The design division traces its roots back to a one-room operation known as GM's 'Art and Colour Section,' which represented the auto industry's first in-house design studio when it was established on June 23 1927. The division flourished under the initial direction of custom coach builder Harley Earl, with the Cadillac Madame X, the Buick Y-Job (widely considered to be the first concept car) and the 1951 Buick LeSabre concept (pictured above) among its numerous early accomplishments.
"What was true 85 years ago is still true today: A designer's role is to create a beautifully executed exterior with great proportions to draw you in, and an interior environment that invites you into a relationship that develops and grows," said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design.
