The first fully automatic transmission, the Hydra-Matic, was a signature innovation from the Oldsmobile Division and one of the most appreciated. It was the centerpiece of the Valiant program during the 1940s, when specially equipped cars were made available to disabled veterans returning from World War II.

Each vehicle was equipped with controls determined by an individual's specific needs. Ordering these vehicles was made as simple as possible. The dealership would take the order, install the needed controls, and deliver the vehicle. If the veteran was unable to get to the dealership, he was able to order by mail, and the Oldsmobile would be delivered to the hospital or to his home.

The program was soon extended to the general population of people with physical disabilities. It was successfully adapted to those who had been afflicted with polio, cerebral palsy, arthritis and other diseases that caused physical impairment. source: 2