For the past year, I had been thinking of what could be the next trend for the truck industry. As an editor of Truckin', ideas are continuously revolving around in my mind like the multiple colors and shapes of a kaleidoscope. During one of those pre-sleep REM modes, one neuron connected with another, lit the fuse, and it exploded - vans, fullsize vans from the past. But, the resurrection or rebirth would be presented in a more sport-van style. You talk about cheap - some people just want them taken out of their yards. Remember when station wagons didn't even get a second look. Now they're the hottest trend. Using today's aftermarket innovation and technology, the current truck aftermarket products would be a simple crossover, shared by both the early and late-model fullsize vans: airbag suspensions, wheels, tires, billet trim, interior accessories, audio/video equipment, body mods, and paint. Today's audio sound and DVD manufacturers would go wild. Early and late-model fullsize vans slammed and tucking 20s would present them with a market they have never seen before. In their reincarnation, these current sport vans would not resemble their ancestors from decades ago.
During a recent cruise from SoCal to Paso Robles, California, for the West Coast Kustoms Show 'n' Shine, I had the privilege to hook up with Steve Stanford, one of the most talented rendering artists on the planet. Stanford's ability to take a suggested idea, foresee that image in his multidimensional mind, and transpose it onto paper is mind-blowing. He sketches anything that prowls the asphalt jungle.His captivating personality is just as pure as his handiwork. While sitting around indulging in some nutrition and refreshments, we discussed some of his past amazing drawings and what he is pursuing in his studio presently. During our casual conversation, I shared with him my van idea. As soon as I mentioned vans, his eyes lit up like he had just grabbed a live coil wire. As we began discussing vans and reminiscing of decades ago, it was amazing to us how it captivated the whole lifestyle and culture of the '70s. Van mania exploded, creating a whole new category of customizing. Builders would have a new means of expressing their creativity. Aftermarket manufacturers would have a new/old trend to peddle their latest innovative products.
OK, are you ready to revive that era from our past? They say timing is the secret to success and good things just keep coming back for more. Well, after pitching our idea and showing the Steve Stanford sport van sketches to many of the well-known custom builders and aftermarket manufacturers, it was unanimous. The timing was perfect to relight the flame that raged the custom transportation culture during the early '70s. After laying dormant for the past 30 years, we feel it is time to bring back the fullsize domestic van craze. Awakening this mighty giant will shake the world with every footstep of its new innovation, technology, and current styling licks. We will not be excavating the tombs of vans from the past, but taking the initial fullsize vans' spirit and soul, then adapting and molding them into today's image of styling and taste.
Stay tuned for more Steve Stanford renderings, featuring newstalgic early model fullsize van pickups, new late-model fullsize vans, and even a look into Stanford's crystal ball, in upcoming issues of Truckin' magazine. The flashback of the Van-Mania era would not be possible without the time capsule photography of Bob McClurg. Known for his famous drag racing, custom car, hot-rod truck, and van photos over the past 35 years, McClurg is still cranking out features and tech articles for many of the leading magazines today. He goes back to the early days as a staff editor of some of Tom McMullen's earliest publications.
Fullsize Sport Van Criteria1. Must be a fullsize, shortbox van (no side windows)2. Solid one color or subtle paint scheme3. Simple and subtle body mods4. Suspension lowered on airbags and slammed5. 20-inch-plus wheels and tires (lowered)6. Suspension lifted 6 inches or more7. 33- to 50-inch tires on 17- to 20-inch wheels 8. Interior leather9. Audio/video and DVD10. Engine mods11. Exhaust12. Van accessories