The world's first streamliner vehicle design by Paul Jaray

The Pioneer - In the roaring 1920s, the automotive industry witnessed an extraordinary leap in technological advancements. Engineers delved into extensive studies, paving the way for concept vehicles that would shape the future of transportation.

The 'Ugly Duckling' or (replica) 1923 Auto Union streamline concept while exhibited at the Bodelwyddan Castle in North Wales and was hugely influenced by Paul Jaray's aerodynamic principles. (Picture from: Robert Knight on Flickr)

Among the pioneers of this automotive revolution was Paul Jaray, a Hungarian-born engineer whose work left an indelible mark on the industry for decades to come. Jaray's focus on automotive aerodynamics and streamlining defined the futuristic aesthetic of numerous cars in the 1920s and 1930s.

1922 Ley T6, the world's first streamliner vehicle design by Paul Jaray during a test drive. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Autoevolution recounts that Jaray initially made waves by completely redesigning the iconic Zeppelins, transforming their appearance from a tube-like structure to the streamlined shapes we recognize today. Born in Vienna in 1889, Jaray, after studying mechanical engineering, found himself in the hub of Zeppelins and Maybachs, Friedrichshafen.

The blueprint of Paul Jaray's first working prototype was announced on September 8, 1921, and followed with a patent application that made at the Berlin office. (Picture from: EcoModder)

Since 1912, Jaray actively immersed himself in aerodynamics, not only limited to dirigibles but extending his expertise to various forms. His groundbreaking work, initially applied to airships, soon found its way into automotive design. On September 8, 1921, Jaray unveiled his first working prototype, subsequently filing a patent application in Berlin for his groundbreaking inventions.

1923 Ley Stromlinien Wagen racing car using Jaray's aerodynamic principles. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

In essence, Jaray's inventions can be described as a design where "the lower part of the body has the form of a half streamline body, covering the chassis, wheels, engine compartment, and passenger compartment." This groundbreaking teardrop-shaped design set a new standard in the automotive world.

The American' Chrysler test car using Jaray's aerodynamic principles. (Picture from: Autoevolution)

Collaborating with Alfred Ley from Rud. Ley Maschinenfabrik A.G. in 1922, Jaray's principles culminated in the creation of the Ley T6, the world's first aerodynamic car. Adhering to Jaray's streamline principles, the Ley T6 boasted speeds exceeding 100 kph (62 mph) with just a 1.5-liter, 20 hp engine. In contrast, conventional bodywork designs of that era would have limited such a car to a maximum speed of 70-75 kph (40-45 mph).

Following successful car tests, numerous manufacturers sought to adopt and adapt Jaray's streamline principles. Undeterred, Jaray founded his design consulting company, Stromlinen Karosserie Ges., in Zurich, licensing his streamlined designs to manufacturers. Tatra embraced his concepts until 1975, and Maybach and BMW also incorporated Jaray's ideas into their designs.

However, it was Audi (Auto Union) that became synonymous with Jaray's legacy. His influence extended to Auto Union's 'Silver Arrows' race cars, with the 1923 Auto Union streamliner concept, unfortunately, no longer in existence. Despite this, a faithful replica was built and is featured in Audi A5 adverts, showcasing the enduring impact of Paul Jaray's visionary contributions to automotive design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | AUTOEVOLUTION | ECOMODDER | AUTOCAR ]
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