2003 CHEVROLET SSR PICKUP

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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 nameplates such as Corvette, Camaro and Cadillac. 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, and this sinister example is his personal SSR. The body is finished in Smokin' Asphalt black paint, and the cargo hard tonneau bed cover is adorned with a '44' decal that celebrates Welburn's distinguished career at General Motors. Completely loaded, the SSR features 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 a roadster courtesy of the power convertible hardtop. Forward thrust is supplied via the V8 engine producing a factory-rated 300hp, and the dual exhaust system makes all the right sounds. The massive 5-spoke aluminum wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle performance tires, 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 rare 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, he even fit the right rear quarter panel in place and periodically signed the vehicle as it was being built. This SSR eventually became Welburn's official company car, and he enjoyed it 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.