Molding Today Yesterday

Twenty-nine years advanced from this Camaro concept has done nothing to snuff out such inspiring design. However outrageous some hypothetical models look, at least one crease stands solid chance at hitting the street. Still three model years away from the fourth generation of Camaro this complete concept demonstrated where aero and overall cosmetic cues were headed.

Virtually no A-pillar separates the windshield from side glass meaning any rollover come with a death certificate signature. That alone prohibits regular road use although it does create a nice panoramic view. The bubble shape does resemble some mid 90s Pontiac pedestrian cars. A long drooping front end leaves nothing to obstruct driver visibility either, embracing an idea gaining traction in the 80s. Side mirrors appearing to be molded from the fenders made it onto fourth generation Camaros. Basic rear spoiler design also carried onto approved production GM models as well.

The hardest edge on this vehicle, the nose, has a grille opening similar to C7 Corvettes whether you accept that or not. In reality proper shaving, reshaping, and bulking could make a modern car that common folks would never suspect of having such age. Upon opening the California IROC's vertically swinging doors, (because this thing isn't exotic looking enough), a true cockpit envelops pilots. Camaro and Corvette have always aimed for cockpit-like setups to totally involve drivers, but this Jetsons era Chevy takes the term literal.

California IROC interior (Cardesignnews.com)

California IROC interior (Cardesignnews.com)

Believing our cars are too technically immersive means pebbles once you see this driver's post. Climate and window controls flank the operator. Everything has a button just for you. Your side seat driver won't be screwing around anymore. The steering wheel is thick, spokeless, and consists of a large pillow modeled after your thumb. A two tier dashboard acts as a prototype heads up display. Each control is lit in yellow/orange furthering fighter jet inspirations. Dashboard panels flow right into door panels which we still incorporate in today's interiors. The shifter is large providing affirmative grip and control. Please keep suggestive comments to yourself.

For everything horrendously impractical about the California IROC take a look at what's rolled off your local car lots past and present. Any concept entices our imaginations fulfilling in some capacity automotive dreams of years ahead. To all the manufacturers still focusing on making an automobile driver appreciative; never let that perish beneath this autopilot craze.