Sometimes the old ways are just the best and, in terms of truck design, this would be one of those times. This old school Chevrolet->ke199 truck harks back to the old days when you actually used these machines for work, not for driving the kids to school or heading down to the Home Depot for a few supplies.

What we have here is something special and it really stood out at this year's SEMA show. We know it's over now and the past is the past, but this E-Rod pickup is just way too cool to leave for the history books. Although, that green paint scheme probably should have been left in the past.

We have some fresh new photos of the truck to share and some new information on the what's living underneath the bonnet. Needless to say, it's a rocket that has been tamed back for the environment.

Hit the jump to find out.

2010 Chevrolet E-Rod Pickup

Specifications
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  • Model: 2010 Chevrolet E-Rod Pickup
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Exterior

Although this E-ROD Pickup is clearly a classic Chevy from 1955 when viewed from any angle, design manager Dave Ross incorporated a number of subtle custom touches. These include a custom grille, hidden fuel door, smoothed trim, and that wonderful - insert sarcasm here - custom green exterior color that was mixed by Wanda Paint. Despite these custom additions, there is no denying what it is when its driving down the road.

"It's a truck that everyone will recognize, but the more you look at it, the more you see the differences," said Ross. "It's a great body style for customization and personalization – a trait shared with the modern Silverado, too."

The overall truck was based on the exact dimensions of the 1955 model and it was even created using the same tools and production methods. They say things don't last like they used to, but this might be an exception.

The Power

It's not often you hear about a hot rod being environmentally conscious, but this is an exception to that rule, as odd as that may sound.

The E-ROD's 5.3-liter V8 is related to modern Chevy trucks, and is similar to engines offered in the Silverado->ke1787 lineup. The bad boy is rated at 315 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque and it features camshaft phasing. This is a technology that actively advances or retards the camshaft timing to optimize power, efficiency, and emissions across the entire rpm band.

"A couple of years ago, you never would have used the words 'environmentally conscious' and 'hot rod' in the same sentence, but that was before E-ROD," said Ross. "This truck is perfect for cruising in style and it doesn't sacrifice any of the great driveability traits people are used to in modern vehicles. It also has the emissions efficiency of a modern vehicle."

The body is pure Dynacorn and was mated with the chassis of a Trailblazer SS.

The Competition

Get a time machine because the only trucks that compete with this are back in 1955.

The Price

The truck's not for sale, but the engine is. GM says that the new E-Rod LS3 engine will command a price tag of $7,150 when it arrives in 2011.