Among those that were asked for memories of 'My First Automobile Year' was Robert A. Lutz, Vice Chairman, Product Development at General Motors and Chairman of GM North America. There are few car enthusiasts who are not aware of the contribution that Bob Lutz has made to the enjoyment of the automobile, both in Europe and America, by his ability to lead teams that have designed and built exciting cars. At GM he is still creating great cars, after almost as long in the business as Automobile Year.

His response to our request made us so proud of it that we printed it on the back of the Automobile Year No. 50 jacket, as a car man's view of a car fan's book:

Like the trees turning green every spring, the arrival of Automobile Year is a yearly event I have always looked forward to.

This is a huge, complex, fast, unpredictable and fast changing business. Few sources of information summarize it and tie it all together as well as Automobile Year does. It looks back, but manages to provide insight on what's ahead. It's focused but incredibly diverse at the same time. Nothing seems to have escaped its attention during the years, and that's the reason I hope the first 50 years is only a tune up for the future.

I'm proud to say my collection is nearly complete. There are just a few precious issues that have escaped being prominently displayed on my shelf. Maybe I'll be able to find them, but I wouldn't miss another future issue. I have nearly as many years in this business as Automobile Year. I'm happy to say good health and longevity must run in both our families!

Congratulations and good luck on the second 50.