Official press release:

THE GHIA VIA - SPORTS CAR OF THE YEAR 2000

Ghia's concept of the sports car of the year 2000, the "Via" makes its world debut at this year's Geneva Salon (9-19 March). Combining the classic lines of a thoroughbred four-seater sports coupe with advanced technology and intelligent aerodynamics, the "Via" is intended to have four wheel drive, a transverse turbocharged V8 engine and a 6-speed transmission.

Fibre Optic Headlamps

The latest Ghia concept has fibre optic headlights which can also be programmed to operate as spot or fog lamps, a ground-effects underbody with a computer controlled aerofoil for improved high speed stability and a detachable photosensitive glass roof which is designed to filter ultraviolet radiation.

"In creating the "Via", says Ghia Managing Director Filippo Sapino, who heads the international team at Ford's Turin Design Studio, "We have approached the development of this project in the spirit of Ford design philosophy. The configuration gives the maximum possible space to the occupants while minimising the space needed for mechanicals. The car's shape is dynamic yet the "Via" does not lose touch with reality. While it uses the most advanced techniques, it could be in production by the mid-1990s.

"We believe that technology should be applied where it is most needed - to benefit both people and the environment."

Intelligent Aerodynamics

The coachwork of the "Via" has flowing, classical lines which are both aerodynamic and functional. The rear spoiler of the "Via" lies flush with the bodywork at low speeds but is raised automatically by an on-board computer to provide downforce as the speed increases.

At the same time, a panel shuts off the spoiler housing to maintain aerodynamic efficiency.

The underbody is designed to create a venturi effect which provides positive downforce at speed.

"Intelligent" aerodynamics are employed in the design of the rear windows. A concave section enables stale air from the interior of the car to be extracted through a very small slot.

The flush-glazed side windows of the car are power-operated and the indicator lamp housings incorporate ducts which divert cooling air to the front brakes.

Advanced lighting system

The "Via" is the first car in the world to incorporate a revolutionary new lighting system. This uses the latest fibre-optic technology enclosed in wafer-thin lamp clusters positioned for optimum efficiency at the base of the windscreen. Each consists of nine separate optic fibre light units illuminated from a central source. The headlamps are one centimetre deep, yet provide the equivalent illumination of a halogen system and can be programmed to operate as fog or spot lamps.

Glass roof

Externally, the "Via" which is 4.5 metres in length and 1.97 metres wide - comparable in size to a Scorpio - is finished in a mica-based metallic paint in the distinctive shade of Zaffiro blue. An unconventional feature of the design is a glass roof with a removable Targa-type centre section; the glass is photosensitive to protect the occupants from harmful ultraviolet rays.

Separately-adjustable, bucket seats with individually adjustable air conditioning and sound systems are provided for the driver and passengers.

Floating instrument panel

The instrument panel uses advanced fibre-optic lighting techniques to create a "phantom" effect in which the illuminated needles of the instruments appear to float in space within a transparent binnacle. Minor controls are ranged around the edge of the panel and can all be operated without the driver taking his or her hands from the steering wheel.

The softly-contoured centre console incorporates a VDU (Visual Display Unit) for the built-in diagnostic computer.

The interior trim of the "Via" has been designed to complement the exterior.

The seats are upholstered in grainless leather with a brushed titanium finish and pleated blue leather inserts in the back panels.

"The materials we are using, and the manner in which they are employed, are intended to create a sense of luxury and quality in the long established tradition of Ghia," said Filippo Sapino.

Dimensions:

Overall length: 4459mm (175.5 ins)
Wheelbase: 2794mm (110.0 ins)
Overall height: 1260mm ( 49.6 ins)
Centre pillar width: 1920mm ( 75.6 ins)

Engine & performance:

Type: V8, turbo

Drive: 4WD

Dimensions:

Length: 4460 mm

Width: 1920 mm

Height: 1260 mm

Wheelbase: 2800 mm