Concept car

1938 Buick Y-Job, often considered the first concept car

A concept car, also known as a show car or prototype car, is a car made to showcase new design and new technology. They are made to be shown at motor shows and are not mass-produced. General Motors designer Harley Earl is known for inventing the concept car.

Concept cars never go into production directly. They must undergo many changes before the car is ready to be sold publicly. Safety and regulatory checks are required to make sure the final design is road legal. The prototype car might look distinct from the final product.