If you think the only daring designs of the 20th century were tied to counterculture movements and radical protest, buckle up and get ready for a ride through Virgil Exner's ingenious automotive imagination. Exner wasn't just a car designer; he was the rebellious spirit who tore up the rule book, reshaping the destiny of American automobiles in the 1950s and 60s. Born in the heartland of America in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1909, Exner grew up amidst the burgeoning of the automotive industry. By the time he was ready to put pencil to paper, the world of car design was his playground, and he played by his own rules.
Exner's journey took him from a beginning with General Motors to transforming Chrysler's fortunes with unparalleled creativity. Still, to pigeonhole him as just another Detroit designer would be a serious mistake. Let's break down why his legacy remains an influential force and why some might find it stands at odds with today's mainstream "progressive" design in the car industry.
The Visionary Who Knew No Limits: Exner had a vision that wasn't bound by the convention or what the broader society thought automobiles should be. His designs were characterized by boldness—the real kind, not the watered-down, focus-group-approved take. His cars stood out because they were the reflection of one man's daring imagination, not the product of committees.
The Birth of the "Forward Look": In the mid-50s, Exner introduced Chrysler's "Forward Look"—a design language that revolutionized the industry. While others were playing it safe with mild improvements, Exner pushed boundaries with sleeker lines and audacious tailfins. These weren't just cars; they were moving sculptures, expressing a vision of a future that refused to conform to the dull norms of the time.
Fins and Flair Defying the Herd: Exner wasn't afraid to embrace features that made his designs radically different. The tailfins on models like the 1957 Plymouth Fury became iconic, and not just because they looked cool. They encapsulated a sense of individuality and optimism, flying in the face of the staid designs churned out by risk-averse companies.
Elegance Meets Muscle: At a time when the motor industry was torn between luxurious elegance and brute horsepower, Exner paved a path for both. His designs comfortably mingled refinement with raw power, earning admiration not just on Main Street but in the realm of serious car aficionados.
Reviving America’s Proudest Automotive Moment: The 1960s Imperial Crown convertible is a prime example of Exner's genius—a car that doubled as a status symbol and an art piece. During an era when the American car was a global icon, Exner played a pivotal part in crafting that grandeur, restoring a sense of pride that lesser designers let slip away.
Not Just a Trend Follower: Exner’s audacity was his rejection of simply following trends for the sake of it. Instead, he sought to define new ones, an attitude sorely missed in today's design world, which at times seems more intent on pleasing the liberal elite than capturing the hearts of auto enthusiasts.
Self-Expression Through Automobiles: For Exner, car design was a medium of self-expression. He wasn’t merely inventing objects of transportation; he was crafting symbols that spoke volumes about an unabashed pursuit of innovation. This spirit of individuality pushed back against the collectivist mentality that threatened to stifle creativity.
A Legacy of Inspiration: By the late 60s, Exner left Chrysler, but his influence was far from over. Designers across the globe who admired his work faced the daunting task of living up to the iconic standards he set. His willingness to take risks has served as a guide for those wishing to stand out rather than blend in.
Classic Cars with Timeless Appeal: Many of Exner’s designs remain revered classics today, not just for their aesthetics but for what they represent—a bold time when American cars stood for the best of American ingenuity.
A Lesson in True Innovation: In our politically correct times, where daring ideas often mean toeing the line, Exner's career offers a reminder of what it really means to innovate. His work wasn't just about making something new, but making something memorable without apologizing for it.
Virgil Exner remains a poignant reminder of when American automakers weren’t afraid to think big, think bold, and challenge the status quo. While the modern auto industry wrestles with those who would rather play it safe, Exner's legacy shines as a beacon for those who understand that true progress often emerges not just from following trends, but from setting them.