Back in 1969 Holden revealed its first concept car, the Holden Hurricane. The concept was meant “to study design trend, propulsion systems and other long-range developments.” The mid-engine, rear wheel-drive, two-seater concept featured many features and technology that were ahead of its time like an electronic digital instrument displays, station-seeking radio, automatic temperature control air conditioning, rear-vision camera and an automated route finder. 42 years later the concept has been restored.
The Hurricane wowed the crowds at its unveiling at the 1969 Melbourne Motor Show.
“At Holden we have always prided ourselves on our ability to look into the future through our concept cars,” Michael Simcoe, executive director GMIO Design stated. “It’s amazing to think that the features we take for granted today were born out of creative minds over 40 years ago.”
The Hurricane was powered by an experimental 262 horsepower 4.2L V8 engine that featured advanced design components such as the four-barrel carburetor – a feature which wouldn’t be seen on a production 253ci Holden V8 until the late 1970s.
The Holden Hurricane will be on display to the public at the Motorclassica, car show at the Melbourne Royal Exhibition Building from October 21-23.
