Lost HUP Pilot Model Found?

[RHClarke]

I was recently pointed toward a Facebook page by Brian Gough, who asked me if I sensed something different about some of the HUP photos posted at this page: https://www.facebook.com/ChevroletC8A/?ref=ts&fref=ts

On January 19th, P Bergman posted two photos of a particular HUP. I briefly glanced at the photos and something caught my eye, but other priorities lead me away from further investigation. Until Brian teased me with an interesting question. I reviewed the photos again and was somewhat stunned.

The first photo:
Lost HUP Pilot 1.jpg

The second photo:
Lost HUP Pilot 2.jpg

Thanks to P. Bergman for allowing me to post these photos on MLU.

This truck looks like a pilot model. When compared to my 1942 Pilot Model HUP, a few similarities come up:
- double barn doors in the rear
- thin metal window frames
- side "vent" windows near the front of the cab
- smaller driver and pax doors
- location of the hinges on the front doors

Some differences also show:
- late model wheel hub lifting rings on front and rear axles
- square front air observation hatch that looks like the hinged variety, with a OJC bar
- the rear of the body is not sloped - see next factory photo.
Pilot factor photo two.jpg

I have been told that there were two Pilot Models hand built by GM as proof of concept vehicles that were presented to the Army for approval. From these two models the Heavy Utility line of vehicles were produced.

Could this HUP be the long lost second Pilot Model? Any thoughts?