The prestigious Chantilly Arts & Élégance Richard Mille 2024, held in the historic grounds of the Château de Chantilly in France, is not just another car show. It celebrates elegance, automotive innovation, art, and design. Each year, it draws thousands of car enthusiasts, collectors, and art lovers from around the Globe. Starting in 2014, this has quickly become one of the most glamorous events in Europe, known for blending haute couture with some of the world’s most iconic automobiles.
Guests can enjoy stunning art exhibitions, elegant fashion shows, and the finest in automotive craftsmanship, all in a setting reminiscent of a fairytale.
Lamborghini’s Impact at Chantilly Arts & Élégance 2024 and the presence of Countach LP400 Chassis 0001
At the Chantilly Arts & Élégance Richard Mille 2024, Lamborghini made an unforgettable mark. Their showcase was centered on the iconic Countach LP400, specifically Chassis 0001—the very first Countach ever built in 1974.
This particular car brought straight from Lamborghini’s museum in Sant’Agata Bolognese, was more than a static display. It represented Lamborghini’s deep-rooted impact on the supercar landscape. From its cutting-edge design to its groundbreaking engineering, the Countach LP400, especially the Chassis 0001, is a symbol of Lamborghini’s radical innovation during a time when supercars were still evolving.
The Countach LP400 was revolutionary when it debuted. Its bold, wedge-shaped design—coupled with its scissor doors—was a dramatic departure from the curvier, softer lines of cars in that era.
At Chantilly, seeing Chassis 0001 up close wasn’t just about admiring a car—it was a vivid reminder of when Lamborghini redefined both performance and style. The car’s sleek aluminum body, combined with its lightweight spaceframe chassis, set new standards for speed and handling. Its powerful V12 engine was engineered for performance, a key feature that solidified Lamborghini’s supercar dominance.
For attendees at Chantilly, this Countach was the main attraction. Chassis 0001 is a piece of history—not only as the first Countach ever built, but as a testament to Lamborghini’s forward-thinking ethos. It’s a direct link to Lamborghini’s legacy of pushing the boundaries in design and engineering. The impact of this model is still felt today when people gather around the car to get a glimpse.
The Countach 25th and special 50th Anniversary Editions Were Also Showcased At the event
In addition to Chassis 0001, Lamborghini also presented the Countach 25th Anniversary Edition. Produced between 1988 and 1990, this special edition celebrated 25 years of the Countach with enhanced styling, modern aerodynamic elements, and improved performance features.
Alessandro Farmeschi, Lamborghini’s After Sales Director, captured the essence of the event, saying, “It was a special privilege for me to take part in this memorable event and meet our clients and international collectors in such a special location,
One of the most significant upgrades included the introduction of carbon fiber components in its body panels, which improved weight distribution and performance. Only 658 of these models were ever built, making them coveted collector’s items. The larger rear fender air intakes and unique wheels on the 25th Anniversary Countach further distinguished it from its predecessors, making it a centerpiece of Lamborghini’s evolving design philosophy.
But Chantilly wasn’t just about showing off past achievements. Lamborghini’s presence extended into the Concours d’État, a more traditional concours that featured a special 50th-anniversary celebration of the Countach. Four extraordinary Countach models were highlighted, including the LP400, LP400 S, and 5000 Quattrovalvole. These rare vehicles took enthusiasts on a journey through Lamborghini’s storied history, showcasing how the Countach has evolved over time while maintaining its iconic design language. The celebration of the Countach at Chantilly underscored Lamborghini’s influence on automotive design over the past five decades, solidifying its position as a pioneer in the supercar world.
Alessandro Farmeschi, Lamborghini’s After Sales Director, captured the essence of the event, saying, “It was a special privilege for me to take part in this memorable event and meet our clients and international collectors in such a special location, Having the opportunity to showcase the very first Countach and a preserved and certified Countach 25th Anniversary was an exceptional way to demonstrate the importance of the services we provide, all within such a breathtaking location.”
Embracing Both Heritage and Innovation
Lamborghini didn’t just focus on its past, though. The event also marked the introduction of its future-oriented models, like the Revuelto—the company’s first plug-in hybrid V12 supercar. This new model blends Lamborghini’s legendary V12 engine with cutting-edge hybrid technology, representing a bold step towards sustainability without compromising on the exhilarating performance that Lamborghini is known for.
Alongside the Revuelto, Lamborghini also displayed the new Urus SE, a super SUV that marries practicality with performance. The juxtaposition of these modern marvels with the historic Countach models at Chantilly was a testament to Lamborghini’s dual focus on preserving its legacy while looking ahead to future advancements in technology and performance.
The presence of Chassis 0001 and the 25th Anniversary Countach, alongside the high-tech Revuelto, demonstrated Lamborghini’s ability to honor its heritage while continuing to lead the industry with innovation. Attendees at Chantilly were treated to a masterclass in both nostalgia and cutting-edge engineering, showcasing the rich evolution of Lamborghini from its revolutionary beginnings to its pioneering future. In a space where elegance meets engineering, Lamborghini once again proved why it remains a force to be reckoned with in the world of supercars.
What sets the Chantilly Arts & Élégance 2024 Apart from the other car shows
What truly sets Chantilly Arts & Élégance apart is its focus on elegance and lifestyle. The event features two main competitions: the Concours d’Élégance, which pairs luxury cars with custom outfits from top fashion designers, and the Concours d’État, showcasing some of the rarest vintage cars from prestigious collections around the world. This unique blend creates an atmosphere where automotive craftsmanship meets high fashion, making it a true celebration of design and culture.
Attendees can expect to see an impressive array of vehicles, from rare pre-war classics to cutting-edge hypercars and innovative concept cars. It’s not just about the cars; it’s about the passion and lifestyle that drive their creation.
The venue itself—the magnificent Château de Chantilly—adds to the charm of the event. With its beautifully landscaped gardens and rich history, it provides a picturesque backdrop for this celebration of automotive artistry.
It’s A Family Friendly Event..
Chantilly Arts & Élégance is designed for everyone, offering activities for all ages. Beyond the stunning vehicles, families can enjoy workshops, exhibitions, and culinary experiences. There are dedicated areas for children featuring pony rides and creative workshops, ensuring a fun day out for the whole family.
A Gathering of Enthusiasts and Engaging Competition..
Chantilly Arts & Élégance draws thousands of visitors from around the globe, creating a vibrant community of car lovers. In 2024, more than 18,000 attendees enjoyed this picturesque venue. The event has quickly become one of Europe’s premier automotive gatherings.
The Concours d’Élégance pairs luxury car manufacturers with renowned fashion houses, showcasing brands like Aston Martin and Lamborghini alongside creations from designers like Armani. This unique pairing highlights how fashion and automotive design intersect.
Lamborghini Celebrates 50 Years Of Countach At Chantilly Arts & Élégance 2024: My thoughts
The Chantilly Arts & Élégance Richard Mille event is known for its stunning blend of automotive excellence and high fashion, but it does face some challenges. One major issue is its exclusivity. The high-profile cars and associated costs can make it feel more like a gala for the wealthy rather than a welcoming celebration of car culture for everyone.
Moreover, the emphasis on aesthetics—like fashion shows alongside car displays—can overshadow the incredible engineering behind these vehicles. As a result, attendees might leave with only a superficial understanding of their significance. With the automotive industry increasingly focused on sustainability, there’s also a tension between showcasing traditional combustion engines and embracing electric or hybrid technologies. While Lamborghini’s introduction of hybrid models at this year’s event is a positive move, Chantilly needs to adapt to these changes without losing its rich heritage tag.
