The GM Futurliners were a series of extravagant, custom-built vehicles developed by General Motors as part of the “Parade of Progress” − a travelling exhibition designed to showcase science, technology and the future of automobiles and innovation to the American public. These iconic vehicles embodied the post-war American vision of progress, technology and modern design. Long before the era of television and the internet, the Futurliners were a pioneering example of mobile brand experience and promotion.

In total, twelve unique vehicles were built around 1940. Their design stood out thanks to a striking Art Deco-inspired futuristic look, bold red side panels and large panoramic windows.

The Futurliners served as the workhorses of the Parade of Progress, a major touring show that introduced science and technology to millions of Americans.

The 1941 tour was cut short shortly after the attack on Pearl Harbor, when the United States entered World War II.

In 1953, the Futurliners were taken out of storage and technically upgraded, featuring more powerful six-cylinder engines, automatic transmissions, air conditioning for the cockpit, and larger, more practical hard shells replacing the original glass domes around the driver.

They returned to the road for the 1953-1956 Parade of Progress, accompanied by new demonstrations and GM Motorama cars as part of the entourage.

In 1956, the Parade of Progress came to an end, and the Futurliners were sold, donated or extensively repurposed.

Of the original twelve vehicles, several have survived to this day − some fully restored, others in various stages of restoration, or converted for different uses.

Today, these iconic vehicles can fetch up to four million dollars at auctions and rank among the most valuable classic vehicles ever built.

This makes it a unique opportunity to see one of these legendary vehicles up close, in Hall 5 at the Snap-on Tools stand during AutoTechnica!