 cm3 naphthene versions of almost 200 hp power to 120 and 165 hp diesel options. All engines shall be turbocharged and shall use six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
For a matter of cost reduction it is very likely that the Lancia Delta will share its platform with the next generation of the Alfa Romeo 159. The Delta HPE Concept measures 4,500 mm long, 1,800 mm wide and 1,500 mm high. These measurements will remain almost the same, especially the wheelbase, which is currently 2,700 mm.
Inside, the designers of the Delta HPE Concept gave priority to habitability and comfort. To achieve this they included various solutions such as rebuttable seats to expand the load capacity or, conversely, recline the seats back when the trunk is empty. This makes it possible to make the most of each space according to the user's need.
In the interior, between chrome ornamental details and Alcantara coverings, technology is also present. The equipment is abundant, and as consumerism requires, there is a central operating system called “Blue & Me” that allows you to connect various multimedia devices.
© Adrián Blanco 2006 — Prohibited the total or partial reproduction of text and/or images without explicit written consent of the author. —