April is a month full of impressive automotive history. From the end of an era to the beginning of new ones; to the passing of an icon and the births of unforgettable pioneers.
Read on to learn about the many milestones that are forever etched in history during the month of April.
April 1, 1970
AMC was not fooling around when they released the Gremlin on this date. At the end of its run in 1978, more than 650,000 Gremlins rolled off the production line.
April 5, 1923
In Akron, Ohio, the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company began production of “balloon” tires. Unlike pure rubber or pneumatic materials, they featured an inner tube located inside the more rugged exterior of the tire. Once properly placed, the inner tube was inflated.
Firestone claimed the balloon tire offered a smoother ride and better handling than other tires, and then went on to win a lucrative contract as the tire supplier for the Ford Model T.
April 7, 1901
The Texas Company, or what would later become known as Texaco, was founded in Beaumont, Texas.
April 7, 1936
The Fiat 500, also known as “Topolino” or “little mouse” in Italian, was released on this day.
April 7, 1947
In Dearborn, Michigan, Henry Ford died at the age of 83.
April 12, 1888
Cecil Kimber, the founder of beloved sports car brand MG, was born in London.
April 17, 1964
The Ford Motor Company introduced the iconic Mustang at the New York World’s Fair, selling over one million of its brand in the first 18 months after release.
April 20, 1927
Phillip Hill, the only American-born race car driver to win the F1 World Drivers’ Championship, was born in Miami, Florida.
April 27, 2009
General Motors announced the end of production for its Pontiac brand. The last Pontiac came off the assembly line in January of the following year.
April 28, 1916
Ferruccio Lamborghini, founder of Lamborghini, was born in Renazzo, Italy.
April 29, 2004
Founded by Ransom E. Olds and a historic automaker since 1897, Oldsmobile officially closed its doors after 107 years.
April 30, 1948
The British manufactured all-terrain vehicle known as the Land Rover was introduced at an auto show in Amsterdam.
Conclusion
It’s a fascinating journey to look back and remember all of the legendary bits of automotive history that brought us here today.
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