Going Topless at the Petersen Automotive Museum

A new exhibit opened at the Petersen Automotive Museum last weekend that features American convertibles. Called Going Topless In Style: The American Convertible, it will run through Oct. 7.

Southern Californians have always considered convertibles the ideal vehicles for the area's mild climate and vast network of scenic roads. Going Topless in Style will celebrate our fascination with convertibles by presenting a wide variety of domestically produced ragtops that illustrate the development of the body type from the first versions built during the early twentieth century to modern times.

It will explain why convertible production was temporarily halted during the mid-1970s and reveal how relentless consumer demand for an open air driving experience prompted American manufacturers to reintroduce the body type in the early 1980s.

From the popularly priced Ford Model T and innovative 1939 Plymouth to the majestic 1930 Packard and exotic 1958 Dual-Ghia, the vehicles on display will offer a glimpse into how top down motoring has enhanced the mystique surrounding the Southern California lifestyle and its culture of mobility.

Also added at the Petersen is a new permanent display, Alternative Power: Lessons From The Past, Inspiration For The Future.

Responding to overwhelmingly positive reception to the first Alternative Power exhibit, the museum opened a long-term display of such vehicles. This latest exhibit continues to explore the history of automobile power using a wide array of vehicles equipped with innovative propulsion systems.

On display will be vehicles powered by steam, electricity, turbines, fuel cells, and other sources. From the pioneering 1897 Anthony electric and 1917 Woods Dual Power gas-electric hybrid to the futuristic 1963 Chrysler Turbine and modern Nissan Fuel Cell Vehicle, automobiles will be presented that illustrate the growth of alternative vehicle technology.

Together, these vehicles offer an interesting contrast to those being developed today, and may even inspire modern engineers in their pursuit of the next technological breakthrough.Admission to The Petersen Automotive for non-members, $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students, and $3 for children 5-12 (children under 5 are admitted free).

The Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd. (at Fairfax), Los Angeles, is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday. For general Museum information, call (323) 930-CARS or visit the Museum's website at www.petersen.org.