The 1940 Chrysler Thunderbolt was a striking and futuristic concept car developed by Chrysler and designed by Alex Tremulis (who later worked on the Tucker 48) under the direction of Ralph Roberts of Briggs Manufacturing Company. It was one of the most advanced and eye-catching concept vehicles of its era. The Chrysler Thunderbolt concept debuted at the New York Auto Show in 1941.
Key Features of the 1940 Chrysler Thunderbolt:
- Streamlined Art Deco Design: The car had a sleek, aerodynamic shape with fully enclosed wheels, flush fenders, and a smooth, fastback rear — emphasizing speed and modernity.
- Retractable Hardtop: One of the first cars ever to feature a power-operated retractable metal hardtop, predating similar designs by decades.
- All-Aluminum Body: Lightweight and innovative for the time, the body panels were made of aluminum, contributing to both performance and futuristic appeal.
- Hidden Headlights: The Thunderbolt featured electrically retractable headlights, which was cutting-edge technology in the pre-war era.
- Button-Controlled Doors: Instead of door handles, the car had electronic push-button door openers, a radical feature that emphasized its high-tech character.
- Engine: Powered by a 323.5 cubic inch inline 8-cylinder engine, paired with a Vacamatic semi-automatic transmission.
- Production: Only five units were ever built, each slightly different and hand-crafted, making them extremely rare and collectible.
You must be logged in to post a comment.