Premium

Zagato 1972-1978 - Body manufacturer as an eco-pioneer

Name: Zagato Elèttrica 1973
Brand: Zagato

This article was auto-translated. We apologize if some words are confusing or simply amusing. Would you like to help us improve?

Created in 2013

Text:

Roger Gloor

Photos:

Archiv

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Zagato Milanina Zagato at the Geneva Motor Show 1972 - Ultra-short and flat electric car from Zagato

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Zagato Zele 1000 (1973) - further development of the Milanina shown a year ago - at the 1973 Geneva Motor Show

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Lancia Hyena Zagato (1995) - offered as lot 361 at the RM Auctions sale in Monaco on May 12, 2012

You have only

1 out of 4

images seen in high resolution

Summary

There were around 10,000 car brands and designers - most of them have disappeared. The Zagato brand, which produced the tiny Zele at the time, can also be counted among these vanished brands. The Italian company is best known for its bodywork creations.

Estimated reading time: 3min

Preview (beginning of the article)

Downhill, the"flying phone booth" called Zele picked up speed considerably. Would she even be able to turn the corner at the bottom? However, the way in which the 161 cm high dwarf could be safely steered around the bend confirmed the low centre of gravity, which was thanks to the eight 12-volt batteries sandwiched between the 10-inch wheels. Straight ahead, the Zele (= Zagato Elèttrica) only reached 40 km/h. As it was only 135 cm wide, it obstructed traffic relatively little. Because it was only 195 cm long, it could be parked crosswise. The Zele was powered by a 1000-watt electric motor (Bosch/Marelli) installed in front of the rear axle. A selector switch for 24, 36 or 48 volts and an accelerator pedal with two stages were used for rational use of power; a range of 70 to 100 km was stated. The Zele cost about 10% more than a Mini. A box frame made of square tubes with longitudinal beams and cross members supported the body consisting of two GRP shells divided vertically lengthwise.

Welcome to Zwischengas!