Concept cars move to the forefront of collectables

"This is the way we believe that Harley Earl would have wanted the sale of these masterpieces to come to a close,” added Jackson. “It was a deafening, adrenaline-pumping experience that anyone would enjoy experiencing again in a heartbeat. We promised excitement for our 35th anniversary celebration, and can truthfully say that we delivered on that promise."

“American concept cars from this romantic era are always among the most gorgeous vehicles at our events,” added Mr. Jackson. “Such history making machines are heavily desired, with many individuals and museums vying to add them to their holdings.”

The Futureliner

The red and white Futurliner, one of only nine that remain of the concept, features a six-cylinder engine mated to a 4-speed transmission.

One of 12 built by GM, the FutureLiner is a self-contained display and transport vehicle created by the GM design staff under the legendary Harley Earl's direction. Earl designed what is arguably the World’s first concept car in 1939, and his influence on automotive design is still felt today.

The Futureliner history is told in enormous detail with many period photos here with additional images and information here.

The particular story of this vehicle is told fully here – from being found in a completely dilapidated state in the Chicago area in the early 1990s, through the full restoration process to its current glory.

In short, it was created to take part in the "Parade of Progress" touring exhibit created by "Boss" Kettering that complemented the GM "Motoramas" from 1940 through 1956.

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