Why did they stop making square bodys?
The square body trucks, particularly those produced by General Motors from 1973 to 1987, hold a special place in the hearts of truck enthusiasts. Known for their rugged design, durability, and ease of maintenance, these trucks were a staple of American roads for over a decade. However, like all good things, the production of square body trucks eventually came to an end. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this decision and what it meant for the automotive industry.
1. Changing Consumer Preferences
By the late 1980s, consumer preferences in the automotive market were shifting. Buyers were increasingly looking for vehicles that offered more aerodynamic designs, improved fuel efficiency, and modern features. The boxy, angular design of square body trucks, while iconic, was no longer in line with the sleek and rounded aesthetics that were becoming popular at the time.
2. Stricter Government Regulations
During the 1980s, government regulations regarding fuel efficiency and emissions became more stringent. Square body trucks, with their heavier frames and less aerodynamic shapes, struggled to meet these new standards. Automakers, including General Motors, had to adapt their designs to comply with these regulations, which meant moving away from the square body style.
3. Advancements in Automotive Technology
The automotive industry was rapidly evolving during the 1980s and 1990s. New materials, manufacturing techniques, and design philosophies were being adopted to create vehicles that were lighter, safer, and more efficient. The square body design, which had been in production for over a decade, was becoming outdated in the face of these advancements.
4. Competitive Pressure
Competition in the truck market was fierce, with manufacturers like Ford and Dodge introducing new models that featured modern designs and advanced features. To stay competitive, General Motors had to innovate and introduce a new generation of trucks that could rival their competitors. This led to the development of the GMT400 platform, which replaced the square body trucks in 1988.
5. The Need for Modernization
After 14 years of production, the square body trucks had reached the end of their lifecycle. Automakers typically refresh or redesign their models every few years to keep up with market trends and technological advancements. The introduction of the GMT400 platform marked a new era for GM trucks, with updated designs and features that appealed to a broader audience.
- Consumer demand for more modern and aerodynamic designs.
- Stricter fuel efficiency and emissions regulations.
- Advancements in automotive technology and materials.
- Increased competition from other manufacturers.
- The natural lifecycle of a vehicle model.
While the square body trucks are no longer in production, their legacy lives on. They remain highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their timeless design and robust performance. The decision to stop making square body trucks was driven by a combination of market demands, regulatory changes, and the need for innovation, but their impact on the automotive world is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do cabover trucks ride rough?
Wheelbase offer a smoother ride. The extra length acts as a buffer reducing vibrations. And improving overall comfort for drivers tackling cross-country journeys.
Why did they stop building cabover trucks?
- When overal length restrictions for US highways were greatly relaxed in the 1970s (or was it the 1960s?), the need for the complex steering and cab lifting mechanism was gone and few have been made since.
- They do offer increased maneuverability but little else.
What is the most sought after square body?
A: The 1987 Chevy C10 is often considered the most sought after square body Chevy.
Why don't the US use cabovers?
There are pluses and minuses to both cabovers and long-nose “conventional” trucks, but the reason Europe and America once favored the same flat-front cabs and have since taken different roads is largely down to legislation, specifically laws concerning overall vehicle length.
Are Squarebody chevys reliable?
They are reliable, easy to find parts for, and relatively affordable. Make sure you get it inspected by a 3rd party independent vehicle inspector as many of these original trucks show heavy rust repairs and other issues.
Why did they stop making square body cars?
Market competition and changing tastes doomed the square body style. Chevy's aptly-named square-body trucks were in production for 14 years, with the automaker and its sibling manufacturer, GMC, cranking out the muscular builds from 1973 to 1987.
When did Ford stop making square bodies?
'87 was the last year for pickup truck square bodies. If you get an 87 fuel injected pickup truck, get a spare ecm and put it in the glove box, they were known to not be reliable. Other than that, they are pretty solid trucks. Ford has the TTB in 4wd trucks, something to look into.
When did they quit making square bodies?
1991
Select Square Body models, such as the Blazer, Suburban, and dual-wheel pickups, continued production until 1991. But generally speaking, '73 – '87 is seen as the primary years of production for Square Body trucks.
What does C10 stand for?
C10, This nomenclature was used by Chevrolet to distinguish their line of pickup trucks throughout the 1960s to the 1980s. The "C" in C10 stands for "Conventional" in reference to the truck's two-wheel-drive system, while the "10" refers to the half-ton rating of the truck's payload capacity.
Will Square Body trucks ever come back?
Is Chevy Bringing Back Square-Body in 2024? The short answer is yes. Looking ahead, Chevrolet's future includes an expansion of their truck lineup to include fully electric models.
