Glas Isar Pick-Up

The Glas Isar Pick-Up, designed by Pietro Frua in 1964, is a unique and innovative vehicle that blends practicality with the charm of mid-20th-century design. This one-off creation was inspired by American models, but it retained the fundamental technology of the Glas 700 sedan from the same year. The chassis and mechanical components remained unchanged up to the B-pillar, after which the rear superstructure was entirely redesigned to incorporate a practical loading area, blending seamlessly with the car’s body. The rear section of the Isar Pick-Up featured solid side walls, with the exception of the rear side wall, which could be folded down to allow easier access to the cargo area. The driver’s cab was closed off with extensive glazing, providing clear visibility and adding a touch of elegance to the utilitarian design. Pietro Frua, known for his attention to detail, also designed a removable sheet metal roof as an accessory for the loading area. This roof could be attached using simple quick-release fasteners, allowing for versatility depending on the cargo needs. The roof structure towered approximately 30 cm above the driver’s cab and featured a glazed flap at the rear that swung upward, making it easier to load and unload goods. The Glas Isar Pick-Up was, in many ways, ahead of its time. It could have been the first German-made pick-up, offering a practical solution for transporting goods while maintaining the compact size and charm of a small car. However, despite the innovation, Glas did not pursue series production for the Isar Pick-Up. The vehicle remained a one-off, never reaching the wider market. Today, it is a cherished piece of automotive history, now in the hands of a Glas Club member, where it is preserved as a rare example of mid-century design and engineering.