Isuzu
The Isuzu Company was formed in 1916 and in 1918 they forged a union with the UK based Wolseley Motor Company. Their debut car was the A9. In 1953, they rolled out the Hillman Minx passenger car that came from a union with the UK Company, Rootes. In the 60’s they launched passenger cars which included the Florian and 117 Coupe. They have always been at the forefront of automotive engineering of passenger vehicles.
After their affiliation with General Motors, Isuzu began marketing and selling their vehicles in the American market. The initial response was superior and favorable. The Bellett GT was very popular and was known by the nickname of Bele GT. Unfortunately the company’s previous good fortune declined and they were being outclassed by newer and fresher models designed by the competitors. Only two products are sold under the Isuzu nameplate today and they are both designed after General Motors products.
Isuzu is one of the oldest companies in the Japanese automotive industry and it started in 1916. The beginning years they mainly concentrated on building trucks which were very popular. In 1953 they introduced the first Hillman passenger car. In 1963 the Bellett GT was popular. Isuzu produced the Gemini which was a vehicle that was jointly developed with General Motors was introduced in 1974. In 1985 they introduced the FF Gemini and were known for its commercials featuring daredevil stunt driving.
In 1971 Isuzu had reached an agreement on affiliation with General Motors and it marked the beginning of their full scale overseas strategy. By 1972 the company was exporting KB pickups to the United States. In 1974 under another partnership with GM they unveiled the Gemini as the first part of their full scale overseas strategy. Isuzu has been diligent in setting up bases in Thailand, North America, and China.
