Which European states are the largest car manufacturers. The most famous brands and firms of cars: list, characteristics and features

The modern car market offers a wide variety of different brands of cars that differ in their individual characteristics. Each brand has its owncar emblem - a certain icon, reflecting the entire history of the formation of the car manufacturer, as well as reflecting the quality and status of products. Most consumers and people who are simply interested in automotive topics have never thought about the specific number of all cars in the world. However, a small excursion into the history of the automotive industry will allow you to become a real connoisseur in this area.

What are the brands of cars?

Acura

At this point in time, the automotive market is replete with a wide variety of car brands, which involuntarily makes you think about what kind of car they are? Every day we see different car emblems, some of which we don't even recognize. We can say unequivocally that there are a huge number of them, and there is not enough time to list them. However, it is worth paying attention to the most famous and popular car brands, the logos of which are most likely familiar to you:

Alfa romeo

The famous legislator in modern world the automobile corporation is Nicolo Romeo, who made his first fortune in the sale of equipment for the transport of soil. A little later, the entrepreneur changes his profession, giving preference to the automotive business, where he soon becomes the head of a large company "Alfa". Subsequently, by combining the name of the company and its own surname, a popular car brand emerged. Seeing the car emblem Alfa romeomost likely, you clearly understand that this is a premium car. The logo of these machines was designed in 1910 by the draftsman Romano Castello. The author of the car logo was impressed by the red cross of the Milan flag, which he saw on the facade of the Visconti house. On the house there was a coat of arms with a grass snake that swallows a person. The coat of arms itself symbolized the readiness to destroy the enemies of the Visconti clan. The emblem of the car has practically not undergone any changes since its inception, however, paying tribute to fashion, small ornate details were slightly abolished.

Aston martin

The name of this brand of cars comes from one of the owners of the car factory Lionel Martin, who together with a friend built the first car in his life. "Aston" originates from a race held in the highlands of the town of Aston Clinton, in which Martin won. Thus, through the merger of the two names, a resounding brand was created. By the way, probably the Aston Martin logo can be safely attributed to the list of the most famous car emblems. Now we do not even think about what the usual outstretched wings on which the brand name can be seen mean. However, at the time of the creation of this automotive logo, aviation was developing rapidly, and the most advanced technologies were used in it. And sports-focused Aston Martin used the manufacturing facilities of the aviation companyWhitehead Aircraft Limited. So, as strange as it may sound, the presence of wings on a car emblem is understandable.

Audi

The founder of the German automotive corporation is August Horch, who initially wanted to see his own products under his own name. However, he was refused. And then “Audi” was chosen - the Latin analogue of the German “Horch”, which means “to listen”. Subsequently, the emblem of the Audi car was the icon in the form of 4 rings was selected, each of which symbolizes a company that is part of the German brand. Initially, the emblems of each of the 4 companies were placed inside the rings of the car logo, but this logo for cars turned out to be too loaded, so over time, 4 empty rings became the car's emblem.

Bmw

The basis of the current car plant was a motor company located in Munich. After a certain time, this enterprise merged with an aircraft plant, after which it acquired the current name of the company. If we talk about logos of car brands, then BMW also has an interesting story. On the first emblem bMW car the propeller was depicted, but it seemed complex and small, so the logo underwent a transformation by 1920. To make the emblems of the BMW car brand look beautiful, the circle from the propeller was divided into 4 quarters. On the new car logo, the silvery white sectors inside the black rim began to alternate with sky blue. Now the BMW car logo is made in the traditional Bavarian colors depicted on the Bavarian flag. However, few know the true meaning of the logo from these automakers. Many people like the myth that the logo on a BMW car depicts a propeller and the sky. But, in fact, this is the Bavarian flag.

Citroёn

The founder of the presented car brand is André Citroën, who drew inspiration from the factories of Henry Ford in order to create his car production. A little later, the entrepreneur lays in the enterprise all the inheritance received from his parents, and begins work on the production of the world's first cars under his own name. André Citroën introduced gears of a special design to the automotive market, which turned out to be much more perfect than their analogs. These gears formed the basis of the emblem on Citroen cars. The emblem of the car, which many call the "double chevron", practically did not change afterwards.

Ferrari

The creator of the renowned automotive brand under which luxury cars are produced is Enzo Ferrari, whose career as an automaker began with the creation of a racing team. Subsequently, such a recognizable icon for cars was chosen. How did such an emblem for a car appear? At one of the races, Enzo Ferrari met Count Francesco Baraca, on the fuselage of his airplane, a prancing stallion was depicted. Francesco's mother gave Enzo a family coat of arms and recommended that a reared horse be depicted on the car emblem, which, according to her, was supposed to bring good luck. As you can see, Countess Paolina Baraka did not lie. This car logo now gives us strong associations with luxury, and even the very word Ferrari has become a symbol of wealth.

Fiat

The Italian car brand was created by a group of investors, among whom the most recognizable was Giovanni Agnelli. At that time, the assembly of cars was carried out in accordance with the Renault license. Production expanded at a rapid pace, due to the lack of quotas for imported steel. Even then, the automobile corporation produced all types of cars: from small cars to buses. It is noteworthy that the company did not have a car logo, and instead of it, the car emblem was a plate with the inscription that it was an automobile plant. However, the fate of the automaker's logo was decided by one amusing incident. Somehow, the lights were turned off at the entire plant and the chief designer, while driving around the territory, discovered suspicious neon lighting that was reflected from the plant. Impressed by this beauty, the main the designer enclosed the car logo in one line. However, over time, the Fiat emblem changed its shape to a circle.

Jaguar

The British corporation for the production of automobiles got its beginning thanks to William Lyons, who founded an enterprise for the development and production of motorcycles. After a long time, this enterprise produced the first car, after which it was re-profiled into another specialty. It was also decided to change the name of the company. “Jaguar” is the result of choosing one of the options proposed in the competition. This is exactly the case when the history of the car emblem does not need to be told. A fast, powerful and beautiful animal, after which the car is named, flaunts on the car logo.

Lamborgini

Elite sports cars got their name from the founder of the corporation, Ferruccio Lamborghini, which initially specialized in the production of agricultural machinery. Subsequently, there was a desire to expand the range of racing cars. For this, Ferruccio built a separate plant, where he invited famous designers of that time. The Lamborgini car logo symbolizes the Taurus zodiac sign, the colors black and yellow were suggested by the founder of the company.

Land rover

The history of the creation of the brand began with Maurice Wilkes, who at that time was the designer of the Rover company and had a very whimsical vehicle. The whimsicality was the limited number of spare parts for the car that were difficult to find. Then Maurice, together with his older brother, decided to create a universal car capable of conquering any surface. Since then, the corporation " Land rover»Specializes exclusively in the production of SUVs. Surprisingly, the Land Pover auto logo that many people dream of is inspired by the usual funny story and a can of sardines. The designer tasked with making a car emblem for Land Rover once dined on a can of sardines and left it on the table. When he returned, he found on his table a stain from an oval circle. This is how the Land Rover logo appeared.

Maserati

Automotive history italian brand began with the Maserati brothers, each of whom made a contribution to the development of the common cause. However, in the process of the company's formation, several brothers died, which became the impetus for the new development of the enterprise. By trial and error, luxury cars have been created that are particularly popular only in special circles. When creating the car emblem, the Maserati brothers got their inspiration from the statue of Neptune, located in the central park of Bolny. It's funny that the Mazerati signature trident was drawn by the only one of the 7 brothers who has never been involved in the design or manufacture of cars.

Mercedes-Benz

The name of the presented car brand comes from the name of the daughter of one of the sports racers Emil Jellinik, who regularly ordered models from Daimler. " One of the first cars of that time liked Ellinik so much that he decided to give her the name of his daughter Mercedes. Subsequently, the two corporations "Daimler" and "Benz" merged, which led to the modern name of this brand of German cars. Some car logos were born much earlier than the flourishing era of the car brands themselves. It is believed that the Mers machines logo (three-pointed star) symbolizes that the company's engines are used in the sky, on earth and in the water. However, for the first time, a Mercedes car emblem is mentioned in a letter from Gottlieb Deimbler to his wife. With the future car logo, Gottlieb marked the location of the new home in the city of Deutz and signed that someday this star will flaunt over the roof of his car factory, symbolizing prosperity. And so it happened, maybe it's not a good logo on a car, but the Mercedes car brand is flourishing to this day.

MINI

The impetus for the creation of the MINI car brand was the military crisis in the Middle East, which provoked a significant reduction in oil supplies to the UK. As a result, the demand for small cars has increased. Then the government of the country instructed to start the production of cars, whose dimensions would be significantly smaller. conventional sedans... The first prototype of the British brand was distinguished by its compact dimensions, which did not negatively affect the internal filling of the car, as a result of which it was decided to start its mass production.

Opel

The founder of this brand of cars is Adam Opel, who for the entire time of the formation of his enterprise specialized in the production of:

• sewing machines;
• horse carriages;
• bicycles.

After the death of Adam, the plant was inherited by his sons, who decided to start producing cars. Their first collaboration with other automotive concerns was unsuccessful, but later mass production was established.

Chevrolet

One of the most promoted and popular global brands of the American automotive industry bears the name of a Swiss-born entrepreneur Louis Chevrolet, who, having visited many countries, found success only in the United States, where he became a famous racer. Over time, the founder of General Motors Corporation created a new car brand, named after Chevrolet. However, the "hero of the occasion" himself did not work for the company for long, due to disagreements over the type of cars produced. William Durand, one of the co-founders of the company, has long fed the public with myths about the Chevrolet car logo. According to his version, he came up with the logo when he saw a pattern on the wallpaper in a Paris hotel, going into infinity. But now there are several more legends that reveal their stories of how the “bow tie” became the corporate logo of Chevrolet.

Peugeot

The French car brand is the result of a family business that began with Jean-Pierre Peugeot, redesigning an inherited mill into a metal processing business. After a while, the grandson of the founder of the company began to manufacture bicycles, and a couple of years later the first car was presented to the world.

Smart

This brand of German cars is the result of the merger of the two largest automotive corporations, which pursued the goal of creating compact car for city roads. Thus, the Smart brand, owned by Daimler AG, was invented.

Datsun

The Japanese car brand has a long history, which began with the creation of an automobile enterprise, whose chief engineer was Masujiro Hashimoto. The first japanese models The cars were named "DAT", the capital letters of which symbolized the first letters of the names of the three partners who created the enterprise.

Cadillac

The American automobile brand was created in 1902 and was named "Henry Ford Company" in honor of the chief engineer of the enterprise. However, after a short time, Henry Ford left the corporation and began to specialize in opening and creating his own car design factories. At the same time, Ford's successor, Henry Leland, was actively developing the "abandoned" Ford enterprise, and also invented a new name for it, Cadillac, in honor of the founder of the city of Detroit, where the automobile plant was located.

Dodge

The famous American car brand bears the surname of its creators, the Dodge brothers, who at the beginning of their career in the automotive industry opened a firm to manufacture and design bicycles. After some time, the brothers entered into an agreement with Henry Ford to develop and release parts for a new car model. A little later, the Dodge brothers opened a car manufacturing enterprise whose goal was to create their own cars, and not fulfill orders from other manufacturers.

Ssang yong

The very beginning of the formation of the Korean automobile brand was associated with the production of cars. But the company that existed at that time specialized exclusively in the creation of army jeeps. Subsequently, with the change in the name of the automobile enterprise, its specialization also changed: now buses, trucks and special equipment were produced. Currently, Ssang Yong is actively producing SUVs, pickups and crossovers. Translated, the name of the Korean automobile brand means "Two Dragons", symbolizing power and independence.

Luxgen

This car brand is perhaps the only representative of the Taiwanese car industry, created relatively recently, in 2008. Prior to that, the company was a subsidiary of Yulon Motor. After multiple successful collaborations with global automotive corporations, the plant decided to create its own independent automotive industry. The Taiwanese brand name comes from abbreviated words for:

• "wealth";
• "Giftedness";
• "genius";
• "luxury".

All these characteristics can be found in Luxgen automotive products.

LADA (AvtoVAZ)

It is a brand of cars that existed in Soviet times and is actively developing in modern Russia. The factories for the production of cars, as well as the main office of the enterprise, are located in the city of Togliatti, Samara region. Initially, the name "LADA" was used only for those car models intended for export. The models intended for operation within the country bore the names "Zhiguli" and "Sputnik". Now all models of cars are produced under a single name "LADA".

Marussia

This brand of cars is a prominent representative of the Russian sports car industry, which is a partner of the British racing team in Formula 1. The beginning of the establishment of the enterprise is inextricably linked with the famous actor and presenter Nikolai Fomenko. The investor was one of the most influential Russian oligarchs. The automobile brand dates back to 2007, when mass production was launched almost immediately racing cars.

TagaAZ

Another Russian automobile brand that enjoys due popularity among the population. The car manufacturing plant is located in the city of Taganrog. The history of the establishment of the enterprise dates back to 1997, when, in accordance with the license of the South Korean Daewoo Motors, the plant construction process was launched. Exactly a year later, the enterprise was put into operation, but due to the onset of the economic crisis, the conveyors were not fully loaded. The first cars that were taken were assembled at this automobile enterprise - Korean models, renamed into Russian names.

All car brands: list by type

If you present all brands of cars in the form of a list, you will get a very impressive list of models, acquaintance with which will take, perhaps, more than one day. As mentioned above, all brands of cars have their own distinctive features, one of which is their type:

Car brands

A passenger car is a vehicle intended for personal use, the main purpose of which is to carry luggage and passengers in the amount of 2-8 people. Currently, many car manufacturers specialize in the production of different types of cars. However, there are those whose products are only passenger cars. These include:

Starts a list of brands passenger carsmobile is one of the oldest car manufacturers of Italian origin, which, unlike its competitors, started immediately with the release of automotive products. The enormous popularity of cars of this brand was largely due to their active participation in various car competitions. Throughout the history of the plant "Alfa Romeo" has specialized in the production and production of trucks, buses, trolley buses. However, now the company is known for its automobile products only of passenger type.

The list of brands of passenger cars is continued by the British manufacturer of luxury automotive products. Despite the British origin, the car brand in question is currently a subsidiary of the German Volkswagen Group. The fabulous pricing policy of cars is due to the powerful internal filling of cars, as well as manual assembly. The most famous model is the Bentley Continental.

The renowned British manufacturer is one of the world's leading car and racing car manufacturers, something that could not have been expected in the early days when the plant specialized in motorcycle sidecars. Due to the low profit, it was decided to produce bodies for the leading car manufacturers at that time. However, now the presented brand of passenger cars has rightfully taken an honorable place among them.

The list of brands of passenger cars rightfully belongs to luxury cars from Great Britain, which at this time are a division of the corporation of the German BMW AG. For cars of this brand, the status of prestigious, serious and elite cars has long been drawn, which automatically endow the listed qualities with their owners.

Sports car brands

Sports cars are the generic names for a wide range of passenger cars with two-seater seating. All brands of sports cars are characterized by:

• increased speeds;
• powerful and durable engine;
• low body fit.

Unlike brands of racing cars, sports cars are designed to move on public roads, which implies their full state registration.

Some of the most famous brands of sports cars are:

a) Aston Martin

Today it is an indicator of luxury and well-being. All models of this brand of machines are assembled by hand and only by prior order. For the first time, the popularity of the brand came after the famous film about the 007 agent.

World famous and popular luxury sports car brand from Italy. Until relatively recently, the plant bearing the name of the creator of the brand specialized in the production of tractor products, when Ferruccio Lamborghini decided to start creating his own cars. Now the world is most famous for two models "Lamborgini": "Aventador" and "Gallardo".

The Italian luxury sports car brand is particularly popular in Formula 1 racing, which is continuously linked to the history of the brand, which was created after the merger of the racing team. Now the Italian car brand is characterized by high cost, justified by quality and reliability.

Truck brands

A truck is a vehicle, the purpose of which is to transport goods in a specially equipped body or cargo platform. If earlier all trucks were associated with something very loud and not entirely comfortable, nowadays the creation of trucks of increased comfort is actively practiced. The following brands of trucks have proven themselves most well:

a) Mercedes-Benz

German car manufacturer specializes in the production of those main lines of trucks:

Trucks in this series are great for long distance travel, as well as workflow on large-scale construction sites. It is characterized by the presence of such functions:

• weather sensors;
• an optimized steering system that allows the driver to control the road surface in all weather conditions.

They are characterized by low weight and high degree of maneuverability, which is optimal for transporting bulk cargo. These trucks are often used as platforms for concrete mixers.

The presented trucks are distinguished by their high carrying capacity, which makes it possible to use them in the following areas:

• production;
• mining;
• construction.

Models of the considered brand of trucks are presented in two variations:

• "FH";
• "FM".

Models of the first series are actively used for the transportation of goods weighing 20-33 tons. The models of the second series belong to the class of truck tractors capable of covering long distances.

An automobile concern of French origin equips the truck market with the following models:

• "Kerax", capable of carrying up to 33 tons on board;
• Trucks, which are a series of heavy duty trucks;
• "Premium Optifuel", characterized by increased efficiency.

Also in the assortment of the French concern there is a model "Premium Lander", which is characterized by the presence of an all-wheel drive system of hydraulics, due to which the truck surpasses other models in terms of carrying capacity, efficiency and control.

Car brands alphabetically

Now it's time to pay attention to the following car brands, presented in alphabetical order, the icons of which have a rather interesting history under them:

The American automaker chose a shape reminiscent of a caliper as an icon for its "brainchild", which carried uncomplicatedness and simplicity. This choice was due to the difficult process of registering a new car brand during the period when the automobile brand was published, since many trademarks had very close similarities with each other.

The badge of an elite foreign car of Spanish origin consists of two parts:

• a red cross that stands out against a white background;
• a snake devouring a person.

The badge is a direct embodiment of the local culture and identity, since the first element is an integral part of the coat of arms spanish city Milan, and the second is a copy of the coat of arms of the royal Visconti dynasty, ruling at the time when the car brand was created.

Throughout the history of the presented company, the car brand icon has undergone repeated changes:

• in the first version of the badge there were only the letters "A" and "M", which were intertwined with each other;
• much later they were joined by wings, symbolizing unlimited speed, which were borrowed from the automobile corporation "Bentley";
• after some time, the wings began to acquire fashionable and outlined contours;
• in 1947, the name of the owner managing the company at the time appeared on the badge.

The 4 rings known all over the world, present in the badge of German cars, are a symbol of the merger of large automotive corporations in 1934:

• Audi Automobil-Werke AG;
• Horch Automobil-Werke GmbH ,;
• Dampf Kraft Wagen;
• Wanderer Werke AG.

The name of the car brand itself is of Latin origin, which in colloquial speech means "listen, listen." As a result, the creators of luxury cars pay great attention to the powerful engine of the car, which is really nice to listen to.

The badge for luxury car brands is the winged capital B, symbolizing strength, speed and non-independence. Due to the existing color schemes of the icon, the types of cars produced are distinguished:

• green - racing sports cars;
• red - sophisticated models;
• black - powerful and impressive cars.

The first version of the badge was a conventional propeller. It has undergone various changes over time. Currently, the basis of the badge is the flag of Bavaria. The name comes from the abbreviation of the plant that produces German cars - Bayerische MotorenWerke.

The Chinese auto industry decided to rely on the affordable cost of its cars without compromising their high quality, which is emphasized by the name, which means "diamond". The two hieroglyphs in the icon are the Chinese writing of a similar word.

The luxury car badge is shaped like a pearl with the initials of the founder of the giant auto corporation, Ettore Bugatti. There are 60 points around the perimeter of the badge, which are pearls.

The basis of the badge of luxury cars of British origin are three coats of arms, symbolizing the coat of arms of the Buick family of Scotland, who founded the automobile corporation.

Although not so popular, but at the same time there is a queue representative of the German car industry, whose badge, in fact, is a simplified version of "BMW". To create a new brand of the car, it only took a change in shape, color and abbreviation.

The badge originates in the family crest of the de La Motte Cadillac family, who are the founders of the American automobile plant of the same name.

Initially, the British car brand was the official dealer of "Lotus", when the rights to it were bought by one of the then owners of the presented automobile corporation, adding the prefix "Seven" to the name. After that, the cars became known as "Catheram Super Seven". The badge has undergone numerous changes over time, the most recent being the badge of the car introduced in 2014. The green color remains unchanged, clearly outlining the contours of the British flag.

Another representative of the Chinese auto industry, the icon of which strongly resembles the outline of the abbreviation of the automaker, "Cherry Automobile Corporation". The symbolism of the icon lies in the hands, which are characterized by strength and unity.

The name of one of the largest car brands in the world comes from the name of the famous racer and mechanic Louis Joseph Chevrolet, who was invited to start producing cars under his own name after performing at one of the prestigious auto racing cups. The proposal was made by the automotive giant General Motors.

The butterfly icon is the epitome of the success of the car brand's creator. There are several hypotheses as to how the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating such an icon came about:

• one by one - the badge was invented by one of the owners of an automobile corporation after he was attracted by a simple pattern on the wallpaper;
• on the other - the owner of the company liked a similar image in the process of flipping through the galleries of sheets.

The name of the American car brands comes from the name of the vice president of General Motors Corporation, Walter Chrysler. Over time, he specialized in the production of his own cars. The corporation began to replenish itself with global automotive brands, which made it possible to produce passenger cars and minivans. Modern icon elements represent speed and agility.

The French automobile corporation dates back to the beginning of the last century, when it was created by the engineer Andre Citroën, after whom it was named. The icon of the presented brand is made up of two chevrons, reminiscent of the first outstanding achievement of French engineering, the teeth of the chevron wheel.

The automobile giant received its name in honor of one of the territories of present-day Romania, which was named in accordance with the name of the tribe that lived in this area. The original version of the badge outwardly resembled dragon scales, since one of the sacred animals of the mentioned tribe was a dragon. In this form, the badge existed for quite a long time, until at the 2008 auto show at the ball its new version was presented, which is a capital letter "D", framed by a line on which the full name of the car brand appears. The presence of silvery shades testifies to the status of the Renault automobile concern, a subsidiary of Dacia.

The Korean auto industry also does not stand still and is in a hurry to introduce one of its largest representatives, whose name means "the great universe". According to one of the existing opinions, the icon is based on a shell. However, the vast majority prefer to believe the lily version, which the icon looks like. Moreover, the lily is a symbol of purity, innocence and greatness.

The presented brand of cars of Japanese origin was founded on the basis of one of the largest companies specializing in the production of engines for cars. After a certain amount of time, a new company was formed, which received its current name. The symbolism of the car badge lies in compactness combined with convenience, which directly corresponds to the corporation's motto, which sounds as follows: "We make it compact!"

The history of the automobile enterprise begins in 1900, when the Dodge brothers began to manufacture and produce spare parts for cars. Over time, it was decided to slightly change the specialization for the production of machines directly. At the same time, the American company became part of the Chrysler Corporation. The car badge has undergone repeated changes:

• at first, it was based on a round medal, in the center of which were two triangles, forming a star with six ends. Inside there were also the capital letters "D" and "B", which stands for "Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicles", the inscription of which framed the medal on the outside;
• with the onset of 1936, a ram's head first appeared on the badge, which subsequently disappeared, and the car brand was for some time devoid of any badge;
• soon the head of the animal again became an integral part of American cars.

Such abrupt appearance and disappearance of the company's badge testifies to the power and assertiveness of the animal whose head is depicted on it. The red lines that define the shape of the head also represent an unwavering sporting spirit.

The abbreviation of the Chinese car brand stands for "First Automobile Works", which means "First Automobile Corporation". The car badge resembles an eagle spreading its wings, which is a symbol of freedom and conquest of space.

The history of the creation of the icon of luxury Italian sports cars is connected with the famous pilot from Italy, Francesco Baraca, whose distinctive feature of the fighter was a black horse standing on its hind legs. Enzo Ferrari, after whom the automobile corporation got its name, was an ardent admirer of the skilled pilot. As a result, the presented brand of Italian cars is decorated with a modern badge, each element of which symbolizes something:

• the yellow background is the color of the city of Modena, where the first Ferrari car plant was built;
• three stripes located at the top of the badge - national Italian colors;
• the initials SF are an abbreviation for "Scuderia Ferrari", which means "Ferrari Stable". This was the name of the racing team.

It is interesting that a similar one can be found on the coat of arms of Stuttgart.

The name of this brand of cars comes from an abbreviated version of "Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino". Throughout its existence, the icon of the presented automobile corporation has taken a variety of forms: from round to square. The modern version of the badge has much in common with the past versions, which positions the company as a company that remembers its past and is proud of it, but at the same time is constantly developing.

The famous engineer Henry Ford decided not to complicate anything that could be simple. For this reason, even the modern version of the car badge is easily recognizable and represents the full name of the corporation, framed by an oval. This simplicity of an icon is considered the epitome of practicality and accessibility.

Poland cannot boast of a grandiose and demanded automotive industry, but the "Passenger Car Factory" is a direct refutation of that. Only in 2010, the Polish corporation began producing its own cars under one of the brands of the Daewoo enterprise, which then owned. The brand icon is very simple and is a weaving of letters of the company name. The color red was not chosen by chance, as it symbolizes passion, quality and trust.

The date of creation of the Chinese automobile corporation is considered to be 1986. At the same time, the company's badge is based on a white bird's wing or a high snow-covered mountain, towering against a blue background that represents the sky. The name of the car brand itself means "happiness". Apparently, this is how the icon designer imagined happiness.

The next car brand alphabetically is the Korean car manufacturer Hyunday, founded in 1967. Translated from Korean, the name means “modernity. The oblique capital letter "H" in the icon represents two people shaking hands. Thus, the automotive corporation sees a friendly and productive relationship with its customers.

High-end Japanese cars are in great demand, which is believed by car manufacturers to be based on the icon and name of the automobile concern. The name translates as "infinity". Initially, the plant's engineers suggested using the familiar infinity symbol. However, later they decided to stop on the road stretching into the distance. This has become a symbol of the limitless possibilities of this car brand.

The British luxury sedan automaker has chosen a wild cat jumping as its badge. The development of such a peculiar style of the car brand belonged to the famous artist Gordon Crosby. A distinctive feature of this icon is the throwback of the jaguar figurine in an emergency collision.

30. Jeep
Another representative of the American car industry, which is part of the Chrysler company. The badge was created in accordance with the abbreviation GP, \u200b\u200bwhich stands for general purpose vehicle. Today the cars of the American brand are an icon for men and for good taste.

The badge of one of the largest Korean car brands is made in the form of capital letters, played with stylization and located inside an oval circle. In fact, these two words, literally meaning "Enter the world from Asia", have become the personification of world success and recognition of the Korean automobile giant. Now the automobile concern specializes in a wide range of cars with different body solutions.

Luxury sports cars of Italian origin are the property of the German factory "Audi AG". The founder of the company was Ferruccio Lamborghini, who was offered a recognizable icon in black and gold colors. The main figure is the bull, personifying the constellation Taurus, under which Lamborghini was born. The peculiarity in the names of Italian cars lies in their correspondence to the names of bulls or the names of cities that have ever participated in a bullfight.

The well-known British manufacturer is the brainchild of the Ford automobile corporation. The car badge is modest and uncomplicated. The company's coat of arms is a sailing bowsprit that cuts through the water and is framed by a knight's shield.

The next brand of cars alphabetically is the Japanese "Lexus", the name of which is a derivative of the English word "luxury", which means "luxury" in translation. A simple capital letter “L”, enclosed in an oval, embodies that very luxury that needs no special introduction. The Japanese car brand is a subsidiary of Toyota.

A car brand, the copies of which are always supplied to the automotive market in limited quantities, which emphasizes the quality and status of the products, as well as their owners. The car icon is made in the form of a compass, the arrows of which are directed to all parts of the world, which symbolizes the goal of the automobile giant, which is to strive for success in any country in the world.

The Italian automobile concern is the result of a family cohesion embodied in the six Maserati brothers, the senior founders of the famous racing car brand. The car badge is characterized by the trident of Neptune, whose statue was considered the main attraction in the city, where the car company was first established. Red and blue colors are the main colors of the coat of arms of Bologna, where the famous brand originates.

The Japanese automaker chose the capital letter “M” for its cars, inscribed in the form of spread wings, often referred to as “tulip”. In fact, every motorist sees something different in this letter. The name of the company comes from the name of the deity Ahura Mazda, who was the patron saint of the sun, stars and moon.

38. Mercedes-Benz

Elite German cars are produced under the trademark owned by the giant Daimler AG concern. The car badge is made in the form of a star with three rays, symbolizing the superiority of products on land, at sea and in the air. This is due to the fact that in the past, Daimer AG specialized in the production and production of aircraft and marine engines.

The presented automobile concern initially has British roots, but in the process of subsequent reorganizations it became the property of the German BMW. The meaning of the passenger car icon consists of three components:

• efficiency;
• affordable pricing policy;
• optimal capacity.

These are the qualities that the cars of the brand in question possess.

40. Mitsubishi
The name of the Japanese concern means "three diamonds", which could be found on the family coat of arms of the Iwasaki family, who were the founders of the first automobile plant. Throughout the history of the brand's existence, the icon has never been changed.

The style of the Japanese brand cars is based on the rising sun, in which the full name of the brand is inscribed. The point is sincerity that brings success. The badge recently celebrated its 80th anniversary.

The easily recognizable lightning bolt, located inside the circle, symbolizes breakneck speed and lightning speed. In the original version of the outline, there was the word "Blitz", which was also accompanied by lightning.

Since 2010, the new icon of the French car brand has been an updated form of a lion without a tongue, presented in a three-dimensional image. The meaning of the badge is dynamic movement and development. The idea of \u200b\u200bcreating such a style belongs to a famous car manufacturer in France, which has become recognizable thanks to the production of cars that are devoid of a large content of harmful substances.

The icon of German cars is distinguished by its richness of elements, since it includes:

• a horse standing on its hind legs, which is the symbol of the city of Stuttgart;
• deer antlers and stripes in black and red, which are part of the coat of arms of the German state of Baden-Württemberg.

The icon of French cars, made in the form of a diamond on a yellow background, symbolizes success and prosperity. If you take a closer look, you will notice that each side of the diamond is located on top of the other. In reality, such a figure cannot exist. However, the manufacturers of the corporation thus make it clear that they are able to make the impossible come true.

The British Automobile Corporation specializes in the production of premium cars. The name and the first caps of the icon, superimposed on each other, are reminiscent of the creators of luxury cars, Frederick Royce and Charles Rolls.

The Swedish automotive concern filed for bankruptcy in 2011. The company's badge is represented by a mythological bird, which could be found on the coat of arms of one of the respected counts of Sweden. The present owners of the automobile corporation own the right to the name of the car brand without using the usual symbol.

It is a trademark of the Volkswagen Group, and the name is an abbreviation for the full name of the concern. Now the main focus of the company is to create sports and city cars. In the near future, it is planned to release the first crossover.

Another brand of the Volkswagen Group, only this time of Czech origin. The icon is a winged arrow located inside the ring. The full name of the company is located above the icon, the semantic component of which is as follows:

• wing - a symbol of technical progress;
• arrow - the latest technology;
• eye - open-mindedness;
• green - product safety for the environment.

The name of the Japanese automobile concern translates as “put together,” and the six stars on the badge represent a similar number of companies that have come together to create an automobile manufacturing enterprise. The stars were chosen in honor of the constellation of the Pleiades, cherished by the Japanese.

Icon japanese stamps machines are represented by the capital letter S of the Latin alphabet, which looks like a hieroglyph. The name of the company comes from the surname of the creator, Michio Suzuki. Initially, the company specialized in the production of machine tools for the textile industry, as well as motorcycles. A little later, the main specialization began to be in the production of cars.

One of the few automotive concerns of American origin, the main focus of which is the production of cars running on electric fuel. The capital letter "T" resembles the shape of a sword, which is the personification of swiftness and speed. The very name of the car brand comes from the name of the famous physicist Nikola Tesla.

Initially, the main activity of the Toyota company was the production of looms. Paying tribute to the past, the current owners of the automobile concern have decided not to change the badge symbolizing the thread threaded into the eye of a needle. The icon began to bear a philosophical meaning:

• two ovals, intersecting each other, are the personification of the driver and the car engine;
• a large oval uniting two small ones is a symbol of the promising and broad opportunities of the automobile corporation.

The badge of the "people's German car" is represented by the capital letters "W" and "V" fused together by means of a monogram. In the days of Nazi Germany, this sign symbolized the swastika. After the end of the war, the car factory was transferred to Great Britain, where the spelling of the letters was slightly changed.

The Swedish Automobile Corporation took the inherent attributes of the Roman god of war Ares, a shield and a spear as the basis of its badge. Initially, the strip running through the grille was intended for the mounting point of the badge. However, this strip is now part of the brand.

56. Lada (AvtoVaz)

The icon of the Russian car industry has existed since Soviet times. Currently, the boat under sail is presented in a slightly different shape, in which the blue and white colors remain unchanged. The rook symbolizes the location of the Russian automobile plant, the Samara region, located on the Volga. In the old days, the transportation of various cargoes became possible only by means of boats crossing the Volga. The rook has the shape of the capital letter "B", included in the name "VAZ".

And the list of car brands in alphabetical order is completed by another Russian automobile manufacturer, the car icon of which is directly related to the products of the automobile plant in Taganrog. In the early 2000s, the corporation specializes in the production of machines called "Orion". After some time, the plant arrives with a specialty in the assembly of cars.

The most famous car brands

The automotive market is highly competitive, in which only select automakers who have managed to establish a production and sales system deserve the right to exist. The popularity of a particular car brand is determined by the number of models sold. According to this indicator, the most famous car brands are:

1. Nissan

The long history of the development of the Japanese automobile brand does not lose its relevance today. Now the popular concern has relied on innovative technologies, presenting new versions to the world electric cars, which are characterized by increased environmental friendliness. One of the corporation's latest projects is the creation of a new generation of New York taxis, designed specifically for world-class racing.

2. Porsche

The German automaker does not get tired of working on the quality and reliability of its products, which results in the working condition of about 70% of cars of this brand. In recent years, the automobile concern has been placing particular emphasis on the environmentally friendly component of cars, while maintaining their power and strength. This is confirmed by the hybrid version of the Porsche Cayenne. The German company is now part of the Volkswagen Group.

Thanks to the stylish design and advanced technologies, the cars of the German concern are in great demand among motorists and connoisseurs of beauty. The automaker is tirelessly improving its production, as evidenced by:

• new models of machines produced annually;
• introduction of new technologies;
• an increase in sales by several tens of percent in many world markets.

4. Hyundai

It is the best South Korean automotive brand, which is characterized by the rapid development of production in the automotive industry. Recently, the concern has been changing its focus somewhat, moving from practical models to more luxurious cars, which, in turn, remain accessible to the public.

For quite a long time, the legendary automobile concern has been experiencing certain difficulties. However, this does not seem to affect the production of cars in any way, as exemplified by the updated Focus and Fusion models introduced in 2012. At the present time, these models of the American brand of cars are still sold in huge quantities around the world.

6. Volkswagen

The most "popular" car in Germany was awarded the title "Car of the Year" in 2012. Since then, the concern has not been tired of breaking records for the number of sales. The German automaker is now considered the greenest carmaker in the world, and is still looking for alternative energy sources.

7. Honda

The world famous brand of cars from Japan is wildly popular among the world population. This is evidenced by record sales of the Honda Accord in 2012, which was subsequently named the best car of the year in many countries around the world. Distinctive features of all cars of this brand are reliability and safety, which are present in each model.

One of the leaders in the premium automotive industry, characterized by style and quality. The German concern was selected as the official partner of the Olympics held in London, where it provided more than 3 thousand cars. Also, the corporation is not far from innovation and recently introduced the world to cars of the "i" series, which are distinguished by increased power and environmental friendliness.

9. Mercedes-Benz
It is the main competitor to BMW. However, it still holds the title of trendsetter in the automotive industry, specializing in the production of powerful and safe high-end vehicles.

10. Toyota

The legendary car brand from Japan in 2012 became the leader in sales, presenting only two models to the world public: "Prius" and "Aqua". The hybrid engines of these machines have shown a high level of endurance and power, and the continued demand for them speaks of the viability of such installations. The development of the company is manifested in the production of stylish cars that are affordable for ordinary buyers.

The most expensive car brands

Recently, the overwhelming number of car companies in the process of manufacturing their products began to make a greater bias towards practicality and comfort, which directly affects the cost of cars. Which car brands are the most expensive in the world? Now we will find out:

1. Honda ($ 21 thousand)

One of the reputable insurance companies with a worldwide reputation recognized the engines of the Japanese automobile corporation as the most reliable and high-performance, which directly affects the cost of cars, which now exceeds $ 20,000 for one copy of the Japanese car industry.

2. Toyota ($ 23 thousand)

Another Japanese car maker is only slightly ahead of its rival. Especially popular among consumers are models of increased cost:

• Land Cruiser Prado;
• Land Cruiser 200;
• Highlander.

They account for about a third of all corporation car sales.

3. Audi ($ 31 thousand)
One of the subsidiaries of Volkswagen AG is distinguished by its stylish design, easy handling and increased comfort. As a result, the high pricing policy, which, however, is not an obstacle for connoisseurs and fans of the German car industry.

4. Volvo ($ 31.5 thousand)

The Swedish automaker is gaining momentum and actively developing its automotive industry, resulting in the development and subsequent release from the assembly line of hybrid car models. At the moment, the average cost for one copy is almost $ 32,000.

5. Infinity ($ 41 thousand)

Owned by the Japanese car brand, Nissan Motor actively develops innovative technologies in the production of cars that are characterized by a high degree of comfort, endurance and performance. Now one of the most expensive car brands costs about $ 41,000.

6. Lexus ($ 42 thousand)

Another Japanese car brand that is part of the Toyota Corporation. Lexus produces expensive premium cars of various types and modifications, which allowed them to enter the list of the most expensive cars in the world.

7. BMW ($ 50 thousand)

The list of the most expensive cars would be incomplete without representatives of the German car industry. Status and safety cars are selling at the old cost of half a million dollars.

8. Land Rover ($ 60 thousand)

The English car industry has fully embodied its aristocracy in the models of the famous automobile concern. A striking example of this is the Range Rover Evoque, which is characterized by increased cross-country ability, comfort and reliability. According to statistics, this car is the most stolen model.

9 Mercedes-Benz ($ 67,000)

Another representative of the German automotive industry is the world famous Mercedes-Benz corporation, which in 2010 was recognized as the most expensive automobile brand in the world.

10. Porsche ($ 98 thousand)

The most profitable car manufacturer is again a representative of the German car industry. At the moment, the models "Cayenne" and "Macan" are in the greatest demand.

Rare car brands

Well, now is the time to pay attention to rare car brands, whose exclusivity lies in their high cost and status:

Despite almost half a century of development history, the automobile corporation "Lotus" cannot boast of a fierce demand for its model range of cars, which was created on the basis of past mistakes of the company. The most recognizable Lotus models are:

• "Elise";
• "Exige";
• "Evora".

The presented models are characterized by swiftness and increased cross-country ability, which can only suit enthusiasts with clear life goals. To justify all of the above, it is worth noting that leading manufacturers of spare parts and components for cars are fighting for the opportunity to get the inscription "Lotus" on their products.

The presented car brand from England specializes in the production of rare brands of cars that are assembled by hand. More precisely, only one model is being released, the M600. The mentioned car belongs to the category of sports cars, which is equipped with a spacious engine with two turbines. The result is 650 horses under the hood, and the 6-speed gearbox makes them easy to handle. It is also worth noting that a tubular-type aluminum frame acts as the basis for the entire mechanical leaving the car. In order to reduce weight, composite materials were used in the production of the car body.

Koenigsegg

This concern has Swedish roots, and the impetus for its creation was the desire of the founder to invent a unique sports car that would be used exclusively for personal purposes. And, starting in 1994, the world community began to create outstanding cars with unique characteristics and design. For example, one of latest models the Swedish plant is capable of reaching speeds of 400 km / h in just 20 seconds.

Another brand of rare cars that is of Italian origin. The machines are distinguished by their output power and speed, which are based on the powerful engines from Mercedes. The range of the automobile corporation is represented by models whose power starts from 700 horses.

Wiesmann

A rare brand of German cars, it specializes in the production of sports models, beaten in a classic style. Cars are characterized by the absence of external aggressiveness, which is replaced by some femininity, manifested in the form of cars. However, the inner fullness of the sports car suggests otherwise:

• productive perforated brakes;
• suspension system on double wishbones;
• body structure made of aluminum.

The list of rare car brands continues the brand from the United States, which was founded in 1999. The corporation also specializes in the production of powerful and domestic sports cars that can accelerate to hundreds in a couple of seconds. Like the vast majority of race cars, the SSC models have a body made of aluminum combined with a hydrocarbon fiber.

Despite its centuries-old existence, cars of the exclusive brand are still the rarest. Their distinctive features is the presence of elements of wood in the frame of the structure. Also, the uniqueness of the automobile concern lies in the production and release of cars with three wheels, which are a cross between a motorcycle and a small car.

The history of the formation of the Dutch automobile brand begins in 1880, when the company specialized in harnessing horse-drawn carriages, as well as servicing stagecoaches. Years later, the company released its first car, followed by an order to create a model for the royal family. This is followed by a period of active participation of cars of this brand in various racing competitions. During the period of hostilities around the world, "Spyker" launches the production of aircraft and engines for them, and at the end of the war the corporation is closed.

A new round in the production of the Dutch company begins in the early 2000s, when the first car model was released.

Another rare car brand offers models with a minimum weight of up to one ton. At the same time, the cars are capable of accelerating up to 300 km / h and create a feeling of flight, despite the rigid suspension.

A luxury car corporation from Italy owns the most powerful car the world, " Bugatti Veyron", Which is capable of delivering power in a thousand horses. All this is created thanks to the engine, equipped with 16 cylinders and turbocharging. Due to the sky-high cost of the model, the presented car brand is the rarest in the world.

Car brands and countries of origin

Some brands of cars are very recognizable and by them, in particular, by names, it becomes possible to determine their country of origin. However, there are such car brands by which it is difficult to determine the country of manufacture.

USA:

The largest American automaker is the Ford corporation, founded by the famous engineer Henry Ford, who came up with the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating a conveyor production that significantly reduces the cost of assembling cars, which directly affected the availability of personal vehicles. In today's automotive market, where one car company takes over another, Ford remains independent and one of the largest automotive corporations in the world. The most significant acquisition of the American concern is Jaguar, a significant part of which was sold to Henry Ford.

The successful automobile production was easily established by a talented engineer from a small American town, who decided to give his "brainchild" its own name. The success and popularity of the corporation was driven by the acquisition of one car company after another, which include:

• american "Dodge";
• french "Simca";
• english "Rooters Group".

A little later, the Chrysler piggy bank was replenished with the huge American Motors company, as well as the popular manufacturer of tractor equipment Lamborgini.

Throughout the existence of this automobile brand, which, by the way, has American roots, there have been constant acquisitions. So, in 1960, the concern was bought out by Jaguar, which later left and merged with Chrysler. The merged organization is currently owned by the German Mercedes.

The well-known American concern for the production of cars was created by the equally eminent racer Louis Chevrolet. Subsequently, the popularity of this brand of cars only grew, which allowed it to acquire an automobile corporation with the legendary name "General Motors". Now "Checrolet" is actively cooperating with the Japanese companies "Toyota" and "Suzuki", helping these automakers to enter the American market.

Europe:

1. Germany:

One of the largest German car manufacturers supplying its products to the world market. The concern was created during the reign of Hitler with the aim of providing every German people's car... At that time, only one model, the Beetle, was being produced. However, the engineers of the enterprise realized in time that the development of the company thus becomes impossible. Then the famous production models presented by Golf and Passat were invented, thanks to which Volkswagen was able to conquer the world car market. At the same time, the enterprise managed to acquire large concerns, and today it includes the following car brands:

• Seat;
• Skoda;
• Rolls-Royce.

The presented world-class automaker began its journey with the creation of small cars and motorcycles. After some time he became the owner of the English automobile concern "Rover". Now the most recognizable brands of cars under the auspices of BMW are MINI.

2. Italy

Here I would like to draw special attention to "Fiat", an automaker known for the creation of small foreign cars, on which, in fact, he rose. Now the Italian concern owns a number of legendary and prestigious car brands:

• Ferrari;
• Alfa Romeo;
• Maseratti;
• Lancia.

3. France

The famous French brand "Peugeot" is popular because it is the owner of the no less famous "Citroёn". Since the beginning of the cooperation between the two organizations, many similar elements can be seen in car models;

• undercarriage structures;
• engine;
• external outlines.

Japan

The Land of the Rising Sun is an amazing place on Earth, where automobile production is well established, which is currently one of the world leaders in this field. However, some well-known Japanese car brands have not always specialized in the production of automotive products. For instance:

Honda. At the dawn of its career, the company was engaged in the collection of bicycles with motors, which at that time were purchased in small batches.

• Toyota. Previously known for the production of textiles.
• Mitsubishi. Throughout the history of its existence, the corporation has managed to try itself in various areas of business, even in the brewery.
• "Mazda". Prior to car manufacturing, she specialized in the production of cork products.
• "Suzuki". Previously specialized in the manufacture of looms.

Russian car brands

Unlike its Western, European and Asian competitors, the domestic auto industry cannot boast of record sales of cars, which is largely due to the inadequate quality of automotive products. However, there are Russian car brands that are legendary and are important in the development of the automotive industry:

1. AvtoVAZ (LADA)

He is one of the leaders of the domestic car industry, which throughout its formation specialized exclusively in the production of cars, first in Soviet Russia, and now in modern Russia. During the existence of the Soviet Union, AvtoVaz supplied its cars to all of Western Europe, which were based on Italian Fiat cars. Now AvtoVAZ has completely renewed its line of cars, continuing to work on new improved models.

2. Volga

The Russian car brand Volga is the result of the merger of the American company Ford and the Russian company Gas. When creating the aforementioned brand of cars, the goal was to meet the needs of the population in luxury cars. Also on the "Volga" there was high demand French and German colleagues. In Soviet times, this car brand was an obligatory "attribute" of the political elite. In 2007, the production of "Volga" stopped, and collectors from all over the world now dream of getting one model of this brand healthy.

The Russian automobile concern "Marussia Motors" is a manufacturer of sports cars. The company got its start in 2007, when the first two car models were presented to the public, which later became participants and winners of many racing competitions. However, this did not further save the company from bankruptcy in 2014.

4. TagAZ

The Taganrog Automobile Plant specializes in the production of all variations of cars and trucks, SUVs, buses. The first models of cars of this brand of cars left the assembly line under the license of the South Korean corporation "Daewoo Motor". Despite the times of crisis, "TagAZ" managed to withstand and now produces cars that are notable for affordable prices and high quality.

Car brands by type of SUV

All brands of jeeps

The Japanese car brand offers the compact Jimny, which is ideal for off-road enthusiasts. The Jeep is characterized by a high degree of cross-country ability, as well as the presence of all functions necessary to overcome road obstacles.

The leading Japanese carmaker offers the FJ Cruiser, which is rapidly growing in demand in the aftermarket. The main advantages of a jeep are:

• large wheels;
• unique suspension design;
• a wide variety of functions.

The Japanese are not going to give up their positions and already represent the next model of jeeps, only released by another manufacturer: X-Terra "from Nissan. In the process of assembling this model, all the functions of jeeps from the times of the 90s were used and added. There is also an impressive design and high cross-country ability of the car, which allows you to overcome the most serious obstacles on the road.

All SUV brands:

The presented automobile corporation proposes to pay attention to the impressive model "QX-56", which has undergone repeated changes and improvements. The result is a brutal yet pleasing appearance and unparalleled power on the road.

It is safe to say that the domestic auto industry has stepped forward in its development. This is confirmed by SUVs from the Russian automobile concern "TagAZ", which are famous for driving on any off-road, but at the same time do not differ in high endurance.

And in the production of off-road vehicles, the Japanese car brand did not stand aside and is already in a hurry to present the X-Trail model. All generations of this model are distinguished by high powers and decent cross-country ability and endurance.

All icons and their names

All brands of cars are distinguished by their individuality and originality, which is largely due to the peculiarities of the production of each of them. Even more uniqueness of cars is given by their badges, which have a rather interesting historical and philosophical load behind them. Quite often, the external component of a car is associated with these icons, which were fully described above.

The production of the first cars started more than 120 years ago in the 80s and 90s of the 19th century in France and Germany. At the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th centuries, the number of countries that put “ iron horses”On stream, was replenished by England, Austria-Hungary, Italy, USA, Belgium, Canada, Switzerland and Sweden. In those days, the inventors of the miracle technology were driven by the desire to stop exploiting horse labor and leave carriages in the past: to mechanize, and, therefore, to increase the speed of movement of land roadless transport, primarily of a military nature. With the development of the industry, clear leaders from all over the world with different thinking, goals, objectives and philosophies began to emerge among automakers - these are Europe, the United States and Japan.

"Europe - the continuity of generations"

Europe can be safely called the birthplace of cars. The very first car - Motorwagen - was designed and built in 1885 in Germany by Karl Benz.

Women's investment It is worth noting that Karl Benz's ingenuity and ingenious mind was not enough for the car to be recognized not only as a worthwhile and useful thing, but as a truly global discovery. Oddly enough, his wife, Bertha Benz, played a huge role in this difficult matter. In order not to infringe upon the dignity of the male readers of the magazine, we can only casually mention that the world's first car was completely created on the dowry of Madame Bertha. However, the real merit of the genius's wife is her legendary 106 km motor rally from Mannheim to Pforzheim on 5 August 1888. It was thanks to the courage and strength of this woman that it became possible to popularize this miracle of technical thought. Plus, Bertha Benz became the first woman to drive. And even that is not all. During the historic rally, Berta Benz predetermined the necessary car service: gas stations, tire service, repair shops and so on, everything that motorists now use on the roads. And it was Berta Benz who came up with the idea of \u200b\u200bequipping the car with a gearbox - she did not like pushing the car on the slopes too much, and she gave her husband the appropriate practical advice.

From the moment Motorwagen appeared in Europe, the active development of the automotive industry began. Brands and factories appeared throughout the old world, and Germany, England, France and Italy became the leaders in this area. Each of these countries endowed and to this day endows their cars with national characteristics. German cars are a symbol of quality and reliability, Italian - speed and charisma, English - comfort and sophistication, French - originality and practicality. But the distinctive feature of the entire European automotive industry is the continuity of generations. Europeans are very careful about their history, culture, architecture, art and generally do not like changes very much. This also affected the automotive industry. The lineup is changed no more than once every 5-7 years, and the technical component is changed only when necessary. For example, Mercedes still produces sl parts for 60s. At the same time, the design of each brand is recognizable and has not changed fundamentally, retaining the familiar features and lines. We all remember the BMW grilles. But, despite such a conservative policy, car interiors still amaze with luxury and individuality: leather, expensive woods ... Close attention to detail appeared for the first time in Europe. And this is due, first of all, to the fact that Europeans make their cars not for a year or two, but for ten years at least, paying attention to the quality of every detail. This leads to the use of sophisticated manufacturing technologies and durable expensive materials, even in details such as fasteners. European cars use anodized fasteners that will not rot or rust.

High-tech educational program An important feature of engineering is the maintainability of the car. Every European car is supplied with detailed technical literature on full repair. All this led to the fact that the inhabitants of Europe did not like and still do not like to change their cars often and prefer to take care of them carefully. Distinguishing features of the advanced technical developments of European automakers in to a greater extent associated with their attachment to the popular topic of fuel economy and environmental friendliness in Europe. The high cost of fuel has led Europe to use composite materials in the manufacture of engines, which seriously lighten the car. To finely tuned aluminum multi-link suspension. A robotic gearbox, similar in design to a mechanical gearbox, shifting gears due to an electronic clutch system. Locking system exhaust gases when the engine is running at low load. All this makes the car more economical and environmentally friendly.

Probably, it's not a secret for anyone that a characteristic feature of a European car is a large selection of trim levels. In order to satisfy the picky European consumer and compete with cheaper and simpler foreign counterparts, European manufacturers offer several options as an additional technical equipment (air conditioning / climate control, interior trim, music) and the main one (engine line). Also, Europeans were the first to use electronic technology towards comfort. Europeans make high-tech and complex cars... Most European brands have their own racing teams, which in turn also have rich traditions. Often, racing technologies are introduced into production for serial cars, which, of course, complicates the car, but makes it faster, more obedient, and allows you to achieve good balanced proportions of kilograms per horsepower. True, all this affects the cost of the car, significantly increasing it. For example, carbon fiber and attention to aerodynamics, new technologies in the suspension - all this came to modern cars from racing.

Nowadays, many European car companies are sure to test their cars on race tracks before mass production in order to bring the handling to perfection. And looking at European roads, you understand why. These are narrow and winding streets, alternating mountain serpentines and unpredictable hills. The main takeaway of many car enthusiasts and professionals is that the car in Europe has always been more than just a piece of iron. Engineers and designers managed to give him soul and character. European cars made them admire as works of art. The Scarlet Ferrari will forever remain an integral part of the Riviera and Monaco, and the silver Rolls-Royce will carry royals for life. These cars never become obsolete, they remain classics and are unrivaled.

The largest car manufacturers:

1. Toyota. ÎTurnover: 167.05 billion euros. Profit: 14.43 billion euros. Cars sold: 9.32 million; Employees: 316,121.

2. General Motors. turnover: 123.04 billion euros. Profit: € 4.25 billion. Cars sold: 9.37 million × Employees: 284,000.

3. Ford. turnover: 117.15 billion euros. Profit: 2.07 billion euros. Cars sold: 6.55 million; employees: 246,000.

4. Volkswagen / Porsche. turnover: 116.27 billion euros. Profit: € 10.89 billion. Cars sold: 6.24 million employees: 340,876.

5. Renault-Nissan. turnover: 109.46 billion euros. Profit: 6.26 billion euros. Cars sold: 6.15 million employees: 310,714.

6. Daimler. turnover: 99.4 billion euros. Profit: 8.71 billion euros. Cars sold: 1.29 million employees: 272,382.

7. Honda. turnover: 76.27 billion euros. Profit: 6.06 billion euros. Cars sold: 3.93 million Employees: 180,000.

8. Peugeot-Citroen. turnover: 60.61 billion euros. Profit: 1.75 billion euros. Cars sold: 3.43 million employees: 207,800.

9. Fiat. turnover: 58.53 billion euros. Profit: 3.15 billion euros. Cars sold: 2.23 million employees: 179,601.

10. BMW. ÎTurnover: 56.02 billion euros. Profit: € 4.21 billion. Cars sold: 1.5 million employees: 107,539.

“USA is an affordable and cheap car for every American”

If Europe is the birthplace of the first car, then America is the birthplace of the automotive industry. It was in the United States that Henry Ford in 1908 created the first mass-produced car, the Ford T. Americans were able to turn the car into a business. Ford put mechanical engineering on the assembly line, which greatly simplified, cheapened and accelerated the assembly process. This event was a breakthrough that affected the whole world and America in particular. A car in the United States, by definition, should be cheap and accessible to everyone. The Ford Magician Henry Ford's first inventions were unsuccessful. "Fordmobil", created in 1893, looked like a cart without a horse and caused the common people, at least, bewilderment. And in order to assemble his first engine, Ford had to spend several months with it.

Having created an ATV in 1893, Henry Ford could not find a single buyer for it - the result was not in demand, because they simply did not know anything about it! Henry had no choice but to sit down in his brainchild and go around all potential clients. However, for his labor, he received only ridicule. But, nevertheless, he did not give up.

At the beginning of the 20th century, a new passion - auto racing began to attract more and more fans and, accordingly, rally participants. Therefore, in 1902 Henry challenged and overtook the American champion Alexander Winton in a car of his own production, and in 1903 the experiment was repeated by the already hired driver Oldfield, advertising the Ford racing model "999". The victory brought some fame to Ford, and most importantly - helped to win the hearts and wallets of future companions. The result of these efforts was June 16, 1903, when twelve investors, including the Dodge brothers, invested a total of $ 28,000 in the firm, which was headed by Henry Ford - Ford Motor Company. The vast expanses and cheapness of materials naturally provoked engineers to be creative and hypertrophied: huge engines with low efficiency (150hp per 6 liters), large-scale hydromechanical automatic transmissions, and, accordingly, the gigantic dimensions of the cars themselves. In addition, the inaccuracy of the patterns, which had large tolerances for errors, was justified by the principle: large gaps are not visible on a large car. However, to this day, many already legendary American cars are highly maintainable. This is due to the simplicity of designs and the strong continuity of technologies. On a modern American-made car, you can still see a 35-year-old engine, in a new body kit: newer attachments, consumables and electronics.

Cars made in the USA were originally produced exclusively for the local market. Since the US domestic market was already large enough at the inception of the automotive industry, there was no need for the Americans to make cars for export. And if suddenly a car made in America ended up in another part of the world, then its maintenance was very problematic. As a rule, spare parts for American cars could only be found in the United States, and they were not particularly reliable. As a result, American cars went down in modern history as large, comfortable, simple, unpretentious in maintenance. And ... cool! Not pretty or bright, but cool. With a lot of chrome details, expressive design and a huge engine under the hood. Because of all these pros and cons, American cars never really became popular anywhere except in the United States.

“Japan is a car as a means of transportation” Before World War II, there was practically no major automobile industry in Japan, although attempts to produce own cars were repeatedly undertaken in the 10-20s of the twentieth century. But even if several copies were made, the matter still did not reach mass production.

Japanese, such Japanese ...

Almost all of Japan's modern automobile industry, based on mass production methods, was created after World War II, and in just a few years. To ensure the mass production of passenger cars, the Japanese economy, which found itself in extremely difficult conditions after the end of World War II, needed a boost. The war in Korea turned out to be such an impetus. Japanese companies supplied trucks and other vehicles to the American army. Although these supplies constituted an insignificant share of those used during the war vehicles, the position of the companies producing them has changed dramatically. Along with this, during the production and maintenance of American cars, Japanese engineers got the opportunity to study the design features of the car.

In the course of all these events, the essence of the Japanese car was formed. Transportation of goods, people, from point A to point B. A truly Japanese car means simplicity and reliability of design, an ascetic interior, lack of design, an economical engine, small size of the car itself, low cost... High assembly quality and reliability were achieved through the introduction and use of robots, the refinement of production technology. If we talk about the production of passenger cars, then all the Japanese needed at that time was an inexpensive, reliable car for every day - a workhorse. The geographical location and peculiarities of the national character also did their job. In the 60s, a Japanese car looked like a box on wheels: complete asceticism in the design of the body and interior, nothing superfluous, not any luxury, only the bare essentials.

Design, variety of choice of complete sets were abolished in order to reduce cost and increase production speed. The total economy of resources also affected the characteristics of the engines. Japan is the birthplace of small cars, small size and weight of cars made it possible to use small engines with minimal fuel consumption. Japanese cars were created exclusively for the domestic market and fully met the needs of the local population. Japanese manufacturers have captured almost the entire domestic market, including thanks to the government, which actively supported the development of local businesses. However, the rest of the civilized world did not understand the Japanese car until the 1973 oil crisis happened. Gasoline prices skyrocketed and economical Japanese cars came in just the right place. Unlike the main competitors from Europe and the USA, Japanese cars turned out to be much more economical. And within a few years, Japan has become the world's leading exporter of automobiles. However, new markets dictated their own terms. To stay competitive, Japan needed to change its cars. American and European consumers wanted more. So Japan began to embrace design, comfort and luxury.

For this, specialists from abroad were invited. Until now, the most successful models were developed by Western designers and foreign competitors were easily recognized in their appearance. Compare for example Mitsubishi galant and BMW of the third series (E-36 body), Lexus LS400 and Mereedes S-class with a W126 body, and the similarity of Lexus LS430 with Mereedes W140 was noticed by the entire world automotive press. By far Japan's biggest contribution to the global auto industry is economy. Efficiency in everything: from the organization of production (stocks are thought out to the smallest detail, minimum production costs, all materials are processed, robots do most of the work), to the cars themselves (finishing materials, design, engine and components). Japan showed the whole world its special view of the car - a car as a means of transportation, a car for every day. Simple, gray, soulless, yet reliable, economical, affordable and practical. Japan did not make the first mass car, it made the modern mass car.

We are so accustomed to the hustle and bustle of the street and the variety of all kinds of logos on cars that we no longer even think about their meaning. And I must say, in vain, because experienced designers, or even their entire generations, have been working for years to create brand signs. Through their efforts, a small symbol is able to reflect the entire history and traditions of the company for the entire period of its existence.

What brands and emblems of German cars are best known?

It will not be news that the first real car was made in Europe. Later, many other automakers will appear, some will go bankrupt and cease their activities on the way to success, but a certain part will become the basis of the current concerns. While the Japanese industry was just in its infancy, the bulk of the giants from Germany already had more than a dozen years of efficient production behind them.

From the very beginning of the 90s, German car brands and the emblems of these cars have become most common on the streets of our cities. These include:

• Audi.
• Mercedes Benz.
• Opel.
• Porsche.
• Volkswagen.

It is not without reason that the products of the descendants of the Teutonic knights have won rave reviews from domestic motorists. High quality, the latest technology and comfort are the main features that are so appreciated all over the world. True fans of the German car industry will be interested to know what the images on the logos of the largest corporations mean.

Audi

The company associated with the name of its founder August Horch has quite difficult fate... Having issued the A. Horch & Cie car brand and emblem in 1899, after 10 years, due to disagreements in the management, the inventor was forced to say goodbye to his brainchild. The partners did not calm down on this and sued the brand.

Without thinking twice, A. Horch named his new project Audi - that is how his surname sounded in Latin. In 1934, 4 rings were added to the logo, which signified the merger of the companies:

• Audi-Werke.
• Horch Automobil-Werke GmbH.
• Wanderer Werke AG.

Bmw

The history of the premium brand dates back to 1913, when the Bavarians provided aircraft with their motors. Therefore, initially the propeller was the logo of the company. After the First World War, aircraft engines were no longer needed, but the Germans did not want to abandon aircraft technology.

In 1920, the propeller on the emblem disappeared, and it was replaced, albeit remotely, by the already familiar circle, divided into four quarters. Two of them are white and two are blue. With this, the automaker says about its belonging to Bavaria, because the colors symbolize the colors of the Bavarian coat of arms.

Mercedes Benz

It is believed that those who own a car with a three-pointed star are doomed to success. This, if you do not take into account the fact that the presence of a Mercedes is already a sign of success. The famous logo appeared in 1909, at a time when the company was engaged in the production of motors. The rays of the star symbolized the scope of their application:

1. Earth.
2. Air.
3. Water.

Much later, in 1926, the companies of Benz and Daimler merged. This resulted in the emergence of the now well-known Daimler-Benz AG corporation. The car brands produced by it received a new emblem - a three-rayed star surrounded by a laurel wreath. A little later, it was replaced by a regular circle.

Which car brands from France are the most popular and their logos

The rating of French cars, of course, is somewhat inferior to their German counterparts in popularity. However, in terms of build quality and appearance "French" are not inferior to eminent brands from Germany. The most renowned manufacturers only three, but they have centuries-old traditions:

• Citroen.
• Peugeot.
• Renault.

Although these concerns differ in engineering and technical resources, their products can be identified on the street even at an intuitive level. Their logos also play an important role in this.

Citroen

In 1913, the company, under the leadership of André Citroën, began producing gearboxes. At the same time, the brand name was developed in the form of a double chevron, denoting the V-shaped teeth of the gear. It was thanks to this detail that the concern managed to bypass its competitors. The outline of the double chevron is now embossed and rounded.

In 1975, the company was taken over by Peugeot, as a result of which the logo changed somewhat, but the visual meaning of the sign remained the same. Celebrating their 90th anniversary in 2009, the French re-branded the image.

Peugeot

The first car of this company with a Daimler engine was produced in 1891, although the company was officially registered in 1896. However, the logo in the form of a lion from the coat of arms of the province of Franche-Comté appeared in 1847, when Armand Peugeot owned a steel factory and used the symbol as a sign quality of steel.

Renault

For the first time, this car brand, together with the emblem in the form of the initials of the three Renault brothers, was released in 1900. Six years later, a self-propelled crew was already a symbol. Another rebranding took place in 1919, when the company was producing tanks, which was reflected in the logo. Since 1925, the image of the company takes on the form of a stylized diamond, the final version of which is presented in 1972.

Which Italian automakers are best known and their logos

A certain part of motorists consider the Italian car industry the crown of European engineering. Unique design, breakneck speeds and manufacturability make these machines super attractive. Popular cars in Italy include:

Alfa Romeo.

Fiat.

Ferrari.

Lancia.

Lamborgini.

Maserati.

Alfa romeo

Automotive firm under the acronym A.L.F.A. was founded in Milan in 1910. At the same time, the brand name in the form of a circle divided in half was also developed. The basis was the elements of heraldry of Italy:

• on the right is the green snake Biscione, symbolizing the House of Visconti, which ruled Milan in the 14th century;
• on the left there is a red cross on a white background - the banner of Milan.

In 1915, ownership of the plant passed to Nicola Romeo, in whose honor the inscription "Alfa Romeo" was added.

Fiat

The first car under the F.I.A.T. (Fabbrica Italiana di Avtomobili Torino) came out of the factory gates in 1899. In 1906, the dots between the letters were removed. The shape of the sign has undergone numerous modifications, ranging from rectangular to round. Now the Fiat car brand is issued with an emblem, which is a combination of a circle and a trapezoid with letters inside.

Ferrari

For some it will be news that the Ferrari badge dates back to the events of the First World War. The black horse was painted on the fuselage of the aircraft of the famous pilot Francesco Barraca. In 1932, Enzo Ferrari asked the pilot's family to transfer the rights to use the horse symbol on their cars.

The logo is based on a golden background - the color of the city of Modena, the birthplace of Enzo. The national Italian tricolor at the top of the image is used by the company as a confirmation of its patriotism.

The expression "European quality" did not appear by chance. This is what many motorists say when it comes to any European car. Indeed, a car from Europe has many advantages, but there are also disadvantages. Below is a list of manufacturers from Europe.

English manufacturers

Italian companies

German concerns

French stamps

Czech brands

Swedish cars

The main one is the inability of many models to our Russian roads. Low ground clearance, low seating position, rigid suspension in no way contribute to a comfortable ride on bumps, bumps, potholes, which are replete with the domestic road surface.

The most famous European car brands 2019 2020 include:

• Lamborgini;
• Maserati;
• Bugatti;
• Mini.

Lamborgini was founded in 1963 as a subsidiary of Audi. Its founder was Ferruccio Lamborghini. The cars of this European manufacturer are among the most expensive, powerful and also exclusive. Unlike other cars, they have special, unique innovations - a body made of carbon fiber, as well as high-tech V12 engines.

In Russia, the most famous models are Lamborghini Sesto Elemento Concept, Urus Concept, Egoista Concept. This year will provide an opportunity to get acquainted with the new Lamborghini LM002.

This SUV is equipped with a 5.2-liter 450-horsepower engine that cannot boast of fuel efficiency. Fuel consumption at mixed cycle is as much as 27 liters per hundred kilometers. But in terms of dynamic qualities there is no equal to the car. The 002 can accelerate in just 9 seconds, and the maximum speed can reach 201 km / h.

Naturally, the Lamborghini LM002 belongs to the rare, exclusive pieces that are put up as lots at prestigious auctions. The final price for such a handsome man varies from 110 to 200 thousand US dollars.

Founded in 1914, the Italian company Maserati also produces luxury, expensive, exclusive business and sports cars. The Maserati brothers, who are the founders of this brand, launched their first sports supercar with a two-liter engine in the same year.

Over time, the list of this brand of European cars 2019 was replenished with the following models:

• Maserati Quattroporte;
• Ghibli III;
• GranTurismo;
• Maserati GranCabrio.

The new brainchild of the company is a sedan with a bright unusual name Maserati Ghibli, which will be presented in 2019. In addition to a bright, charismatic appearance, the car has modern active bi-xenon headlights, a branded radiator grille, and super-streamlined shapes.

Under the bonnet, you'll find a modern 3.0-liter 330 hp engine that accelerates the car in 5.6 seconds. At the same time, the maximum speed is 263 km / h, and the fuel consumption does not exceed 9.6 liters in mixed mode.

The new model is already available for russian buyers... Its price ranges from 65,000 to 93,450 euros.

Do not lag behind the Italian manufacturers and "French". The Bugatti company, which appeared in 1909 under the leadership of its founder Ettore Bugatti, immediately declared itself, creating a completely original model "13".

Then the cars produced by this company actively participate in sports races, taking only prizes. Most car enthusiasts are familiar with such brand models as EB 16.4 Veyron Pur Sang (2007), 16.4 Veyron Fbg par Hermès (2008), 16.4 Veyron Super Sport (2010), Bugatti Galibier 16c (2010).

Prices for European cars of the Bugatti brand range from 900,000 to 1,520,100 euros. However, they do not have as much power as other well-known European brands.

Small Mini

The Mini brand is not the last among European car models. In 2014, the lineup included 9 main models. However, the company's management decided to reduce the lineup to 5 models in 2019 2020.

In 2019 there will be new model Mini Cooper of the third generation in a five-door design. Basic configuration contains 15-inch wheels, four-line TFT display, modern interior lighting, automatic headlight control, adaptive light distribution system. The novelty will cost about 18 650 pounds.

The automotive industry is one of the leading industries in Western Europe. It originated about a hundred years ago in Germany and France, moved to mass serial production later than the American one - after World War I, after World War II it turned into an industry with a pronounced export orientation, after the onset of the energy crisis in the 1970s ... experienced a long decline, but is now on the rise again. Manufacturing 16-17 million cars annually, Western Europe is ahead of both the USA and Japan in this indicator. Germany (5.8 million cars in 2006), France (3.2), Spain (2.8), Great Britain (1.7), Italy (1.2) are the largest producers. All in all, this industry employs about 2 million people. It is important that each stage of its development corresponded to its own characteristics of the territorial structure.
For several decades, the automotive industry continued to develop in the metropolitan and old industrial areas where it originated. For France it was the Parisian region (Renault and Citroen companies) and the South-East (Peugeot), for Germany - the districts of Frankfurt am Main (Opel) and Stuttgart (Daimler-Benz), for Italy - Turin (FIAT), for Great Britain - the West Midlands and South-East ("British Layland"). In the late 20s - early 30s. XX century new centers appeared on the map of the automotive industry in Western Europe. These are, first of all, Wolfsburg in the northern part of Germany, where Volkswagen settled, and Munich in Bavaria, where the factories of BMW (Bayerische Motorenwerke) were established. To this list can be added the Volvo companies in Sweden. By their production type, almost all of these enterprises were integrated plants, where, along with assembly operations, they produced up to 3/4 of component parts and components.
The turning point in the development and location of the region's automotive industry came in the 1950s, i.e., with the beginning of the scientific and technological revolution. It consisted in the transition from small-scale to mass serial production of cars, from factories to specialized plants, in increasing their productivity from 50-100 to 500-600 thousand and more cars per year. At the same time, there was a reorientation from more qualified labor to work of average and relatively low qualifications, which was sufficient in the context of continuous conveyor production and the introduction of robotics. In this regard, the migration of automobile factories from the capital and old industrial areas to new areas with cheaper labor force... This decentralization of placement can be illustrated by examples of all major producing countries.
In France, back in the mid-1950s. 4/5 of all passenger cars were produced within the borders of Greater Paris. By the mid-1980s. its share decreased to 1/4, while most of the enterprises moved to the outskirts of the capital region or to such peripheral areas as Normandy, Alsace, North, Rhone-Alpes. In the Federal Republic of Germany, first there was a shift to the north, to Lower Saxony (Wolfsburg, Hanover, Emden) and Bremen, and then an even more pronounced shift to the south, to Baden-Württemberg (Stuttgart) and Bavaria. In Italy, while maintaining the leading role of Piedmont (Turin), the automotive industry moved to the central and southern regions of the country. So, Naples became the second center of the automotive industry, where the plant of the firm "Alfa-Romeo" passed to FIAT. In Great Britain, which has moved from first place in the region to fourth in terms of the overall size of the automotive industry, the role of the West Midlands and the South-East has diminished, while the role of Merseyside, South Wales, and Middle Scotland has increased. As a result, the location of car factories in the listed leading countries has become more even.
The same applies to all of Western Europe. Here, there has been a distinct shift south towards cheaper labor. The most striking example of this kind is Spain, where in the past two decades the automotive industry has developed at the fastest pace, going from small car assembly plants to large serial production. Other examples are Portugal, Greece (but car assembly prevails here so far), the already mentioned South of Italy. In the mid-1990s. in the countries of southern Europe, more than 1/3 of all cars were already produced.
Integration processes in the last two to three decades also have an increasingly noticeable impact on the automotive industry in Western Europe. It is expressed both in the strengthening of international specialization and cooperation of production, and in the increase in its export. Of the 16.6 million cars produced in this region in 1998, 12.6 million were exported (including 8.3 million to other European countries and 4.3 million outside Western Europe).
Another important feature of the region's automotive industry is its high level of monopolization. In this industry, as they say, several of the largest automobile concerns set the tone.
In the first place among them is the German Volkswagen AG, which annually produces 4.8 million cars (9% of world production) 50 different models... The concern owns 42 factories located in different parts of the world, and the total number of employees at them is 300 thousand people. In 1999, it was Volkswagen that became the first European carmaker to produce the 100 millionth car. The second place is taken by the German "Daimler-Benz", which from the automobile concern in the 80-90s. XX century has become a diversified super giant, still widely known for the production of Mercedes cars, one of the most prestigious in the world. It produces 4.5 million vehicles per year (8.5% of world production). But for trucks, its share is much higher (17%); in their production, this concern is second only to Ford. In third place is the Italian FIAT (2.7 million cars per year), in fourth - the French concern Renault (2.3 million), in fifth - the French Peugeot-Citroen (2.2 million). They are followed by the German BMW, the Swedish Volvo and others. In the course of the constant struggle for the car market, a regrouping of forces takes place between them. For example, there was a merger (albeit temporary) of the Daimler-Benz concern with the American concern Chrysler. And Volkswagen actually swallowed the Bavarian Audi and the Spanish Seat.
It is equally important to note the penetration of American and Japanese car companies into the Western European market. The American concern "General Motors" put under its control the German "Opel", many factories were built in Europe by "Ford". As a result, each of these companies now provides 10–12% of the needs of the Western European market. Japanese automobile companies - Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi - have penetrated this market no less deeply. Their share in the supply of the Western European market is also 10-12 °%, but in some small countries it reaches 20-30% (Belgium, Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland), 30-35% (Austria, Denmark, Norway, Greece) and even exceeds 40% (Ireland, Finland). Under an agreement with the EU in the 1990s. annual deliveries of Japanese cars to Western Europe were kept at the level of 1-1.2 million units per year. South Korean firms began to enter the same market. As a result, the automotive industry in some countries in the region has become downright international in character. Spain is a striking example of this kind (Fig. 28). There are 14 large car assembly plants in this country, which export 80% of their production.


In Central and Eastern Europe, the automotive industry took shape mainly after the Second World War. Plants for cars, trucks and buses were built in Poland, Czechoslovakia, Romania, Hungary, Yugoslavia. During the existence of the CMEA, specialization was carried out between them and cooperation ties were established; to an even greater extent this applied to their relations with the automobile plants of the USSR. However, the overall scale of production in most countries has not reached the level that could ensure its maximum efficiency. Suffice it to say that in 2006, 150 thousand cars were produced in Slovenia, 190 in Hungary, 215 in Romania, 300 thousand in Slovakia, and only 10 thousand in Serbia. And only in Poland and the Czech Republic the production of cars in in recent years it has grown, reaching 715 and 850 thousand units, respectively.
But it should be noted that at the beginning of the XX1 century. the automotive industry in Central and Eastern Europe is showing significant growth. The total car production is already approaching 2.5 million (up from 900 thousand in 1990). However, it should be borne in mind that this boom is explained almost exclusively by the attraction of foreign capital. Thus, in Poland, the production of passenger cars was established by the Italian FIAT, the South Korean Daewoo, the American General Motors, the German Volkswagen, and trucks - by the Swedish Volvo. Into the new automobile factories Hungary was invested in Volkswagen, Ford, the German company Opel, owned by General Motors, and the Japanese Suzuki. The famous Czech Skoda also came under the control of Volkswagen.