Henry Ford was a man of extraordinary talent. In 1886, he built his first rudimentary automobile, a vehicle mounted on four bicycle wheels and powered by an engine lacking a reverse function. Despite its limitations, it marked the beginning of his journey. By 1903, Ford was ready to establish the Ford Motor Company, a decision that would forever change history.
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's aim was to create an affordable automobile for Americans that offered more than just basic comfort. The outcome was one of the bestselling vehicles in American history, demonstrating that the automobile was here to stay.
Ford's impact extended beyond early automotive history. In 1914, Ford revolutionized factory workers' pay by doubling it to $5 a day. While workers' rights progressed slowly, Ford was a company that listened and tried to keep its employees content. By 1917, they introduced their first pickup truck, the Model TT. By modern standards, it might not resemble a truck, but it was a hit with the public at the time.
The post-WWII era saw Ford continue to innovate. In 1948, they launched the now-legendary F-series line of pickups, which remain top sellers to this day. The 1960s brought the stylish Mustang, a model that continues to set standards even in the present day. Since then, Ford has consistently introduced new innovations, such as the turbocharged EcoBoost engine (2009), the Smart Mobility platform (2016), and the all-electric Mustang Mach-E (2019). Without Ford and other visionary automakers, America's progress in transportation might have been significantly delayed. The transformation of modern transportation enabled countless people worldwide to travel farther than ever before.
Learn More About Ford's History
Ford is a company that has profoundly shaped the nation in countless ways. You can contact us online to learn more about Ford's rich history.