In 1947, International Motors of Los Angeles asked Pinin Farina to design unique car bodies for General Motors models of coupes and convertibles for Hollywood stars and magnates.
The car body maker was visiting the United States periodically. During one of his visits for study and updating, he was received by President Ike Eisenhower, who talked with Pinin for much longer than the usual visit would permit.
In the mid-50s, General Motors President Harlow H. Curtice congratulated Pinin Farina on his model of a Buick Lido.
This custom-made model's roof rose automatically as the door was opened to facilitate entry into the interior.
Source: Pininfarina
Images: Pininfarina; www.classiccarcatalogue.com