In 1942, car production for civilian use in the United States came to a halt due to World War II. The U.S. government ordered automakers to cease civilian vehicle production in February and shift entirely to manufacturing military vehicles, weapons, and equipment.

During this time, companies like Ford, GM, and Chrysler produced tanks, airplanes, and jeeps instead of cars. Vehicles made in early 1942 are often referred to as “blackout models” because they lacked chrome trim (to conserve materials for the war effort) and had simplified designs. This marked a unique period in automotive history where the industry united to support the war effort.