(October 4, 2013) LA CHAUX-DE-FONDS, Switzerland — A large metal sculpture in honor of automotive pioneer Louis Chevrolet, co-founder of the Chevrolet brand, was unveiled and inaugurated in the Swiss city of La Chaux-de-Fonds today.

The abstract work was commissioned on the occasion of the car brand's 100 year jubilee in November 2011. Today, it was formally handed over to Louis Chevrolet's native city by Dr. Thomas Sedran, president and managing director of Chevrolet Europe.

The sculpture is an inverted bust of Louis Chevrolet. Created by Geneva-based artist Christian Gonzenbach and made of mirror-polished stainless steel, it is the largest of its kind in Switzerland, with a height of over five meters and a weight of 8 tons.

"Chevrolet is known as one of the most iconic American car brands around the world. The man who established it more than 100 years ago spent the first years of his life here in La Chaux-de-Fonds. We are proud to pay tribute to our Swiss roots and our links with Louis Chevrolet's birthplace by handing over this unique work of art to the city of La Chaux-de- Fonds," Sedran said.

The unveiling and hand-over was attended by representatives of the city's government and Chevrolet as well as residents living around Parc de l'Ouest, where the sculpture was erected a few days ago.

"We are delighted to receive this very special artwork," said Théo Huguenin-Elie, city councilor and head of La Chaux-de-Fond's urban planning department. "The Louis Chevrolet sculpture is a landmark and represents a significant, emotionally engaging contribution to the region's cultural heritage.