Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac Takes the Wheel at Petersen Automotive Museum

The custom Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac, 1963 convertible with a freezer trunk, is on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum for a year before auctioning proceeds to fund education.

A Sweet Collaboration

In a partnership that blends luxury with dessert, Häagen‑Dazs has donated a one‑of‑a‑kind 1963 Cadillac convertible to the Petersen Automotive Museum. Designed by West Coast Customs, the vehicle was created to complement the brand’s Super Bowl debut and was dubbed the “ultimate ice cream vehicle.” The car’s most eye‑catching feature is a fully functional freezer trunk, while an armrest has been molded to hold an ice‑cream cone.

Features That Keep the Cool

• Freezer trunk – The trunk is a working freezer, keeping Häagen‑Dazs treats chilled.
• Ice‑cream armrest – A custom armrest can hold a cone, adding a playful touch to the classic Cadillac.
• Classic styling – The 1963 convertible retains its vintage look, blending nostalgia with modern flair.

These details turn the car into a literal “ice‑cream truck” while preserving the elegance of a mid‑century American luxury vehicle.

Inside the Museum’s Vault

The car is housed in the Petersen Automotive Museum’s Vault, a space that already contains over 300 rare and historic automobiles. Häagen‑Dazs donated the vehicle to give visitors a chance to see its quirky features up close. Ticketing for the Vault starts at $21 for an adult ticket, with additional tiers available for families and groups.

Museum Leadership Speaks

“We’re honored to add the Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac to our collection,” said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. “Beyond its striking design, this donation helps us continue our mission of advancing automotive education, ingenuity, and preservation.”

Karges emphasized that the car’s presence will enrich the museum’s narrative of automotive history while supporting its educational initiatives.

Auction and Educational Impact

After its year‑long exhibition, the Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac will be auctioned. Proceeds from the sale are earmarked for the museum’s educational programs. “Funds raised will help expand access to hands‑on opportunities, such as sponsoring museum visits for underserved students and inspiring the next generation of creators to embrace their craft,” the museum added.

The auction is part of a broader effort to use unique artifacts to support learning and outreach, ensuring that the vehicle’s legacy extends beyond its display.

Other Iconic Vehicles on Show

The Petersen Automotive Museum’s Vault is home to several other memorable vehicles that draw crowds. Among them are the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile and the Hello Kitty Truck, each celebrated for its brand‑inspired design. Visitors can also explore the Meyers Manx Cafe inside the museum, which offers savory dishes and a few dessert treats.

Nearby, the Original Farmers Market on Fairfax Avenue hosts a variety of dessert spots, providing a sweet complement to the museum’s ice‑cream theme.

Key Takeaways

• The Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac, a 1963 convertible with a working freezer trunk, is on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum for one year.
• After its exhibition, the car will be auctioned to raise money for educational programs.
• The museum’s Vault already contains over 300 rare automobiles, including the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile and the Hello Kitty Truck.

The custom‑built vehicle will remain a highlight of the museum’s collection for the next twelve months, offering visitors a taste of automotive history and a literal scoop of ice cream. After its time on display, the car will head to auction, with proceeds directed toward expanding hands‑on educational opportunities for students and aspiring creators.

Closing

While the Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac may not be serving actual ice cream, its presence in the museum’s Vault promises to keep visitors cool and inspired. From its freezer trunk to its armrest‑cone feature, the car exemplifies how automotive design can intersect with brand storytelling and community outreach.

Key Takeaways

• The car’s freezer trunk and ice‑cream armrest make it a unique “ultimate ice‑cream vehicle.”
• The vehicle will be auctioned after a year‑long display, with proceeds supporting museum education.
• The Petersen Automotive Museum’s Vault showcases a mix of iconic brand vehicles, enriching the visitor experience.

The Häagen‑Dazs Cadillac’s journey from showroom to auction reflects the museum’s commitment to preserving automotive heritage while fostering future generations of innovators.