Epic Photos of FAB 1, the Iconic Rolls-Royce from ‘Thunderbirds’ and The World’s Biggest and Most Expensive Car » Design You Trust

If you’re a fan of Thunderbirds, the classic sci-fi sequence from the 1960s, you likely bear in mind FAB 1, the modern and elegant car owned by Woman Penelope and driven by Parker. But did you know that FAB 1 was truly a modified Rolls-Royce, with weapons and gizmos that would make James Bond jealous?

h/t: vintag.es

FAB 1 was a single of the lots of amazing equipment produced by Brains, the genius at the rear of the Thunderbirds vehicles. He outfitted the car or truck with attributes this kind of as equipment guns, smoke monitor, oil slick, tyre studs, hydrofoils and skis, creating it all set for any mission or journey. The auto also had a distinct six-wheel push and a bulletproof bubble canopy that protected the driver’s seat.

The decision of Rolls-Royce as the make of FAB 1 was not random. Gerry Anderson, the co-creator of Thunderbirds, claimed that he wished a motor vehicle that matched Woman Penelope’s character and part in International Rescue. He approached Rolls-Royce Restricted, which agreed to allow him use its brand name and even equipped a radiator grille with a Spirit of Ecstasy determine for the product.

The design and style of FAB 1 was completed by Derek Meddings, who gave it an “outrageous styling” that was as opposed to any genuine-life Rolls-Royce. He explained that he placed two sets of wheels at the front for aesthetic explanations, not complex types. He also included some vibrant details to distinction with the pink human body of the car.

Two versions of FAB 1 have been designed for filming: a modest a person and a massive one particular that could match the puppet characters. The massive product was extremely pricey and elaborate, with purposeful steering and headlamps. It was also quite protected, as it was the most important prop in the collection. It was used for close-ups and action scenes, this kind of as shooting machine guns or driving on drinking water.

FAB 1 turned a single of the most well-known and memorable aspects of Thunderbirds. It was also when compared to the Aston Martin DB5 from the James Bond films, which experienced related weapons and devices. FAB 1 was not only a car or truck, but a character in its have appropriate. It was a image of class, sophistication and experience. It was actually amazing.