Ford Via

Vehicle Overview

The Ford Via is a one-off concept car that was designed by a talented team of stylists, including Ian and Moray Callum, and built by Ghia . It made its debut at the 1989 Geneva Motor Show before making its North American introduction at the 1990 Chicago Auto Show. A striking example of forward-thinking design, the Ghia Via combined advanced aesthetics with innovative materials, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive styling. The concept car features a fiberglass body that emphasizes sleek, aerodynamic lines and futuristic elements. One of its most distinctive features is its aerodynamic front clip, which integrates fiber-optic headlights—an eye-catching design choice that set the Via apart from many other vehicles on display at the time. The inclusion of photosensitive roof panels in the Ford Via’s design was another innovative touch. The targa-style roof has a removable center section, with glass that automatically darkens when exposed to sunlight, providing enhanced comfort and convenience for occupants. Though the Ford Via was built with a full interior, it did not include a drivetrain, as it was a design study rather than a fully functioning vehicle. The interior was equipped with modern features, including fiber-optic lighting, which added to the futuristic and high-tech feel of the car. The concept car, with its combination of advanced technology and unique materials, was a showcase of Ghia’s ability to push the boundaries of automotive design. The design cues of the Ghia Via went on to inspire future Ford models, such as the two-door Ford Probe and the four-door Ford Taurus. The Via’s distinctive styling—particularly its smooth lines, aerodynamic features, and innovative use of materials—helped influence the direction of Ford’s design language in the years that followed. As a bold design exercise, the Ghia Via remains a notable example of 1990s automotive concept design, blending style, innovation, and vision into a single captivating package.