This 1950 General Motors Futurliner is one of more than 140 vehicles from the Ron Pratte Collection crossing the block at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction in January.

One of only 12 built by GM, the Futurliner is a self-contained display and transport vehicle created by the GM design staff under Harley Earl’s direction. It was the centerpiece of the “Parade of Progress” touring exhibit that complemented the GM “Motoramas” from 1940 through 1956.

One of only three survivors restored in their original “Parade of Progress” configuration, this Futurliner underwent a comprehensive re-restoration after Ron Pratte purchased it as a fully restored example in 2006, making it clearly the finest example in existence. It is fully functional and toured Canada in corporate promotions before it became a part of the Ron Pratte collection. It is a symbol of the American auto industry at the height of its power and influence.

This 1950 General Motors Futurliner (Lot #2501) will cross the auction block as a charity auction benefitting the Armed Forces Foundation in Scottsdale on Saturday, Jan. 17.

Ron Pratte’s prestigious collection of automobilia will kick off the 44^th Annual Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction beginning Saturday, Jan. 10 at 9 a.m. and running through Tuesday, Jan. 13 at 1 p.m. Pratte’s vehicles first cross the block at 4 p.m. on Tuesday with lot numbers 2000 through 2109 and will continue with lot numbers 2500 through 2530 on Saturday, Jan. 17.