Are you familiar with the smart arrow next to the fuel gauge that indicates which side of the vehicle the gas cap is located on? For ages, we were unaware of its originator. One of the earliest examples was seen in a Ford vehicle, specifically the 1989 Thunderbird, yet the creator’s identity was a secret for many years to come.
The public became aware of his identity only a few years back. His name was James Moylan, an interior trim designer who worked for Ford in Detroit. He passed away last month at the age of 80.
The origin of the arrow traces back to an incident in 1986, when Moylan, while taking a company car to a meeting at Ford’s Dearborn campus, found himself with a low fuel tank and decided to refuel. Upon exiting the vehicle, he realized—a sinking feeling many of us know—that he had pulled up to the pump on the incorrect side.
Promptly, Moylan devised a solution. That same day, he wrote a memo proposing a product convenience enhancement. “I wish to propose a minor addition to future I/P cluster graphics in all car and truck lines,” it stated. “The indicator or symbol I envisioned would be positioned near the fuel gauge to simply inform the driver of the side on which the fuel fill door is situated.”
Moylan’s original memo included a small overhead drawing of a car with a large fuel door next to the fuel icon. This concept later evolved into the simple arrow. It first appeared on the new Escort a couple of years later, before being adopted throughout Ford’s complete product range—and eventually by Ford’s competitors.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal’s Ben Cohen, Moylan apparently never sought any recognition from Ford for his invention. Consequently, the public remained unaware of his identity until around seven years ago when it was revealed in a podcast. Shortly after, Moylan’s memo was rediscovered and digitized by Ford’s archivists. CEO Jim Farley tweeted about it back in 2022.
It seems that Ford wasn’t the very first car manufacturer to introduce a fuel-filler indicator. Jason Torchinsky wrote a nice obituary for Moylan last week on the Autopian, noting that Mercedes-Benz had a low-fuel light shaped like an arrow which turned on when fuel was needed in some models. However, it can be reasonably stated that Ford, along with Moylan, deserves credit for the widespread adoption of this idea.
The designer mentioned that he forgot his idea shortly after proposing it, but its brilliance wasn’t overlooked by his superiors or their competitors, not to mention the millions of drivers worldwide who have relied on it in new or unfamiliar cars. I recall learning about the now aptly named “Moylan arrow”—my brother informed me of it a few years after I got my driver’s license. I’m thankful he did, as that knowledge has been invaluable throughout my career with numerous press vehicles. May Moylan rest in peace, and may we all acknowledge and remember his name every time we share that knowledge with a new driver.
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**The Moylan Arrow: An Important Contribution to Ford’s Automotive Design Heritage**
The Moylan Arrow, a groundbreaking idea in automotive design, marks a crucial point in Ford’s narrative, demonstrating the combination of engineering prowess and aesthetic charm. Created during a time of fierce competition within the automotive sector, the Moylan Arrow stands as proof of Ford’s dedication to advancing car design.
**Historical Background**
During the mid-20th century, the automotive industry was experiencing rapid change. Companies were vying to attract consumers with distinctive designs and cutting-edge technologies. Ford, a frontrunner in the sector, recognized the necessity to innovate not only mechanically but also design-wise. The Moylan Arrow was born during this pivotal time, mirroring the evolving preferences and expectations of automobile buyers.
**Design Characteristics**
The Moylan Arrow is defined by its elegant lines and aerodynamic form, which were revolutionary upon its introduction. The design team, led by the innovative designer John Moylan, aimed to create a vehicle that was both visually appealing and functionally sound. The Arrow’s sleek exterior minimized drag, thereby improving fuel efficiency and performance—two essential factors for consumers in the post-war period.
Moreover, the interior of the Moylan Arrow was crafted prioritizing driver comfort and convenience. The application of premium materials and ergonomic designs established new benchmarks for luxury in the automobile industry. Features such as adjustable seats, advanced dashboard organization, and creative storage options were incorporated to enhance the overall driving experience.
**Technological Developments**
Beyond its visual appeal, the Moylan Arrow featured several technological breakthroughs that bolstered Ford’s status as an industry leader. The vehicle included a cutting-edge suspension system, which enhanced ride quality and handling. Additionally, the use of lightweight materials in the Arrow’s construction facilitated better fuel efficiency without sacrificing safety.
The Moylan Arrow also acted as a testing ground for new engine technologies. Ford employed this model to explore more powerful and efficient engines, laying the groundwork for future advancements in performance vehicles.
**Influence on Ford’s Heritage**
The impact of the Moylan Arrow reached well beyond its production lifespan. It significantly influenced Ford’s design principles, underscoring the importance of harmonizing form with function. The concepts initiated by the Moylan Arrow are evident in numerous future Ford models, which continued to emphasize aerodynamic consideration and driver-focused design.
Furthermore, the Moylan Arrow became emblematic of Ford’s innovative spirit, motivating a generation of designers and engineers. Its legacy is visible in the company’s enduring commitment to design excellence, as reflected in contemporary vehicles that continue to challenge traditional norms in both style and functionality.
**Final Thoughts**
The Moylan Arrow represents a notable contribution to Ford’s automotive design legacy, exemplifying the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Its distinct combination of avant-garde design, technological progress, and consumer-centric features established a standard for future automotive advancements. As Ford progresses, the essence of the Moylan Arrow continues to serve as a guiding principle in striving for automotive perfection.