The Chevy truck line includes some of the most iconic vehicles ever made, with instantly recognizable models that are woven deep into the fabric of America. Now, we’re taking a look back at a trio of vintage Chevy truck sketches penned by the one and only Chuck Jordan.
For those readers who may be drawing a blank, Charles Morrell “Chuck” Jordan was an automotive designer that worked his way up to become GM’s vice president of design in 1986, holding the position until 1992. Born in California in 1927, Jordan entered the Fisher Body Craftsman’s Guild competition as a junior at MIT, taking first place, leading to an invite from Harley Earl’s assistant, Howard O’Leary, to join GM in 1949.
In 1957, Jordan was promoted to design director at Cadillac, and later worked as head of design at Opel with GM Europe. In 1986, Jordan became vice president of design at General Motors, becoming one of just six people to hold the position.
Some of Jordan’s better-known design work includes the 1959-1960 Cadillac, the 1968-1973 Opel GT, the 1988-1991 Buick Reatta, the 1992-1994 Chevy K1500 Blazer and GMC Jimmy, the 1992-1997 Cadillac Seville STS, and the 1994-1999 Cadillac DeVille, among others.
These three vintage Chevy truck sketches date back a bit earlier, and look as though they inspired the Bow Tie brand’s Task Force line of vehicles. The high-mounted, rounded headlights, broad grille sections, and horizontal lines bring out the heavy nostalgia vibes, while the curvaceous upper styling lines add a nice aesthetic to the mix.
We’re also digging the side views, which show smoothed-out and simple character lines that add visual length to the Chevy trucks. The upright cabin is like a bubble on top of the long lower body section, while extended rear bed sections promise loads of practicality. We also spot what appears to be a hint of rear tail fins, a popular design feature at the time, especially at GM’s luxury marque, Cadillac.
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Comments
Ugly, Uglier, super Ugly….
love them – classics!!!! Love the large headlights – not a fan of the current design trend of small(er) headlights that adorn GM’s big trucks/SUV’s.
Those are some of the best looking low rider renderings I’ve ever seen!
Says the king of knowing SFA in design.
The side shots of pickups look like one piece body. Very cool
GM, Chrysler and Ford have all capitalized on bringing classic “pony cars” back in retro style. I think a retro styled pickup might work.
Cool!
I realize that these are design sketches, but it’s almost as if Mr. Jordan was looking into the future, where the cab and bed were all one piece.
I just bought my neighbors 1998 Cadillac Deville with 47,000 miles on it. This man was responsible for the design – now I know.
Thanks for the great article.