December 25 marks the 139th anniversary of the birth of the famous car designer and racer Louis Chevrolet. Although he became the founder of the famous company of the same name, and his cars are among the most popular in the United States and around the world, his last years he spent in obscurity and privation, and everything that was inherited by his descendants is only a big name.
The famous racer and car designer Louis Chevrolet
The man, whose name is given to the most popular American cars, was actually born in Switzerland and graduated from high school in France. There he got a job at a car company. From his youth, Louis was fond of racing and participated in them in France, where in 3 years he managed to win 28 competitions, and after his move to America. According to legend, this happened after a young mechanic once impressed an American millionaire and race organizer Vanderbilt with his skills, and he invited him to move to the USA: "We have a job there for you!" 
Vanderbilt Cup Race, 1905. Louis Chevrolet lost control and flew off the track
It is not known if this story actually took place, but Louis Chevrolet did prove to be in demand in America. At first he worked as a mechanic and chauffeur, but soon the talented young man got a job in the American branch of the French automobile company "De Dion-Bouton", and then - in the representative office of the company "Fiat". He continued to race and set the world speed record, which at that time was 110 km / h. The speed-lover was called "crazy daredevil" in the newspapers, and he spent months in hospitals recovering from another accident. In 1909, Louis Chevrolet became the head of the Buick racing team. 
Chevrolet car
At this time, the founder of "General Motors" William Durant offered cooperation to the famous racer with a big name. In 1911, a new automobile company was registered, to which Louis Chevrolet gave his name. He himself took the place of the chief engineer in it. The calculation was accurate: the name of the company was firmly associated with the buyers with the famous racer and his victories. But the founders of the company from the first days of its existence could not agree on what kind of cars they needed to produce: Durant focused on inexpensive models that compete with Ford's cars, and Chevrolet wanted to produce luxury cars. The driver managed to defend his position, and the first model was the "Chevrolet Classic Six" - a powerful, large and very expensive car. As a result, sales were not high. 
The famous racer and car designer Louis Chevrolet
The conflict with Durant, which had been brewing for a long time, reached its climax when he reproached Chevrolet for smoking cheap cigarettes, although in terms of status he could have switched to cigars. This angered the rider and he replied, "I sold you my cars, I sold you my name, but I will not sell you my personality." Having worked in the company bearing his name for only 2 years, in 1913 Louis Chevrolet resigns and sells his stake, outraged by Durant's policy of cheapening cars. 
Chevrolet car
After that, Chevrolet again took up racing and car building. In his Cornelian race car, he managed to qualify at 130 km / h. Soon he was joined by his brother, with whom they founded the company "Frontenac Motor Corporation" and continued the production of racing cars. However, after 1920, the famous racer decides to leave the game with speed forever - after his younger brother died during one of the races. 
Louis Chevrolet and William Durant
The Chevrolet company went bankrupt, he made another unsuccessful attempt to start a car company, and after that he left the business for good. The former famous racer again took up, as in his younger years, repairing watches and household appliances... And when he tried to get a job at Chevrolet, he was offered a humiliating minimum job as a mechanic. This finally undermined the physical and mental strength of Louis Chevrolet. 
The famous racer and car designer Louis Chevrolet
The former racer began to develop an occupational disease - atherosclerosis of the lower extremities, and doctors forbade him to drive a car. In 1938 he retired and moved to Florida. The disease progressed, and soon Louis had to amputate his legs. After that, he could not find the strength for his future life, and a few months later, on June 6, 1941, 63-year-old Louis Chevrolet died. Chevrolet spent the rest of the days in oblivion and poverty. Today, cars that bear his name roam the roads of dozens of countries around the world, but the descendants of the famous racer and car designer did not receive the fortune earned by strangers thanks to their ancestor. They inherited only the memory and the big name of a person whose talents were never appreciated during their life. 
Chevrolet car
Ten years ago, European markets appeared Chevrolet lacetti - a car that has become a bestseller in a number of countries. But this event, like many others, might not have happened if the founder of the brand Louis Chevrolet had not been born a little more than 100 years ago
Louis-Joseph Chevrolet was born on December 25, 1878 in the quiet Swiss village of Neuchâtel. As one of the many children of the master watchmaker, he was to inherit his father's craft. Therefore, it is not surprising that from an early age, Louis-Joseph literally registered in the workshop and looked with enthusiasm at the intricate mechanisms. The boy was fascinated by the beauty and accuracy of the instruments that came out of his father's hands, and he began to learn with pleasure the basics of the profession of a watchmaker and mechanics as such.
In 1886, the family decided to move to France, which at that time was one of the most technically advanced countries. It was there that the latest achievements of transport technology - a bicycle, and then a car - were widely spread. When it came time to look for work, Louis-Joseph took a job in a bicycle workshop. And since the fashion for bicycles in the 90s of the XIX century was rampant, then he himself did not escape this hobby. The young man not only assembled and repaired bicycles, as these mechanisms were then called, but also participated in competitions. Endowed by nature with high growth and strong build, Louis won about three dozen major French races and gained fame in sports circles. And the prize money came in handy, helping to support parents and a large family.
In 1899, the young man came to Paris and was carried away by another technical innovation - a car. Then the city was considered the automotive capital of Europe, and there were no more workshops and garages anywhere in the world. Louis took a job at Mors, one of the most successful carmakers of his time, where he quickly got a grasp of all the intricacies of automotive engineering. Then he acquired the skills of driving a car and even began to try himself as a racer. Rotating in the automotive environment, Chevrolet knew perfectly well about the beginning of the rapid development of the automotive business overseas, and therefore, having assessed its prospects in this area, decided to move to America.
In the New World
The calculation turned out to be correct: the young mechanic who arrived in the USA in 1905 did not remain without work. At first he sold wine pumps of his own design, then he worked in small garages, then as a hired driver. At the same time he participated in local auto races, many of which he won, and eventually made a name for himself. He was considered a worthy rival to the great Barney Oldfield, the most famous American racer. High athletic performance and Chevrolet's driving style - daring and at the same time calculating - attracted the attention of specialists. One of them was William Crapo Durant, founder of General Motors. It was he who in 1908 offered Chevrolet a driver's seat on the Buick factory team.
However, in the new place, Louis worked for a relatively short time. His patron left GM with a scandal, however, even after leaving the company, he did not forget about his protégé and offered the racer to create ... a new car company. The name was determined immediately: Chevrolet Motor Car Company. Durant calculated everything correctly, because turning his surname into a brand and designing cars was an old dream of Louis. In addition, it fueled the athlete's pride.
The company was registered on November 6, 1911. It was formed mainly with Durant's money, although Chevrolet also contributed. In addition, he designed vehicles for the new plant. So the racer became the chief designer of Chevrolet. Products and services new brand was inexpensive, quite perfect and unpretentious, so it was a success with clients. The creation and production of cars available for the mass buyer became the main goal of the Chevrolet designer. But Durant wanted to rely on expensive models, and as a result, the partners went their separate ways.
In 1913, Louis Chevrolet left the company of his own name and even sold all the shares. The last decision turned out to be wrong. Over time, these securities have risen in price so much that they could have provided him with a comfortable existence for the rest of his life. But it turned out the way it turned out. Moreover, the driver left to the companion all rights to the cars he designed, as well as the right to use his name as a brand. Alas, the business was not strong point Louis Chevrolet, he was more interested in solving technical problems and auto racing.
However, the previous success in motorsport could not be repeated. To build enough fast cars, Louis and his brother founded a new company - Frontenac Motor Corporation. Things went well, the company's products began to win prizes in American races, but business development was suddenly interrupted by the death of his brother during one of them. And since Louis himself did not become a true entrepreneur, the company went bankrupt. Further attempts by the aging racer to establish his own business were not crowned with success.
As a result, in his old age, Chevrolet was forced to take up the former craft of an auto mechanic and work for hire. The irony of fate was that one of his last jobs was General Motors, which already included the Chevrolet brand. In 1938, the former racer and businessman retired and moved with his wife to Florida. A couple of years later, he became seriously ill and had to amputate his leg. Louis Chevrolet never recovered from this operation, having died on June 6, 1941.
The story continues
Meanwhile, the company he founded continued to live. Durant made her the main in General Motors, which he managed to briefly return under his control. And even after his second departure from there, Chevrolet remained the leading brand of the corporation for many years. Thanks to its products, GM managed to come out on top in the United States in terms of car production in the late 1920s, displacing the eternal rival Ford Motor Company.
The brand largely retained the spirit of innovation that Louis Chevrolet brought to its creation. It was in this company that after the Second World War, for the first time in the history of the American automotive industry, a small car project was developed, which, however, had to be frozen, since consumers were more impressed by large, luxurious cars. In 1950, the company was one of the first to massively use automatic transmissions, and the most famous post-war model of Chevrolet was the only serial sports car in America, the Corvette, which was released in 1953. This car became a symbol of its time and in many ways determined automotive fashion. At the end of 1958, the brand offered customers a series of vehicles with completely new original bodies, powerful 6- and 8-cylinder engines and automatic transmissions.
Chevrolet is one of the best brands in the automotive industry. The company's sales per year are more than 3.5 million units of cars in more than a hundred countries around the world. In world statistics, Chevrolet ranks fourth in terms of sales and leading in growth rates. The company is distinguished by its advanced specifications machines. The history of Chevrolet has presented the world with creations that have best quality and cost.
Louis Chevrolet
Founded by Louis Chevrolet. An emigrant from Switzerland set up a company in 1911. Then it was practiced to call cars by their proper names. Louis was a master of driving and mechanic, but in his life he never had time to benefit from a company with his name.
The racer was a great success, so many manufacturers began to pay attention to him. William Durand was one such person. During his tenure, Buick Durant went into bankruptcy due to a bad investment. To regain his influence in the American market, he decided to found a new company. For these purposes, he invited the racer Louis for cooperation, which in itself became a good PR. His name became the name of the brand - and then the history of the Chevrolet company was born.
Success logo
In 1914, the company acquired its symbol. According to company representatives, William Durand once stayed at a Paris hotel, where he saw an unusual pattern on the wallpaper. Having saved it, the businessman decided to make the drawing the brand logo.
First car
Soon enough, the company was able to Classic Six. This is a classic four-seater flagship with an engine of 30 horse power... For an ordinary buyer, the cost of $ 2,500 did not justify itself, so the model did not gain popularity.
Later it was decided to change the strategy from representativeness to simplicity and accessibility. Thus, three models were created: the sporty L Light Six, the Royal Mail, and the open Baby.
Classic Six became the first car of the Chevrolet company Worthy Representative
The first serious popularity came to the brand in 1916 with the release of the Chevrolet-490. The fame of the model was similar to the leader of the time, Ford. She had the following characteristics:
- 4-cylinder engine with a volume of 2.8 liters;
- three-speed gearbox;
- starter (which was rare);
As the history of the brand has shown, the flagship was such a success that it was produced inclusively until 1922. After that, it was replaced by a new product from Superior. She also had an active release until 1927.
Big step and fall
After the successful sale of the vehicle, Durant amassed enough money to purchase shares from the General Motors venture. He added it to his assets in order to produce his brand on a new scale.
Louis Chevrolet couldn't get along with Duran. Thus, in 1914, a big brawl broke out when the founders planned to position the company. During the stay of Chevrolet on vacation, his partner changed the direction of production towards budget and high-quality models. Louis reacted sharply to this, as he was guided by fast and unique cars. After this incident, Chevrolet gave all the rights to the company to its colleague.
Louis tried himself for a long time in new endeavors. He and his brother created the Frontenac Motor Corporation, which developed new products for the automotive industry. She also closed due to a quarrel between the owners. This was followed by several more projects like the Chevrolair 333 or the Chevrolet Air Car Company, but they also ended up closed. The racer managed to create a 10-cylinder engine, but did not have time to benefit from it. He died in 1941 from a brain disease.
Difficult time
The history of the company's creation was not cloudless. So, in the 1920s, the brand's shares fell significantly, so Durant decided to leave the post of head. He was replaced by William S. Knudsen. The man was a Ford employee, which raised suspicion. But he announced that he had no plans to employ former employees from a rival company.
New movement
In 1923 an air-cooled model was produced for the engine. A year later, the company acquired a test site, and the production of vans was also organized. The company made another leap in growth when its rival Ford stopped producing its famous Ford T. During this time, it managed to sell a million cars.
In 1926, a new investment of $ 10 million was announced to expand the company's capacity. This was impressively reflected in sales, significantly increasing them. In 1926 alone, 692 thousand cars were sold. At the same time, the brand continued to break its own records, thanks to which it was able to break into the first lines of sales ratings among the leaders of the American market.
Implementation of comfort
Because Chevrolet is a broad-class company, great attention occupied the convenience of the average user. Already in 1924, a radio was introduced in the salon, and in 1929 the brand acquired a car with a six-cylinder engine. After that, an independent front suspension was introduced - this happened in 1934.
The history of the creation of the Chevrolet brand introduced the emergence of multi-seat vehicles. In 1935, the flagship with 8 seats came out. Also, the entire line of cars received. The exterior design of the body was conceived in 1937, when the Standart and the enlarged Master models were produced. The 1940s saw the start of production of the Royal Clipper cars, equipped with cutting-edge lamps and a clever bonnet. After that, all the elements made of wood were recycled - they were replaced with metal.
Profile change
During World War II, the Chevrolet brand began to produce everything the front needed: trailers, as well as trucks and shells. Such an instruction was given by the government to create the release of 75 mm casings and anti-aircraft guns. At the same time, the production of Pratt & Whitney motors continued. After that, the manager of Chevrolet was appointed chairman of the Department of Defense.
Brand discontinued military equipment January 30 in 1942. Some models have been abandoned since then, but have been modernized to suit the needs of the average user. In 1949, new items were presented - the signature Deluxe and the special Special, but they were equipped with engines of the previous model.
Second wind
The unusual 1950 Bel Air was distinguished from other convertibles by its sturdy top and pontoon body. She quickly gained popularity and was sold in a circulation of 6 million cars.
In the 50s, the economy started to grow again. Since that time, the main trends for the development of the automotive industry began to stand out - the buyer demanded a new design, as well as pleasure from the trip. Thomas Keating made the decision to build in Powerglide models - automatic transmission gear. It was available for the cheapest flagships.
1953 saw the introduction of the Corvette with an increased speed for Chevrolet. The design meant to get a vehicle with low weight, which was achieved by using fiberglass in the body. In 1957, a reinforced 283 hp engine was introduced. from. It created the Rochester fuel injection design.
One of the best
1958 became famous with the release of Impala. This brand combines the value of Chevrolet and the size of Cadillac. A year later, the world saw the El Camino pickup. Then the company diligently changes the design of its products. Chevrolet products rocked the world in 1959. They had an unusual design, with footnotes in the form of wings. Also, the glass and seats are electrically powered. Thus, the Suburban had the final look that is still known today.
Success Series
Chevrolet in 1958 stepped up the production of new cars, which were very different in body design. These include Impala, Biscayne and Bel Air. In 1960 they released Corvair - attractive and convenient transportationwith independent wheel suspension. Another shift appearance came exactly one year later. Then the lineup received smooth lines, which were fully implemented in the Impala SS.
The company decided to attract the attention of small car enthusiasts. So, in 1962, the Chevy ll Nova was launched. A year later, it is complemented by the Corvette Stingray. In the near future, new models of the release will be replenished with the Malibu and Chevrolet Caprice models.
Fresh line
The company produced the Camaro, which quickly became the market leader. In 1967, it took 10% of all the brand's models sold. A year later, the car was upgraded to the Camaro SS, which became a small model with excellent speed.
The security system was also updated. It included:
- seat belts;
- energy suppression mechanism;
- softened instrument panel;
- brake double cylinder.
At this time, the history of the creation of the Chevrolet brand also affected design. In 1968, the company removed all unnecessary details, since the installation of all innovations did not add demand, because there was no practical need for them. It was decided to return to the classic space-saving interior design.
All-wheel drive hit and new competitors
1969 will be remembered for the release of the first of its kind four-wheel drive vehicle... It was much larger and more spacious than its counterparts. The Chevrolet Blazer had good maneuverability and power while remaining roomy. A serious modernization found the car in 1973, when its dimensions were increased, and disc brakes were introduced into the front wheels.
In the late 70s, the massive sale of Japanese vehicles began. They flooded the market, so the company was unable to increase sales. GM Director John DeLorean decided to bet on the Vega and Monte Carlo series.
Pickup support
Chevrolet released new model light pickup. In the same year, there were 10 million Impalas sold. In 1973 the Monte Carlo model was produced. She won the Motor Trend Car of the Year award.
The 76th year was the time of the Chevette release for Chevrolet - it was the answer for imported cars. Following this, the classic Caprice was downsized, which significantly increased sales.
Conquering markets
At the beginning of the 80s, there was an acute political situation in the country. Before that, the market was actively filled japanese cars, which at this time received recognition from the users of America. Chevrolet responded with the Citation subcompact. It was implemented front-wheel drive... Already in 1981, the new creation of Cavalier made a challenge to all foreign cars and was able to emerge as a winner.
Motor Trend magazine recognizes Camaro the best transport 1982 of the year. A year later, it was possible to observe the Blazer S-10 pickup, which became the best among the competitors. At the same time, several other new products were released, which have two sizes - 4.3 and 4.7 meters. The differences concerned both size and design itself. They were soon distributed to Blazer and Chevrolet Tahoe.
New movement
In 1984, the world saw the new Corvette, and a year later, the Camaro IROC-Z. In 1986, the company introduced the Bosch ABS II anti-lock design, which was actively used in pickups and sedans. Later, the company expanded its sales on the market, and in 1995 Motor Trend magazine singled out the Blazer as "Off-Road Vehicle of the Year". Following this, the implementation of Monte Carlo and New Lumina continues. After that, the Tahoe car received a corresponding prize from the magazine.
To provide more power, the firm began installing Vortec motors. They also helped to save on fuel consumption. Chevrolet decided to turn to the classics, so in 1996 they launched the Malibu. It was critically acclaimed and received great acclaim from users. The car was perfect for family trips.
Fifth generation
In 1997, the production of a fundamentally new transport started. The year 2000 will be remembered for the return to the market of previously renowned models. In 2003, Geneva saw the Chevrolet SS Coupe - one of the best of its kind. He is the direct heir to the Camaro. In Detroit, a completely new SSR product was shown, clearly standing out from the rest of the models.
Lengthy negotiations in 2002 allowed Chevrolet to buy the assets of Daewoo Motors. This company was at the stage of bankruptcy, so it was decided to create a new enterprise - GM Daewoo Auto & Technology. The company mainly manufactures Chevrolet cars, although it also implements its developments.
Prospects for the future
In 2005, the release starts car Matiz, namely the Chevrolet Spark. Italdesign took over the design development. This solution attracted new clients. Over time, the company's cooperation with DAT has supplanted their transport. In the expansion of the lineup, Captiva appears - a crossover with a proprietary platform. Later came out new minivan Orlando. In 2011, he, as well as Cruze, Aveo, updated Chevrolet captiva occupied a significant part of the market.
The company continues to create new models that are successfully gaining popularity without yielding to their quality even after many years. She has a rich history in which she has gone from an elite lineup to mass production available cars.
When purchasing a vehicle, many people think about buying expensive car... Experience says that such models should be more reliable and of better quality, but not always. Confirmation of this is the company Chevrolet, which produces affordable products.
There are things that are known all over the world, and we use their names every day. But, rarely when we know their creators. A striking example of this can be Chevrolet cars - known all over the world, and their creator, Louis Chevrolet - whose name is rarely remembered even in the circles of motorists. Louis Chevrolet was one with the car. Nobody could imagine him without this means of transportation. They seemed to merge into one powerful, forward-moving mechanism.
Biography.
The surname of the famous mechanic, translated from the distorted French language, means "goat's milk". In general, this is not surprising. Louis was born in Switzerland to a large family in an area famous for its dairy products. The boy's father worked as a watchmaker. This business was not very profitable, and he barely supported a family in which there were neither more nor less - seven children.
Louis liked the work of his father, and from an early age she spent a lot of time in the workshop, studied with her father and helped him. The boy showed no interest in studying. Because of this, the parents were often worried, and they were only reassured by the fact that Louis was constantly looking for work to earn extra money and help the family.
In 1886, when Louis Chevrolet was just eight years old, his family moved to France. This period was special for France - it was just on the verge of new discoveries and achievements, many unique inventions that were closely associated with technology. This is why it became perfect timing for a teenager who doted on technology. Louis plunged headlong into the world of knitting needles steam engines and wheels. Quite quickly, he gets a job at a bicycle repair shop. Having good teachers, there he increases his level of knowledge in technology, begins to master cars, or, as they were then called "self-propelled carriages."
But the young Swiss showed himself not only in this. After all, where there are bicycles, there are races on them. Already at that time, the first bicycle races appeared, in which a strong two-meter guy showed himself quite successfully.
In a local French newspaper, even in 1895, there was an article in which it was reported that Louis Chevrolet took first place in a bicycle race that took place in Burgundy. This event was the start for Louis. In the beginning - as a racer. For the next three years, he actively took part in races throughout France, won 28 competitions, even "infected" his younger brothers and sisters with his passion for this sport. Moreover, it was not only a hobby and passion. young man, it was also a good income - the bonus for the winnings was enough for the life of the whole family.
This time was marked by another event, which, according to legend, became predetermined in the future life of Chevrolet and in his love for cars. One day, in the workshop in which Louis worked, a call came in to fix a ferry car. Sent to fulfill the order of Louis. The owner of the faulty tricycle turned out to be Vanderbild - the famous American financier, millionaire. And by coincidence - the organizer and sponsor of the races that were held in those days in New York.
The rich American liked the prompt and skillful work of the young Frenchman so much that he personally thanked him and gave truly prophetic words that if Louis crossed overseas, then he would have unprecedented success there.
It is not known for certain how strongly that meeting influenced the previous plans of Chevrolet, but already in 1899 he moved to Paris, trying to be as close to the center of the French automotive industry as possible. Here he changes several auto repair shops, in which he studies the structure of the car, all its features, engines internal combustion, and also saves money for such a coveted "overseas" ticket. At the beginning of the 20th century, he still set out to conquer America. At this time, William Durant develops his activities in America. Having already been kicked out of General Motors, he decided to capitalize on the young talents, chief among whom he chose the young Chevrolet.
And yet I am a racer.
Arriving in America, Louis did not yet know what awaited him. He made his first stop at the New York branch of the French car brand De Dion-Bouton. But, after this office was closed, Louis had to look for other options for earning money and he worked as a mechanic in various small workshops, then as a driver in wealthy families. It was during one of these part-time jobs that he met his future wife, who gave him two sons. A little later, he got a job at the FIAT representative office, and then from an acquaintance, Walter Christie. But all this was for Chevrolet only the basis for his favorite pastime - racing.
At the dawn of the 20th century, driving a racing car required a lot of physical fitness and excellent health. Therefore, Chevrolet was perfect for such an occupation.
The young guy purposefully participated in all competitions, earning his authority. And once he even took part in one of the most prestigious races in the country, which was organized by the same Vanderbild. It is worth saying that it was at this race that Louis set a new world speed record, having driven 110 km / h. The public fell in love with the rather reckless and one might even say not logical manner of driving Chevrolet, the newspapers called him "crazy daredevil". It is clear that such madness was not in vain for him, and Louis spent a lot of time in hospitals, recovering from another injury. But such "trifles" (as Louis himself said) could not stop him - he was becoming popular.
In 1909, Chevrolet received an offer from the then notorious William Durant, who had already been expelled from General Motors. The controversial director offers Louis to lead the Buick racing team. The young man could not refuse such an offer.
It is worth noting that William Durant did not just invite the young driver to his place. He planned, through his already well-known name, to regain what had been lost earlier. And, as it turned out soon, he made the right decision. Moreover, there is even a legend that the disgraced businessman suggested Louis Chevrolet, who did not even have a formal technical education, create new engine for "the car of his dreams" (as Durant himself put it). This car was supposed to be based on a prototype of a project taken from General Motors, which Durant managed to take before leaving.
Louis immediately agreed and set to work with unprecedented enthusiasm. Very soon, before William lay a project for a six-cylinder engine with an overhead valve, and he fell in love with the businessman, because now he had something to enter the car market with. Now all that remained was to create a company under whose name new cars would be produced. Durant, in this case, did not really invent it, and simply suggested that Chevrolet give its name to new cars. Naturally, the guy happily agreed to this proposal. Thus, already in 1911, the Chevrolet Motor Car company was registered. But Louis did not become the manager of it. He got a position of chief engineer in the new company.
Divergence of interests.
Chevrolet and Durant had completely different views on what cars should be made. The first was aimed at developing inexpensive cars in order to compete with Henry Ford, who at that time was already making leaps and bounds in the car market, earning the popularity of "Tin Lizzie". While Chevrolet was more inclined to create unique and impressive luxury cars. In this dispute, the Chevrolet won for the first and last time. The result was the first model from the newly formed company. The name of the car is Classic Six. The new car was presented as a car for very wealthy people. This model turned out to be really very powerful, large and very expensive. On this model, a previously developed Chevrolet engine was installed - a six-cylinder, with a capacity of 50 horsepower and with a volume of 5 liters. He could accelerate to 105 km / h. It was a spacious five-seat sedan with a convertible top, electric headlights, windshield wipers and even had an illuminated speedometer. And the optional electric starter became a special top of "luxury" for the car of that time. This was one of the main features of a truly luxury car. But the price for this model turned out to be appropriate - as much as $ 2,150, while the Ford Model T cost even less than $ 600. If we take into account the fact that, in addition to Durant's company and Chevrolet, there were almost 300 other car manufacturers on the American market, there was no successful sales.
Such a senseless waste of money unnerved Durant, who wanted to get rich again as soon as possible and get even with his "offenders" who so impudently threw him out of General Motors. Naturally, he primarily blamed Chevrolet for the company's failures. To say that he was far from the truth would be untrue, because Louis' desire to make a luxury car was not justified by the economic conditions of that time. Having started quarrels on the basis of business, Durant quickly switched to personal criticism and resentment. For example, once at a meeting of the company, he quite sarcastically, in front of all the employees, reproached Chevrolet for poisoning others with smoke from cheap cigarettes, which a person of his level should not do, and hinted that it was time to switch to better cigars. There was a deeper implication in this. Durant wanted to hint to Louis that this simple and rather rude European guy did not fit the "polished to shine" atmosphere of the auto business at all.
The companions fled pretty quickly. In 1913, Louis Chevrolet resigns, and after a short period he sells his entire stake. This was done under the influence of resentment against Durant, who, during Durant's absence in America, began a policy of cheapening cars. Naturally, Louis could not know then, and did not even realize that once these papers could have made him a multimillionaire. Indeed, despite all the quarrels, Durant loved his name. And pretty soon, after the reorganization of the automotive industry and the launch of new, but more affordable cars for buyers, with additional zest that Ford cars did not have, Chevrolet Motors becomes an extremely successful company. Thanks to Chevrolet Motors, Durant managed to get revenge on shareholders from his past company. He bought a controlling stake in General Motors, and proudly ascended to the presidency of the company, while giving Chevrolet new status, the company became the leading division of General Motors.
During this time, Chevrolet decided to return to sports and racing. He joins the founder of the Blood Brothers Machine Company, Howard Blood, with whom he co-creates a new Cornelian racing car, produced in less than one hundred copies. This car became one of the smallest on chain drivewho have ever ridden to conquer the racetrack. Cornelian's weight was very small - only 500 kg. This car was equipped with a Stirling engine, which belongs to the class of external combustion engines and is capable of operating from absolutely any heat source. Also this car had an independent rear suspension... In the 1915 Cornelian in Indianapolis, the Indy 500 in the 500-mile race, Chevrolet qualified at 130 km / h. But he did not manage to finish the race. Due to a broken valve, Louis was only ranked 20th in the rankings.
At the same time, Chevrolet did not even plan to give up. Together with brother Gaston, who followed Louis to America, they formed the Frontenac Motor Corporation, and began the production of a line of "advanced" and very fast racing cars, with an engine with an aluminum cylinder block. Louis was finally able to conquer this coveted, the most prestigious race of the North American continent. Then the Chevrolet, back in 1919, completely passes the Indy 500 four times, let's get the best results. This allowed him to take seventh place. Gaston also participates in the same rally, and next year he even takes first place. But, soon a tragedy happens that changes everything.
At one of the races, Gaston loses control and dies. The death of his younger brother hit Louis very hard, and he decides to "quit" racing forever. After this moment, he will sit at the helm only once, and it will no longer be a car, but a boat. And then he will take first place in the 1925 Miami regatta. Alas, this victory will not be able to restore his already lost fame.
After the death of his brother, Chevrolet works at Frontenac, makes racing power units for modernized ford cars, which at that time were produced by the Fronty-Ford enterprise. Alas, without the gift of management, Louis's company quickly went bankrupt. Chevrolet made several more attempts to organize a new car company, but again it turned out to be a loser. Louis' inability to manage neither people nor capital was joined by the Great American Depression. At this point, Chevrolet decides to leave the automotive business for good.
The Swiss-French-American "daredevil" could not sit idle for a long time - after all, he worked with engines all his life. As a result, he takes on the development of aircraft engines, and even opens a new enterprise, which, among other things, had the same fate as the previous Chevrolet enterprises. And then Chevrolet had to return to the long-forgotten work of his youth - to repairing watches and repairing household appliances. Soon, fate laughed at him very much. Without mercy or any moral obligation, in 1934, General Motors condescended to the man who gave the name to one of the now famous automobile companies, and gave him a place as a mechanic with a minimum rate. This became a decisive factor in the life of a young man. He loses faith in life and in himself. Atherosclerosis of the lower extremities begins to progress - "the disease of the racers". At first, the doctors forbade Louis to get behind the wheel of a car. And already in 1938, Chevrolet retired and moved with his wife to Florida, where he lives in a small room. The humid climate only exacerbated the disease, and the man's legs were soon amputated. Louis could no longer survive such a blow of fate, and never recovering from the operation, he died. It happened on June 6, 1941 in Detroit. The man was then only 63 years old.
Today, Chevrolet's name is engraved on a commemorative bust that was erected at the site of his greatest racing triumph in Indiana, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum of Fame. In addition, the same name lives on in thousands and millions of cars that drive on the roads of all countries of the world.
Alas, Louis could not leave a rich legacy to his children, because neither skill, nor knowledge, nor even experience made him a rich man.
What is Switzerland famous for? Mountain landscapes, banks and clocks. It was with watches and their production that the childhood of the future co-founder of one of the famous American automobile companies, which received his name - Louis Chevrolet (Louis Chevrolet). His life was full of sharp turns and difficult decisions, some of which are still controversial among historians. But they agree on one thing: Louis Chevrolet was a real racer and a great designer.
Louis Chevrolet was born on December 25, 1878 in the small Swiss town of La Chaux-de-Fonds. When Louis was nine years old, his family moved to Beaune, France, where a watch shop was opened. The business was less successful than the head of the family expected, and to support his family, eleven-year-old Louis started working. The craving for technology and speed affected the choice of the place of work - it was a bicycle repair shop. Dealing with bicycles and not riding them would be weird. Louis did not just ride, but participated in bicycle races. His first victory was recorded by the Journal de Beaune on July 16, 1895.
One of the usual days he was asked to go to a local hotel and help the guest with some technical problem... This day became one of the most important for Louis Chevrolet. He saw a self-propelled car - a steam tricycle and met its owner - a guest from America. The work was done quickly and efficiently, and the American, who turned out to be the multimillionaire Vanderbilt, expressed the idea that Chevrolet's talent could find application in the United States. From that day on, a new continent and cars became the "American" dream of Louis.
Moving to Paris, where he began to work in workshops, came closer to his dream. Darrakcomprehending the structure of internal combustion engines. There is a version that he also worked for Hotchkissand Morse- the leading car manufacturers of the early 20th century. During a year in Paris, Chevrolet saved up money for a ticket across the Atlantic and moved to Canada, and from there to New York.
In his early years in America, he changed several employers, most of which were dealerships of European automakers such as De Dion-Bouton and Fiat. The best advertising for cars of those years was considered to be racing. Louis Chevrolet, who had experience of participating in competitions, became a pilot for his employers several times. His racing career was quite successful. He won the Three Mile Race several times and set a world speed record. Together with him, his brothers also participated in the competition, Arthurand Gaston, which eventually formed the Chevrolet "family" team under the leadership of Louis. For his victories, Chevrolet was nicknamed The Dare-Devil Frenchman. But success in motorsport was given to him great price - after many accidents, he spent in hospital beds, and ended his career in Chevrolet after the death of his brother Gaston in 1920.
Vanderbilt Cup Race, 1905. Louis Chevrolet lost control and flew off the track. Photo: GM Press Service
Race victories brought him attention William Duran, founder of General Motors and owner of Buick. The financier was attracted to Louis Chevrolet by the sonorous name and his design ideas. Negotiations with the racer led to the founding of the Chevrolet Motor Car Company in Detroit on November 3, 1911. A year after the formation of the company, the first classic car Six. It was followed by the four-cylinder Baby Grand and the two-seater Royal Mail and L Light Six. Over their creation, Chevrolet also acted as a designer.
Louis Chevrolet and William Durand. Photo: GM Press Service
Fierce competition in the car market, and especially Ford's policies, led businessman Duran to make the decision to make Chevrolet cars more affordable for the buyer. Moreover, the re-equipment of production began at a time when Chevrolet was on vacation. Louis, a fan of cars, believed that cars are first of all speed and exclusivity, and the very approach to doing business could not forgive the “partner”. There is a legend that the end of the conflict was put by the racer's habit of smoking cheap cigarettes without taking them out of the corner of his mouth even during conversations. Durant proposed to Chevrolet, who was now a prominent figure in automotive industry, switch from cheap blue ring cigarettes to more exclusive cigars. He retorted: “I sold you my cars, I sold you my name, but I will not sell you my personality”, took the cigarettes and left the company forever. It happened in 1913.
The first car under the name Chevrolet - Classic Six was produced in 1911 by the Detroit company Chevrolet Motor Car Company. Photo: GM Press Service
Chevrolet is back in auto racing and creation own cars... In 1914, he founded his own company, which was named Frontenac Motor Corporation.
Under her name, the only production car Frontenac was produced, recognized as a masterpiece and winning the Indianapolis 500 in 1920 and 1921. But the approaching economic crisis did not allow business to develop. Another Chevrolair 33 project, founded by Louis and his brother Arthur in 1926, was dedicated to the development of engines for light aircraft, but after a quarrel between the brothers, he also fell apart. The development of the flight theme was the Chevrolet Air Car Company, which was also closed under the yoke of the Great Depression.
Louis Chevrolet's last major design achievement dates back to 1932, when he developed the 10-cylinder radial engine. He applied for a patent, but by the time it was registered in 1935, Chevrolet no longer had the energy to organize a new company. He worked as a mechanic again, just like he had at the beginning of his career. And he worked at a plant of his own name - at the Chevrolet assembly plant in Detroit.
Louis Chevrolet died on June 6, 1941 at the age of 63, at his home in Lakewood, east of Detroit, after a long illness.
Monument in stainless steel with mirror polish to Louis Chevrolet by sculptor Christian Gonzenbach, erected in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. A photo:
