This is the surreal 1987 Chevrolet Express, a project that was developed as a part of Chevrolet’s experimentation with gas turbine powertrains. While it might appear extraterrestrial, this concept was indeed developed here on earth by none other than the Chevrolet Division of General Motors Company. Initially, the Express was conceived around the idea that eventually, it would one day be used on a network of federally limited high-speed highways where average, everyday cars would not be permitted for travel. Despite only having around 120hp, the Express was designed to achieve impressive speeds, mostly thanks to it’s coefficient of drag, which was less than 0.20. The series of high-speed government developed highways never became a reality, however, the Express concept still demonstrated a number of futuristic technology and mechanical ideas that would later be used in production cars years down the road. These unique features included a rear-view camera with three dash-mounted displays in place of conventional mirrors, a drive-by-wire accelerator pedal, and an automated canopy system which could be operated from a proximity keyfob, that would open and close in a fashion that is reminiscent to climbing into the cockpit of a jet. The Express concept appropriately made an appearance in the 1989 film, Back To The Future II, where it can be seen in the background of a few scenes being used as a vehicle of the year 2015. Unlike most concept cars, the Express was a fully-functional automobile, and was developed by both the General Motors Advanced Styling Design Centre in California & the Advanced Engineering Centre located in Michigan. Also important to note, the Express concept features some impressive F1 construction technology, including carbon-fiber reinforced skin, and a molded carbon fiber underbody. What do you think of the futuristic Express concept car?
How many made? 1 of 1 (with approximately 1 or 2 other full-size clay models)
Engine: AGT5 Advanced Gas Turbine - 120hp
Debut: 1987 Detroit Auto Show
Top Speed: 150mph (claimed)
0-60: N/a
Photo Credit: @dtrockstar1, @lambolog
Research: @rarecarsonly