During the 1960s, Chevrolet unveiled an extraordinary concept called the 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle El Camino Surfer I convertible. This concept featured a roofless El Camino towing a floating V8 boat, and it left a lasting impression. The GM Design team recently shared images of this incredible concept on Instagram, sparking curiosity and interest in its history.
The primary purpose of this concept was to showcase Chevrolet’s new high-performance V8 engine for the 1966 model year. To achieve this, engineers removed the roof of the El Camino and equipped it with the new engine. The same engine was also installed in a custom Gaylord ski boat, creating a unique combination of power and style. The engine boasted 425 horsepower and had individual chrome-plated exhaust stacks for efficient exhaust expulsion. However, it’s worth noting that the loud straight pipes may have caused some temporary hearing loss.
The El Camino itself underwent some modifications in addition to the roof removal. It was lowered, and special side pillars were added to accommodate the new design. Spotlights were installed on the doors, a popular trend in the 1960s. The car featured wood trim on the rocker panels, tailgate, and bed, adding to the overall nautical theme. The exterior was pearlescent white with contrasting red interior, matching the colors of the boat and the custom-designed trailer.
This concept not only showcased the new V8 engine but also emphasized Chevrolet’s involvement in the marine engine segment. The company was a major supplier in the marine industry, and the 396 engine proved successful in that field. Unfortunately, it is unclear whether the V8 boat was ever used in the water. If it was, anyone within a half-mile radius would have experienced quite the noise.
As for the fate of the entire Surfer I concept, including the car and boat, it remains a mystery. Hand-written notes on the original press release indicate that it was displayed at the 1965 Chicago Auto Show and later at the New York World’s Fair. However, the GM archives do not have this concept in their collection, and further online research has turned up no leads. It is possible that the concept was crushed or destroyed many years ago.
Regardless of its current status, the 1965 Chevy El Camino Convertible Concept with the V8 boat remains a symbol of the innovative and adventurous spirit of the 1960s.