1960 Chevrolet CERV I Research Vehicle

CERV stands for Chevrolet Engineering Research Vehicle. The 1960 CERV-I is the first of four high-performance research vehicles produced by Chevrolet over 35 years. The CERV I was developed between 1959 and 1960 by Zora Arkus Duntov as a functional mid-engine, open-wheel, single-seat prototype racing car, with Larry Shinoda and Tony Lapine doing the design work. Duntov developed CERV I as a platform for engineers to build and refine Chevrolet body, chassis, and suspension systems. Due to the AMA (Automobile Manufacturer’s Association) ban on manufacturer-sponsored racing, Duntov drove the CERV I’s demo laps at the U.S. Grand Prix in 1960. Its impressive performance on the test track drove him to have higher aspirations, the checkered flag at Indy.

The CERV I was initially equipped with a 283 cid / 350 hp, small block V8 engine, weighing only 350 lbs. Intensive use of aluminum and magnesium engine components saved over 175 lbs. Complementing its lightweight power plant, designer Larry Shinoda constructed the body structure out of fiberglass, which weighed in at only 80 lbs. The body structure was attached to a rigid 125 lb. Chrome-molybdenum tube-made frame, welded in a truss-like configuration. Combining these lightweight components helped the CERV I’s 96-inch wheelbase weigh 1,600 lbs. The chassis features a four-wheel independent suspension. The front suspension uses independent, variable-rate springs with shock absorbers and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension uses independent multilink, variable rate springs with double-acting shock absorbers, and the wheels are cast of magnesium alloy. Steering is recirculating ball type with a 12:1 ratio.

The brake system uses a front disc/rear drum with a two-piston master cylinder to eliminate the chance of complete brake failure. Fuel is delivered via two rubber bladder fuel cells (20 gal. total capacity).

Fuel-injected small block technology was developed using the CERV I. For even more excellent performance, Duntov refitted the CERV I with a 377 cu. in. aluminum small block, an advanced Rochester fuel injection system, and Indy-style tires and wheels. Shinoda redesigned its streamlined body structure to match this mechanical updating for more excellent aerodynamics. The top speed was 206 mph.

Source: Bill Bowman - wiki.gmnext.com; Mario van Ginneken - www.corvettes.nl

Images: www.shorey.net; General Motors Archive