The history of California-based car manufacturer Tesla is anything but boring. From the moment it was founded in 2003 up until the present day the news is full of stories that make Tesla’s history colourful and entertaining. In this article we take a look at the company’s history and its future.
The history of Tesla Read More »
The Mitsubishi Group is a multinational company and are involved in everything from real estate to food and beverages to telecommunications and of course, automobiles. And of course, it’s the automotive side of Mitsubishi that we are interested in. Mitsubishi Motors was, as of 2011, the sixth biggest Japanese automaker and the sixteenth biggest automaker worldwide by production. So where did it all begin? In this article, we look at the history of Mitsubishi Motors, from its conception to the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance…
A brief history of Mitsubishi Motors Read More »
Renault is one of the best known car manufacturers in Europe, as well as one of the oldest. Groupe Renault is a multi-national manufacturer, producing cars and vans. In 2016, Renault were the ninth biggest automaker in the world by production volume, and the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi-Alliance the fourth-largest automotive group in the world. But how did Renault become the automotive machine it is today? We look at a brief history of Renault.
A brief history of Renault Read More »
Peugeot are one of the biggest car manufacturers in Europe and have been around since 1810. Of course, they weren’t a car manufacturer then. In fact, they started off by manufacturing coffee mills and bicycles. So how did Peugeot become the huge brand they are today? In this article, we look at the history of Peugeot, from coffee mills to Groupe PSA…
A brief history of Peugeot Read More »
Porsche are one of the most well known brands in the world. Synonymous with luxury and style, Porsche have become just as much of a status symbol as designer clothes or luxury holidays. But how did the car manufacturer become the luxury icon it is today? We look at the interesting history of Porsche…
A brief history of Porsche Read More »
Lotus are a classic British company, and one that have been around for over half a century. Originally manufacturing sports and racing cars, Lotus have a cult following and some very loyal drivers. But how did they gain such a cult status? We look at the interesting history of Lotus…
A brief history of Lotus Read More »
Honda are known for their well-built, reliable cars, and are hugely popular across the world. Whether you enjoy the sportiness of a Civic or the reliability of the Accord, Honda have a vehicle for pretty much everyone. They are also leading the way when it comes to electric vehicles. But, where did it all begin? We look at the history of Honda, from motorcycles to their aims for 2025…
A brief history of Honda Read More »
Romania’s top company by revenue and the country’s largest exporter, Dacia has come a long way since its conception as a communist state-owned company. Finding its niche in the low-cost sector, Dacia has been the butt of many a joke from the ex-Top Gear trio. But the Romanian car manufacturer are getting the last laugh as one of Europe’s fastest-growing car brands. So how did the brand go from being the symbol of the Ceauşescu government to making around 2.9% of Romania’s GDP? OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Dacia
A brief history of Dacia Read More »
Maserati are one of the most well-known brands in the world, and one of the most luxurious. Synonymous with luxury and style, the Maserati tagline is “Luxury, sports and style cast in exclusive cars”, and they are exclusive. Their emblem is a trident, particularly fitting for such a strong luxury sports manufacturer, and a homage to the company’s home city. So where did it all begin? How did Maserati become the status symbol it is today? We look at the interesting history of Maserati, from the Maserati brothers to FCA.
A brief history of Maserati Read More »
Jeep are one of the most well-known brands in the world. Their vehicles are famous for their off-roading skills, and are popular with rural dwellers and, more recently, city dwellers, alike. Jeep have had a rich history, one like no other vehicle manufacturer. So in this article, we are going to look at the history of Jeep, from its founding to Fiat…
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Jaguar are one of the most prestigious car brands in the world, and are quintessentially British. They hold many Royal Warrants and also provide vehicles for the British Prime Minister. You cannot get any more British than that. But where did it all begin? We take a look at the history of Jaguar, from the Swallow Sidecar Company to Tata Motors…
A brief history of Jaguar Read More »
DS haven’t been around for that long, and in the grand scheme of the automobile industry, they were basically born yesterday.
Interestingly, though, there are two DS brands, one is the premium brand of Groupe PSA and the other is the historical Citroen DS. Though the two aren’t the same, they are linked.
So how did Citroen DS become DS?
In this article, we look at the history of DS, from the historical brand to the present day.
A brief history of DS Read More »
BMW are one of the most well-known, established car brands in the world. Producing both executive and city cars alike, BMW have a rich and interesting history. In fact, BMW started as three other manufacturing companies. So how did it become the prestigious car brand we know and love today? In this article, we look at the history of BMW, from its founding to the present day.
A brief history of BMW Read More »
Aston Martin are one of the most luxurious car manufacturers in the world. Synonymous with style, luxury and James Bond, Aston Martin are one of the most well-known brands in the world. However, despite its huge success, it has seen some troubled times.
So where did it all begin?
In this article, we look at the history of Aston Martin, from its founding to James Bond.
A brief history of Aston Martin Read More »
According to Which, “anyone who buys an Alfa Romeo does so with their heart instead of their head”. Alfa Romeo have long had a loyal fan-base and has one of the most recognisable logos in the automotive industry. But where did it all begin? In this article, we look at the history of Alfa Romeo, from its founding to their popularity with businesses.
A brief history of Alfa Romeo Read More »
Audi are a luxury car manufacturer that’s been producing some of the most forward thinking and technically advanced vehicles on the market for more than 100 years. Based in Germany their headquarters are responsible for producing a range to the UK market comprising of 50 different models of car. All Audi cars feature state-of-the-art technology and world-class quality from a proud German manufactured engine. Audi are not only famed for producing road cars, but they have a strong and successful history in racing too.
Crazy facts about Audi Read More »
You’ll have heard the phrase ‘They don’t make them like they used too”. Or “Nothing is built to last these days”. Usually uttered by the older generation in relation to things like microwaves. But from cars to hoovers to fridges, nothing is made like it was in yesteryear. There’s a good reason for that. Despite the conspiracy theories that everything we buy is micro chipped to malfunction almost immediately outside of warranty. I’m not joking. My mum for one is a firm believer of this.
The actual reason things aren’t made the way they used to be, is simply that technology has evolved. Machines have become more advanced and this has opened up additional opportunities for manufacturers the world over.
Manufacturers and their cars through the years Read More »
The automotive industry, as a whole, is very old. After all, the first motorcar was patented back in 1886 by Karl Benz. While the history of the car is a story for another day, the fact is that the automotive industry is an old and complex one. And, with old industries, you get a few overlaps on the way. One of the main overlaps you tend to get with the automotive industry is manufacturers acquiring other car manufacturers.
Do BMW own other car manufacturers? Read More »
One of the most interesting things about the automotive industry is that pretty much every brand is connected in one way or another. It’s like six degrees of separation but for corporations instead. A lot of car manufacturers are very old, and therefore have had their fair share of ups and downs and many have been owned and sold by a variety of different other car manufacturers and groups so two seemingly unrelated car manufacturers could actually be very much related. One of the biggest players in the automotive industry is the Volkswagen Group. In 2017, it was the world’s second-largest automaker (Toyota was 1st) and has the largest market share in Europe. So, who do Volkswagen own? In this article, we’re going to look at the history of Volkswagen, who they own and how they acquired them.
Who do Volkswagen own? Read More »
Vauxhall is one of the oldest established vehicle manufacturers and distribution companies in Great Britain. Vauxhall, the trading name of General Motors UK, has become an icon of British industry and Vauxhall cars are British icons. But, how did Vauxhall achieve its legendary status? We take a look at the interesting history of Vauxhall. Vauxhall was founded in 1857 by Alexander Wilson. It started as a pump and marine engine manufacturer. It was bought in 1863 and began producing travelling cranes. It was then that the company was christened Vauxhall Iron Works.
A brief history of Vauxhall Read More »
The year 1866 is widely considered to be the birth of the modern motor vehicle. A date which transformed how we transport ourselves and goods. And the start of a long-lived love affair between human and car. In just 131 years vehicle engineers have transformed the car into a technical wonderland. Cars with on-board computers, parking sensors and in-car infotainment systems are a thing of the norm.
Motoring Industry throughout the years Read More »
In 2010, Hyundai operated the world’s largest integrated automobile manufacturing facility. The South Korean manufacturer employs about 75,000 people worldwide, with Hyundai vehicles being sold in 193 countries around the world. But, how did Hyundai become so successful? In this article, we look at the interesting history of Hyundai, from its conception to Genesis Motors…
A brief history of Hyundai Read More »
In 2015, Mazda produced 1.5 million vehicles for global sales. It was also the fifteenth biggest automaker by production worldwide. But it hasn’t been plain sailing for Mazda. The car manufacturer has had some bumps along the way. In this article, we look at the history of the Japanese automaker, and how they became the manufacturer we know and love today…
A brief history of Mazda Read More »
Audi is one of the best-selling luxury automobile manufacturers in the world. However, the origins of the German brand are complex and colourful, to say the least.
Behind the name of every car company, there’s a story. Sometimes it’s as simple as the name of the family who founded it (Bentley, for example), sometimes it’s an acronym for a phrase people don’t seem to remember. The story behind Audi, however, is that little bit more interesting. OSV takes a look at the rich history of the German brand in our Audi history.
A brief history of Audi Read More »
Founded in 1859, Skoda has had a very interesting history as both a state-owned and privately owned car manufacturer. By 2016, Skoda sales had reached 1.13 million cars and profit had risen by 6.5%. But, how did this Czech manufacturer come to be? We take a look at the fascinating history of Skoda…
A brief history of Skoda Read More »
Land Rover is an iconic British car, so much so that King George VI granted Land Rover a Royal Warrant in 1951.
So yes, the Land Rover is as historically British as they come, but how did they become the iconic British manufacturer we know and love today?
In this article, we take a look at the interesting history of the Land Rover, from the Series I to…pushchairs.
A brief history of Land Rover Read More »
Although it is an impressive 67 years old, SEAT is one of the younger car manufacturers, and its sporty cars show that it has no plans to slow down. Popularity for SEAT has grown and grown and seeing a SEAT on the road in the UK is as common as seeing a Golf or a Focus.
But, how did this come to be?
In this article, we look at the interesting history of the Spanish manufacturer.
A brief history of SEAT Read More »
Range Rover has been named one of the top British cars of all time by Classic & Sport Car magazine and it’s hard to argue with it.
But, how did Range Rover come to be?
In this article we take a look at the history of the SUV manufacturer, from its conception to the present day.
A brief history of Range Rover Read More »
Ford are the world’s fifth largest automaker in the world (based on worldwide vehicle sales). Ford is also the largest family-controlled company in the world as the Ford family have controlled the company since its founding over 110 years ago. But how did Ford survive two world wars and a Great Depression? In this article, we take a look at the rich history of one of the most well-known car manufacturers in the world…
A brief history of Ford Motor Company Read More »
Of the ten top selling car models in history, three are Volkswagen; the Beetle, the Golf and the Passat. Not one for fancy branding strategies, the current VW tagline is simply “Das Auto”, which literally translates to “the car”. They are Germany’s biggest car company and the third largest automaker in the world.
From “the people’s car” to the emissions scandal, it’s safe to say VW have a history like no other.
OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Volkswagen.
A brief history of Volkswagen: From the people’s car to the emissions scandal Read More »
The Smart Car. You either love it or loathe it, but you definitely have an opinion on it. The compact car has been dividing opinion for many years now, and whatever your opinion on the microcar, you can’t deny it’s been pretty successful.
But, where did it all begin?
In this article, we look at the history of the Smart car.
A brief history of the Smart car: From the Swatchmobile to the electric ForTwo Read More »
As of 2013, Nissan was the sixth largest automaker in the world, and is currently the largest electric vehicle manufacturer, with more than 275,000 electric vehicles sold.
But, how did the Japanese car marque become the largest electric vehicle manufacturer? In this article, we take a look at the rich history of Nissan, from Datsun to the Nissan Leaf.
A brief history of Nissan: From Datsun to the Nissan Leaf Read More »
Isuzu Motors is a Japanese truck and engine manufacturer, currently producing a selection of commercial and personal vehicles as well as diesel engines for automobiles, industry and boats. We take a look at the history of one of Japan’s oldest carmakers. Isuzu’s history stretches back to 1916 with the Tokyo-based Ishikawajima Shipbuilding and Engineering Company’s idea to make automobiles together with the Tokyo Gas and Electric Company. The new firm then teamed up with British automaker Wolseley and hatched a deal to produce Wolseley vehicles in East Asia.
The first Tokyo Gas and Electric truck was made in 1919 with the help of the Military Vehicle Support Act. The firm then merged with DAT Automobile Manufacturing in 1933 and within a year the new company renamed their truck model the Isuzu, after the Isuzu River. The same year, DAT changed their name to Automobile Industries Co.
A brief history of Isuzu: From Wolseley to the Trooper Read More »
Cute, iconic and unmistakably British, the Mini is an instantly recognisable little car with a devoted fan base. Despite its diminutive size, it has space for four passengers and even room for luggage in the boot. In 1999, the Mini was voted the second most influential car of the 20th century by the Global Automotive Elections Foundation, just behind the Ford Model T. More original Minis were produced than any other British car (5.4 million) over its 41-year long production – another record for mass-produced British cars. And to think, they came out of a crisis. We take a look at the interesting history of Mini.
A brief history of Mini: From the Suez Crisis to the Cooper Read More »
The Mazda Motor Corporation, named after Ahura Mazda, the chief deity of the ancient Iranian Zoroastrian religion, is the 18th largest automaker in the world and is Japan’s fifth largest producer of passenger cars. The marque is known for its sports cars and sporty passenger vehicles. We take a look at the interesting history of Mazda. Starting as a machine tool manufacturer called Toyo Cork Kogyo Co. in 1920, the Mazda-Go, an autorickshaw, was produced in 1931. However, this was on the eve of the Second World War…
A brief history of Mazda: From Toyo Kogyo to Hydrogen Fuel Cells Read More »
Chrysler is a marque as iconic as the New York art deco skyscraper that bears its name. One of the original American “Big Three” automakers, Chrysler models may not be as recognisable as those of GM and Ford, but the firms’ contributions are undeniable. We look at the interesting history of Chrysler. Walter P. Chrysler more or less embodies the American dream. An engineer who got his start as a railroad mechanic, he worked his way up from chief of production at Buick in 1911 to president of the company in just four years. His tenure at Buick made him a fabulously wealthy man, but his sights were set on forming his own company. Walter P. purchased the ailing Maxwell Motor Company in 1921. The first Chrysler produced was the Chrysler 70 and shortly after, Chrysler Corporation was founded in 1925…
A brief history of Chrysler: From the American Dream to the Chrysler Group LLC. Read More »
Alternately referred to as Benz, Mercedes or Merc, Mercedes-Benz is about as much of a household name as is possible within the automotive industry. The mere mention of Mercedes conjures far more than just cars. Such brand recognition and identity – arguably associated as much with reliability as it is with luxury – is not easily earned. However, as the world’s oldest continuously manufactured marque, Mercedes has had a lot of time to establish its reputation. We take a look at the rich history of Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes’ beginnings stretch back to 1886 and the invention of the internal combustion vehicle. This occurred in two separate, independent locations in Southwestern Germany only 60 miles apart. Karl Benz produced a petrol-powered car (a 3-wheeler) and Gottlieb Daimler, together with Wilhelm Maybach, produced a petrol-powered converted stagecoach. Both parties were unaware of each other’s work…
A brief history of Mercedes-Benz: From the W15 to the Smart car Read More »
One of the most iconic British sports car marques, MG is probably best known throughout the world for their small, speedy models, especially the two-seater convertible Midget range. What was once the MG Car Company Limited is now extending its life as MG Motor, part of the Nanjing Automobile Group, China’s oldest car maker. OSV takes a look at the interesting history of MG. MG’s history as an independent company is a bit murky, but its foundation can be traced back to the mid-1920s and Morris Motors. Around this time (exact dates are disputed), an Oxford Morris dealership producing its own cars, which bore both the MG (for “Morris Garages”) and Morris badges…
A brief history of MG: From the MG 18/80 to the MG3 Read More »
The Kia Motors Corporation is the number two car manufacturer in South Korea, second only to long-time competitor Hyundai. Hyundai, by the way, owns 32.8% of Kia. The name Kia is derived from the Korean and Chinese word “ki”, meaning to rise or come out and “a” for Asia. This is because since 1944, Kia Motors has been steadily rising out of Asia. OSV take a look at the history of the Korean marque. The firm began as a simple producer of handmade tubing and bicycle parts. By 1951, Kia had moved on to making complete bicycles and was manufacturing motorcycles by 1957…
A brief history of Kia: From bicycle parts to the Sportage Read More »
According to Steve Coogan’s comic creation, Alan Partridge, Lexus (his plural usage being “Lexi”) is the “Japanese Mercedes”. While Lexus did indeed set out to compete in the US market against European luxury car brands such as Mercedes and BMW, its goal was not to imitate. Right from the start it was obvious that Lexus intended to carve out its own niche as its design clearly stated: This was no upmarket Toyota model, but something entirely new. OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Lexus. Japanese cars first made inroads into the US market during the energy crisis of the 1970s. Fuel efficiency and small price tags had obvious appeal to cash-strapped American consumers. But, for those with champagne taste, “practical” subcompacts held no such charms. Fast-forward to the late 1980s and things were about to change big.
A brief history of Lexus: From the energy crisis to hybrid ambitions Read More »
Although you may not have guessed it, Suzuki is the ninth largest automaker by production in the world in 2012. With over 45,000 employees worldwide, Suzuki has roughly 35 main production facilities in 23 countries. Full name Suzuki Motor Corporation, this Japanese multinational also makes motorcycles, ATVs, several varieties of engine and even wheelchairs. The firm is best known for their compact or “kei” class cars, but its origins are quite removed from motor vehicles.
OSV takes a look into the interesting history of Suzuki. Suzuki started out in 1909 as the Suzuki Loom Works, in the city of Hamamastu on the Southeast Coast of central Japan. Founder Michio Suzuki focused on manufacturing looms for Japan’s prosperous silk industry for nearly 30 years before turning his attention to automobiles.
A brief history of Suzuki: From Loom Works to the Swift Read More »
As the luxury division of Nissan Motor Company, the Infiniti marque has been has been around for less than a quarter of a century. Before Honda launched their own Acura division in 1986, Japanese luxury car brands were unheard of. Three years later, both Nissan and Toyota (with its Lexus division) decided to enter the high-end auto market.
Yet, despite its recent origins, Infiniti has helped to carve out a significant niche in a world previously dominated by European (predominantly German) automakers. Developed exclusively for the overseas market, the Infiniti brand was not introduced into Japan until 2013. So, how did this luxury branch come to be? We take a look at the short but interesting history of Infiniti. In 1989, a Japanese premium car was still a novel concept in the West. And, unfortunately, Infiniti didn’t quite make the initial splash it intended to. The debut Q45, a full-sized luxury car, was advertised with a subtle Zen-inspired mystique. The cars, interestingly, weren’t even shown. However, sales were modest…
A brief history of Infiniti: From the Q45 to the world Read More »
Fabbirca Italiana Autombil Torino, or Fiat, may be known for its small cars but it’s a true industry giant. With production and partnerships around the world, Fiat is the market leader in Italy and Brazil, the 4th largest automaker in Europe and the 11th largest in the world.
But how did it become the giant that it is? OSV takes a look at the small car brand with a big history.
Founded in 1899 in Turin by Giovanni Angelli and a team of investors, the first Fiat was the 3 ½ CV, which resembled the Benz car of the day. Other early popular Fiats included light commercial trucks and taxicabs for several European markets.
In 1902, the Fiat 24 hp model won the Sassi-Superga uphill race and Angelli drove an 8hp Fiat in the second Italian Car Tour, setting a record.
A brief history of Fiat: From the Sassi-Superga to the FCA Read More »
Though only the 22nd largest automaker in the world, Subaru have successfully managed to carve out a nice niche for itself both in the Japanese and international markets. Particularly, the all-wheel drive segment. “Subaru” is what the Pleiades star cluster is called in Japanese, and the company’s logo represents this with its stylised representation of seven stars.
But, how did it become the car maker it is today? OSV takes a look at the interesting history of the Japanese manufacturer. Subaru got its start when Fuji Heavy Industries decided to branch out into car manufacturing. A large transportation conglomerate, Fuji created the Subaru division in the 1950’s. It was in 1954 that Subaru launched the 1500. The 1500 was a compact vehicle with a monocoque body, a Peugeot engine and independent front and rear suspension…
Subaru history: From the first miniCar to zero landfill status Read More »
Far more than just a luxury automobile, a Bentley is a statement. Owning one says you’re either fabulously rich or would rather drive a Bentley than have a place to live. Bentley represents British elegance like no other; the Queen’s private limousine is a special Bentley mode, of which only two were produced.
But, how did this manufacturer become the epitome of British gentility? OSV takes a look at the history of Bentley. Before the First World War, Walter Owen Bentley, known as simply W.O, and his brother Horace, sold French DFP cars in North London. But W.O knew that he always wanted to design and build his own cars. However, it was dealing with DFP that stemmed his innovative use of French-inspired aluminium pistons…
Bentley history: From Le Mans to the Golden Jubilee Read More »
Synonymous with safety, reliability and quality, Volvo is one of Sweden’s emblematic brands. Known throughout the world as more of a premium marque, in Sweden it’s largely considered a practical family car. But, how did this practical family car come about?
Let us take you back to 1927…Volvo, Latin for ‘I roll’, was founded by Assar Gabrielsson and Gustaf Larsson in 1927, with the intention of making a car that put quality and safety first. It was created as a subsidiary of ball bearing manufacturer, SKF, in Gothenburg.
The company produced closed top and cabriolet models of their OV5 and PV4 models. Both were constructed to withstand the Swedish climate. However, car sales were slow. It was the first Volvo truck that proved to be an immediate success. It was truck sales that resulted in the Volvo’s financial success at the very beginning…
Volvo history: How the Swedish manufacturer became the leader in safety innovation Read More »
Located in Toyota, Aichi in Japan, the Toyota Motor Corporation is the single largest automobile manufacturer in the world. As of March 2015, there were 344,109 employees working at the motor company and is currently standing as the 13th largest corporation in the world in terms of revenue.
But, how did Toyota become the biggest car manufacturer in the world?
Let’s start at the beginning…
Toyota was not always a car manufacturer. After inventing the world’s first automatic loom, Sakichi Toyoda created the Toyoda Spinning and Weaving Company.
Impressing the Platt Brothers, a British company, so much with this invention, Toyoda sold the production and the rights. He gave this money to his son, Kiichiro, to research and develop automotive technology for Toyoda Spinning and Weaving Company…
A brief history of Toyota: From Toyoda Spinning and Weaving to Artificial Intelligence Read More »
A funky French icon, Citroën is synonymous with innovation, affordability and quirky looks. Although current models are less outlandish in appearance, for much of the marque’s history, there was absolutely no mistaking a Citroën. Outside of France, driving one was akin to making a fashion statement.
But, when did Citroën start making cars? And when did they buy Maserati?! OSV takes a look at the colourful history of the popular French manufacturer.
Andre Citroën started making double helical gears in 1912. This is where the double chevron logo came from, in case you were wondering.
In 1913, he took over Mors automobile company and his output increased tenfold. However, like many European manufacturers around this time, focus turned towards the war effort. And in 1914, Citroën were given the go-ahead by the French government to increase their output of munition shells…
Citroën history: A French automobile manufacturer’s timeline of innovation Read More »
When you really look into it, the automotive industry is a complex one. It’s very common for car manufacturers to try and keep the different brands they own on the down low. This is because they like to maintain brand separation and identity. That said, they also want you to be sort of aware of who they own so you get that sense of heritage and prestige.
We actually get asked a lot of questions about all aspects of the automotive industry; it’s not all bad credit and company car tax. And one of the questions that we get asked is ‘who does BMW own?’
BMW have been around for a while with a rich history filled with all sorts, from pots and pans to bicycles. They’ve also owned a fair few other brands on the way. In this article we’ll give you a brief overview of BMW’s history, and tell you exactly what other brands they used to own. Interestingly, BMW began as a merger of two different companies…
A sneak peek of rare photos of Ford cars! As part of their UK centerary celebrations, Ford are allowing us
Rare photos of Ford cars from the archives Read More »
