Sometimes the most brilliant ideas hide in plain sight, and Jonathan Ward’s latest creation from Icon 4×4 proves that point spectacularly. Meet the Derelict 1970 Chevrolet C20 – a truck that looks like it’s been sitting in a barn for decades but secretly packs all the modern conveniences and reliability of a brand-new Silverado. It’s automotive camouflage taken to an art form, and frankly, we’re obsessed.
When Philosophy Meets Steel
Ward and his team at Icon drew inspiration from an unlikely source: Confucius, who famously said “You must study the past to predict the future.” That ancient wisdom became the foundation for what might be the most deceptive restomod ever created. This isn’t your typical “let’s throw an LS engine in an old truck” project. This is a complete modern Silverado 4×4 chassis wearing the perfectly weathered skin of a 1970 C20.
The engineering challenge here was staggering. Most restomods sacrifice something, whether it’s the vintage charm getting lost in modern upgrades, or reliability taking a hit for the sake of authenticity. Icon somehow managed to thread the needle perfectly, maintaining what Ward calls “full OEM functionality of the Silverado’s CAN bus systems.” Translation: you can literally plug an OBD scanner into this thing and diagnose it like any other 2025 truck sitting on a Chevy lot.
The Art of Automotive Deception
What makes the Derelict C20 truly special is how convincingly it maintains its vintage character. That weathered lime-green paint peeking through layers of rust and patina? All carefully preserved and clear-coated to lock in decades of authentic wear. And the chrome grille and headlight surrounds look surprisingly pristine against the battle-scarred bodywork.
Step inside and the illusion becomes even more impressive. Where most builders would slap in modern bucket seats and call it a day, Icon crafted a completely custom dashboard that seamlessly integrates Silverado technology into 1970s aesthetics. Those split bucket seats wrapped in Connolly leather and wool plaid look period-perfect while delivering modern comfort. Even the HVAC vents and controls maintain the vintage vibe while hiding contemporary functionality underneath.
Modern Muscle, Vintage Soul
Under the hood lies one of the Silverado’s available powerplants – likely either the 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V8, though Icon’s keeping specific details close to the vest. What matters more is that this truck drives, handles, and performs like a modern vehicle while looking like something your grandfather might have driven to the jobsite. The 4×4 capability means it’s actually more capable off-road than the original C20 ever was.
The genius lies in the details. Need to charge your phone? There are hidden USB ports. Want navigation? The discreetly integrated infotainment screen has you covered. Backup camera? Check. But all of these modern conveniences are so well-integrated that casual observers would never suspect they’re looking at anything other than a well-loved classic truck.
Spec Sheet
Model: Icon 4×4 Derelict 1970 Chevrolet C20
Base Platform: 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 4×4 chassis
Engine: Silverado V8 (5.3L or 6.2L options)
Drivetrain: Four-wheel drive
Interior: Custom dashboard with integrated Silverado tech
Upholstery: Connolly leather and wool plaid
Production Status: First of new Derelict series
Next Project: 1968 C10 Short Bed (in development)
Pricing & Availability
Icon hasn’t released pricing details, but considering Icon’s track record, we expect a substantial six-figure investment for this level of automotive artistry.
Recap
Icon 4×4 Derelict 1970 Chevrolet C20
Icon’s latest masterpiece perfectly disguises a modern Silverado’s chassis, drivetrain, and technology beneath the authentic weathered bodywork of a 1970 C20, creating the ultimate sleeper truck that delivers vintage charm with contemporary reliability and performance.RetryI
