Lancia is one of those car brands with a rich and storied history, but it has been reduced to a shadow of its former self in recent years. Once known for its innovative and stylish cars that dominated rallies and won hearts, Lancia now sells only one model, the Lancia Ypsilon, in its home market of Italy.
But there is hope for a revival of this legendary brand, which comes in the form of a concept car unveiled at the Milan Design Week earlier this month. The Lancia Pu+Ra HPE is an electric wagon that combines retro design cues with modern technology and sustainability.
The name Pu+Ra stands for Pure and Radical, and it reflects the philosophy behind the concept. The electric concept car is designed to be simple, elegant, and efficient, with minimal waste and maximum performance. The car is also inspired by the Lancia Beta HPE, a sporty wagon that was produced from 1975 to 1984.
The Lancia Pu+Ra HPE is not just a pretty face, though. It is powered by a 150 kW electric motor that drives the rear wheels and a 75 kWh battery pack that provides a range of 500 km (310 miles) on a single charge. The car also features a fast-charging system that can replenish 80% of the battery in 30 minutes.
The interior of the Lancia Pu+Ra HPE is equally impressive, with a minimalist dashboard that features a large touchscreen and a digital instrument cluster. The seats are made of recycled materials, such as wool and leather, and the floor is covered with cork. The car also has a spacious cargo area that can accommodate various lifestyle accessories like bikes, surfboards, or skis.
The Lancia Pu+Ra HPE is not just a concept car but a vision for the future of Lancia as a brand. According to Stellantis, the parent company of Lancia, the concept represents "the first step towards the rebirth of Lancia as an icon of Italian design and technological innovation."
