Henry Ford was an extraordinary talent. In 1886, he created his first rudimentary automobile, a vehicle that ran on four bicycle wheels and lacked a reverse function. Despite its simplicity, it marked the beginning of a significant journey. By 1903, Ford was ready to establish the Ford Motor Company, a decision that would alter history forever.
It All Started With The Model T
More than a century after its debut, the Model T remains iconic as America's first beloved car. Ford aimed to produce a vehicle that Americans could afford, offering more than basic comfort. The outcome was one of the bestselling cars in American history and the first to demonstrate that the automobile was here to stay.
Ford didn't just contribute to early automobile history. In 1914, the company doubled its factory workers' pay to $5 a day. While workers' rights evolved slowly, Ford stood out for its efforts to keep its employees satisfied. By 1917, the company introduced its first pickup truck, the Model TT. Though it may not resemble modern trucks, it was well-loved in its time.
The post-WWII era saw Ford continuing its innovative streak. In 1948, they launched the iconic F-series line of pickups, which remain popular sellers today. The 1960s brought the introduction of the sleek Mustang, a model that still sets standards in the automotive world. Since then, Ford has continuously pushed the envelope with innovations like the turbocharged EcoBoost engine (2009), the Smart Mobility platform (2016), and the all-electric Mustang Mach-E (2019). Without Ford and other visionary automakers, how far would America have progressed? This transformative approach to transportation enabled people worldwide to travel greater distances.
Learn More About Ford's History
Ford is a company that has shaped the nation in countless ways. Contact us online to learn more about Ford's rich history.