Meet the 'Corphibian', the Chevrolet Corvair that decided to become a boat

This cute little oddity is known as the ‘Corphibian’, and while it looks like a pickup truck, it’s actually a Chevrolet Corvair that decided to become a boat.

And yes, it’s as uniquely impressive as it sounds.

This is the story of the one and only ‘Corphibian.’

The little car that became a boat but never made it to the production line…

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Chevrolet Corvair is often overlooked

The Chevrolet Corvair is a car with a bit of a unique history.

Many Chevrolet models enjoy a lot of love today; some even go as far as icon status.

Models such as the Chevelle, the Impala, and the Camaro all enjoy beloved status.

Of course, the Chevrolet Corvette is not only legendary, but it still continues to be produced today.

Unfortunately for the Corvair, it does not enjoy the same level of love.

It lacked the muscle and power of many of its Chevrolet siblings.

In fairness, the Corvair still played an important role in the American car industry.

It served as something of a buttress against the European imports of the day, especially the Volkswagen Beetle.

Unfortunately, the Corvair only came with an 80hp engine.

Later models – especially the final model – would eventually come with more power.

But it simply wasn’t enough, and the Chevrolet Corvair was ultimately swept aside.

Pontiac pair build the ‘Corphibian’

Where the Corvair did thrive, though, was in its versatility.

Unlike the Beetle, Chevy’s model could be had as a coupe, wagon, sedan, or even as a pickup truck.

Two Pontiac engineers, Richard E. Hulten and Roger D. Holm, thought the model was missing something.

The Pontiac pair felt there was a market for an amphibious-based model.

The engineers formed their own company, Hulten-Holm Co.

They created an actual working prototype – with the aim of selling the idea to Chevrolet.

And thus, the ‘Corphibian’ was born.

At this point, you’re probably wondering how on Earth the design actually worked.

It featured an extended bed and fiberglass hull – fiberglass being light, rustproof, and extensively proven in boating.

Most controls were located in the rear, although the throttle could be controlled from the cab or the bed.

The engine and transmission remained the same – but it worked.

Interestingly, the pair presented their ideas to GM executives – who decided to pass on the project.

The one-and-only remaining working example remains as pristine as it was in the 1960s.

It currently sits proudly in the Lane Motor Museum in Nashville, Tennessee.