Concept car of the year - Aussie FJ

Bold Holden wins top US award
June 22, 2007
Article from: AAP

HOLDEN'S EFIJY hot rod, a 21st century version of the iconic Australian FJ Holden, has been named the United States concept car of the year.

The award was announced today at a ceremony at the Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn, Michigan.

It was picked from a field of 33 concept vehicles and 11 production preview models which debuted during the 2007 North American auto show season.

The EFIJY was created by Holden's Melbourne design team for the 2005 Sydney Motor Show.

The pillarless coupe, finished in Soprana purple, was fitted with a 480KW V8 and included state-of-the-art technology throughout.

Holden designer and project leader Richard Ferlazzo said the car existed purely for automotive entertainment.

"It is particularly gratifying for the car to be recognised in this way in the US which is historically the home of flamboyant automotive design," Mr Ferlazzo said.

"It's nice to know that there is still a place in the concept car arena for a purely expressive design."

GM Holden's director of design Tony Stolfo said the car had been well received wherever it was shown.

"It was a real labour of love from all those involved in its creation and the end result is a testament to their dedication and creativity," he said.

"This award is further recognition of that and a further advertisement for the talent and versatility of the designers we have here at GM Holden."