The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
The ultimate italian coachbuilder site
In the 40s/50s, Stabilimenti Farina created a Lancia design series called “Tank” which featured a large pointed grille and recessed front lights.
The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet Tank Style, created by Stabilimenti Farina and designed by Giovanni Michelotti, represents an audacious leap in automotive design from the post-war period. Part of the Tank Style series, this model is built upon the Lancia Aprilia chassis and is emblematic of a unique approach to car design that sought to defy traditional norms. Unveiled in a period ripe for experimentation and change, the Tank Style series stood out with its squat and low-slung profiles, which made a striking departure from the more conventional car designs of the time. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet, like its Tank Style siblings, embodied a bold vision of innovation and style. The design of the Tank Style Cabriolet is notably characterized by its front grille, which combines elements of classical and industrial aesthetics. The grille’s stylized appearance evokes imagery of Greek helmets, paying homage to ancient design motifs while integrating modern elements. This archaeo-futuristic approach not only reflects Michelotti’s creative ambition but also introduces a new visual language to automotive design. Adding to its distinctive look, the grille bears a resemblance to the “Cowcatcher” used on steam locomotives. This protective shield was originally designed to clear debris from railway tracks and symbolizes a fusion of historical reference with contemporary design. Such a feature underscores the Tank Style’s fascination with both historical and futuristic themes. The Tank Style series included various body styles, such as sedans, cabriolets, and coupes, all presented in flamboyant and visually striking styles. Each model was crafted to amaze and captivate, reflecting a period of significant change and creativity in automotive design. The Lancia Aprilia Cabriolet Tank Style, with its bold aesthetics and innovative features, remains a testament to Giovanni Michelotti’s visionary approach and Stabilimenti Farina’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design.
The Tank Style cars from Stabilimenti Farina defied automotive norms with their low-slung profiles, signaling a departure in design during the post-war era. Originally intended as a unique cabriolet masterpiece, the Tank-Style concept surprised many by evolving beyond a solitary creation. The subsequent coupé, distinguished by its low roofline and covered wheel arches, presented an avant-garde vision akin to a floating monolith.
