Chevrolet’s 1956 short film, “On Top of the World,” produced by Jam Handy, follows six 1957 pre-production Chevrolet Task-Force models as they make the grueling trip from GM’s Proving Ground in Milford, Michigan to Fairbanks, Alaska, and back. The six Chevrolet trucks demonstrate their durability and performance as they tackle the formidable ALCAN highway. The six Task-Force trucks—a 1957 Chevrolet ½-ton Cameo Carrier Pickup, a 1957 Chevrolet 1-ton Panel, a 1957 Chevrolet Dump Truck, a 1957 Chevrolet Van Panel LCF (low cab forward), a 1957 Chevrolet 5-speed transmission Tractor Trailer, and a 1957 Chevrolet Tractor Trailer Powermatic—depart Milford for the AAA-supervised test (01:05). They reach Dawson Creek where the trucks are weighed and certified by AAA (01:38). The trucks travel hundreds and hundreds of miles, over rivers, up mountain sides, and along challenging dirt roads, only stopping for refueling under AAA supervision (05:02). As they drive along the ALCAN highway, they pass into the Yukon and the town of White Horse (05:24) before finally reaching Fairbanks, Alaska (06:11). The Task-Force trucks then start their journey home. The Dump Truck (07:25) and the ½-ton Cameo Carrier (08:46) are highlighted on the trip back to GM’s Proving Ground.
The Chevrolet Task Force was Chevrolet’s successor to the Advance Design trucks. The Task Force Series ran from late 1955 (second series) through 1959. At GMC locations, it was called the Blue Chip Series.
The 1955 second series offered standard options and add-ons such as 12-volt electrical systems, the first V8 (the 265 cubic inch), and fleet-side six-, seven-, and eight-foot length beds.
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This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD and 2k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com
