Nine Remarkable Inductees - FIVA Heritage Hall of Fame 2023
FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) joyously unveils the ascension of nine remarkable individuals into its hallowed Heritage Hall of Fame. This cherished assembly of luminaries pays homage to the titanic figures whose contributions have etched an indelible tapestry in the annals of automotive history. Prepare to embark on a journey through time, where the indomitable spirits of car connoisseurs, virtuoso engineers, fearless racers, and devoted collectors have indelibly shaped the soul of the motoring realm.
In the heartland of the United States, the inimitable Jay Leno stands as a global maestro, enchanting hearts across continents with a treasure trove of historic vehicles. His acclaimed motoring extravaganza, "Jay Leno's Garage," not only commands international acclaim but transforms him into an illustrious envoy, a pied piper leading legions to the realm of classic cars and motorcycles.
Switzerland's own Bob Lutz, a true luminary, has held the reins of influence at the helm of General Motors, BMW, Ford, and Chrysler. With his visionary touch, he sculpted automotive legends that now rest eternally in the pantheon of the last century's most iconic cars - the Ford Sierra, the tempestuous Dodge Viper, and the resplendent Cadillac CTS.
From the enchanting landscapes of France emerges Michèle Mouton, a rally savant who conquered the heart-pounding racetracks of the 1970s and 80s. Her indomitable spirit steered her to a remarkable second place in the World Rally Championship in 1982, an achievement reverberating through motorsport history's corridors. Her 12-year stewardship as the Women in Motorsport Commission chair at the FIA casts an ever-reaching legacy.
Italy, a cradle of artistry, gave birth to Ercole Spada, a design luminary. In the captivating 1960s, he etched his genius into the annals of Zagato, crafting timeless sports cars for illustrious marques such as Aston Martin and Alfa Romeo. Decades later, he redefined the essence of BMW's aesthetic, a maestro of transformation whose legacy extends to collaborations with legends like Ferrari.
Italy again graces our story with the luminary Giampaolo Dallara, an engineer par excellence and the visionary founder of the world's foremost racing car manufacturer. His name resounds through motorsport's hallowed halls, a virtuoso who lent his brilliance to significant automakers and championed the cause of sporting success across the diverse pantheon of motorsport. His legacy blossoms in educational initiatives, igniting the passion for performance and safety in students' hearts.
From the vibrant tapestry of Mexico's automotive heritage emerges Carlos L. Dorantes del Rosal, a titan of philanthropy and business acumen. In his name, two motor sanctuaries have arisen—the Brownsville Car Collection in Texas, a treasure trove of 56 classic gems, and the Museo del Automóvil y el Transporte de Tampico in Mexico, a grand repository of 114 historic marvels. These institutions stand as beacons, illuminating the path of automotive enlightenment for future generations.
Nuccio Bertone, an Italian virtuoso, carves his name into the annals of coachbuilding as one of its most influential luminaries. Synonymous with boundless experimentation, artistic freedom, and sheer beauty, Bertone's canvas bore the imprints of Lamborghini, Lancia, Alfa Romeo, and Fiat. His design house was a crucible of innovation, nurturing young visionaries destined for greatness.
India's automotive heritage finds its guardian in Pranlal Bhogilal, an illustrious figure who sowed the seeds of the Vintage and Classic Car Club. His legacy thrives in the Auto World Vintage Car Museum, a majestic shrine his family lovingly preserves.
Sweden's Per Gillbrand, an inventor and pioneering engineer, raises his indelible mark through his transformative work with Volvo and Saab. Known reverently as "The Man Who Tamed the Turbo," his innovations at the Saab-Scania engine laboratory ushered in a new era, pioneering petite turbochargers in petrol engines.
Behold the FIVA Heritage Hall of Fame, an exquisite pantheon that reverberates with the voices of these nine extraordinary souls. Their relentless ardour and unwavering commitment have forged the crucible of an industry's storied history. Their offerings, a tapestry of innovation and preservation, shall forever serve as a luminous beacon, inspiring future generations.
