Feeding the Inner Geek

This has been a great week for my inner geek. The Barrett Jackson auto auction is being held in Scottsdale Arizona and Speed Network is bringing it to folks around the world. Watching really cool cars being sold for amounts of money that I will never have. The vehicle of the show though was a really cool bus.

From the Barrett-Jackson website, the bus was one of 12 built by GM, a self-contained display and transport vehicle created by the GM design staff under Harley Earl's direction. Opening side, lighting, retractable stage, distinctive center "cupola" cockpit driving position and dual wheel front axle. Used in the "Parade of Progress" touring exhibit created by "Boss" Kettering that complemented the GM "Motoramas" from 1940 through 1956. One of only three survivors restored in their original "Parade of Progress" configuration (the others are in long term ownership by NATMUS and Peter Pan Bus Lines), this Futurliner is fully functional and has toured Canada in corporate promotions. Recently returned to its original "Parade of Progress" configuration and colors. Powered by a 400ci GM truck engine and fully equipped including an onboard motor-generator and updated air conditioning for the driver's compartment. A matchless symbol of the American auto industry at the height of its power and influence.

It was sold for $4 million dollars setting a new record for the Barrett-Jackson auctions. Watching a cool auction of cool cars is a great way to spend a Saturday.