1961 Ford Concept Car Being Built for the 2020 Market

Photographer: Underwood Archives/Archive Photos via Getty Images

In 1961 Ford's concept car of the future was called the Gyron and was designed by Syd Mead. It was a two seater and two wheeled automobile that had gyroscopes installed to maintain its balance while on the road. It had "kick stands" that stabilized the car when it was parked. To me it looks like a covered motorcycle and expect for the side by side seating arrangement essentially that's what it was. There is only one Gyron (1961) in existence owned by a private collector who paid $40,000 for the car.

The newer version of the Gyron is about as attractive as the original concept car in my opinion but it will probably have an appeal to the younger environmentally conscious generations. It looks as if it will only accommodate one person and runs on batteries.

I find it interesting that the concept was re-awakened and its been redesigned and modernized with technology in use in other devices such as our iPhones, Segways, and computer mice. The vehicle is controlled with a computer mouse and has a 24" Computer Screen. I imagine the screen will have access to road maps and more. The builder hopes the car will be ready for market by the year 2020.

Photographer: Giulia Marchi/Bloomberg

Photographer: Giulia Marchi/Bloomberg