GM Futurliner, 1939. With future spelt without a last ‘e’ so GM could trademark the name. The Parade of Progress was created by GM’s research director, Charles ‘Boss’ Kettering, as a touring road show that brought future technology to communities across the US, showcasing breakthroughs like the jet engine, a microwave that could fry an egg, and even television. It began in 1936, with eight, purpose-built Streamliner trucks, and these were replaced in 1941 by the Futurliners.