Introduction: A Badge That Tells a Story
When it comes to supercars, the world is used to seeing bold logos like Ferrari’s prancing horse, Lamborghini’s raging bull, or Porsche’s elegant crest. But one British automotive house, Lanzante Limited, has broken the mold with a symbol rarely seen on hypercars: the sacred image of Lord Ganesha. Known as the remover of obstacles and the bringer of wisdom, Ganesha’s presence on a high-performance machine might feel unusual to some—but in reality, it reflects a deep story of culture, inspiration, and engineering excellence.
This article explores the origins of Lanzante’s Ganesha logo, its connection to music legend George Harrison, and how this emblem now proudly sits on Lanzante’s first in-house hypercar, the 95-59.
1. Who is Lanzante? The British Name with Global Respect
Before diving into the logo’s spiritual significance, it’s worth understanding the company itself.
Lanzante Limited, based in West Sussex, England, began its journey in the 1970s under the leadership of Paul Lanzante. Initially focused on restoring classic sports cars, the company soon earned recognition for its motorsport expertise. Its biggest moment of glory came in 1995, when Lanzante’s team managed the McLaren F1 GTR that took first place at the 24 Hours of Le Mans—one of the toughest endurance races in the world.
That victory didn’t just put Lanzante on the map; it cemented its reputation as a company that could transform elite machinery into something legendary. Over the decades, Lanzante became synonymous with rare, bespoke projects—such as converting track-only hypercars like the McLaren P1 GTR or Pagani Zonda Revolución into fully road-legal machines.
But in 2025, the company took a bold new step: launching its first hypercar under its own badge—the 95-59. And what caught global attention, apart from the car’s performance, was the Ganesha logo on its nose.
2. Why Ganesha? The Spiritual Power of a Symbol
Lord Ganesha is one of the most beloved deities in Hinduism. Known as the remover of obstacles (Vighnaharta) and the harbinger of wisdom, success, and new beginnings, Ganesha is often worshipped at the start of journeys, ventures, or projects.
For an automotive company that thrives on pushing boundaries and breaking obstacles on the track, this symbolism fits beautifully. The logo is not just decorative; it carries meaning:
- Wisdom & foresight → needed for engineering perfection.
- Success in new ventures → the leap from restorations to making their own hypercar.
- Removing obstacles → whether on the racetrack or in the journey of innovation.
The fact that Lanzante—a British company with no direct cultural link to India—chose Ganesha makes it even more unique. And this choice has its roots in an unexpected friendship.
3. The Beatles Connection: George Harrison and Paul Lanzante
The story goes back to the 1970s, when George Harrison of The Beatles—deeply influenced by Indian spirituality—developed a devotion to Lord Ganesha. Known for integrating Indian instruments and philosophy into his music, Harrison believed Ganesha brought strength and clarity in his own life.
During a personal interaction with Paul Lanzante, George reportedly suggested using Ganesha as the company’s logo. Harrison felt the symbol would bring good fortune and reflect both grace and strength—qualities every great car brand should stand for.
What started as a spiritual suggestion from a rock legend has now become the defining identity of Lanzante’s brand. Today, the Ganesha logo doesn’t just represent a company; it represents a story of cross-cultural respect and spiritual inspiration in engineering.
4. The Lanzante 95-59: Hypercar Meets Heritage
The first car to proudly wear the Ganesha logo is the Lanzante 95-59, unveiled in 2025. The name itself is symbolic: “95” for the year of their Le Mans victory, and “59” for the number on the winning McLaren F1 GTR.
Some key highlights of the 95-59:
- Design: Created by Paul Howse (known for designing the McLaren P1), the car features a central driver’s seat flanked by two passenger seats—similar to the legendary McLaren F1.
- Performance: Powered by a twin-turbo V8 producing around 850 horsepower, the 95-59 promises blistering acceleration and top speeds that rival today’s fastest hypercars.
- Materials: A full carbon-fibre monocoque, advanced aerodynamics, and design inspiration from fighter jets like the F-22 make it a cutting-edge machine.
- Exclusivity: Limited to only 59 units, each car is a collector’s dream, blending history, technology, and cultural symbolism.
When enthusiasts first spotted the Ganesha badge on the car, the internet buzzed with curiosity and pride. For Indian audiences especially, seeing one of their most beloved deities on a world-class hypercar felt like a moment of recognition and global respect.
5. Beyond Speed: Cultural Impact of the Ganesha Logo
Automotive logos often become timeless symbols—think Ferrari’s horse or Mercedes’ three-pointed star. Lanzante’s choice to adopt Ganesha places it in a different league, because it:
- Honors Spirituality – A reminder that engineering and culture can coexist.
- Breaks Stereotypes – Western supercar culture is usually dominated by animals, shields, and abstract logos. Ganesha introduces an artistic and spiritual angle.
- Builds Emotional Connection – For millions of fans, especially in India, the logo makes them feel represented in the luxury car world.
This blend of faith, heritage, and performance gives Lanzante an identity no other automaker possesses.
7. FAQs About Lanzante and the Ganesha Logo
Q1: Why does Lanzante use a Ganesha logo?
Because George Harrison suggested it to Paul Lanzante, symbolizing wisdom and success in new ventures.
Q2: What is the Lanzante 95-59?
It’s Lanzante’s first in-house hypercar, limited to 59 units, powered by an 850 hp twin-turbo V8.
Q3: How is Lanzante linked to motorsport?
They managed the McLaren F1 GTR that won the 1995 Le Mans, one of racing’s toughest events.
Q4: Is Ganesha commonly used in car logos?
No, Lanzante is unique in adopting this spiritual icon in the hypercar world.
Q5: How many 95-59 hypercars will be built?
Only 59, making it ultra-exclusive.
Q6: What makes the 95-59 design special?
Its central seating layout, advanced aerodynamics, and carbon-fibre structure inspired by jet fighters.