Vehicle Description
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.
