Thankfully, Holden hasn’t been completely stripped of its identity, with General Motors executives realizing the prowess of Australian design and engineering along the turbulent journey as of recent, saving handfuls of Holden jobs.
One of the greatest expressions of Australian design was of recent, though, and we’re not talking about the stunning Holden-designed Buick Avenir, or even the Chevrolet Bolt EV concept. We’re talking about the Holden EFIJY concept.
Ten years ago this month, Holden unveiled its retro take on the famous FJ and, shortly after, the automotive media proclaimed the concept one of the most striking designs in recent memory. After its unveiling at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, the Holden EFIJY made its way to the U.S., where Hot Rod proclaimed it “Hot Rod of the Year,” and judges awarded the vehicle “North American Concept of the Year” at the 2007 North American International Auto Show.
The awards both remain well earned with the EFIJY’s striking take on vintage looks and modern design, and the LS2 6.0-liter V8 engine only catapulted the car further onto gearheads’ radars.
Reminiscing about EFIJY’s 2005 reveal, Holden Design Director, Richard Ferlazzo, said presenting the EFIJY to the eagerly awaiting media was an unforgettable experience and the pinnacle for any designer.
“Revealing EFIJY in Sydney was a dream come true for me and the fact that it is still in demand and generating interest ten years on is testament to its timeless appeal.”
“EFIJY is a very sincere expression of design and perfectly demonstrates the world class capabilities of our talented design team, who were able to blend our exciting future with our enviable heritage,” he added.
Happy Birthday, Holden EFIJY, a concept no one will forget for many days to come.
Comments
Noticed a mistake there. You stated Efijy runs the LS2. It originally didn’t. It ran the LS1, albeit with a supercharger on it.
Also Aaron.. Apart from his design team, Richard neglected to mention, there was also the hugely talented team of mechanics, instro’s, machinists, fabricators and body guys. Trades that all played a part in the realization of the Efijy. Oh, sorry mate, I forgot…. They’re all gone now… So I guess they don’t matter…
It looks stunning, and would be a success on the retro market, but it seems as if the driver would not be able to see the road in front of the car.