Dodge

Dodge

Dodge Annual Vehicle Sales (US only)

All figures are x1000

Annual Vehicles Sold (Canada only)

All figures are x1000

About

Early Beginnings (1896-1914) The Dodge story starts not with cars, but with bicycles. The Dodge brothers, John and Horace, established themselves in the automotive industry by first working as parts suppliers and machinists for Detroit-based automakers, most notably Ford. Their expertise in engineering and design soon garnered them a reputation for quality and reliability. In 1896, Horace Dodge secured a patent for a new bicycle bearing designed to resist dirt and wear. This marked the beginning of their foray into the transportation industry. They subsequently founded the Evans & Dodge Bicycle Company in 1897. The brothers' association with the burgeoning automotive industry deepened when they began supplying parts to Ford Motor Company in 1900. Their contributions proved instrumental in the success of Ford's early vehicles, particularly the Model T. However, tensions arose between the Dodges and Henry Ford regarding production costs and profit sharing.

Birth of a Brand (1914-1920) Seeking greater autonomy and control, the Dodge brothers decided to break away from Ford and establish their own car company. In 1914, the Dodge Brothers Company was officially incorporated, and the first Dodge automobile, known simply as the Dodge Model 30, rolled off the assembly line. The Model 30 was a significant car for its time. It introduced several innovative features, including an all-steel body, a first for a mass-produced car. This innovation provided superior strength and durability compared to the wood-framed cars prevalent at the time. The Model 30's reliability and affordability proved to be a hit with consumers, propelling Dodge to become the third-largest automaker in the United States by 1915. The company continued to expand its product line, introducing new models like the luxurious Dodge Brothers Series 4 in 1916. They even catered to specific needs with offerings like a "winter car" featuring a removable hardtop and attachable side panels. Tragedy struck in 1920 when John Dodge succumbed to complications from influenza. The Dodge Brothers Company continued under Horace's leadership but faced financial difficulties. In 1925, following Horace's death, the company was acquired by Dillon, Read & Co., an investment banking firm.

Joining the Chrysler Family (1925-present) The acquisition by Dillon, Read & Co. paved the way for Dodge's eventual merger with Chrysler in 1928. This marked a turning point for the brand, integrating it into one of the Big Three American automakers. Under Chrysler's umbrella, Dodge continued to focus on offering reliable and affordable vehicles. However, the brand also carved out a distinct identity within the Chrysler Corporation. Dodge positioned itself as the mid-priced performance option, often sharing platforms and components with Chrysler models but with a more aggressive design language and focus on power. The 1930s and 1940s saw the introduction of iconic Dodge vehicles like the Airflow, a streamlined and aerodynamic car that challenged conventional design principles. World War II saw Dodge production shift towards military vehicles, supporting the war effort.

The Muscle Car Era and Beyond (1950s-present) The post-war era ushered in the golden age of American muscle cars, and Dodge played a pivotal role in this exciting chapter. The 1964 Dodge Charger, with its sleek lines and powerful Hemi engine, became a symbol of automotive rebellion and performance. Other iconic muscle cars from Dodge included the Challenger and the Coronet. These muscle cars not only captured the imagination of the public but also achieved success on the drag racing circuit. Dodge vehicles earned a reputation for raw power and speed, solidifying the brand's association with performance. The oil crisis of the 1970s forced a shift in focus for the American auto industry, with fuel efficiency becoming a top priority. Dodge adapted by introducing smaller and more fuel-efficient models alongside their signature muscle cars. The 1980s and 1990s saw Dodge introduce a wider range of vehicles, including minivans, SUVs, and pickup trucks. The Dodge Caravan, introduced in 1983, became a popular choice for families, while the Ram pickup truck established itself as a formidable competitor in the lucrative truck market. Dodge also continued its performance heritage with vehicles like the Viper, a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine. The brand even saw a resurgence of muscle cars with the introduction of a modern iteration of the Challenger in 200