January 4, 2004

Chevy Nomad concept recalls 1954 Nomad

Detroit, Michigan - With styling that harks back to the distinctive two-door 1954 Chevrolet Nomad, a 21st century Nomad concept was unveiled in Detroit today. Based on GM's new rear-wheel-drive Kappa platform, which also serves as the foundation for the Pontiac Solstice production model and Saturn Curve concept, the Nomad concept features a 250 horsepower turbocharged 2.2 litre Ecotec four cylinder engine with variable valve timing, independent front and rear suspensions, four passenger capability, a removeable rear roof panel, and a unique tailgate that includes a sliding tray that makes it easier to load cargo items.

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Designed at GM's design centre in Great Britain and assembled with the help of renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, the Nomad concept features round headlamps mounted on gently curving fenders, a retro Corvette grille, a thick forward-sloping B-pillar and a blacked-out C-pillar, a lowered roofline which wraps around the rear of the vehicle, and seven vertical chrome strips on the tailgate.

"There is a simple, yet very expressive design to the Nomad," said Dale Brewer, lead exterior designer. "The face of the vehicle, along with the lights, the shape of the grille and the tailgate have Chevrolet heritage, but conveyed in a thoroughly modern way."

The interior's retro look includes a large, fan-shaped central gauge cluster with a 3-D look, an aluminum background and special instrument lighting. In front of the gauges is a large, classic-looking steering wheel that is covered in leather. The black leather-trimmed interior features blue Nubuck inserts, anodized blue aluminum gauges and blue lighting. Chevrolet "bowtie" insignias accent a metal band that runs the length of the dashboard - a styling cue on Chevrolet models of the 1950s that contributes to the interior's geometric theme.

For cargo-carrying convenience, flexible rear seating arrangements include a centre armrest that folds to store long items, such as skis, while each rear seatback folds to increase the Nomad's overall cargo space.

"The idea for a compact vehicle like this is more relevant now than ever," said Jose Gonzalez, lead interior designer. "As much as people crave a sporty, great looking vehicle, modern lifestyle interests demand functionality. The Nomad has both - an unmistakable character, like the SSR, and the utility of the upcoming HHR. Whether or not they can convey it in words, it's what everybody is looking for in a new vehicle."

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