The design was originally conceived in the United States by Chevrolet,[5] but was not used because it was deemed too small for the U.S. market as it developed after the war.

Its American origins are quite apparent, as it closely resembles Chevrolets of the period that did make it to production, particularly the Fleetline Aerosedan and the second generation Deluxe.

[8] There were no direction indicators, there was no provision for heating or demisting, and at the rear there was only a single, centrally positioned, tail lamp.

[8] Because of the mild climate in most of the populated areas of the country, it was found possible to save weight and cost by using a relatively small 6-volt 11-plate battery.

Black bodies dominated the early roll-out but GMH made sure that each capital city also received examples of cream, blue, and grey.

[9] On Sunday, 21 November, an Open Day was held to exhibit the entire factory (including the high-security design rooms) and the car itself.

But this special preview was not for the public or the dealers—it was for the Fishermans Bend employees and their families (GMH estimated that 12,000 guests attended).

[9] The official unveiling by Prime Minister Ben Chifley commenced at 2:30 pm on Monday, 29 November 1948, in the Fishermans Bend Social Hall.

The 400 guests applauded when silver curtains parted to reveal a cream Holden, in a black velvet setting and sparkling under spotlights, as an orchestra played Brahms' Waltz in A-flat.

[10] It had a 132.5 cu in (2,171 cc) cast-iron straight six engine which produced 60 hp (45 kW), connected to a three-speed manual transmission.