Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Ford Rouge Factory Tour and Giant Screen Experience will be closed Monday, March 16, for a day of staff learning and development. We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Lincoln Futura Scale Model, 1952

01

Artifact Overview

The Lincoln Futura, designed by William M. Schmidt, was a sensation at auto shows in 1955. The concept car boasted push-button transmission controls, a 300-horsepower V-8 engine, and a double-dome canopy roof. Hollywood customizer George Barris bought the Futura in 1959 and, a few years later, turned it into the Batmobile for the 1966-1968 Batman television series.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Scale model

Date Made

1952

Creator Notes

Designed by William M. Schmidt for the Lincoln Division of Ford Motor Company, Dearborn, Michigan.

Location

at Henry Ford Museum in Driving America

Object ID

86.182.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of William M. Schmidt.

Material

Fiberglass
Aluminum (Metal)
Wood (Plant material)
Acrylic (Plastic)
Felt (Textile)
Chromium

Color

Light green
Silver (Color)
Black (Color)

Dimensions

Height: 4.125 in
Width: 7.75 in
Length: 19.25 in
Wheelbase: 10.75 in

Inscriptions

In raised gold script on center edge of hood and on rear fenders: FUTURA (Partially broken off on left side) In gold, on rear license plate: FUTURA