Named as a combination of 'Corvette' and 'Bel Air' ('Corv Air'), the Chevrolet Corvair started development in 1956 under Ed Cole. Chevrolet modelled the engine on the VW Beetle, but gave it fifty per cent more cylinders and 2,296cc; they also gave it independent suspension although that would cause problems. Launched as 4-door saloons for the 1960 model year, a 2-door coupe followed, and both cars were sold as '500' (base) or '700' (better equipped. From 1960 a Turbo-charged engine was an option and engine sizes were upgraded to 2,375cc in 1961 and 2,683cc in 1964. A new top trim 'Monza' specification was offered in 1961. A capacious 'Lakewood' Station Wagon was introduced in 1961, and in the same year the Corvan 95 van and 'Greenbrier' minibus were launched. For 1965 the Corvair was heavily revised with a new pillarless body design by Ron Hill, and better rear suspension, but the van versions were dropped. Production ended in 1969 after 1,835,000 had been made