October was an important month for its great and history-changing moments in the automotive industry.
From the introduction of classic automobiles to a complete transformation of manufacturing assembly lines across the world, it’s a month full of classic dates time will never forget.
October 1st – National Model T Day
On October 1, 1908, Henry Ford and his team of engineers launched the Model T, America’s first mass-produced car, from his factory in Detroit, Michigan.
Ford’s dream, goal and a work in progress since January 1907, the Model T was the first mass-produced car making it affordable to America’s middle class.
By 1918, the Model T, affectionately known as the “Thin Lizzie,” made up more than 50% of all cars on American roads.
The Model T was named the most influential car of the 20th century, while Mr. Ford is widely regarded as one of most influential people of the 20th century.
October 1913
Henry Ford forever changed automotive history with the introduction of the moving assembly line.
Although crude and in need of tweaking, Ford’s engineers constructed the first assembly line powered by a basic rope-and-winch system. In the heart of Ford’s Detroit “Crystal Palace” facility, this groundbreaking system moved Model T parts past its line of assembly workers.
Despite its basic functions, it successfully shaved production and assembly time down from about 10 hours to a little under six. Due to the streamlined process, manufacturing costs decreased while production increased.
As the innovative idea caught on, it not only changed the automotive industry but changed the entire manufacturing industry worldwide.
October 2nd – National Name Your Car Day
October 13, 1957 – Celebrity-packed Premiere of The Edsel Show
When Henry Ford decided to launch his new line of Edsel cars, he did so in style. The launch was showcased as an hour long TV special. The premiere was packed with A-list celebrities of the day such as Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Louis Armstrong and Rosemary Clooney. The show was such a hit, it snagged a huge audience and was nominated for an Emmy award.
Historical Auto Launches in October
Packard (1902), Chevy trucks (1917), Toyota Corolla (1966) and the Audi A4/S4 (1994).
Historical Automotive Industry Birthdays in October
October 10, 1833 John Mohler Studebaker (founder of Studebaker)
October 12, 1868 August Horch (founder of the Horch auto, now known as Audi)
October 15, 1924 Lee Iacocca
October 25, 1864 John Francis Dodge
National Back to the Future Day – October 21st
The DeLorean Motor Company, founded by John DeLorean, officially opened its doors on October 24, 1975, in Detroit.
