The Thunderbird Early Concepts

Retired Ford Designer James Powers occasionally takes on projects such as the design concepts shown here, which were done in 1996 for Jack Telnack, Ford Design VP, in the early stages of development of the new Thunderbird. These designs are more dramatic than the final production car, but now the spirit of these ideas is reflected in the Powersport “California Custom.” Note the ground effects ‘blades’, the recessed grille, the aggressive hood scoop and fender skirts.