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The History of Italian Coachbuilders

Italian coachbuilders have long been the pioneers of automotive design, known for blending art and engineering in a way that no other country has replicated. From iconic brands like Pininfarina and Bertone to lesser-known but equally significant names, Italy’s carrozzerie (coachbuilders) have shaped the world of automotive elegance and innovation.

The Rise of the Giardiniera: From Utility Vehicle to Trendsetter

The early 1900s marked the birth of a new automotive concept: the station wagon. Originating in the United States around 1910, independent builders crafted wooden bodies for the chassis of Ford Model T cars. Initially conceived as commercial versions of sedan cars tailored for the working class, they were often referred to as carryalls, denoting their ability to carry a multitude of goods thanks to their spacious cargo compartments compared to traditional torpedo bodies.

The Fiat 600 Elaborate

The Fiat 600 was undoubtedly the car that accompanied Italy through the economic boom. When it was presented it was very popular thanks to its modern lines, the brilliant engine and a cockpit large enough to fit the whole family. The demand for the 600 was so high that Fiat was unable to meet the waiting times, so that many relied on the coachbuilders in order to get its small family car sooner, even at the cost of a higher price.