Back in 1961, attempts were made to try to put together a deal between Chevrolet and a Southern California entrepreneur named Bill Devin. The deal would have Chevrolet bankroll Devin and also supply parts, much like Ford Motor Company was doing with Carroll Shelby. Unfortunately, Devin and Chevrolet never agreed on the terms, however Carrol Shelby and Ford teamed up and succeeded, making Cobra a household name that’s still familiar today.
What if this Devin/Chevrolet deal had been successful? Perhaps the entire direction of the 1960s Corvette development would have been different. Possibly the Chevrolet-backed Devin SS with the badge on the hood would have given Carroll Shelby’s Cobra a run for their money in international events. Would that have warmed the hearts of both Devin and Corvette enthusiasts?
Outside of Philadelphia, In an old abundant Reading Truck body facilities, renovation have begun to convert an 5,000 square foot section as the new home of Devin. The original fiberglass molds, investment sand casting, jigs and countless bids of parts are being inventory and categorized in an effort to maintain a supply line of body parts and car-specific items for current owners.