Unique Creation - Imagine a racing car unlike any other, one that defies traditional design with its striking shape and innovative features. This unique car, often likened to a bug with large fins at the back, is not just a work of art but a product of intense engineering and a passion for racing.
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| The Satecmo Eolia, designed by André George Claude, took several years to complete and was finally registered in 1958, ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
The man behind this creation was André George Claude, the son of the renowned French chemist and physicist George Claude. While his father made significant contributions to science, André’s interests took him down a different path—one that led to the design and construction of an extraordinary French racing car.
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| The Satecmo Eolia's design, featuring a magnesium body and streamlined Berlinetta style, was as remarkable as its performance, having undergone extensive wind tunnel testing.. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
André's journey into the world of racing cars began with his own dissatisfaction with the options available to him. As an accomplished racing driver, having competed in prestigious events like the Tour de France, the Alpine Rally, and the Mont Ventoux Hillclimb, André felt that no car truly met his needs. This frustration drove him to design a car that combined speed, innovation, and French craftsmanship. His company, Satecmo, was tasked with building the car, which would feature a Renault engine—a company they were already collaborating with for tuning the 4CV model.
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| The Satecmo Eolia, named after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a true marvel of engineering, blending innovation and craftsmanship in every detail. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
The creation, named Satecmo Eolia after Eolias, the God of the Winds in classical mythology, was a marvel of engineering. The car's design took shape over several years, and by 1958, it was finally registered and ready for its intended purpose: racing in the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Unfortunately, this dream never materialized, but the car itself stood as a testament to André’s vision. It was fast, reaching a top speed of 104 mph, and offered impressive acceleration, thanks to the Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear. André also designed a five-speed "reverse gate" gearbox, adding to the car’s advanced features for its time.
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| The Satecmo Eolia showcased André George Claude’s exceptional attention to detail, with every element—ranging from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel—carefully designed to enhance handling and balance. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
The Eolia’s design was as remarkable as its performance. With a body crafted from magnesium and a streamlined Berlinetta style, the car had undergone extensive wind tunnel testing. Claude’s attention to detail ensured that every element, from the placement of the 90-liter fuel tank to the right-hand steering wheel, contributed to optimal handling and balance. His dedication to aerodynamics and lightweight materials allowed the Eolia to maintain a competitive edge, even in an era when many cars were built with more conventional methods.
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| The Satecmo Eolia was initially powered by a Renault 4CV engine mounted in the rear, which was replaced in 1960 with an engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
In 1960, the car received a significant upgrade when it was fitted with the engine from a Renault Dauphine Gordini. Tuning experts at Renault further enhanced the engine, pushing its output to around 69 horsepower. This made the Eolia not just a unique creation, but a serious contender in the racing world. Yet, despite the car’s potential, André’s dreams of entering it into the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans remained unrealized, and the car was eventually sold in 1967.
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| The Satecmo Eolia stands out with its striking design, featuring two large double fins mounted at the rear, enhancing both its aerodynamics and unique appearance. (Picture from: IconicAuctioneers) |
The Eolia’s journey didn’t end there. It was sold to a young engineer and spent many years in South West France before being acquired by its current owner in 2006. Remarkably, the car still only has 15,000 kilometers on the odometer, and its original features, including the Claude-designed 5-speed gearbox and electrical equipment, remain in excellent condition. The car is road-legal with French registration and is surprisingly fast, offering an exhilarating driving experience thanks to its lightweight body and tuned engine. | GJf7j0MSAUY |
Today, the Eolia is a rare and sought-after piece of automotive history, offering enthusiasts the chance to own a car that combines advanced design with racing heritage. With its unique features and competitive potential, this remarkable vehicle could be a valuable asset in various UK and European racing series. For those looking for a truly special car that showcases innovation and craftsmanship, the Eolia is an opportunity not to be missed. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ICONICAUCTIONEERS | CLASSICDRIVER | CLASSIC AND RECREATION SPORTSCARS ON FACEBOOK |]Note: This blog can be accessed via your smart phone
