Panoz Developing DeltaWing Road Cars

Photo: John Dagys

The unique DeltaWing concept could soon be headed to the streets, as Don Panoz has revealed plans to develop two street-legal versions of the lightweight, fuel efficient vehicle that currently competes in the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship.

In an interview with FOX News, Panoz and DeltaWing President and Chief Operating Officer Al Speyer confirmed plans for a two-seater GT car, as well as a four-seater family car version of the car, based off the same principles of Prototype class car.

“All of [the race technology] can be transferred to a street car that consumers can drive every day on the street and have a more efficient use of energy and still be a really hot car to drive,” Speyer told FOX News.

“[The design] halfway in between. I’d say it’s not quite as radical as the race car is right now. We’re working with other partners and looking for other partners. That final design will depend somewhat on where they see it going.”

Panoz said the two-seater GT car has been designed to be 35 percent lighter, 35 percent more fuel efficient and require 35 percent less horsepower than cars in its performance category.

The family vehicle, meanwhile, has performance goals of 0-60 mph in six seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph and fuel consumption of 71 mpg. 

Additionally, both platforms could be developed to accommodate a range of internal combustion and and alternative fuel powertrains.

Panoz said the cars would likely not be built under the Panoz name but they are instead looking for an OEM to partner with.

“We’re pretty well through the design process,” Panoz added. “All of the drawings, the space, the packaging, to accommodate a car with this unusual shape, air conditioning, windscreen wipers, that’s all been done.

“We’re looking for the right partner. They have to finish the outer design. I’d have to say it’s 95 percent finished.”

John Dagys

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com and SPEED Channel and has contributed to numerous other motorsports publications worldwide. Contact John