The CEAL automobile brand, created in 1955 in Spain, undoubtedly represents a milestone in the history of Spanish motoring. Under the support and backing of the Spanish government, this brand set out to launch its first car in 1958, one that would bear the name Delta. The importance of this brand lies in its objective of offering cars to all families in Spain, Portugal and France, thus becoming a symbol of accessibility and mobility for society.
The birth of CEAL would not have been possible without the collaboration of different key actors in the development of the project. First of all, a wealthy family that believed in the idea and decided to invest in the dream of creating a Spanish car brand. His vision and resources were essential to carry out this initiative. In addition, a talented Spanish designer was hired to lead the aesthetic and functional development of the brand’s cars. His experience and skills brought to life vehicles that would not only be affordable, but also attractive, safe, and reliable. Last but not least, the financing from a French and Spanish bank was crucial to guarantee the fulfillment of CEAL’s goals and objectives. This financial support made it possible to ensure the manufacture and mass distribution of the vehicles within the mentioned countries, thus bringing the cars to all the families of these nations.
It is transcendental to highlight the social commitment and vision of CEAL when launching the Delta, its first car in 1958. This model was designed and produced specifically thinking about the needs and economic possibilities of the population in general. Accessibility and low cost of ownership became key pillars of this car, which quickly became popular with new European middle-class families looking to enjoy the benefits of owning a car.
The importance of CEAL transcends Spanish borders, since its vision of bringing cars to all families also spread to Portugal and France. This international focus allowed the brand to broaden its impact and offer its vehicles to an even wider audience, becoming a benchmark in the motorsport market at a European level. Specifically in Spain at the end of the 50s, having your own vehicle went from being a fantasy to a reality, brands like SEAT with its 600 managed to mobilize thousands of families.
In conclusion, the CEAL car brand has left a significant legacy in the Spanish automotive industry. Their commitment to accessibility, government endorsement and financial support have been key to the success and recognition of this brand. The vision of bringing cars to all families in Spain, Portugal and France has been transcendental in terms of mobility and progress for society. CEAL is an example of how the joint effort of different actors can lead to the development and success of innovative projects that benefit the general welfare.
The initial idea is to sell the first years in Spain, Portugal and France. In Spain he was in a dictatorial and self-sufficient government, so exports and imports were limited. For this reason it was decided to have the support of French banks to manufacture easily exportable models (I will explain it in the following post).
I would like to expand the market in Italy and the United Kingdom in about 5 years and after launching commercial models that can complete the offer. As for Germany, the market share is very large and there are many brands, it may be interesting to test the terrain and compete with Opel or VW, but the brand will not have a great impact and will settle for competing against brands like DKW, Hansa, Lloyd , NSU…
I hope to create models to be positioned in much of Europe for the 70s. Any ideas or lore will be welcome!
In 1958, the Spanish automobile scene was shaken by the arrival of a revolutionary compact model: the Delta. Designed to compete directly with the popular Seat 600 Y models like the Renault Dauphine or the Simca 1000 among many others. This national vehicle stood out for its wide interior space and its versatility, offering several versions to adapt to the needs of users.
Equipped with a reliable 848cc 29hp engine, the Delta makes sure to deliver more than enough power to ensure optimum performance on the road. Although its price was slightly above the 600, this new model offers adequate value for money, providing greater comfort and a more pleasant drive.
The real beauty of the Delta lay in its excellent road holding. With remarkable stability and impressive handling, this vehicle became the ideal choice for drivers who want a smoother and safer driving experience. In addition, its ample interior space provided additional comfort for both passengers and driver, ensuring a pleasant journey even on the longest journeys.
Another outstanding advantage of the Delta was its modern and attractive design, which caught the eye on the streets. With sleek lines and refined aerodynamics, this model became a symbol of style and sophistication, raising the bar for compact cars at the time.
In short, the 1958 Delta was a significant advance in the world of compact cars. With its national manufacture, ample interior space and versatility of models, this vehicle mobilized Spanish drivers. Its good road holding, coupled with its attractive design, made the Delta a desirable choice for those looking for a reliable, comfortable and stylish vehicle for Europe’s new and emerging middle class.
The 1958 Delta 848 has been an iconic masterpiece in the automotive world. Over the years, there have been different versions of this vehicle that have managed to capture the attention and admiration of classic car lovers. Among the versions at the beginning of its manufacturing are the Delta Nacional, the Delta Plus and the Delta Prole.
The most common version of the Delta is known as the Nacional version. This model could be found in two-tone colors, giving it a unique and striking look compared to other cars of the time. One of the most notable features of this version was the possibility of choosing between a 4- or 2-door model, which allowed it to be adapted to the needs and preferences of each driver.
On the other hand, there was the most luxurious version, known as the Delta Plus. This vehicle stood out for its higher quality and elegant interior, which included wooden details that gave it a touch of distinction. Additionally, it featured a 2-speed automatic gearbox, providing a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.
For those who needed more space and cargo capacity, there was the estate version of the Delta, called the Prole. This model had 5 doors and a tailgate, which facilitated access to the trunk and allowed the whole family to be transported comfortably. The Delta Prole became the ideal companion for family trips and weekend outings.
In conclusion, the different versions of the Delta 848 from 1958, such as the Nacional, the Plus and the Prole, represented different options for lovers of classic cars. From the striking looks of the Delta National, to the luxury and elegance of the Delta Plus, to the functionality and space of the Delta Prole, each version offered unique and compelling features. These vehicles have become true treasures for classic car enthusiasts and have left an indelible mark on the automotive world.
Very similar to a Primus Publica F, but a nicer to look at and more variety to choose from. Surely a competetive and popular car in its time. In Automationverse this would be Frunia, and I guess that country had a lot of them being a part of the daily streetscape.
CEAL’s new car, the Delta 848, is now available at dealers in Spain, Portugal and France!
The first units for 1958 are already leaving the factories. They will reach all associated and official dealers. Don’t miss the opportunity to be one of the first to experience the Delta. Visit your CEAL dealer today and let yourself be surprised. Link for BeamNG.
Is CEAL an old name of Rigel, a company that got bought out by Rigel, an independent company that ceased operations or an independent company that is still in business?
Rigel became independent from CEAL in the 1980s. It was one of several companies that made up the CEAL consortium in 1955. If you like the role, I will post more history throughout the commercial life of CEAL.
Thanks; also, would the speed of the Delta Plus have been acceptable to the public even by the standards of the 1960s? I’m not sure if the convenience of the 2-speed automatic would have outweighed the resulting glacial performance in a place and time period where everybody not buying a Rolls-Royce would expect to have to shift gears. The Renault Dauphine had a less power-sapping 3-speed centrifugal clutch semi-automatic in real life; I believe you can simulate such a gearbox in BeamNG by creating a 3-speed manual in Automation and putting “!RACE!” into the mod name when exporting. This will turn the regular manual into a sequential gearbox which won’t suffer damage if you shift without the clutch.
The launch of the CEAL brand convertible, the Delta convertible in 1960, was a milestone in the history of the Spanish brand. Thanks to the good sales of the brand in Spain and France, as well as the hiring of new engineers and designers from the BMC, CEAL decided to create something more fun and passionate for its audience.
The Delta convertible stood out for its 848cc engine, which was boosted to 34 horsepower. This performance improvement allowed drivers to enjoy a more exciting and faster driving experience. In addition, the car presented important changes such as the incorporation of disc brakes on the front axle and a new arm suspension system, which significantly improved its performance and handling on all types of terrain.
One of the highlights of the Delta convertible was its comfort. The car’s design allowed passengers to enjoy long trips without experiencing fatigue or discomfort. In addition, the ample interior space and the possibility of opening the top provided a unique feeling of freedom, adding even more fun to the driving experience.
As for its aesthetics, the Delta convertible came in a wide range of colors. From classic and elegant white to vibrant and extroverted red, buyers had the opportunity to choose the color that best suited their personality and style. This variety of options contributed to the car’s popularity and captured the attention of both car lovers and those looking for a vehicle that would allow them to express their individuality.
A significant event in the history of the Delta convertible was its export to the United Kingdom for sale in a symbolic form. This strategy allowed the British market to get to know the car and consider it, and at the same time, it was very well received by the Spanish government. This initiative not only helped promote the Delta convertible internationally, but also highlighted the quality and ingenuity of the Spanish automotive industry.
In conclusion, the launch of the Delta convertible in 1960 was a key moment in the brand’s history. Thanks to the good sales of the CEAL brand in Spain and France, as well as the incorporation of new engineers and designers from the BMC, the car managed to stand out as a fun, passionate and exciting vehicle. With its boosted engine, performance improvements and comfortable design, the Delta convertible captured the attention of car lovers across Europe. Its export to the United Kingdom was an important milestone that helped establish the CEAL brand in the international market and consolidate Spain’s reputation as a leading country in the manufacture of quality automobiles. In this way, a precedent was set to soon begin new exports to neighboring countries.
The 3-speed automatic transmission is a good companion for these engines, the shame is that in my Automation for 1958 it doesn’t let me put more than 2 gears (perhaps it’s not doing it right). In more modern versions, such as the convertible, I have already installed a new 3-speed automatic gearbox.
Although this 2-speed is very fun in Beamng , I encourage you to try the Delta Plus! (The link is above), Good driving!!
The Dauphine had a 3-speed semi-automatic transmission, not a full auto, and if you want to simulate this in BeamNG, you give your car a 3-speed manual gearbox in Automation and put !RACE! into the mod name when exporting. This causes the exporter to turn the manual gearbox into a sequential gearbox, which simulates a semi-automatic as you can shift without the clutch and not grind gears; this method works regardless of what year the car is set to. I did drive the Delta in BeamNG and it handles well in spite of the lack of speed, but one issue I noticed is that the 2-speed auto always chirps the tyres when it downshifts; perhaps you are already aware of this though and couldn’t figure out how to fix it.
CEAL’s new car, the Delta Convertible 848, is now available at dealers in Spain, Portugal, UK and France!
The first units for 1960 are already leaving the factories. They will reach all associated and official dealers. Don’t miss the opportunity to be one of the first to experience the Delta Convertible. Visit your CEAL dealer today and let yourself be surprised. Link for BeamNG.
In 1962, the “Velico” light delivery van was presented in the showrooms, which is the Spanish abbreviation for light delivery vehicle. It was the new vehicle created by the Spanish brand Ceal and was characterized by a compact and versatile design, ideal for commercial and transportation use. Its large space and interior volume made it a convenient option for any delivery, distribution, logistics and passenger movement company such as large taxis or airport areas.
The model is presented with a 1.6-liter, 50-horsepower diesel engine that offers adequate performance for the van, allowing agile and efficient handling in urban areas and highways. This engine is of Perkins origin and has been distributed by Motor Ibérica
Motor Ibérica at the beginning of the sixties bought shares in the company CEAL given the growth of the brand and its prospection at a national and European level. Motor Ibérica owned brands such as Ebro and Avia, and was also a distributor in Spain of Perkins Diesel engines that enjoyed great prestige and quality. Thanks to this association, the new Velico van has been able to mount a prestigious Perkins engine, making the purchase more attractive for customers. Motor Ibérica also distributes other commercial vehicles in Spain such as the Alfa Romeo van or the Siata. The four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 1.6 liters has been modified with small adaptations to the new chassis of the van and produces 50 horsepower with more than 100 NM.
It is the first CEAL vehicle that will be exported to new countries such as Italy, Germany or Belgium, where it will open a market for the brand. In the coming years, more vehicles in the range such as the Delta 848 will begin to be marketed abroad. The van has the opportunity to expand its presence in Europe and compete with other established brands in European markets. It has great practicality and capacity. cargo that make it attractive to different industry sectors and will facilitate the transportation of merchandise throughout the European continent.
For the company, the year 62 is a historical milestone, since the manufacturing of new models and the creation of a new range oriented towards diesel engines begins, which will later be expanded with light delivery trucks as well as tractors for agricultural use. For the same year, the improvement and expansion of the facilities in Madrid has been announced, creating new jobs as well as assembly lines. They are also beginning the restoration of old factories in the province of Seville to be able to adapt them to the manufacture of new diesel engines and a possible body assembly plant.
Good video mate, very interesting format to be able to do with cars from the forum, always testing the vehicle in BeamNG gives you a very important opinion about its driving in addition to the Automation’s own reference data. A convertible and the map of Italy is a great combination!
CEAL’s new car, the CEAL Velico, is now available at dealers in Europe!
The first units for 1962 are already leaving the factories. They will reach all associated and official dealers. Don’t miss the opportunity to be one of the first to experience the CEAL Velico. Visit your CEAL dealer today and let yourself be surprised. Link for BeamNG.
, I encourage you to try the Delta Plus! (The link is above), Good driving!!
