Chevy’s square wheel wells weren’t just a design quirk—they became a signature, turning heads and sparking debates for decades. But what was the real reason behind this bold choice?
It’s a story that goes beyond style, weaving through engineering, innovation, and rivalry.
From Round to Square
Chevy trucks started with rounded wheel wells that matched the shape of the tires. When they went to square wheel wells, they weren’t just about style—they also contributed to the truck’s aerodynamics in a wind tunnel, something Chevy began testing more rigorously in the ’70s.
Though the wells weren’t perfectly square—they had rounded edges—they were much squarer than competitors’ designs. However, as fuel efficiency and modern design became more important, Chevy made the decision to return to round wheel wells in 2019.
These trucks quickly became iconic and are still cherished by collectors today.
Chevy’s Return to Round Wheel Wells
By 2019, Chevy switched back to round wheel wells for the Silverado 1500 (the fourth generation of the model line). Chevrolet unveiled the new 2019 Silverado 1500 at the Chevy Truck Centennial Celebration at Texas Motor Speedway in Fort Worth, Texas.
This change was based on research showing round shapes could improve airflow and reduce drag better than square ones. Since about 25% of a vehicle’s drag comes from its wheels, shaping them right can boost performance. (ref)
Some welcomed the new look, while others preferred the classic square style that had defined Chevy trucks for nearly 40 years.
The move also intensified the rivalry with Ford, which had consistently used round wheel wells, fueling discussions among truck enthusiasts about which design was better.
Why Aerodynamics Matter for All Vehicles, Including Trucks
You might think wind-tunnel testing is only for sports cars, but it benefits all kinds of vehicles, including trucks and semi-trucks. GM used wind tunnels to test their square body trucks in the ’70s, and the same approach influenced the design of the 2019 Silverado and other trucks moving forward.
In a GM Authority interview, Rich Scheer, lead designer for the 2019 Silverado, said aerodynamics played a big role in the decision, along with the desire for a new look and less weight. Though the wheel wells aren’t completely round, they are more streamlined than before.
By testing for wind resistance, automakers can reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds. Components like wheel wells play a key role, as turbulent air around them can hurt fuel efficiency. The shift to rounded wheel wells on the 2019 Silverado was part of this effort, along with a visual redesign.
Vehicles typically go through design updates every few years, and the square wheel wells were a holdover from a previous generation that didn’t fit with the Silverado’s new look. Manufacturers need to keep their models fresh to attract buyers, and trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado are no exception.
Chevrolet is moving even further into the future with its 2024 Silverado EV, which is their first fully electric truck with an impressive range. And Chevy chose square wheel wells for their older trucks to give them a bold, distinctive look. This design became iconic, which remains a beloved part of Chevy’s history.
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Nancy Maffia
Nancy received a bachelor’s in biology from Elmira College and a master’s degree in horticulture and communications from the University of Kentucky. Worked in plant taxonomy at the University of Florida and the L. H. Bailey Hortorium at Cornell University, and wrote and edited gardening books at Rodale Press in Emmaus, PA. Her interests are plant identification, gardening, hiking, and reading.
