The 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado was a looker, wasn’t it? Now, imagine it transformed into a sleek, low-profile mobile office fit for a traveling business tycoon. That’s precisely what the “Cruiseaire” is, a unique piece of automotive history recently auctioned off from the incredible “Royce G Kershaw Jr” Estate Collection. As a long-time car enthusiast and author here at Car News, this one-of-a-kind Toronado custom piqued my interest, and let me tell you, it’s a fascinating story.
A Visionary’s Dream on Wheels
This isn’t your average restored classic. Royce Kershaw Sr., a man clearly ahead of his time, envisioned a mobile office experience unlike any other. He purchased a brand new 1968 Oldsmobile Toronado and, in a move that would make any car nut’s jaw drop, removed the entire body!
Why? To utilize the factory chassis and powerful 425 cubic inch Oldsmobile V8 drivetrain as the base for his ambitious project, of course. He then commissioned famed coachbuilder Glenn Pray, renowned for his stunning Cord 8/10 replicas, to bring his vision to life.
The Making of a Mobile Office Masterpiece
Pray, with input from legendary automotive designer Gordon Buehrig (the mastermind behind the Auburn 851 Speedster and Cord 810/812, among others), crafted a bespoke body for the Toronado, turning it into a luxurious and functional mobile office.
Imagine this: a single driver’s seat (chauffeur-driven, naturally), a stove for preparing meals on the go, a cooler for refreshments, a black and white TV for entertainment, an 8-track player for catching the latest tunes, and a telephone/intercom system for staying connected with the driver.
Sadly, Royce Kershaw Sr. passed away before the interior was completed. His family, determined to see his dream realized, later entrusted Howard Areo aircraft interiors in San Antonio to finalize the luxurious cabin.
A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship
The “Cruiseaire” is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a bygone era. This mobile office on wheels is not just a car; it’s a time capsule showcasing the ambition and style of the late 1960s.
This incredible vehicle, featured in Hemmings Motor News “Car Culture” in 2014, attracted a flurry of bids at the auction, a testament to its rarity and historical significance.
What do you think?
What are your thoughts on this one-of-a-kind custom build? Would you hit the open road in this vintage mobile office? Share your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to check out our other articles for more exciting automotive news and reviews.
The Glenn Pray – Kershaw 1968 “Cruiseaire" Oldsmobile Toronado Custom mobile office
The Glenn Pray – Kershaw 1968 “Cruiseaire" Oldsmobile Toronado Custom mobile office
The Glenn Pray – Kershaw 1968 “Cruiseaire" Oldsmobile Toronado Custom mobile office