General Motors introcuded the Bel Air series in 1953, but the Bel Air name was used before that, from 1950 - 1952, hardtops in Chevrolet's Premium Deluxe range were known as the "Bel Air"

In 1955, you had the option of a V8, as well as the 150 and 210 straight six options. The styling for the 1955 model was described as "crisp and fresh"

The 1955, 1956 and 1957 models are definitely the most easily recognised. These cars are still highly sought after, 50 years later.

From 1955–1957, production of the two-door Nomad station wagon was assigned to the Bel Air series, although its body and trim were unique to that model.

In 1958, Chevrolet adopted a new style for their range. They wanted their cars to be longer, bigger and generally more dominating than their previous models. The Bel Air still remained top of the range, but the Impala was also a top-spec alternative, with slightly different styling. The Impala had 3 rear lights, housed in broader alcoves, unique side trim, a different roofline and a vent above the rear window. That year, they also introduced the Biscayne (210) and Del Ray(150), which were cheaper alternatives to the Bel Air and Impala, without all the glamorous styling options. In 1958, Chevrolet was the most popular car in America, the Bel Air at the source of this popularity.

In 1959, the Impala replaced the Bel Air as top model, but the Bel Air was still a good alternative. The Biscayne replaced the Del Ray as the least expensive model.

Throughout the 1960's, the Bel Air remained a good mid-range model, with some of the luxury options that were on the Impala, such as Air Conditioning, but still at a lower price.

In 1972, the Biscayne was dropped, and the Bel Air was now the entry model untill 1975 when production ceased.

In 2002, Chevrolet produced a concept car, at the Detroit Auto Show, but unfortunately, GM has no interest in producing the car.