Twenty-five years after the
legendary LM002 ceased production, Automobili Lamborghini will launch the Urus
on December 4, 2017 in Sant’Agata Bolognese, again creating a new class of
Super SUVs. In advance of the Urus world premier Automobili Lamborghini looks
back on its SUV legacy in order to recall an extraordinary automobile.
The black LM002 (chassis
#12231) from the Lamborghini museum, entirely-restored by the classic
department Lamborghini Polo Storico represents Lamborghini’s original SUV
creation: the LM002 is widely considered
as the father of luxury SUVs. Turning heads in sophisticated city streets,
the LM002 was equally at home in dirt, gravel and snow.
The LM 002’s development
started as a project to develop a high performance off-road vehicle for
military use at the end of the 1970s, with the name of Cheetah. Lamborghini
engineer Giulio Alfieri resurrected the project in 1981 with the LM 001: an
innovative concept with a rear-mounted engine, followed by the LMA prototype
with a front-mounted powertrain. The final production model of the LM002 was
first presented at the Brussels Auto Show in 1986, consolidating the final
design: the V12 engine from the Countach Quattrovalvole provided a 5,167 cc
capacity and 450 hp at 6,800 rpm.
In an aluminum and fiberglass
body, with four-wheel drive transmission, transfer case and three self-locking
differentials, the SUV could exceed gradients of 120%. Reaching speeds of more
than 200 km/h, the LM002 was equipped with specially-developed Pirelli Scorpion
tyres, allowing ‘floating’ capabilities across soft surfaces such as sand, and highly
durable in hot conditions. The production of the bodies started in a company
near Bilbao (Spain). Then the semi- assembled parts were shipped to Sant’Agata
Bolognese for completion with the powertrain, mechanical parts, finishing,
testing and delivery. A luxurious interior matching the individual needs of the
customer completed the LM 002.
The LM002 attracted
significant attention when launched, as a vehicle unlike any other, with
performance to match its super sports car stablemates as well as significant
off-road capabilities and an imposing design and presence. A total of 300 were
produced from 1986 to 1992.
Like the LM002, the Urus will
create a new Super SUV class of its own, with exceptional power and torque,
distinctive design and a very significant presence. The Urus assures
exceptional road-going dynamics, performance and luxury and like the LM002, has
exceptional capabilities on off-road terrains, including sand.
(Source: Lamborghini)