By William E. Simpson
What is the history of the Buick Motor Division of the Mighty GM General Motors auto manufacturing, distribution and marketing monolith? Buick all started with an early auto tinker and inventor named Mr. David Dunbar who can be said to be the creator of the infant Model B back in 1904. This line of cars might sound unfamiliar, but they are popularly known as Buick cars today. Buick for many years has been one of the basic stable of the mighty GM General Motors Company. Buick cars it seems have a major and loyal following – even today with the onslaught of the “foreign car invasions”. A lot of growth has taken place since that time. The company now prides itself in the creation of more modern and innovative autos that range from sedans to crossovers. Headquarters were first established in Flint, Michigan. This was where the first releases were manufactured. After some time, the main offices were moved to Detroit. Today, customers from countries like Israel, China and Canada patronize the brand.
Even if none of the original Model B cars continue to exist, replicas have been displayed in museums. What a shame that none of the original Buicks produced in the company’s pioneering years are actually available for vintage auto buffs to admire, today. The engines in 1904 were smaller compared to the ones used in 1907. When the Model D was released, it carried the four-cylinder engine which was a technical advancement during that period. Buick revolutionized the auto industry by being the first manufacturer to produce four-wheel brakes. This was favorable in to the expansion efforts as more people became interested in what the firm had to offer.
Up until the beginning of the war, the company was successful.
However, for the time being Buick was required to produce designs intended for military engines. These were used for tank destroyers and planes. In 1942, car production resumed but decades following the war throw the country into financial turmoil. Car manufacturers had to make changes in order to adapt. Huge cars, which were the main sellers of Buick, were not fuel efficient. Buyers were now looking for vehicles that could help them save on fuel cost since prices were going up.
New designs sported much smaller frames and engines.
They focused on the creation of such vehicles because they tend to utilize less fuel compared to bulkier ones that were previously released. This was Buick’s way of catering to the new requirements of the market. The firm also downsized in order to lessen operational expenses.
Surviving in a tough economy helped strengthen the foundation of the brand. The recession managed to wipe out many small automakers and Buick considered it a big achievement, to have surpassed that predicament with flying colors. In the 60’s only more success was to be seen from Buick. Even today, these cars have a following all over the world. The Chinese have a particular liking for Buick’s auto designs and features. It remains to be a popular and respectable international brand.
William E. Simpson Eagle Ridge GM Coquitlam Vancouver Buick Car Dealer serving the BC Lower Mainland areas of Mission, Surrey and Pitt Meadows with fine Buicks Chevrolet GMC Trucks & Cars
Article Source: History of the Buick Automobile
