{"id":15151,"date":"2015-01-29T12:45:20","date_gmt":"2015-01-29T12:45:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/?p=15151"},"modified":"2016-07-01T10:56:41","modified_gmt":"2016-07-01T09:56:41","slug":"buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/","title":{"rendered":"Buick\u2019s Five Most Influential Concept Cars"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The reveal of the Buick Avenir concept introduced in Detroit earlier this month prompts us to take a trip down memory lane and look at some of the most influential concepts borne out of the carmaker\u2019s design studios.<\/p>\n<p>Buick, under the direction of then GM\u2019s first design director Harley Earl (pictured above), was the first company to create a concept car, the now exceptionally famous 1938 Buick Y-Job. As head of the Art and Color Section in Warren, Michigan, Earl created the car and used it as his daily driver.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;From designs that push the boundaries of graceful, elegant proportions and progressive interior designs, Buick\u2019s concepts have always inspired with the relevance of a future that is not too far away,&#8221; says current VP of General Motors Global Design, Ed Welburn.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s a look at five of the most influential concepts that advanced Buick\u2019s design proficiency.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Buick Y-Job (1938)<\/strong><br \/>\n<figure id=\"attachment_15153\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15153\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_y-job_1938.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_y-job_1938.jpg?resize=653%2C293&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Designed by Harley Earl, the 1938 Buick Y-Job is considered the auto industry\u2019s first concept car.\" width=\"653\" height=\"293\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15153\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15153\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_y-job_1938.jpg?resize=653%2C293&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"Designed by Harley Earl, the 1938 Buick Y-Job is considered the auto industry\u2019s first concept car.\" width=\"653\" height=\"293\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15153\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> Designed by Harley Earl, the 1938 Buick Y-Job is considered the auto industry\u2019s first concept car.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nConsidered the industry\u2019s first true concept car, the Y-Job was developed by Harley Earl, GM\u2019s first design chief. It was designed solely to gauge the public\u2019s response to the innovative styling and features rather than foreshadowing a new production model. The media immediately hailed the Y-Job as the \u201cCar of the Future.\u201d In many ways it was, as it previewed features that would become common throughout the industry, including power windows, flush-mounted door handles, disappearing headlamps, a concealed convertible top and more. The sleek roadster is a landmark of automotive design and represents the blueprint for concept vehicle design and execution. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Wildcat Series (1953-55, 1985)<\/strong><br \/>\n<figure id=\"attachment_15152\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15152\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_wildcat-ii_1954.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_wildcat-ii_1954.jpg?resize=653%2C339&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"In addition its radical design, the 1954 Wildcat II concept was developed to test the viability of a fiberglass body. \" width=\"653\" height=\"339\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15152\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15152\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_wildcat-ii_1954.jpg?resize=653%2C339&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"In addition its radical design, the 1954 Wildcat II concept was developed to test the viability of a fiberglass body. \" width=\"653\" height=\"339\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15152\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> In addition its radical design, the 1954 Wildcat II concept was developed to test the viability of a fiberglass body.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nThe Wildcat series of concept vehicles pushed the brand\u2019s design language forward and showcased new and innovative technologies, starting with the first Wildcat concept in 1953. It was a two-seater with a fiberglass body and four-wheel disc brakes. The 1954 Wildcat II \u2013 a smaller, sportier two-seater \u2013 introduced a more radical design, with open front fenders, while the 1955 Wildcat III showcased elongated front fender openings and the brand\u2019s signature sweep-spear cue. The grille design of these early concepts influenced the new Avenir concept.<\/p>\n<p><figure id=\"attachment_15157\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15157\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-wildcat-concept_1985.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-wildcat-concept_1985.jpg?resize=653%2C288&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The futuristic 1985 Wildcat concept featured an early head-up display system.\" width=\"653\" height=\"288\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15157\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15157\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-wildcat-concept_1985.jpg?resize=653%2C288&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The futuristic 1985 Wildcat concept featured an early head-up display system.\" width=\"653\" height=\"288\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15157\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> The futuristic 1985 Wildcat concept featured an early head-up display system.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nIn 1985, Buick introduced a futuristic Wildcat concept that served as a test and data platform. Distinctly styled with a long rear deck, the Wildcat had no traditional doors, but a canopy that raised and lowered to allow access for two passengers. The body was made of fiberglass and carbon fiber. Behind the cabin and driving all four wheels was a unique engine based on the Buick 3.8-liter V6, featuring 24 valves, dual-overhead camshafts and an early version of electronically controlled port fuel injection. A head-up display cast a wealth of vehicle information onto the large windshield \u2013 a feature available on today\u2019s LaCrosse. <\/p>\n<p><!--nextpage--><\/p>\n<p><strong>Riviera Silver Arrow III concept (1972) <\/strong><br \/>\n<figure id=\"attachment_15155\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15155\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-riviera-silverarrow-iii_1972.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-riviera-silverarrow-iii_1972.jpg?resize=653%2C260&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Silver Arrow III concept took production Riviera cues further and introduced concept technologies, including traction control.\" width=\"653\" height=\"260\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15155\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15155\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-riviera-silverarrow-iii_1972.jpg?resize=653%2C260&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"The Silver Arrow III concept took production Riviera cues further and introduced concept technologies, including traction control.\" width=\"653\" height=\"260\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15155\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> The Silver Arrow III concept took production Riviera cues further and introduced concept technologies, including traction control.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nDesigned by Bill Mitchell (GM\u2019s design VP from 1958-1977), the Silver Arrow III was based on the third-generation Riviera production model, but with bolder design elements that showcased advanced technologies such as four-wheel antilock brakes and a Max Trac traction control system that was a precursor of today\u2019s traction control technology. The exterior had a lowered roofline, restyled quarter windows and six halogen headlamps. The Silver Arrow III\u2019s plush interior eliminated the need for fore\/aft driver seat movement with adjustable pedals and telescoping steering wheel \u2013 features that are common today.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Centieme concept (2003)<\/strong><br \/>\n<figure id=\"attachment_15154\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15154\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-centieme-concept_2003.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-centieme-concept_2003.jpg?resize=653%2C334&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"This three-row crossover concept influenced the Enclave, the cornerstone of Buick\u2019s product renaissance.\" width=\"653\" height=\"334\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15154\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15154\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-centieme-concept_2003.jpg?resize=653%2C334&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"This three-row crossover concept influenced the Enclave, the cornerstone of Buick\u2019s product renaissance.\" width=\"653\" height=\"334\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15154\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> This three-row crossover concept influenced the Enclave, the cornerstone of Buick\u2019s product renaissance.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nFrench for the term \u2018one-hundredth,\u2019 the Centieme was introduced in Buick\u2019s centenary year. More than marking the brand\u2019s 100th anniversary, it pushed it into the future. The proportion, design cues and three-row seating configuration influenced the Enclave crossover that debuted about four years later, igniting the product renaissance that continues today. The Centieme also previewed Buick\u2019s renewed focus on interior design and attention to detail, with elements such as aluminum and wood accent trim and ambient lighting. <\/p>\n<p><strong>Velite concept (2004)<\/strong><br \/>\n<figure id=\"attachment_15156\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-15156\" style=\"width: 653px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><a href=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-velite-concept_2004.jpg?ssl=1\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-velite-concept_2004.jpg?resize=653%2C323&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"An expressive, open-touring concept, the Velite concept was inspired by the original Y-Job.\" width=\"653\" height=\"323\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15156\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-15156\" class=\"wp-caption-text\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick-velite-concept_2004.jpg?resize=653%2C323&#038;ssl=1\" alt=\"An expressive, open-touring concept, the Velite concept was inspired by the original Y-Job.\" width=\"653\" height=\"323\" class=\"size-large wp-image-15156\" data-recalc-dims=\"1\" \/><\/noscript><\/a> An expressive, open-touring concept, the Velite concept was inspired by the original Y-Job.<\/figcaption><\/figure><br \/>\nThis four-seat convertible provides a tangible link between the original Y-Job and the new Avenir concept. Designed in Warren, MI, and built by renowned coachbuilder Bertone in Italy, the Velite was named after an elite class of soldiers in Napoleon\u2019s army. Portholes on the front fenders and a rear deck contoured in a boattail shape evoke Buicks of the past, while under the hood and driving the rear wheels was a pure modern technology: a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 400hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. <\/p>\n<p>We&#8217;ll be bringing you the full story on the design genesis of the 2015 Buick Avenir concept shortly.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The reveal of the Buick Avenir concept introduced in Detroit earlier this month prompts us to take a trip down memory lane and look at some of the most influential concepts borne out of the carmaker\u2019s design studios. Buick, under the direction of then GM\u2019s first design director Harley Earl (pictured above), was the first company to create a concept car, the now exceptionally famous 1938 Buick Y-Job. As head of the Art and Color Section in Warren, Michigan, Earl [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":15159,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[67,465,1077],"tags":[1195,988,194,531,1194,1189,1192,1193,49,1191,1188],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Buick\u2019s Five Most Influential Concept Cars<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/\" \/>\n<link rel=\"next\" href=\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/2\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Buick\u2019s Five Most Influential Concept Cars\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"The reveal of the Buick Avenir concept introduced in Detroit earlier this month prompts us to take a trip down memory lane and look at some of the most influential concepts borne out of the carmaker\u2019s design studios. Buick, under the direction of then GM\u2019s first design director Harley Earl (pictured above), was the first company to create a concept car, the now exceptionally famous 1938 Buick Y-Job. As head of the Art and Color Section in Warren, Michigan, Earl [&hellip;]\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Form Trends\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/formtrends\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2015-01-29T12:45:20+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2016-07-01T09:56:41+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.formtrends.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/01\/buick_y-job_harley-earl_1938.jpg?fit=1280%2C853&ssl=1\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1280\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"853\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Eric Gallina\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@ericgallina\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@formtrends\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Eric Gallina\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"4 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/buicks-five-most-influential-concept-cars\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Eric Gallina\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.formtrends.com\/#\/schema\/person\/b2032fc7d2d510747775759f978269ac\"},\"headline\":\"Buick\u2019s Five Most Influential Concept 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