The 1961 Dodge Flitewing Concept Car was a futuristic and innovative design created by Chrysler's advanced styling studio under the direction of Virgil Exner. It was first introduced to the public on December 5, 1961, in Central Park, Manhattan. The car featured two "flip-up" window-roof canopies that automatically activated when the doors were opened or closed, controlled by pushbuttons. This design aimed to improve visibility and ease of entry and exit by eliminating a center post.
Although the Flitewing was initially intended to influence future exterior designs at Chrysler, its ambitious features, such as the gullwing side-glass and windshield assemblies, were deemed impractical for mass production due to issues with dependability, sealing, and cost. Despite this, some elements of the Flitewing's design, like its sleek lines and subtle tail fins, can be seen in later Chrysler models, like the Chrysler Imperial.
The Flitewing was powered by a 383-cubic-inch V8 engine with ram-induction intake manifolding, producing 330 horsepower, and paired with a Torqueflite automatic transmission. It also featured advanced gadgets for its time, such as platform bucket seats and a unique speedometer that looked like a thermometer with 13 lit windows.
As for its current whereabouts, the Flitewing has not been seen in public for many years, and its exact location is unknown. It is believed that the car was displayed at various auto shows until around 1964, but its fate remains a mystery.
[Sources: Bing.com, and Engineerine.com]
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