Classic Art-Deco Labatt Brewery Truck: A Timeless Icon

🍻Brewed Icons - The history of innovation often leads us to stories that blend creativity, engineering, and resilience. One of the most unique examples of this is the Labatt Streamliner, a striking and futuristic delivery vehicle that doubled as a moving advertisement. Born out of necessity during a time of strict advertising restrictions, the Streamliner is not just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of ingenuity and timeless design. Its creation and eventual preservation tell a remarkable story of vision, artistry, and dedication.

When a sip of beer evokes a taste of history, the Labatt Streamliner—created out of necessity during a time of strict advertising restrictions—comes to mind, designed by Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, a Russian-born automotive designer. (Picture from: Forum.AACA.org)

After Ontario’s Prohibition ended in 1927, the Labatt Brewing Company faced a unique challenge. Despite the legalization of alcohol, advertising beer in traditional media was still prohibited. Instead of being stymied by these restrictions, Labatt found a groundbreaking solution. They envisioned a fleet of delivery trucks that would serve as mobile advertisements, combining practical beer transport with stunning visual appeal.

The Labatt Streamliner’s cab-over-engine tractor featured a beautifully curvaceous shape, with the rear sweeping down in a steep, unbroken line to fully skirted dual wheels, and one restored 1947 model still exists, owned by Labatt Brewing Co. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)

To realize this ambitious idea, Labatt enlisted Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, a Russian-born designer renowned for his expertise in automotive and industrial design. In 1935, de Sakhnoffsky created the first generation of the Labatt Streamliner. The bodywork of each Streamliner was fabricated by Smith Bros. of Toronto, with aluminum sheathing tacked to a wooden superstructure. Beneath this were a White Motor powerplant and Fruehauf drop frame chassis.

The Labatt Streamliner’s first model from 1937 featured rather conventional cabs, with the exception of the distinctive running boards and fender skirts, which added a unique touch to its design. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Streamliner was a technical marvel. Powered by a 6.3-liter six-cylinder engine, it could carry up to 8.5 tonnes of beer and reach speeds of 80 km/h, outperforming the average trucks of the era. It was also one of the first Canadian vehicles to feature advanced safety innovations, such as air brakes and a fifth-wheel anti-jackknifing system. These features highlighted Labatt’s commitment to combining style with functionality.

One of the Labatt Streamliner’s second-generation models won a prestigious design award at the 1939 New York World’s Fair, highlighting its innovative and forward-thinking design. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)

These vehicles were revolutionary in appearance and function, featuring smooth, aerodynamic lines that were unprecedented for trucks of the time. Vibrant red paint, accented with genuine gold-leaf lettering, made the Streamliner stand out on the road, turning heads wherever it went.

The trailer of a Labatt’s Streamliner enclosed a volume of approximately 825 cu. ft. or 8 1/2 tons of beer. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)

The Labatt Streamliner wasn’t just about beer delivery—it also reflected the company’s focus on community engagement. Labatt trained its drivers to act as Good Samaritans on the road, assisting stranded motorists with tasks like changing tires or handling minor accidents. This “Highway Courtesy Program” earned the company widespread goodwill, making the Streamliner not only a marketing tool but also a symbol of kindness and service.

The Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947, the last of de Sakhnoffsky’s designs, was the most flamboyant of all the Streamliners, featuring bold and striking aesthetics; one of these models has since been expertly restored and continues to make appearances on the show circuit. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)

Total 18 units of the Streamliner ever crafted, and evolved through several iterations, with the most iconic being the 1947 model. This version featured bold curves of Art-deco style, fully skirted wheels, and a signature dorsal fin, embodying the height of mid-century automotive design. However, by the mid-1950s, the era of the Streamliner came to an end. Advances in logistics and advertising rendered the vehicles less practical. Their limited cargo space, side-opening doors, and high production costs were no longer viable in a changing industry. By 1955, the Streamliners were retired, fading into obscurity.

The Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947 was restored by Joe Scott, a retired president of White Truck Sales in London, Ontario, with the help of his brother, Bob Scott, and financial support from Labatt Brewing Company. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)

That obscurity, however, did not last forever. In 1977, Joe Scott, a retired president of White Truck Sales in London, Ontario, decided to preserve this unique piece of Canadian history. With financial support from Labatt Brewing Company and the help of his brother, Bob Scott, Joe began the painstaking process of restoring a 1947 Streamliner. The restoration effort was monumental. While six trailers were located in Ontario, they were in poor condition, including one that had been repurposed as a construction site office.

The Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947, the last of de Sakhnoffsky’s designs, was the most flamboyant of all the Streamliners, featuring bold and striking aesthetics; one of these models has since been expertly restored and continues to make appearances on the show circuit. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)

The tractor portion of the vehicle posed an even greater challenge—it was missing entirely. Undeterred, the Scott brothers used vintage photographs and technical blueprints to recreate the tractor cab with precision. They sourced aluminum sheets from England and applied traditional metal-shaping techniques to ensure the restoration stayed true to the original design. After years of dedication and meticulous craftsmanship, the project was finally completed in 1983, bringing the 1947 Labatt Streamliner back to life.

The Labatt Streamliner’s legacy was further cemented in 1996 when it was prominently featured on a Canadian postage stamp, celebrating its historical significance and lasting impact on Canadian culture. (Picture from: PostageStampGuide)

The restored Streamliner became an instant icon once more. It made appearances at fairs, exhibitions, and public events, where it was celebrated as a piece of Canada’s industrial and cultural heritage. In 1996, its legacy was further cemented when it was featured on a Canadian postage stamp. To this day, the restored Streamliner serves as a roving ambassador for Labatt, delighting audiences with its retro charm and its horn, which amusingly plays the tune “How Dry I Am.”

The Labatt Streamliner’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and determination. What began as a clever solution to advertising restrictions evolved into a timeless symbol of innovation. Its restoration completion in 1983 ensured that this piece of Canadian history would continue to inspire future generations. From its early days as a stylish delivery truck to its current role as a celebrated artifact, the Labatt Streamliner remains a shining example of how imagination and dedication can leave an enduring legacy. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TIMESCOLONIST | SIMANAITISSAYS | FORUM.AACA.ORG | WEIRDWHELLS | HOTTEST MACINES ON FACEBOOK | ICONICRIDES ON FACEBOOK | POSTAGESTAMPGUIDE | WIKIPEDIA ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Aston Martin Valiant: 38 Units Inspired by Formula 1 Innovation

F1 Heritage - This is one of the unique cars crafted by Aston Martin, which I first came across through CarMan's post on X. Aston Martin has long been associated with cutting-edge automotive engineering, blending unmatched luxury with exhilarating performance. For those who appreciate both speed and style, the British automaker has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of luxury sports cars. With the release of the Aston Martin Valiant, the automaker set a new milestone in June 2024, debuting an extraordinarily limited-edition hypercar designed for extreme customization. Its origins trace back to a collaboration with the legendary Formula 1 driver, Fernando Alonso.

One of the 38 Aston Martin Valiant units, valued at around £2 million, is owned by Gordon Ramsay, a renowned British chef and car enthusiast. (Picture from: CarMan on X)

Volgatti: A Mind-Blowing Garage-Built Masterpiece

Garage Genius - In the world of automotive engineering, where creativity meets precision, there exists a unique niche for custom car projects that challenge the norm. Among these ambitious ventures, one particularly captivating creation has emerged: the Volgatti. A blend of historical charm and modern extravagance, the Volgatti is a testament to the imagination and craftsmanship of its creators, Axes: Garage—a team of Russian automotive enthusiasts. This car stands as a fusion of iconic designs from different eras, showcasing what happens when tradition and innovation collide in a most unexpected way.

The Volgatti, built by Axes: Garage, embodies a vision that fuses the elegance of a 1960s Soviet GAZ-21 Volga with the striking aesthetics of a Bugatti Chiron. (Picture from: AutoEvolution)

The story of the Volgatti begins with a vision to merge the elegance of a 1960s Soviet GAZ-21 Volga with the sheer performance and aesthetic allure of the Bugatti Chiron, one of the most luxurious hypercars ever made. However, the base for this marvel wasn’t a Bugatti, as one might expect, but a BMW 6-Series Coupe (E63). By using the BMW as the foundation, the Axes: Garage team transformed the shell of an ordinary car into something extraordinary. Over the course of three painstaking years, they turned this idea into reality, crafting a car that is both a tribute to the past and a reimagining of the future.

The Volgatti wasn’t built on a Bugatti, as one might expect, but rather on a repurposed BMW 6-Series Coupe (E63), transformed over three years. (Picture from: RealUNICARNS on X)

The project’s roots lie in the cultural and automotive landscapes of Belarus and Russia, where enthusiasm for rebuilding and reimagining vehicles has steadily grown. The Volga, produced between the 1950s and 1970s in the Soviet Union, was a symbol of practicality and mass production, with over 600,000 units made. It boasted a modest 80-horsepower engine and was never intended to be a sports car. Meanwhile, the Bugatti Chiron, with its W16 engine producing 1,500 horsepower and a top speed of 380 km/h, represents the pinnacle of modern automotive engineering. Combining these two vastly different vehicles might seem like an impossible dream, but for Axes: Garage, it was an irresistible challenge.

The Volgatti boasts a strikingly unique look, featuring the classic silhouette of the GAZ-21 Volga at the front, seamlessly merged with the rear of a Bugatti Chiron. (Picture from: RealUNICARNS on X)

The creation process involved intricate planning and design work. The team carefully replicated the rear end of the Bugatti Chiron, crafting custom fiberglass molds and components to achieve the car’s distinctive shape. The front end retained the classic silhouette of the GAZ-21 Volga, resulting in a harmonious blend of old and new. Every detail was meticulously designed, from the sleek paintwork and chrome finishes to the modified cooling and suspension systems. The transformation also required significant structural modifications to the BMW base, ensuring it could support the weight and design of the Volgatti’s unique frame.

The Volgatti’s transformation required extensive structural modifications to the BMW base to support its weight and uniquely crafted design. (Picture from: ГАЗ-21-is Gijebi Group on Facebook)

Building the Volgatti wasn’t just a test of skill but also a financial challenge. As quoted of The Supercar Blondie, the project’s total cost reached an estimated $106,995, including materials, labor, and workshop expenses. Among these costs were the $1,000 BMW donor car, a $400 Volga shell, and countless custom parts, such as wide wheels, air suspension, and fiberglass molds. Despite the high price tag, the team’s dedication and resourcefulness made the dream a reality.

The Volgatti defies categorization, with a Bugatti-inspired rear and a front that pays homage to Soviet automotive history. (Picture from: RealUNICARNS on X)

The end result is a car that defies categorization. From the rear, the Volgatti is unmistakably Bugatti-inspired, while the front pays homage to Soviet automotive history. Yet, the foundation of the BMW ensures that this hybrid creation offers reliable performance and a solid driving experience. The Volgatti’s bold design even evokes the spirit of American muscle cars from the 1950s, creating a strange but captivating blend of cultural influences.

The Volgatti’s bold design echoes the spirit of 1950s American muscle cars, resulting in a striking yet unconventional fusion of automotive cultures. (Picture from: RealUNICARNS on X)

Though the Volgatti is a finished masterpiece in many respects, its journey isn’t over. The creators are still refining elements such as the custom suspension, wheels, and other features, appealing for support from the automotive community to bring their vision to full fruition. As it stands, the Volgatti has already captured the imagination of car enthusiasts worldwide, drawing attention for its daring design and the story behind its creation.

The Volgatti is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of creativity, perseverance, and the ability to think outside the box. It challenges the boundaries of what’s possible in automotive design and inspires others to reimagine what cars can be. Whether admired for its audacity or its craftsmanship, the Volgatti leaves an indelible mark on the world of custom car projects. From a modest idea in a Russian garage to a stunning reality, the Volgatti proves that with passion and determination, even the wildest dreams can hit the road. If you are curious, here is the link to The Final video. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | @DASHINGAXE ON YOUTUBE | SUPERCARBLONDIE | AUTOEVOLUTION | GATSBYONLINE | AUTOPLUS.FR | BLIKK.HU | YANDEX.RU | REAL UNICARNS ON X | SUPERCARBLONDIE GROUP ON FACEBOOK | ГАЗ-21-IS GIJEBI GROUP ON FACEBOOK | 9AGENCY REEL ON FACEBOOK | DIY & CRAFT ON FACEBOOK ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

BMW GINA: The Shape-Shifting Vision of Future Cars

Amazing Concept - It’s amazing how the automotive industry continues to evolve, embracing innovation that defies expectations. As technology advances, the concept of what a car can be has shifted dramatically. Yet, beyond horsepower and sleek aesthetics, some designs challenge the very fabric of conventional thinking—literally. The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model is one such groundbreaking creation. A car that isn’t just a vehicle but a vision of the future, GINA represents a bold leap into unexplored territory, reshaping our understanding of movement, adaptability, and design.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model represents a bold leap into unexplored territory, reshaping our understanding of movement, adaptability, and design. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

At first glance, the BMW GINA seems almost surreal. Unlike any car you’ve ever seen, it doesn’t rely on traditional materials like steel or aluminum for its body. Instead, it’s made of a high-tech, silver-textile fabric stretched over a moveable metal frame. The chassis and engine were shared with the now-defunct BMW Z8 Roadster, but that was as far as it shared bits with cars of the time

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model is  made of a high-tech, silver-textile fabric stretched over a moveable metal frame. (Picture from: Carvaganza)

This fabric isn’t just for show—it’s an expansion-resistant, flexible material that can stretch and contract without tearing. When you interact with GINA, the car responds in ways that feel almost alive. For example, opening its doors causes the fabric to lift and ripple like skin, creating an organic movement that feels more human than mechanical.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model Concept responds almost like a living being, with its fabric doors lifting and rippling organically like skin. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

One of the most striking features of the GINA is how it invites a sense of curiosity. Peek under the hood—or rather, through a fabric seam that opens like a vintage doctor’s bag—and you’ll find a marvel of engineering. There’s no traditional hood to lift. Instead, the fabric splits, revealing the engine with a dramatic flair reminiscent of a magician unveiling their trick. The headlights, too, are hidden beneath the fabric, only emerging when activated, much like a pair of watchful eyes coming to life. It’s an experience that transforms mundane functions into moments of delight.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model’s substructure can shift, enhancing airflow across the body and even deploying a spoiler when needed. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The car’s ability to adapt doesn’t stop at aesthetics. BMW has designed the GINA to optimize performance dynamically. Need better aerodynamics? The car’s substructure can shift, enhancing airflow across the body and even deploying a spoiler when needed. This interplay of form and function sets GINA apart as a vehicle that isn’t just designed to be driven but to evolve in real time based on the demands of the road. The flexibility of its fabric and the ingenuity of its hydraulic and electro-mechanical frame offer a glimpse into a future where cars can transform themselves to suit their environment.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model Concept features an interior where fabric seamlessly extends from the exterior, covering the seats elegantly. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

While the GINA may sound like a concept rooted in fantasy, it’s very real. Though you won’t find it in showrooms, it resides as a proud exhibit at the BMW Museum in Munich. This concept car has influenced the design language of many BMW models that followed, demonstrating that even the boldest ideas can have a lasting impact. The GINA’s philosophy—“Geometry and Functions in ‘N’ Adaptations”—embodies BMW’s belief in creating vehicles that adapt to human needs rather than forcing drivers to conform to the limitations of their machines.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model Concept showcases fabric flexibility and a hydraulic-electro-mechanical frame, hinting at shape-shifting cars of the future. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Behind this revolutionary project is Chris Bangle, a designer known for his unorthodox approach to automotive design. With the GINA, Bangle pushed the boundaries of what a car could be, not just in appearance but in how it interacts with its owner. His vision challenges traditional assumptions: Does a car really need a rigid steel body? Must every feature remain visible at all times? What if a car could change shape, responding to its owner’s whims or driving conditions? These questions drive the innovation that makes the GINA so remarkable.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model Concept, though seemingly fantastical, is a real innovation proudly displayed at the BMW Museum in Munich. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

Even the interior of the GINA is a departure from the norm. The fabric extends inside, covering the seats and creating a seamless flow from the exterior. When you sit in the driver’s seat, the headrest rises, and the steering wheel and instruments move into position as if the car is waking up, ready to serve. This dynamic adaptability isn’t just functional—it forges a deeper emotional connection between the car and its driver, making it feel less like a machine and more like a companion.

The BMW GINA Light Visionary Model, led by designer Chris Bangle, redefines automotive design by revolutionizing both form and interaction. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)

The GINA concept also has practical implications for the automotive industry. Its flexible design reduces the need for complex tooling and model-specific hardware, potentially simplifying manufacturing processes. This aligns with BMW’s forward-thinking approach, where sustainability and efficiency go hand in hand with innovation. Yet, beyond the pragmatics, GINA embodies the spirit of creativity and imagination that defined the golden age of concept cars—an era when designers dared to dream of the impossible.

Ultimately, the BMW GINA Light Visionary Model isn’t just a car; it’s a bold statement about the future of mobility. It challenges us to rethink what a vehicle can be, blending art, science, and emotion in a way that’s as inspiring as it is thought-provoking. By pushing the boundaries of design and engineering, BMW has created a concept that reminds us why we fell in love with cars in the first place: their ability to transport not just our bodies but our imaginations. And while GINA may remain a concept, its impact on the world of automotive design is very real, leaving us to wonder what other extraordinary ideas the future might hold. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | CARANDDRIVER | HOTCARS ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Handcrafted Power: Canada’s Unique Wooden Supercar

ART WHEELER - Wood has long been valued in craftsmanship, from fine furniture to intricate instruments, and has even found its way into vehicle designs in unique forms. While modern automotive engineering has shifted toward advanced materials like alloys and composites, wood remains a timeless choice. However, it is rarely used in the structural framework or body of today's cars, typically limited to interior accents or trims. Examples like Joe Harmon's Splinter show how wood can be creatively applied to vehicles, and now, a Canadian artisan has taken this concept even further. This exceptional wooden supercar challenges automotive conventions by incorporating wood in nearly every aspect of its construction.

This remarkable wooden automotive masterpiece showcases unparalleled dedication, skill, and innovation, all while being fully capable of performing on the road like a regular supercar. (Picture from: Pinterest)

In Quebec, a master craftsman spent around two years building this distinctive supercar almost entirely from small, hand-placed wooden blocks. The wooden car, spotted by Quebec native Gabriel Chamberland, stands out with its striking combination of classic woodworking and advanced automotive design. This beautiful, hand-built vehicle draws inspiration from popular sports cars and is powered by a potent 350-horsepower supercharged engine. Despite its power and performance, it embraces the charm of wood, transforming traditional carpentry into automotive artistry.

This remarkable wooden automotive masterpiece, meticulously crafted by an artisan in Quebec, Canada, was brought to life over a span of approximately two years, showcasing unparalleled dedication and skill. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

Constructed over a steel tubular frame, this wooden marvel uses a method reminiscent of a puzzle, where each small block of wood is meticulously placed, creating a mosaic-like effect that covers much of the car’s exterior and interior. The intricate wooden exterior is a testament to the builder's dedication, capturing the attention of anyone fortunate enough to witness it on the road. Not only does this vehicle turn heads, but it also challenges preconceived notions about the materials suitable for high-performance vehicles. In an age dominated by metals and synthetic materials, this car brings warmth and nostalgia through the organic texture and appearance of its wooden “bricks.”

This wooden car features an interior that is just as captivating as its exterior, with distinctive wooden blocks lining much of the cabin, seamlessly enhancing the sense of cohesion and exceptional craftsmanship. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

The interior of the car is as captivating as the exterior, also featuring the distinctive wooden blocks that line much of the cabin, enhancing the sense of cohesion and craftsmanship. Instead of traditional dials or an instrument cluster, a simple Android tablet serves as the gauge, adding a touch of modernity amidst the rustic aesthetic. This blend of old and new creates an interior environment that is equal parts functional and artful, merging technology with artisanal design.

This wooden car achieves a perfect balance of old and new, creating an interior that is both functional and artful, seamlessly merging modern technology with artisanal design. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

Much about this handcrafted car remains a mystery, including details about the underlying chassis and any additional performance specifications. What is certain, however, is that this vehicle represents an impressive feat of engineering and artistry. Few vehicles combine such power and beauty with sustainable, natural materials. Each block of wood, carefully selected and placed, shows the builder’s dedication to both aesthetics and functionality.

This wooden car replaces traditional dials and instrument clusters with a simple Android tablet as the gauge, seamlessly blending modern technology with its rustic aesthetic. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

This wooden supercar, with its unique charm and robust performance, defies conventional wisdom in automotive design. It demonstrates that wood, a material once deemed unsuitable for modern car bodies, can indeed create a durable, attractive, and high-performing vehicle. This exceptional creation in Canada serves as a reminder of the possibilities that lie within creative automotive craftsmanship. 

This wooden supercar conceals its impressive performance, with little known about the powerful engine behind its speed, though its appearance suggests it brought a potent supercharged engine. (Picture from: StanceIsEverything)

The car’s powerful engine and carefully crafted wooden design make it not only an automobile but a moving piece of art. Its maker proves that even in a world driven by technological advancement, traditional materials like wood still hold untapped potential to astonish and inspire. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | STANCEISEVERYTHING | PINTEREST | GABRIEL CHAMBERLAND IN FACEBOOK ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone

Charade Monza: Once Dubbed Indonesia's 1st Sports Car

Rare ONES - Dreaming of designing and building a unique car is a common fantasy for car enthusiasts around the world. The thought of not just owning, but creating a vehicle that stands apart from anything else on the road is an alluring idea. While most of us may leave this dream on the drawing board, there are rare instances where someone dares to turn their vision into reality.

The Charade Monza presented by Charade Automobile SA, unveiled in 1989 at a private event in Clermont-Ferrand, France. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

This is the inspiring story of Pierre Foissotte, a French engineer with a background in the automotive industry, whose ambition led him to create a car company and introduce a unique vehicle that left a lasting mark on both European and Asia especially Indonesian car markets. Pierre Foissotte started his career as an engineer at Esso Fuels, where he was involved in fuel delivery systems. His passion for cars and performance led him to work with Formula Renault, a racing series known for honing the skills of many future Formula 1 drivers.

The Charade Monza captivated racing enthusiasts and distributors at a major Paris automotive event, where, even as a bare-bones model, it sparked international interest in the brand. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In the world of Formula Renault, he found the perfect environment to push the limits of car design and engineering. This experience ignited Foissotte’s dream to create his own car, which eventually led him to gather a group of like-minded individuals who shared his vision for building a car that was both innovative and stylish. By 1986, he had assembled a small team of technicians and designers, and together, they set out to build a grand tourer (GT) sports car with cutting-edge design and performance.

The Charade Monza's chassis, built from a box-section tubular steel frame, provided strength and durability, while its lightweight fiberglass body ensured agility and responsiveness. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

The project, while ambitious, began with modest goals: Foissotte and his team initially aimed to create a limited number of vehicles that would stand out in the luxury sports car segment. As they progressed, the team enlisted the help of a Japanese designer who introduced a sleek, futuristic look for the car’s exterior. With the designer’s industry connections in Asia, the project quickly expanded to involve international partners. They also secured partnerships in Japan to manufacture the glass components. The combination of expertise from Europe and Asia gave the project an international flair, and the car began to take shape with a unique blend of Western design and Asian craftsmanship.

The Charade Monza was ultimately equipped with the Peugeot 205 GTI’s engine and drivetrain, after evaluating options from Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, giving it a reliable and sporty mid-rear configuration beneath its clamshell hood. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In 1989, Foissotte and his team unveiled a mock-up of their car, named the Charade Monza, at the Mondial de l'automobile et du transport in 1989. This debut served as a way to gauge interest from potential partners and investors. The reaction was overwhelmingly positive, and the buzz generated from this showing motivated Foissotte to formalize the venture by establishing Charade Automobile SA. in September 1989. With a newfound sense of purpose and backing, Charade Automobile acquired a location in Clermont-Ferrand to begin preparing for a limited production run of the Charade Monza.

Besides the coupe, the Charade Monza was also offered in a Targa version with scissor-style doors. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

As the Monza continued to develop, Charade Automobile showcased the car at a major automotive event in Paris, where it attracted significant attention from racing enthusiasts and potential distributors. Despite only being a rolling model—a basic frame without functional suspension or a finished interior—the Monza created enough excitement to put Charade Automobile on the radar of the international car community. However, considerable work remained to bring the vehicle to market, including securing an engine supplier and completing the car’s mechanical and structural components.

The Charade Monza’s limited orders led Charade Automobile to downsize and offer a VW Fox-based kit version, but financial issues ended production in 1993 with only about two dozen units made. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

After evaluating various engine options from Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, the designer team ultimately decided to equip the Charade Monza with the engine and drivetrain of the Peugeot 205 GTI, a choice that allowed for a reliable and sporty mid-rear engine configuration. The chassis, a box-section tubular steel frame, provided strength and durability, while the lightweight fiberglass body ensured the car remained agile and responsive, and available in both Coupe and Targa versions.

The Charade Monza’s production ended in 1993, but it resurfaced at the 1990 Jakarta Fair as the Pawma XL300, powered by a modified 1.6-liter Mitsubishi L300 engine and a five-speed transmission. (Picture from: KlasikRetro in Instagram)

However, the Monza’s success in generating interest did not translate into high sales. The limited orders led Charade Automobile to shift its strategy, including moving to a smaller production site and introducing a kit version of the Monza using VW Fox components to broaden its appeal. Despite these efforts, financial difficulties persisted, and the company ultimately ceased operations in 1993, with an estimated two dozen Monza models completed in France. Although the project in France came to an end, the Charade Monza’s story did not.

The Mitsubishi Pawma XL300 first appeared in a brochure in 1990 as Indonesia's first sports car. (Picture from: RareComponentCars)

In Indonesia, this unique car reemerged as the Pawma XL300, produced in Jakarta by PT. Kreasindo Trampil Mandiri and based on the Mitsubishi L300, featuring a modified 1.6-liter engine and a five-speed transmission. Debuting at the 1990 Jakarta Fair, the Pawma XL300 captured the interest of Indonesian car enthusiasts as the first locally produced sports car. Although production was limited—rumored to be only 10 units—it gained a loyal following and became a distinctive part of Indonesia’s automotive history. 

The Charade Monza and its Indonesian counterpart, the Pawma XL300, serve as remarkable examples of what can be achieved when passion and creativity intersect. Foissotte’s project may not have achieved widespread commercial success, but it left an indelible mark on automotive history. His journey reminds us that even the most challenging dreams are worth pursuing and that passion can bring people together across continents to create something truly special. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | RARE COMPONENT CARS ]

Note: This blog  can be accessed via your smart phone