The story of Ghia – part 1
The beginning In tracing the genealogy of coachbuilding firms, it turns out that they originated in the early years of the last century as…
Ford Shuttler
For Ghia, the possibilities for a city coupe continued to beckon at the start of the 1980s. The result of this inspiration was the Ghia Shuttler of 1981.
Vehicle Overview
The Ford Shuttler, a compact two-door city coupe designed by Ghia, was an innovative concept based on the Fiesta platform. Measuring just 196 centimeters in length, the Shuttler was created as a response to the growing demand for small, urban-friendly vehicles in the early 1980s. This unique concept car combined futuristic design elements with practical features, showcasing Ford’s vision for a stylish, efficient city car. The Shuttler’s exterior was finished in a striking metallic anthracite color, highlighted by bold orange accent stripes that emphasized its sporty character. The car’s wedge-shaped body, designed by Ghia, gave it a dynamic and forward-looking appearance, reminiscent of other cutting-edge concept cars of the time. One of its standout design features was the flush-mounted side glass, which was advanced for the era and contributed to the vehicle’s sleek, aerodynamic profile. This design choice not only improved the car’s aesthetics but also reduced wind noise, enhancing the overall driving experience. Further enhancing its modern look were the faired-in enclosures for the side mirrors, a detail that minimized drag and added to the Shuttler’s smooth, seamless appearance. The rear of the car was equally distinctive, featuring air vents that connected the Shuttler’s tail lamps to the side accent stripe, creating a cohesive design element that visually extended the car’s lines from front to back. Inside, the Shuttler’s interior carried through the bold orange accent theme, complementing the plush grey and brown cloth upholstery. The interior design was focused on comfort and style, with a coordinated color scheme that mirrored the exterior’s sporty, high-tech feel. Despite its small size, the Shuttler’s cabin offered a surprisingly upscale atmosphere, blending the vibrant orange accents with soft, muted tones to create a sophisticated and cohesive environment. The Ford Shuttler represented a forward-thinking approach to city car design, merging a compact footprint with advanced styling cues and features typically reserved for more expensive vehicles. Although it remained a concept and never entered production, the Shuttler showcased Ford and Ghia’s ability to innovate within the constraints of a small, urban-friendly vehicle, and it remains a memorable example of early 1980s automotive design experimentation.
Technical Specifications
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Body
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Year1981
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MakeFord
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ModelShuttler
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CoachbuilderGhia
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Engine Type4L
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DesignerFilippo Sapino
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