Introduced as the successor for the rear-engine Corvair Corvan/Greenbrier, the model line also replaced the panel van configuration of the Chevrolet Suburban.

After the 1996 model year, GM retired the G-Series vans, replacing them with the GMT600-platform Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana.

General Motors saw a market for a compact van based on a modified passenger car platform to compete with the already successful Ford Econoline and Dodge A100.

Engines and brakes were sourced from the Chevy II, a more conventional compact car than Chevrolet Corvair.

The first-generation vans were available in only the short 90-inch wheelbase and were only sold with the standard 153 cu in (2.5 L) 90 hp straight-4 or a Chevrolet Straight-6 engine.

The new van was of simple construction and its box shape was designed to maximize the hauling of cargo, tools, and equipment.

The forward control cab design was retained, but the doghouse was lengthened, widened, and slightly relocated in order to fit an optional V8 Chevrolet small-block engine.

Power steering and "conventional" air conditioning (with dash vents and controls) were never available on the second-generation van.

The second-generation Chevrolet van began with the 1967 model, with a new look to the vehicle and the availability of longer 108-inch (2,743 mm) wheelbase versions as well as an optional V8 engine for the first time.

The forward-control cab design was retained, but the doghouse was widened and lengthened to fit the optional V8 Chevrolet small-block engine.

The G-20 featured heavier suspension, a 12-bolt rear axle, and increased hauling capability with wheels having a 6-lug bolt pattern.

This was the first year that Chevrolet vans had side marker lights and reflectors, as these became required by Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 108.

In April 1970,[citation needed] GM introduced the third-generation G-series vans as 1971 model-year vehicles.

In a complete redesign of the model line, the vans adopted a front-engine configuration (adding a hood to the body[1]).

It is a nod to the U.S. space program, with the vehicle appearing vertically on page, imitating a rocket launch.

[2] In production for 25 years, the third-generation G-series vans became one of the longest-produced vehicle platforms designed by General Motors.

[5][6] The front disc/rear drum configuration remained unchanged throughout the entire production of the model line; heavier-duty vehicles received larger brakes.

[8] As part of the 1978 model update, the powertrain line underwent further revisions, with the 292 six dropped from G-series vans entirely; GM began the use of metric displacement figures.

As part of the shift to a front-engine design layout, the body received a conventional hood, allowing for access to the engine from outside of the vehicle.

Sharing mechanical commonality with the "Action-Line" pickup trucks, the steering column was sourced from the 1969 update of the C/K series; a large engine cover required a separate design for the dashboard.

Offered on a longer wheelbase, a cutaway-chassis conversion of the G-series was marketed through Chevrolet and GMC as a cargo truck, as the Hi-Cube Van and MagnaVan, respectively.

For 1978, the exterior underwent a revision; along with minor changes to the fenders and the introduction of larger bumpers, the grille was redesigned.

[4] For 1985, the exterior underwent an update with larger taillamps and side marker lenses while the horizontal body line was added to the front doors; the grille design was derived from the C/K pickup trucks.

For 1994, a driver's side airbag was added to all vehicles (under 8,500 lbs GVWR); the new steering wheel coincided with the introduction of an updated instrument panel.

[15] Center high mount stop lamps were added for 1994 as well, as mandated on light trucks for the model year.

For the 1996 model year, the third-generation G-series van was renamed the "G-Classic" and was pared down to versions with a GVWR above 8,500 pounds; sales were ended in the state of California.

[17] As with previous generations, the model line was again named the G-series van (distinct from the intermediate GM G platform).

[20][21] The two-seat Caravan variant (produced from 1977 to 1980) was a trim package developed for van customization, fitted with a paneled interior and rubber floor mat, along with a rear roof vent.

[22] Product placement included a customized 1983 GMC Vandura in the 1980s television series The A-Team that was driven by B.

[23] Several Chevrolet G10 vans have been recreated into real-life Scooby-Doo Mystery Machines, including one from 1989 that is in the Warner Bros Corporate Archive.