Also known as the Type 289, the Lancia Stratos HF is unequivocally one of the most legendary Italian cars of all time. Penned by Marcello Gandini for Bertone and designed specifically for rally competition, the Stratos would quickly prove its worth, first unleashed in 1973 before going on to win WRC titles in ’74, ’75, and ’76. And while it’s been decades since the Stratos was in production, the iconic model is now celebrating the 50th anniversary since its debut. To mark the occasion, the Italian firm has delivered a modern iteration of the Stratos that’s said to embody the traits, aesthetics, and characteristics of the company’s next decade of production models.
Christened the Lancia Pu+Ra HPE, this factory-built concept car is described by the company as a “statement of intent.’ Extremely reminiscent of the ’73 Stratos’ silhouette, the overall design puts an unmistakably contemporary spin on Gandini’s original, though the car also takes inspiration from other existing models from Lancia such as the Aurelia and Beta HPE. Circular head and taillights, flowing aerodynamic bodywork, a short wheelbase, and flared fenders are all carried over from the original. While no specifics have been given on power output, top speed, or acceleration times, we do know the new Stratos model will pack a fully electric powertrain that aims to not only offer 700 km (435 mile) of range at less than 10 kWh per 100 km (60 miles), but also aspires to achieve a recharge time of just 10 minutes.
Developed in collaboration with Cassina, the interior of the concept was inspired by Italian designer homes, and features ultra-plush seats, a circular “tea table,” horizontal window lines reminiscent of Venetian sunshades, recycled window glass, and carpeting made from natural fibers. Combining elements from both flat-bottom racing steering wheels and aviation-style yokes, the Pu+Ra HPE’s steering wheel also features a large integrated digital color display that’s supplemented via a Head Up display in the windshield. The entire concept also rides on a set of super aerodynamic wheels with a Y-shaped aero-disc-inspired design.
Thus far there’s been no word from Lancia on whether the Pu+Ra HPE will ever see the light of production, and if it does when that might occur, however, we imagine additional details to trickle out over the next year or two.
