Most new inventions invest little energy on style. Form follows function until the product is proven, and so it was with the automobile. Early cars had a simple engine cover, seat, wheels and tires with open fenders to protect the occupants from flying mud and debris. Lighting was added as it became necessary and eventually a roof, windscreen and side glazing.
As products evolved, excessive style eventually reached its zenith during the American Futurism period of the 1950s, and not just with cars. This was a time of optimism when the likes of Raymond Loewy and Brooks Stevens were adding their touch to everything from locomotives to toasters, while automotive designers like Harley Earl and Virgil Exner were adding fins and chrome to anything with wheels.
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Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.