What is the Australian version of Ford?
The Australian version of the iconic American car brand Ford is Holden, a now-defunct automotive company that was once a major player in the Australian and New Zealand car markets. Holden was founded in 1856 as a saddlery business in South Australia and later transitioned into the production of automobiles, becoming a household name in Australia for over a century.
The History of Holden
Holden's origins can be traced back to 1856 when it was founded as a saddlery business by James Alexander Holden in Adelaide, South Australia. In the early 1900s, the company began producing car bodies for other automakers, and in 1917, it started manufacturing its own vehicles. Holden's first mass-produced car, the Holden 48-215, was introduced in 1948 and became an instant success, cementing the company's position as the dominant car manufacturer in Australia.
Over the decades, Holden continued to produce a range of popular models, including the Commodore, Kingswood, and Monaro, which became iconic Australian cars. The company was acquired by General Motors in 1931 and operated as a subsidiary of the American automaker for the rest of its existence.
The Decline and Closure of Holden
In the early 2000s, Holden faced increasing competition from imported vehicles and struggled to maintain its market share. The company's manufacturing operations in Australia were gradually scaled down, and in 2017, General Motors announced that it would cease Holden's domestic production and sales by 2020. The last Holden-branded vehicle rolled off the production line in October 2020, marking the end of an era for the once-dominant Australian car brand.
The closure of Holden was a significant blow to the Australian automotive industry, which had been a source of national pride and employment for generations. The decision was driven by a combination of factors, including the high cost of manufacturing in Australia, the declining demand for large, locally-produced vehicles, and the global shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles.
The Legacy of Holden
Despite its closure, Holden's legacy continues to be felt in Australia. The brand's iconic models, such as the Commodore and Monaro, have become symbols of Australian automotive culture, and Holden's influence can still be seen in the design and engineering of other Australian-made vehicles.
Moreover, the closure of Holden has sparked a renewed interest in the history and significance of the Australian automotive industry, with many Australians reflecting on the company's role in shaping the country's identity and economy.
What is Ford Edge called in Australia?
Ford Endura
With the launch of the 2018 model in Australia (February 2019 in New Zealand), the Edge is sold as the Ford Endura, and is the successor to the Ford Territory.
What is the sister model of the Ford Falcon in Australia?
Falcons had been prominent as taxis in Australia and New Zealand, along with sister car, the Ford Fairlane. Performance variants of the Falcon were used extensively for pursuit work for many years.
What is a Ford Model A Victoria?
One of the latest body style additions to Ford's Model A lineup was the Victoria, a 4 passenger "bustle back" two-door sedan that was noted as marking a new degree of beauty (and value) in the Model A line.
What is the Ford Fusion called in Australia?
The fourth generation of the Ford Mondeo, (Mk 5 in the UK, codenamed MD in Australia) is a range of mid-size cars produced by Ford from 2013 to 2022. Developed under the model code CD391, it is a rebadged variant of the American-market Fusion sold in Europe, Latin America, China and Australia.
Is Ford Edge same as Kuga?
Ford Kuga: dimensions and boot space. The Ford Edge is 4,808mm long and 2,184mm wide, which means it's about the same size as a Kia Sorento, which is a seven-seater. The Edge has five (generous) seats. The Ford Kuga is smaller, with a length of 4,541mm and a width of 2,086mm.
What car is the Mad Max interceptor?
1973 Ford Falcon XB GT
The car began its life as a 1973 Ford Falcon XB GT with a 351-cubic-inch (5.8-litre) V8 sending tyre-smoking torque through a four-speed manual transmission. The Interceptor was then given to stunt driver Murray Smith as payment, after the film exhausted its budget building the car.
What do Americans call a Ford Mondeo?
The fourth-generation Mondeo was unveiled by Ford at the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. Due to the merge of both models, the vehicle is sold as the Fusion in the Americas.
What was the last Australian made Ford?
The final Ford Falcon, a blue XR6, rolled off the production line on 7 October 2016.
Why did Ford shut down in Australia?
The shutdown date, 7 October, 2016, was announced in 2013. At the time Bob Graziano, the president and chief executive of Ford Australia, said rapidly declining sales of the Falcon meant “manufacturing locally was no longer viable.” There will be a staff function at Broadmeadows on Friday, and a raffle.
What is Ford called in Australia?
Ford Motor Company of Australia Pty Limited
Ford Motor Company of Australia Pty Limited is a subsidiary of Ford Motor Company, founded in Geelong, Victoria, in 1925. The company designs, engineers, and imports award-winning and best-selling cars, SUVs and trucks.
