American Motor Corporation (AMC) made a bold move in the mid-50s by hiring industrial designer Richard Arbib to create a futuristic concept car. This car, named Astra-Gnome, was based on a 1955 Nash Metropolitan chassis and was intended to represent what a time-traveling vehicle might look like in the year 2000.
Crafted in just four months, the Astra-Gnome was a striking sight to behold. Made from aluminum and chrome, the exterior featured full fender skirts that gave the car a unique boat-like appearance. The rear fins and taillights reflected the iconic ’50s style, adding to the overall retro-futuristic look of the vehicle. The bubble canopy provided a 360-degree view for the driver and passenger, enhancing the space-age feel of the car.
Inside the cabin, the seats were upholstered in a combination of satin blue and space gray. The steering wheel, covered in blue chrome, featured the Astra-Gnome logo at its center. The knobs and gear lever were light blue and transparent, adding to the futuristic aesthetic of the interior. The giant celestial clock at eye level served as a central focal point in the cockpit.
Richard Arbib was no stranger to innovative design. Before creating the Astra-Gnome, he had worked on concept designs for major automakers like General Motors and Ford. He also dabbled in creating unique package designs, such as the Pan American based on a modified Packard 250 convertible. Arbib’s talent extended beyond just automotive design, as he also created the Hamilton asymmetrical electric watch and the elegant Century Coronado hardtop speedboat.
The Astra-Gnome’s success was undeniable, with the car appearing on the cover of newsweek on September 3, 1956, and making a splash at the New York International Auto Show later that year. The futuristic design and innovative features of the vehicle captured the imagination of many at the time.
Today, the Astra-Gnome remains a notable piece of automotive history, showcasing the creative vision of Richard Arbib and the forward-thinking approach of AMC. The car serves as a reminder of the era’s fascination with space exploration and technological advancements.
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