The Chevrolet Suburban, the venerable hauler of people and cargo that debuted in the Great Depression, celebrates its 75th anniversary this year as the king of continuous U.S. automotive production.

No other nameplate has been around longer without at least some time off.

The idea for the Suburban was born out of a need for a heavier-duty, truck-based wagon. Through the early 1930s, most manufacturers offered car-based wagons for professional use. Open models with windows and rear seating were known as depot hacks, and were used to ferry passengers and their cargo around train stations and boat docks. Enclosed models, typically without rear seats, were known as sedan deliveries.

Chevrolet began experimenting with an all-steel wagon body mounted on a commercial chassis in the mid-1930s, and the Suburban Carryall was launched in 1935. The original Suburban could seat eight, while easily removable seats provided a large, 75-inch-long by 77-inch-high (1,905 x 1,956 mm) cargo area. The heavy-duty chassis of the Suburban increasingly found favor with professional customers, including the U.S. Armed Forces during World War II.

The foundation of strength and capability that propelled the brand for more than seven decades is still evident today. The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban seats up to nine, or can accommodate 137.4 cubic feet (3,891 L) of cargo with the second-row seats folded and third-row seat removed. With the standard Vortec 5.3L FlexFuel engine and fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission, Suburban half-ton models can tow up 8,100 pounds (2,674 kg). Suburban 2500 models offer a 6.0L/six-speed powertrain combination and a maximum towing rating of 9,600 pounds (4,354 kg).

A 75th Anniversary Diamond Edition Suburban goes on sale early this summer and is limited to 2,570 units (including 350 for Canada and other export markets). It is distinguished by a White Diamond Tricoat exterior color and Cashmere interior, along with unique 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and new roof rack rails.

The anniversary models are equipped with LTZ content, including a comprehensive package of safety-minded technology, an integrated navigation radio, a one-year subscription of XM Satellite Radio with NavTraffic, Bluetooth phone connectivity, a rearview camera system, rear parking assist, remote starting and adjustable pedals. Leather-covered seating is standard, with heated and cooled front seats, and heated second-row seating. Optional equipment includes a DVD-based rear-seat entertainment system, articulating running boards, a sunroof and Side Blind Zone Alert.

Source: www.chevrolet.com.

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