As part of the development of this uniquely styled rear-engine car, in 1937 Basil (Barney) Oldfield built a prototype he called the “Jeep”. The “Jeep” sold him on the idea of a rear engine vehicle, so he  began development of a safer, more dependable vehicle built around the rear engine. Unlike Tucker’s rear-engine auto design, Barney’s “Spirit of Tomorrow”, completed in 1942, did not lead to a manufactured product. But, Barney did achieve his goals, as Ralph Nader approved of his vehicle, claiming it was roomier, safer, and had more visibility.

This September 05, 1967, article form the Victoria Colonist (Victoria, B.C.,) provides some good early history on the vehicle.

The “Spirit of Tomorrow” still runs. This 2018 video interview provides additional information:

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/community/spirit-of-tomorrow-car-still-turning-heads-after-76-years/