Kimera has proudly unveiled the production model of its highly anticipated Evo38 at Monterey Car Week in California, marking a significant milestone for the Italian firm. This exceptional vehicle is conceived as a hypothetical evolution of the legendary Lancia 037, envisioning its trajectory had Lancia pursued a four-wheel-drive design to compete with the Audi Quattro, rather than transitioning to the Delta S4. The Evo38 is not merely an updated version of its rear-wheel-drive predecessor, the Evo37; it represents a comprehensive re-engineering, integrating an additional set of drive shafts and numerous technological advancements.
Under the hood, the Evo38 retains the twin-charged setup of its forebear, featuring both a turbocharger and a supercharger. However, the engine capacity has been increased to 2.2 liters, and a 48V mild-hybrid system has been incorporated, leading to a broader power delivery range. This combination boosts the output from approximately 500bhp to a robust 592bhp. Complementing this power is an advanced all-wheel-drive system with a variable torque splitter, alongside a rally-inspired hydraulic handbrake, promising exceptional control and thrilling driving dynamics. The vehicle also offers full user adjustability for engine mapping, traction control, ABS, and suspension settings, with a pushrod suspension system and an integrated turbo cooling system within the rear strut brace, showcasing meticulous engineering and performance-focused design. Furthermore, the exhaust system features a unique party trick: while the standard exhaust exits traditionally, gases can be diverted through a valved central system that exits directly through the rear grille, adding an audacious visual and auditory flourish. Inside the cabin, transparent elements reveal the mechanical artistry, with an exposed gear linkage beneath the billet-milled aluminum knob and a central glass tunnel allowing a mesmerizing view of the spinning propshaft, celebrating the intricate mechanics that power this marvel.
Despite gaining all-wheel drive and a compact electric motor, the Evo38 remarkably maintains a lighter curb weight than the Evo37, which shared its core Lancia Montecarlo chassis with the original 037. This achievement underscores Kimera's dedication to optimizing both performance and efficiency. Given the extensive enhancements and meticulous attention to detail, it comes as no surprise that almost all 38 planned units of the Evo38 have already been reserved. This limited availability highlights the immense desirability of this vehicle, which masterfully blends historical reverence with cutting-edge automotive innovation.
The Kimera Evo38 embodies the spirit of innovation and perseverance, demonstrating that blending cherished automotive heritage with forward-thinking technology can create something truly extraordinary. It reminds us that progress often involves looking back to forgotten paths, enriching the present with the unfulfilled potential of the past. The meticulous craftsmanship and groundbreaking engineering behind the Evo38 serve as an inspiring testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of perfection in the automotive world.