Largely considered the first industry concept car, the Buick Y-Job racked up an impressive number of miles on the road before finally making its debut to the media on this momentous day in 1939. Designed by the talented Harley Earl and his innovative team, the Y-Job was created as a groundbreaking design exercise that brilliantly incorporated both technological advancements and striking design innovations.
Serving as a valuable test mule, the Y-Job played a crucial role in the development and experimentation of many styling and engineering practices within General Motors, which later became common and foundational in the automotive industry. Its influence and legacy continue to be felt in the world of automotive design and engineering today.
The Y-Job, built on a 1938 Buick Super chassis, featured hidden headlights, flush door handles, hideaway top, and wraparound bumpers. As the industry’s first concept car, pioneered by Harley Earl, its features were revolutionary for 1938. The decision to include elements like the hidden headlights and flush door handles created a clean, aerodynamic profile that eliminated protruding parts common on contemporary vehicles. The wraparound bumpers and hideaway top further emphasized its streamlined, futuristic appearance, successfully setting the standard for GM’s post-war automotive design philosophy. Many of its styling queues are found on the next generation of GM automobiles, particularly Buicks themselves.
Harley Earl, who was born on November 22, 1893, drove the Buick Y-Job as his personal vehicle until 1951. Introduced in 1939, it is recognized as the industry’s first concept car. GM later donated it to the Henry Ford Museum, where it underwent restoration before eventually being returned to GM. Today, it lives in the General Motors Heritage Collection.
