Gerry Anderson, a name synonymous with imaginative sci-fi, captivated audiences in the 1960s with puppet shows. However, 1969 marked a departure with a live-action series, UFO, set in the futuristic 1980s. While the show might have missed some 1980s cultural touchstones, it accurately predicted alien invasions and human abduction for body parts. The Earth’s defense rested with SHADO (Supreme Headquarters Alien Defence Organization), and their arsenal included some truly remarkable vehicles. Let’s dive into the iconic cars of UFO and see why even today, the phrase “Ufo Scanned The Car” might just spring to mind when you see these designs.
The opening title sequence itself offered a glimpse of automotive beauty. Among them, Commander Straker’s car immediately grabs attention. Its sleek, brown design was a far cry from the boxy silhouettes of the late 60s.
This vehicle was audacious for its time. Imagine Ford believing the Sierra was too curvy in 1983 when this beauty graced screens in 1969! The rear view is equally captivating, showcasing the car’s futuristic lines and unique aesthetic.
Stepping inside Straker’s car reveals a high-tech interior, befitting the commander of a top-secret alien defense organization.
The cabin was equipped with advanced communications, featuring a brown and cream handset that screamed futuristic technology for the era. Even by today’s standards, the design is striking and evokes a sense of sophisticated command.
Being a Gerry Anderson production, model work was essential. Miniature versions of Straker’s car were created for filming special effects sequences, adding another layer to the car’s on-screen presence.
While perhaps not entirely convincing by modern CGI standards, back in the early 1970s, these models, filmed with ingenuity, were groundbreaking. Derek Meddings, the production design maestro behind many of Anderson’s shows, spearheaded the car designs. His book “21st Century Visions” is a must-have for fans of design and special effects. The task of bringing these futuristic cars to life was entrusted to Alan Mann Racing, famed for building Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and their Ford racing pedigree.
The Ford connection was practical, with the UFO cars utilizing Ford Zephyr running gear and a 1600 Cortina engine. Beyond Straker’s command car, Colonel Foster also had a distinctive vehicle – a lilac marvel with its own unique appeal.
Pedestrian safety might be a concern by today’s NCAP standards, but the inclusion of gullwing doors immediately elevates this car to iconic status. The UFO cars, especially when considered as designs from the late 1960s imagining the 1980s, are truly remarkable. They embody a vision of the future where even everyday vehicles might look like they’ve been “ufo scanned”, analyzed, and redesigned for a new era.
