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Editor’s Note: This article was updated on March 7, 2025, with the latest auction results and market trends.
Chevrolet’s Task Force trucks, produced from 1955 to 1959, represent a pivotal moment in pickup history. They were the first Chevy trucks to blend car-like comfort with genuine work capability, paving the way for the modern half-ton. The lineup included the light-duty Apache, medium-duty Viking, and heavy-duty Spartan, plus the ultra-rare Cameo Carrier—a factory “car-like” pickup that still turns heads. Today, these trucks are hot collectibles, with prices ranging from under $20,000 for a decent project to over $300,000 for a pristine example.
Before the Task Force series, pickups were purely utilitarian. Farmers, loggers, and construction workers used them, but few considered them daily drivers. Chevrolet changed that in 1955 by introducing a truck that looked more like a car and rode better, too. The Task Force name itself—borrowed from GM’s military vehicle nomenclature—hinted at a new era.
The Task Force line bridged the Advance Design (1947–1955) and the C/K series (1960–1987). While the C/K became a sales legend, many enthusiasts argue Chevrolet should have kept the Task Force styling longer. Its distinctive grille, wraparound windshield, and optional two-tone paint made it stand out.
The Apache was the most popular Task Force truck, available in 1/2-ton, 3/4-ton, and 1-ton configurations. It came with a 6-cylinder or the new 265-cubic-inch small-block V8—the start of a legendary engine family. The Apache was the first Chevy pickup to offer a V8 as an option, boosting power to 162 hp and 257 lb-ft of torque.
The Viking was built for heavier hauling, typically with a 1.5-ton or 2-ton chassis. It shared the same cab but used a stronger frame and larger brakes. Vikings are rarer than Apaches today, making them a niche collector’s item.
The Spartan was the big rig of the Task Force line, designed for commercial use. Most were sold as cab-and-chassis units for upfitters. Survivors are scarce, and many were worked to death.
The Cameo Carrier was a special edition Apache with a fiberglass bed cover that made it look like a smooth station wagon. It was a direct competitor to the Ford F-100 Styleside, but only 10,320 units were built over four years. According to Hemmings, the Cameo is one of the most sought-after Task Force trucks today. A recent Hemmings auction saw a restored 1957 Cameo sell for $82,500.
The 1955 second-series Task Force trucks (often called “Second Series” to distinguish them from leftover Advance Design models) debuted the 265 small-block V8. This engine would go on to become one of the best Chevrolet ever built, powering millions of cars and trucks.
Another first was the availability of NAPCO (Northwestern Auto Parts Company) four-wheel drive conversions. Before 1955, NAPCO kits were only for heavy-duty trucks because of driveshaft clearance issues. The Task Force’s new chassis allowed a cleaner conversion, and by 1957 Chevrolet offered the “Powr-Pak 4×4” as a factory option. Today, NAPCO-equipped Task Force trucks command a premium—expect to pay 30–50% more than a 2WD example.
Classic.com data for 2020–2025 shows the highest Task Force sale was $330,000 (a fully restored 1959 Cameo Carrier with a 409 V8 conversion). The average sale price hovers around $50,000, but you can still find driver-quality trucks for under $20,000—especially 6-cylinder, 2WD models.
Recent auction highlights (2024–2025):
Buying advice:
These trucks offer a rare combination of classic styling, historical significance, and drivability. They’re not as common as Ford F-100s, so you’ll stand out at shows. The Cameo Carrier, in particular, is a true head-turner. And because the small-block V8 is still in production, you can modernize the drivetrain
