Little Things

The primary thesis for the bus was the fusion of an old Pullman coach with a streamline bus. At its root, the vehicle is about imagination and fantasy. While it certainly is a fully functioning and running motor coach, it isn’t entirely ‘real.’ There are elements throughout that we put in place as reminders of another time, knit together with brand new pieces to ensure things function perfectly even when they appear to be…old.

As an example, Flxible ’52 has a modern mobile audio system, including components from Alpine, Kenwood, and Polk Audio. But the speakers are enclosed with vintage cloth and include real badges from an early RCA Victor Orthophonic hi-fi system. The first aid kit, housed in a rear cabinet, is an authentic 1940s metal box. The steering wheel, in antique white, includes a Flxible logo but it sits on a modern column.

We also included pieces of the original interior where we could. Fluted aluminum panels at the seat bases are the same ones that passengers might have kicked up against in 1952. The edge of the newly fabricated overhead luggage racks includes original metal trim. The dashboard surround, which now houses all modern Freightliner instruments, is factory as well.

And there are other bits of whimsy that are more personal and yet still fully integrated into the design. Destination signs for New Mexico, Maine, and Massachusetts have sentimental connections. Signs for Ferness and Gallifrey are perhaps a bit more obscure. Inside, the sliding blue doors to the bedroom may remind some folks of a London Police Box.

Through it all, we looked for ways to make sure we were designing the bus as a complete experience, a unit from bumper to bumper. I hope we’ve accomplished that goal.