Random Fascinating GM Historic Events and Facts (photos)

General Motors has brought the automotive industry a great deal of joy, thanks to cars like the Corvette. Here are some random facts about GM that may put a smile on your face.

By Bassem Girgis - June 6, 2017
GM Electrovan
Mako Shark Corvette
Mechanical Heart Pump
First Female CEO
First Concept

1. GM Electrovan

At the GM Technical Center Campus in Warren, Michigan, General Motor filmed an advertisement that shines some light on their 1966 Electrovan. In the 1960s, GM developed the prototype of a van that runs on a hydrogen fuel cell. Unfortunately, hydrogen fuel cell power was expensive technology, which quickly put an end to their innovative experiments.

>>Join the conversation about Random Fascinating GM Historic Events right here in the Corvette Forum!

2. Mako Shark Corvette

In 1961, Chevy came out with a concept called the "Mako Shark." The car was inspired by a Mako Shark that William Mitchell, vice president of GM's Styling Staff,  caught while in Florida. Just like a real shark the concept was blue and white, with a soft blend between both. The car also had various touches that resemble the beautiful, wild creature. Under the hood was also a vicious beast, a 427 ZL-1 V8 motor, which developed 425-horsepower.

>>Join the conversation about Random Fascinating GM Historic Events right here in the Corvette Forum!

3. Mechanical Heart Pump

Aside from being an innovative force that helped build the automotive industry, General Motors also played a critical role in the medical field. GM used one of their labs to help create the Dodrill-GMR Mechanical Pump, which was funded by the American Heart Association. This machine helped start the medical evolution that led to making open heart surgeries possible for millions of people.

>>Join the conversation about Random Fascinating GM Historic Events right here in the Corvette Forum!

4. First Female CEO

Mary Barra became the CEO of General Motors on January 15, 2014, making her the very first woman to hold the position of CEO for a major automotive company. Currently, she remains the first and only woman CEO for an automotive company of that size.

>>Join the conversation about Random Fascinating GM Historic Events right here in the Corvette Forum!

5. First Concept

In 1938, General Motors combined automotive and art, when Harley Earl invented the notion of the concept car. This tradition became normal among car manufacturers in order to not just test the waters for a potential vehicle but to also give consumers a peek to the designs and tech that a brand was currently exploring. He introduced the Buick Y-Job, which was the first vehicle to feature artistic characteristics, like the retractable headlights and the power convertible top.

>>Join the conversation about Random Fascinating GM Historic Events right here in the Corvette Forum!

For help with service or mods for your car, check out the how-to section of CorvetteForum.com

NEXT
BACK
NEXT
BACK