In the early 1950s, the automotive world was abuzz with innovations and the quest for the ultimate driving experience. Among these innovations was the Chicagoan, a fiberglass sports car that captured the imagination of car enthusiasts and marked a notable chapter in the history of American sports cars. Developed by Triplex Industries, this unique vehicle represented a significant departure from traditional car manufacturing techniques of the time.
The Chicagoan made its debut at the 1954 Chicago Automobile Show, showcasing a contemporary design that highlighted the growing trend of using fiberglass in automotive construction. The car's body was crafted from fiberglass, a material that provided both durability and a lightweight alternative to traditional steel bodies. This design choice not only made the Chicagoan more affordable but also contributed to its performance by reducing its overall weight.
With a length of 14.5 feet and a wheelbase of 100 inches, the Chicagoan was a compact and nimble roadster. The car weighed approximately 2,100 pounds, which, combined with its sleek, low-slung design, gave it a sporty and agile character.
Initially, the Chicagoan was offered with a Willys L-head six-cylinder engine. However, the vehicle's design was versatile enough to accommodate a range of engines. Buyers had the option to select virtually any V-8 engine of the era, although most Chicagoans were equipped with flathead Ford V-8 engines. This flexibility allowed the Chicagoan to cater to a broad spectrum of performance preferences, from more modest six-cylinder power to the more robust V-8 options.
In 1954, the Chicagoan's name was changed to the Triplex, and the vehicle's design was slightly revised. The new model continued to feature a fiberglass body and offered the same engine flexibility as before. This version of the car maintained its appeal among sports car enthusiasts, who appreciated the blend of contemporary design and customizable performance.
The Chicagoan was offered both as a kit and as a fully assembled vehicle. Initially, the car's manufacturers planned to sell the kit for $1,500 and the completed car for $2,500. Production was anticipated to reach 300 to 400 units per year. However, due to various challenges, including financial difficulties and limited market reach, only about 15 fully assembled Chicagoans were sold by 1954, all within the greater Chicago area. The number of kits sold is not well documented.
Despite its limited production, the Chicagoan garnered attention for its innovative use of fiberglass and its potential for customization. Period articles, such as one from Chicago Magazine in June 1954, praised the car for its sleek design, performance potential, and the opportunity it provided for enthusiasts to build their own sports car with a degree of ease.
Frank Albert Hinger, born on April 3, 1914, was the key figure behind the Chicagoan. Hinger, who had an extensive background in engineering and safety, was instrumental in transforming Triplex Industries from a manufacturer of washing machines and dry cleaning equipment into a producer of high-explosive loading equipment. His expertise and vision led to the development of the Chicagoan.
Hinger's career included significant roles during World War II and the Korean War, where he worked as a safety and security officer for munitions facilities. His transition to the automotive industry with Triplex Industries marked a shift in focus but showcased his ability to adapt and innovate. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operations and ventured into the production of fiberglass sports cars.
The Chicagoan represents an important milestone in the evolution of sports cars. It was one of the early adopters of fiberglass technology, which would later become a standard in the industry. While production numbers were modest and the car's market impact limited, the Chicagoan's innovative approach and customizable nature left a lasting impression on automotive enthusiasts.
The car's legacy is also tied to its connection with Triplex Industries and Frank Hinger. The transition from a company focused on washing machines to one involved in cutting-edge automotive technology highlights the dynamic nature of mid-20th-century American manufacturing and innovation.
The Chicagoan remains a notable example of early American sports car design, blending contemporary aesthetics with groundbreaking materials and customizable performance options. Despite its limited production and the challenges faced by its manufacturers, the Chicagoan's place in automotive history is secured by its pioneering use of fiberglass and its role in the evolution of sports car technology. As a testament to the creativity and ambition of its creators, the Chicagoan continues to be remembered by automotive enthusiasts and historians alike.
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