When was the first Chevrolet built?
The first Chevrolet was built in 1912, when the Series C Classic Six went into production after Chevrolet Motor Company was founded in 1911.
Origins of the Chevrolet brand
Chevrolet was formed by Swiss-born racer Louis Chevrolet and financier William C. Durant in Detroit in 1911. The goal was to produce an affordable, well-engineered car that could reach a broad audience, complementing General Motors’ rapidly expanding lineup and helping to establish a mass-market automotive brand.
Milestones in the early Chevrolet era
Key dates in the brand’s early history trace its entry into production and set the stage for the company’s growth. The most pivotal moment was the creation of its first car.
- 1911 – Chevrolet Motor Company is founded by Louis Chevrolet and William C. Durant.
- 1912 – Production begins on the Series C Classic Six, Chevrolet's first model.
These early steps signaled Chevrolet’s commitment to affordability and reliability, foundations that would characterize the brand for decades.
The first car: the Series C Classic Six
The Series C Classic Six, introduced in 1912, marked Chevrolet’s debut as a manufacturer of low-priced, mass-market cars. It established the architectural approach that would define the brand in its early years.
Design and specifications
Key technical details of the Series C Classic Six help explain its place in early automotive history.
- Inline-six engine around 299 cubic inches (about 4.9 liters), producing roughly 40 horsepower.
- Three-speed manual transmission with rear-wheel drive.
- Designed as a mid-priced car aimed at durability and everyday usability for families and small businesses.
These features gave the Classic Six a blend of performance and practicality that resonated with buyers seeking value in a growing market.
Legacy and impact
The introduction of the Series C Classic Six established Chevrolet as a durable, value-driven brand within General Motors. Its early success helped shape GM’s strategy for affordable, mass-produced vehicles and set Chevrolet on a path to become a lasting cornerstone of the automotive industry.
Summary
The first Chevrolet rolled off the line in 1912 as the Series C Classic Six, following the 1911 founding of the Chevrolet Motor Company by Louis Chevrolet and William C. Durant. This launch introduced a brand built on affordability and reliability, laying the groundwork for Chevrolet’s enduring role within General Motors and the broader history of American cars.
