ED WELBURN'S 2003 CHEVROLET SSR

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As just the sixth head of design for General Motors and the first person ever to lead GM design globally, Ed Welburn is one of the most influential vehicle designers of his time. During his 44-year career at GM, Welburn was the driving force behind the development of many successful designs with iconic name plates like Corvette, Camaro and Cadillac, to name a few. One of the most unique GM vehicles ever built is the Chevrolet SSR or 'Super Sport Roadster.' As chief designer at GM's Advanced

Design Studio, Welburn followed the SSR from concept to production. This sinister Chevrolet is Welburn's personal SSR, with the body finished in 'Smokin' Asphalt' black paint as well as being adorned with a '44' decal on the cargo hard tonneau bed cover celebrating his distinguished career at General Motors. Completely loaded, the SSR includes an Ebony leather bucket-seat interior with air conditioning, in addition to an array of full-power accessories. With the press of a button the SSR transforms into roadster courtesy of the power convertible hardtop. Forward thrust is supplied via V8 engine producing a factory-rated 300hp and the dual exhaust system makes all the right sounds. The massive five-spoke aluminum wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle performance tires, while traction control keeps this rocket in a straight line and the 4-wheel anti-lock brakes bring all the excitement to a halt. Welburn had the unique opportunity to walk down the assembly line as his SSR was being built. From identifying the truck's floor pan through assembly and paint, Welburn was there. Along the way Welburn even fit the right rear quarter-panel in place as well as periodically signing the SSR as it was being built. Eventually becoming his official company car, this SSR was enjoyed by Welburn for close to two decades. Included is a personalized binder made by Welburn with pictures of him proudly watching his SSR being assembled on the line.