What the heck, you might ask upon looking at the photo, is that?

By far the largest vehicle consigned to the Barrett-Jackson Auction, that's a GM Futureliner, one of 12 created by the GM design staff under harley Earl's direction for the Parade of Progress touring exhibit that complemented the GM "Motoramas" from 1940 through 1956.

A self-contained display and transport vehicle, it features a retractable stage, distinctive center "cupola" cockpit driving position, and dual wheel front axle. This is one of three still running in their original state and has toured Canada. Crowded by other auction vehicles in the tent, it was too darn big for me to photograph, so I've used a promotional shot here. Don't ask what the selling price could be. I have no idea and I doubt anyone else has, either.

One thing's for sure. They'll never get it up on the center stage when its turn comes to be sold. Move those chairs, folks, the future's comin' through!