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The stylist of the big American 4-door sedan was also behind the Chrysler Charger, the much-admired sporty fastback that became a legend on Australian and New Zealand roads and racetracks in the 1970s.
More than 30 years ago Bob Hubbach was sent Down-Under to help Chrysler launch a locally made competitor to Holden and Ford. The exciting two-door coupe Charger took everyone by surprise and with a high performance HEMI engine amongst the options under the bonnet, the car became an overnight sensation, and has now become a valuable collector’s item.
Fast-forward to 2005 and Bob’s final styling task for the Chrysler Group, the equally dramatic 300C, has just gone on sale in New Zealand. With an available HEMI V8 option, the 300C is now repeating the success of the earlier Charger.
The American auto artist has not forgotten his links with this part of the world either. When he heard the Chrysler 300C was being launched in New Zealand, with several former and current Charger owners amongst the guests at some of the functions that were taking place, Bob sent a signed sketch of the original concept for the car he conceived in 1999.
The framed picture of the concept car, which turned out to be very close to the final production version, now hangs in pride of place at the DaimlerChrysler New Zealand headquarters in Mt Wellington.
“The brilliance of Bob Hubbach is evident in both the dramatic and handsome lines of the 300C, and the classic design of the Charger. Both are vehicles that turn heads and look exceptionally good on the road,” says Brett Aspden, General Manager for Chrysler Jeep New Zealand.
“It was a wonderful gesture on Bob’s part all these years after his Down-Under experiences. We would also like to thank the New Zealand Chrysler Charger R/T Club who were responsible for contacting Bob about our launch of the 300C in New Zealand.”
Gary Bridger, a member of the Chrysler Charger R/T Club came across Bob Hubbach whilst co writing a book on the birth of the Charger. Mr Bridger and Bob Hubbach have been swapping emails ever since.
Bob Hubbach retired from the Chrysler Group five years ago and told Mr Bridger that his final project was the exterior design for the 300C. This vehicle has since gone on to become the most awarded new car in the company’s history. Bob was also involved in several other inspiring Chrysler Group designs over the years, including the Plymouth Prowler, Dodge Viper GTS and two stunning concept cars, the Chrysler Atlantic and Dodge Copperhead.
According to Mr Bridger, Bob still has a soft spot for the Charger, as well as having fond memories of Australia and New Zealand. The VH Valiant and its sibling, the Charger, were amongst the first Chrysler products he styled. In addition to living in Australia during the development of the Charger, Bob also visited New Zealand and spent some time on Waiheke Island on the recommendation of an artist friend.
These days, Bob Hubbach still lives close to the Chrysler Group headquarters in Michigan and now produces his striking automotive artworks for sale to enthusiasts.
