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The Buick Electra 225 Concept from 1962 was a bold and innovative proposal by GM’s Design Center, showcasing a visionary feature that would have been revolutionary at the time: a side-opening trunk. This concept, based on a 4-door hardtop model, featured a trunk that didn’t open traditionally from the rear but instead from the side, offering a unique solution for loading and unloading cargo.
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The side-opening trunk was equipped with a concealed key access mechanism integrated into the vehicle’s chrome side trim, adding to the car's sleek and futuristic appearance. This hidden feature could be operated remotely from inside the vehicle, making it convenient and practical for the driver and passengers, especially when parked in tight spaces where traditional rear-opening trunks might be less accessible.
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Though the side-opening trunk never made it to production, the Buick Electra 225 Concept remains a fascinating glimpse into the creative engineering of the early 1960s. It demonstrated GM’s willingness to experiment with new ideas that could shape the future of automotive design, blending function with flair.