by Ronnie Schreiber, Chevy SSR Forum editor
Recently published sketches show a sedan-delivery or panel truck version of the
Chevy SSR. It's a natural progression on the styling of the SSR and may actually work
better visually than the pickup bed. Though the Chevy SUVs are certainly capable vehicles,
it wouldn't hurt dealers to have a performance image vehicle headlining their SUV and
crossover lineup. The PT Cruiser and other cars have demonstrated the market validity of
retro styling and the PT's panel truck body allows a very flexible and useful minivan
interior, but one complaint about the PT is that it was underpowered, hence the
development of the PT Turbo. The PT Turbo is pretty quick, but a V-8 is a V-8 and a SSR
based panel truck would find a market with those who like the SSR's style and power but
need a more practical package.
ASC, the developers of the SSR's unique two piece retractable hardtop roof and a major partner with Chevy on the project would most likely be involved in any variations on the SSR. When contacted, ASC had no official comment, but off the record some of the car nuts at ASC think it's a cool idea. The car nuts here at Chevy SSR Forum agree. In addition to working on the roof, ASC supplies over 40 components and subassemblies for the SSR from a satellite plant near GM's Lansing Craft Center, where the SSR is assembled, so expanding the SSR line to include a panel or wagon back wouldn't hurt their business. The article in Motor Trend sounded as though Chevy was giving the idea serious consideration. If the idea didn't originate at ASC, it most likely is a trail balloon floated by Chevy to guage some reaction. If so, I wouldn't be surprised to see a panel truck SSR as a show car, maybe at this year's SEMA show.
With the performance SUV market being established with vehicles like the Porsche Cayenne and the Infiniti FX45/35, a SSR 'delivery wagon' also might deliver a few more customers into Chevy showrooms. Right now there really isn't a performance SUV available from an American manufacturer.