Group History History

History

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles carries on the tradition of two historic automakers. Read more about their respective histories.

2014 - Present

In early 2014, Fiat Group acquires 100% ownership in Chrysler Group paving the way to complete the union between the two groups in both financial and technical terms. The merger of an Italian company and an American company creates a multi-national organization that operates in more than 140 countries and employs nearly 236,000 people. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles unveils the Group’s strategic plan for 2014-2018. This marks the beginning of a new phase for the now fully-integrated global automaker, which pursues its ambitious strategic objectives while consistently delivering on the key financial targets set out in the plan.

2018

Michael Manley is appointed Chief Executive Officer of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. on July 21, 2018.

2017

Alfa Romeo launches the Stelvio, the brand’s first-ever SUV.

Jeep_® begins production of the Compass in India, bringing the brand’s production to a total of six countries around the world.

Alfa Romeo announces its return to Formula 1 for the 2018 championship season, after more than 30 years away from the sport.

Fiat begins production of the all-new Cronos sedan in Argentina for distribution in markets across Latin America.

FCA signs a memorandum of understanding with BMW Group, Intel and Mobileye to develop a state-of-the-art autonomous driving platform.

Mopar_® celebrates its 80th anniversary year.

2016

At the beginning of January, FCA completes the spin-off of Ferrari.

2016 is a very active year on the product front, including the Group’s entry into six new product segments: Maserati launches its first-ever SUV, the Levante. Alfa Romeo launches the ground-breaking new Giulia and the Fiat brand introduces the Tipo, Toro, Fullback and 124 Spider.

Chrysler brand – which introduced the minivan concept in the 1980s – launches the all-new Pacifica and Pacifica Hybrid, the industry’s first electrified minivan.

FCA announces a collaboration with Waymo (formerly the Google Self-Driving Car Project) and the completion of 100 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid vehicles purpose built for fully self-driving operations.

2015

The new state-of-the-art Jeep_® industrial complex is opened in Goiana, Brazil. This greenfield plant becomes the Group’s largest facility with installed production capacity of more than 250,000 vehicles a year and the flexibility to produce three different models.

The GAC-FCA joint venture plant in Changsha, China begins production of the Jeep Cherokee, the brand’s first locally-produced model.

Luxury carmaker Ferrari is listed on the NYSE in advance of its intended spin-off from FCA.

Alfa Romeo reveals the all-new Giulia sedan, the first of the brand’s new generation of models.

The Verrone transmission plant in Italy is awarded World Class Manufacturing Gold.

2014

In January, Fiat Group increases its ownership in Chrysler Group to 100%. In October, the two companies merge to create Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and shares in the new company begin trading on the New York Stock Exchange and the Milan Stock Exchange.

The Jeep_® brand launches the all-new Renegade, the brand’s first-ever small SUV and the first FCA vehicle designed in the U.S. and produced in Italy.

Alfa Romeo returns to the North American market, after an absence of some 20 years, with the launch of the 4C Coupé.

Fiat brand expands the 500 family with the launch of the new 500X crossover.

Maserati and Dodge both celebrate their 100th anniversary.

2009 - 2013

Fiat Group and Chrysler Group enter into a global strategic alliance in mid-2009, launching a period of profound changes for both groups. Synergies include optimization of the respective manufacturing footprints and global supplier base, sharing of technologies and access to new markets. Chrysler Group achieves an impressive turnaround in just 19 months and fully repays, with interests and six years ahead of schedule, all the loans received from the U.S. and Canadian governments. A historic decision changes the shape of the Group: the demerger of its capital goods businesses and the creation of two distinct entities, Fiat and Fiat Industrial. By the end of the period, Fiat and Chrysler have achieved full integration at the industrial and cultural level and have created an organization that is truly unified in practice, even if not yet on paper.

2013

Maserati debuts the new Ghibli, which represents the brand’s entry into the high-end E segment.

The Ram brand introduces the new Ram ProMaster commercial van, developed from the successful, long-standing Fiat Ducato, and the ProMaster City.

Group plants in Pomigliano d’Arco (Italy), Tychy (Poland) and Bursa (Turkey) are the first three assembly plants to achieve World Class Manufacturing Gold.

2012

Fiat brand launches the 500L, a new addition to the highly-successful 500 family with production in Kragujevac, Serbia.

Production of the Fiat Viaggio, the brand’s first-ever model produced in China, begins at the newly-inaugurated GAC-Fiat joint venture plant in Changsha.

The Bielsko-Biala engine plant in Poland is the first Group plant to achieve World Class Manufacturing Gold.

Fiat Group’s ownership interest in Chrysler Group reaches 58.5%.

2011

On January 1st, Fiat Group spins off its capital goods activities to Fiat Industrial (subsequently renamed CNH Industrial) to focus on its core automotive businesses.

The Jeep_® brand celebrates 70 years since the iconic Willys MB entered production in 1941.

Production of the third generation Fiat Panda begins at the Pomigliano d’Arco plant in Italy.

During the year, Fiat Group increases its ownership interest in Chrysler Group to 53.5%.

2010

John Elkann is named Chairman of the Company.

Alfa Romeo celebrates its 100^th anniversary and debuts the new Giulietta.

Production of the all-new Jeep_® Grand Cherokee begins at Detroit’s Jefferson North Assembly Plant.

The Fiat brand marks its return to North America, after an absence of 27 years, with the presentation of the 500 at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

2009

On June 10th, Fiat Group and Chrysler Group LLC announce a global strategic alliance with Fiat taking an initial 20% ownership interest in Chrysler and the VEBA Trust, US Treasury and Canadian government holding the remaining interests. Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is also appointed Chief Executive Officer of Chrysler Group LLC.

2000 - 2008

During the period, Group brands launch several key models. Fiat presents a restyling of the Punto, the new Idea, the Bravo, and relaunches the iconic Fiat 500; Alfa Romeo debuts the 159, 166, MiTo and Giulietta; for its 100th anniversary, Lancia launches the all-new Ypsilon; at Maranello, Ferrari begins production of the innovative Ferrari F430 and 599 GTB Fiorano; and, Maserati comes out with the captivating GranSport and GranTurismo. In 2004, the Group begins an impressive turnaround achieving record profits in 2008.

2008

The new Lancia Delta, the Alfa 8C Spider, the 500 Abarth and the Fiorino are all presented for the first time at the Geneva Motor Show.

A few months later, Fiat launches the “free space” Qubo and the Grande Punto Natural Power.

2007

At the end of January, Fiat launches the new Bravo. In March, one of the most prestigious sports car brands in history, Abarth, is relaunched with its reinterpretation of the Grande Punto.

On July 4th, the new Fiat 500 hits the market and becomes an instant success. In 2008, it is named “Car of the Year”.

2006

Launch of the TetraFuel system for alternative fuels.

2005

Fiat Group returns to profitability and the 16v 1.3 MultiJet engine is named “Engine of the Year”.

FPT Powertrain Technologies is established.

2004

Umberto Agnelli dies and the Group’s new leaders are appointed: Luca Cordero di Montezemolo as Chairman, John Elkann as Vice Chairman and Sergio Marchionne as Chief Executive Officer.

The Panda wins the “Car of the Year” award.

2003

After almost half a century at the helm of the company, Giovanni Agnelli dies and his brother Umberto takes over as Chairman.

Fiat invents the MultiJet technology and the SDE, the smallest direct-injection diesel engine ever produced.

In Brazil, the company introduces flexfuel technology, which enables two different fuels (e.g., gasoline and ethanol) to be mixed in the same tank.

2001

Fiat presents the Stilo and the following year Lancia launches the Thesis, its new flagship luxury model.

2000

An industrial alliance is formed with General Motors that would be dissolved in 2005.

Alfa Romeo brings out the 147 which is elected “Car of the Year” the following year.

1990 - 2000

In response to increasingly tough international competition, Fiat Group adopts a multi-track strategy: on one side, it invests in product and process innovation and the search for new markets outside Europe with high development potential and, on the other, it implements a plan for cost containment and internal reorganization.

1999

The world’s first automated manual transmission (Selespeed) goes into mass production.

During the same year, CNH-Case New Holland is formed to create a leading global player in agricultural and construction equipment.

1998

The Fiat Multipla, Lancia Lybra and new Punto come onto the market.

1997

The Alfa Romeo 156 becomes the first car in the world to be fitted with a diesel engine with Common Rail system, which within the space of a few years revolutionizes the market for diesel-powered cars.

1995, 1996 & 1998

The Fiat Punto, Fiat Bravo-Brava and then the Alfa Romeo 156 are named “Car of the Year”.

1993

The Company acquires the prestigious automaker Maserati and also introduces Progetto Autonomy to facilitate mobility for the disabled.

1990

The Panda Elettra is the first mass-produced electric vehicle.

1980 - 1990

In the Eighties, the industrial world underwent profound changes, linked above all to the development of electronics and new materials. Attention for the environment also increases and Fiat demonstrates its sensitivity by creating electric and natural gas vehicles, and setting up the Fare project, for the recycling of cars destined for demolition.

1988

The state-of-the-art research center Elasis is established at the Group’s initiative.

The same year, the Fiat Tipo is named “Car of the Year”.

Other cars to achieve success during the decade are the Fiat Regata and Croma, the Lancia Delta, Thema and Y10, the Alfa Romeo 164, and the Ferrari GTO, Testarossa and F40, as well as the commercial vehicles Fiorino and Ducato.

1987

The world’s first direct-injection diesel engine for passenger cars is developed.

1985

Production begins on the innovative FIRE (Fully Integrated and Robotized Engine).

1984

Alfa Romeo becomes part of the Group.

1983

At Cape Canaveral in Florida, Fiat Auto presents the new Uno, a symbol of innovation and technological rebirth for company.

It goes on to win the “Car of the Year” award in 1984.

1980

Launch of the Panda, which immediately becomes key player in the economy segment.

1970 - 1980

Toward the end of the 1960s, there is a long period of protests and social unrest that also involves Fiat and has significant repercussions on the group’s results. Despite these difficulties, the group invests heavily in the south of Italy and begins construction of plants located in Termini Imerese, Cassino, Termoli, Sulmona, Vasto, Bari, Lecce and Brindisi. During the same period, Fiat begins the process of decentralizing its operating activities, transforming the company into an industrial holding. Among the first companies to be established were Fiat Macchine Movimento Terra, Fiat Engineering and Iveco.

1979

Fiat Auto grows and eventually brings together the Fiat, Lancia, Autobianchi and Ferrari brands.

1978

The innovative car chassis assembly system, “Robogate”, is installed at some plants.

At the same time, new factories are constructed in Italy and Brazil.

Comau and Teksid are established.

1976

Centro Ricerche Fiat is founded.

1975

Ferrari wins the Formula 1 World Championship.

This triumph is repeated in 1977 and 1979.

1972

Lancia begins production of the Beta, which is followed in subsequent years by the Stratos, Gamma and Delta.

The same year, Lancia wins the World Rally Constructors’ Championship and takes the title again in 1974, 1975 and 1976.

Fiat takes first in 1977 and 1978.

1971

Presentation of the 127 which achieves extraordinary success and the following year wins the “Car of the Year” award.

The historic sports brand Abarth becomes part of the Group.

1960 - 1970

The decade begins with a general spirit of optimism and the economic miracle continues in Italy. Fiat experiences dramatic increase in production volumes: the number of cars constructed per year goes from 425,000 to 1,741,000; trucks from 19,000 to 64,800; tractors from 22,637 to 50,558; earthmovers from 3,000 to 6,255. Fiat doubles the number of employees to almost 171,000.

1970

The 128, Fiat’s first front-wheel drive car, is named “Car of the Year”.

1969

The company acquires Lancia and purchases a 50% interest in Sefac-Ferrari.

The same year, Fiat Ferroviaria designs and produces the Pendolino, the world’s first tilting train.

1967

Vittorio Valletta dies.

Production begins at the Rivalta plant.

Fiat takes a majority stake in Magneti Marelli.

The 124 is named “Car of the Year” and the Fiat Dino Coupé is launched complete with engine based on Ferrari technology.

1966

Giovanni Agnelli, grandson of the founder, becomes Chairman.

A major agreement is signed for construction of the Vaz plant in Togliattigrad, Russia, which will produce two thousand Zigulì passenger cars a day.

1964

Launch of the two-door, five-seat Fiat 850 sedan.

1950 - 1960

Italy experiences a period of economic boom and the car industry is one of the main drivers of intense growth: one car for every 96 inhabitants in 1949 becomes one for every 28 inhabitants in 1958 and one for every 11 inhabitants by 1963. Fiat now has more than 85,000 employees and car production grows six-fold over the decade.

1956

The new 500 and the Autobianchi Bianchina are launched. The Fiat G.91 is selected as tactical fighter for NATO.

1955

Arrival of the popular 600, the first Fiat rear-wheel drive passenger car.

Impresit, a company specialized in civil engineering founded in 1929, constructs roads, tunnels, bridges and dams, such as the Kariba dam on the Zambesi river.

1953

Launch of the 1400, Italy’s first diesel-powered passenger car.

1952

The high-performance 8V sports car reaches 200 kilometers per hour and the 7002 model helicopter is presented.

The same year, production begins on the 682N lorry which goes on to be produced for more than a quarter of a century and becomes a milestone in transport history.

1951

The transatlantic liner Giulio Cesare, powered by a Fiat engine, enters service and Italy’s first jet, the Fiat G.80, takes flight.

1940 - 1950

With entry into the war, Fiat has to convert production to military purposes. The company dramatically reduces production of cars, while output of trucks is multiplied five-fold. Armored vehicles, airplanes and marine engines are also produced.

1949

The number of employees tops 71,000 and the company returns to bottom line growth.

1945-1947

Senator Agnelli dies on 16 December 1945 and Vittorio Valletta becomes chairman. Large-scale production of cars resumes, with models such as the 500B berlinetta and estate, the refreshed 1100 and 1500, and the sporty 1100S. Alongside these are trucks and buses, high-power tractors, railcars, airplanes and large marine engines.

1942

Launch of the 700D wheeled tractor and the model “50”, the first diesel-powered heavy crawler.

The latter is hidden underground for fear of requisition by the Germans.

It is recovered at the end of the war and mass production begins.

1940

The Fiat 016 locomotive exceeds 160 kilometers per hour, breaking the world speed record in the diesel engine category.

1930 - 1940

For Fiat, the early ‘30s are marked by the consolidation of its manufacturing base and significant expansion abroad: from France to Spain, Poland and the USSR.

1937

Construction begins on the Mirafiori plant.

It is inaugurated two years later, introducing the most advanced working methods to Italy.

1934

Francesco Agello reaches 709.209 kilometers per hour in a Macchi-Castoldi M.C.72 powered by a Fiat AS6 engine, setting a world record for propeller-driven seaplanes that remains unbeaten.

1930-1935

Fiat releases 15 more models.

Some are to become milestones in automobile history: the popular 508 Balilla, the deluxe 518 and 527 Ardita, the aerodynamic 1500, the economic 500 Topolino and the 1100 “Musone”.

1932

The 700C tractor is launched.

1930

The arrival of the “Littorina”, the world’s first railcar.

1920 - 1930

Life in post-war Italy is marked by intense political and social conflict. These are difficult years for the Company requiring rigorous attention to cost management. In 1923, with the crisis having passed, the Lingotto factory is inaugurated and it becomes the symbol of a Fiat whose future is now inextricably linked to the concept of industrialized production. Inside the factory, the assembly line is introduced and working methods are transformed.

1921-1929

The decade sees the release of many models, including launch of the SuperFiat, the 519, a six cylinder luxury car, the 509 and the 503.

In 1927, the 520 is offered in left-hand drive and in 1928, aluminum cylinder heads are adopted on production model cars, representing a world first.

1929 sees the arrival of the economical 514 and the elegant 525.

The 1014 van is also launched: with six wheels, dual transmission and articulated chassis, this vehicle is unbeatable off road.

1922

The AL biplane, Fiat’s first civil aviation aircraft, takes its maiden flight.

The same year, the company establishes Grandi Motori for the construction of marine engines.

1920

Giovanni Agnelli becomes Chairman of Fiat.

1910 - 1920

In Europe, as the new century unfolds, significant economic and scientific progress continue. But the eruption of the Great War has a considerable impact on industrial activity as it is transformed to support the country’s military effort.

1919

Immediately following the war, Fiat comes out with the 501 “economy”, 505 and 510, as well as its first tractor, the 702.

1915-1917

Construction begins on the Lingotto factory, the largest in Europe at the time. The Group enters the steel and railway sectors.

1914

As part of the war effort, almost 20,000 units of the 18BL lorry are produced and, in the years following, various aircraft engines.

1912-1914

Fiat cars win a number of international races, such as the American Grand Prize, the Indianapolis 500-Mile Race and the Gothenburg-Stockholm Winter Cup.

The first small displacement production car, the Fiat Zero, is created.

1910

Six new models are launched: the 12-15 HP, 15-20 HP, 20-30 HP, 30-45 HP and the Type 5 and Type 6.

1899 - 1910

Fiat is founded at the end of the 1800s – a period filled with the fervor of grand initiatives, inventive spirit and new ideas – and is destined to rapidly become one of the world’s leading industrial groups.

1908

The company begins manufacture of aircraft engines: the first developed is the 50hp SA 8/75, which incorporates the experience acquired on the auto racing circuit.

1906

Out of a total 8 million lire in annual sales, export sales reach 6 million lire.

Auto production is expanded with the addition of the 8, 10, 12, 24, 60, 100 and 130 HP models.

The company also begins making trucks, buses, trams and marine engines.

1903

The company is listed on the stock exchange and begins producing its first vehicles for goods transport.

1902

Giovanni Agnelli becomes Managing Director.

1900

The first plant is inaugurated and production reaches 24 cars a year.

1899

On July 11th, the deed of incorporation is signed giving birth to Società Anonima Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili Torino – F.I.A.T. The first car built is the 4 HP.

2000 - 2008

Even with ownership changes, new models and new power plants continued to be introduced. The Charger, Challenger and 300 nameplates were re-introduced, as was the 3^rd Generation HEMI engine. The Jeep and Ram brands continued to grow their market share with continuous improvements.

2008

Nearly 40 years after the debut of the original, Dodge brings the Challenger back. A modern muscle car, it comes with a fuel-efficient V-6 option and an aggressive entry-level price.

2006

The Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico marks the one-millionth Chrysler PT Cruiser manufacturing milestone.

2005

The 2005 Chrysler 300 is named "North American Car of the Year."

2004

The new Chrysler 300 is named “Car of the Year” by Motor Trend magazine.

2003

Chrysler re-introduces the HEMI engine to production cars.

1990 - 2000

The 1990s saw Chrysler’s sales driven by design innovation across the model lines. From the bold new Viper to a radically new pickup, Chrysler reshaped what the customers expected from vehicles appearance. Strong sales grew the corporate workforce to over 130,000 employees worldwide.

1998

The Dodge Durango SUV and the Chrysler 300M are introduced.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Dive four-wheel-drive system.

Chrysler and Daimler-Benz agree to a merger.

1996

Chrysler’s market share reaches 16.2 percent, the highest since 1957.

1994

The all-new Dodge Ram is introduced.

1993

The Jeep_® Grand Cherokee is introduced redefining the luxury SUV segment.

1993

The all-new LH cars are introduced, the first example of “Cab Forward” design.

1992

The production Dodge Viper is on sale for the first time.

The new $1 billion Jefferson Avenue Assembly Plant is dedicated and production of the Jeep Grand Cherokee begins.

Chrysler introduces the integrated child safety seats into its minivan line, an industry first.

1991

The Chrysler Tech Center is dedicated in Auburn Hills, Michigan.

1980 - 1990

Following a decade of turbulence, the Chrysler Corporation sees a decade of growth and innovation. Back on a firm financial ground, the company introduces a series of popular vehicles based on the K platform and create an entirely new segment in the market, the minivan.

1989

The Dodge Viper Concept car is introduced at the Detroit Auto Show.

1988

Chrysler offers airbags as standard equipment, an industry first.

1987

Chrysler acquires the Jeep brand with the purchase of American Motors.

1984

Lee Iacocca drives the first production minivan, a Plymouth Voyager, off the assembly line.

1982

The Chrysler LeBaron convertible is introduced. It is the first convertible to be offered in North America since 1975.

1981

The K-Car is introduced.

1970 - 1980

The 1970s were a time of great change in the industry and at Chrysler. Higher insurance rates and rising gas prices led to the end of the muscle era and a focus on smaller and more economical vehicles. By the end of the decade, Chrysler had introduced a line of sub-compact cars to meet the challenges, but they still faced financial uncertainty. Lee Iacocca was brought in from Ford Motor Company to lead a dramatic turn around.

1978

Lee Iacocca joins Chrysler. The Dodge Omni and Plymouth Horizon are introduced.

1976

The new Dodge Aspen and Plymouth Volare win the Motor Trend "Car of the Year" award.

1975

The Chrysler Cordoba is introduced.

1972

Chrysler introduces the four-wheel limited-slip brake system called Sure Brake System, which is the forerunner of the modern ABS systems.

1970

The Dodge Challenger is introduced. Dodge’s entrant into the Pony Car Wars is fitted with a large variety of engines including the legendary 426 HEMI.

1960 - 1970

A decade that would be remembered for its horsepower wars, the 1960s were a time of incredible growth for the Chrysler Corporation. Employment at the company grew from around 100,000 employees in 1960 to over 230,000 by 1969. The new Valiant compacts were introduced in 1960 and Chrysler’s international presence grew with increased investment in the Simca and Rootes Group in Europe.

1969

The Dodge Daytona is introduced.

1966

Following a ban from NASCAR for not being available to the public, the HEMI engine is made available in mid and full-sized Dodge and Plymouth models. The HEMI remains available until the end of the 1971 model year.

The Dodge Charger is introduced.

1964

Chrysler enters the Pony Car market with the mid-year introduction of the Plymouth Barracuda.

The 426-cubic inch HEMI engine is introduced at the 1964 Daytona. HEMI powered cars come in first, second, and third and the legend of the HEMI is born.

1963

A new Ghia-bodied Chrysler Turbine car is introduced. Two-hundred families from around the country evaluate the Turbine car at their homes for 90 days.

1962

The Jeep Wagoneer is introduced. It is the first time that four-wheel-drive and an automatic transmission are combined in an SUV.

1960

Chrysler’s first compact car, the Valiant is introduced.

The same year a uni-body design is introduced on all Dodge full-sized models.

The alternator is also introduced, a major advancement in automotive electronics and an industry first.

1950 - 1960

The 1950s were a time of economic growth and prosperity throughout the United States. After years of buying refreshed pre-war vehicles, consumers expected more styling and features in their vehicles. This led to new, more powerful engines, advanced safety features, and an all-new look. Chrysler called it the “Forward Look”, reflecting the Jet Age the world was now entering.

1957

Designer Virgil Exner’s vision of Jet Age cars comes alive with the introduction of sleek lines and high rear fins on all Chrysler models.

1955

The Jeep CJ-5 is introduced ushering in the era of recreational off-roading. The Jeep begins its decades-long run as a lifestyle vehicle.

The Chrysler 300 is introduced. This vehicle, powered by the HEMI engine, is the first production vehicle to offer 300 horsepower.

1954

The Chelsea Proving Grounds opens in Chelsea, Michigan. The 3,850-acre facility features state-of-the-art test facilities and a five-mile high-speed oval.

Dodge gets its first HEMI engine with the introduction of the 241-cubic inch V-8 and a Dodge Royal paces the Indianapolis 500.

1951

Chrysler offers the industry's first power steering on Chrysler and Imperial models.

The V-8 HEMI engine is introduced.

1940 - 1950

The production needs of the war effort drive the company for most of the 1940s. The Chrysler Corporation makes hundreds of different products including trucks, tanks, aircraft engines, and billions of rounds of ammunition. The Jeep brand is created at Willys-Overland before the war and switches to civilian vehicles after the war.

1949

The Jeep brand combines an all-steel body, seven passenger seating and four-wheel-drive to create the world’s first SUV.

1945

The Jeep begins production of a civilian model, the CJ-2A, before WWII is over. It is the first civilian vehicle allowed to be built by the US government due to its versatility and utility.

1942 - 1945

All divisions of the corporation turn out a wide variety of items to support the military, from trucks and tanks to bullets and radar units.

By the end of the war, Chrysler has supplied several billion rounds of ammunition, 600,000 trucks, and 25,000 tanks.

1942

Production of all passenger cars ends in February and all corporate plants shift to producing products for World War II.

1941

Willys-Overland begins production of the Jeep with the introduction of the MB for the military.

1940

Walter P. Chrysler dies at the age of 65.

1930 - 1940

The Great Depression had a huge impact on the automobile industry. Many smaller companies were forced out of business, while the larger ones struggled to stay in business. Thanks in part to having vehicle lines in multiple price classes, Chrysler survives the depression without dramatic cuts to staff and was even able to invest in its models. Engineering achievements included the introduction of overdrive and the one-piece curved windshield.

1939

All-new bodies are introduced for the 1940 model-year Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge and DeSoto cars. This is the first year of production for the top-of-the-line Chrysler New Yorker, a model name that will last through the mid-1990s.

1938

A new state-of-the-art truck plant is completed in Warren, Michigan.

1934

The revolutionary Airflow is introduced. It is the world’s first vehicle to be designed using a wind tunnel.

1932

The Plymouth becomes the third best-selling vehicle in the nation. Strong sales of the Plymouth enable the Chrysler Corporation to survive the Great Depression.

1920 - 1930

The 1920s was a time of transition in the auto industry. Many companies were struggling to survive which lead to a series of bankruptcies, mergers and acquisitions. In this environment, Walter P. Chrysler, who was overseeing the Maxwell Motor Company, released an automobile bearing his name and recreated the Chrysler Corporation from Maxwell’s assets. Later in the decade, he introduced the Plymouth and DeSoto brands and acquired the Dodge Brothers.

1928

The Chrysler Corporation buys the Dodge Brothers Corporation and introduces the DeSoto and Plymouth brands.

1925

The Chrysler Corporation is incorporated on June 6, 1925 from the assets of the Maxwell Motor Company.

1924

The first Chrysler model is sold through the Maxwell dealer network.

1921

Walter P. Chrysler becomes the Chairman of the Board of Maxwell Motor Company to prevent it from going into receivership.

1920

Walter P. Chrysler is hired to save Willys-Overland and the Willys company from bankruptcy with an annual salary of $1 million.

1920

John and Horace Dodge die 11 months apart.

1910 - 1920

The Dodge Brothers expand on their success as a major parts supplier to become one of the largest manufactures in the country with a worldwide dealer network. Building on their well-established reputation, John and Horace create a well-engineered car that appeals to the masses.

1919

Walter P. Chrysler resigns as President of Buick and Vice President of General Motors.

1917

Dodge Brothers introduce their first commercial truck, which is sold as a 1918 model.

1916

Dodge cars become the U.S. Army’s first gasoline-powered combat vehicle used in battle while pursuing Poncho Villa in Mexico.

1914

The Dodge Brothers end their relationship with the Ford Motor Company and begin producing their own vehicle.

1912

Walter P. Chrysler his hired by Charles Nash as a Works Manager for the Buick Motor Company in Flint, Michigan.

1910

The Dodge Brothers build a new plant in Hamtramck, Michigan.

1900 - 1910

The first decade of the new century saw the introduction of the automobile to a wider consumer base. No longer were cars a toy for the rich. Early pioneers of the industry, including the Dodge Brothers, were able mass produce and lower the price of automobiles.

1908

Walter P. Chrysler attends the Chicago Auto Show and purchases his first car, a Locomobile.

1903

The Dodge Brothers end their contract with Olds Motor Works and sign a contract with Henry Ford to build engines, transmissions, and steering and brake parts for Henry Ford’s new automobile venture.

1902

The Dodge Brothers begin production of transmissions for the Olds Motor Works. They would eventually produce over 3,000 transmissions.

1901

The Dodge Brothers move to Detroit, Michigan, and open a machine shop on Beaubien Street.

1800s

The Industrial Revolution was picking up steam in the late 1800’s and the men who would create the automobile industry were coming into their own. With the invention of the internal combustion engine and its mating with the formerly horse-drawn carriage, a new industry was born. This invention would in time change the course of history.

1889

The Dodge Brothers move to Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and eventually form the Evens & Dodge Bicycle Company.

1875

Walter P. Chrysler is born in Wamego, Kansas.

1868

Horace Dodge is born in Niles, Michigan.

1864

John Dodge is born in Niles, Michigan.

Learn more about our history

Abarth Brand History
Alfa Romeo Brand History
Alfa Romeo Museum
Chrysler Brand History
Dodge Brand History
Fiat Brand History
Fiat Professional Brand History
Jeep Brand History
Maserati Brand History
Mopar Brand History
Comau Brand History
Magneti Marelli Brand History
Teksid Brand History