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Last Updated:
2024-04-05 05:51:19

Fiat

Italian automobile manufacturer
Italian automobile manufacturer

Fiat Automobiles, founded in 1899, is the largest car manufacturer in Italy. It was the largest in Europe and third globally for over 20 years. Fiat has a history of producing cars, railway engines, military vehicles, and more. The company has received numerous awards for its vehicles, including nine European Car of the Year awards.

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1899
Establishment of Fiat

Founded in 1899, Fiat has maintained its timeless design and style, with the Fiat 500e carrying forward iconic features like the classic nose shape, clamshell hood, and Italian-inspired details.

1900
Founding of Fiat

In 1900, Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Agnelli opened the first Fiat factory in Turin, Italy, with a group of local investors. The company was named Fabbrica Italiana Automobili Torino (FIAT), and it started with a small factory employing 150 people.

1901
Introduction of FIAT initials in logo form

In 1901, FIAT initials were first used in a distinctive logo form.

1903
Creation of Fiat Industrial Vehicles

Fiat Industrial Vehicles, Fiat's truck and bus division, was established in 1903 with the introduction of the 24HP model. The division experienced significant growth in production over the years.

1906
Foundation of Fiat

Fiat was incorporated in 1906 as the successor to a company formed in 1899 by Giovanni Agnelli. The company quickly gained a lead on its competitors due to the high level of skilled workers in Turin and the local school of engineering.

1908
Establishment of First Fiat Factory in the U.S.

In 1908, Giovanni Agnelli established the first Fiat factory in the U.S. This expansion marked Fiat's entry into the American market and showcased its growth and global presence.

1910-09
American F.I.A.T. Automobile Company founded in Poughkeepsie

In response to high tariffs on imported automobiles, the American F.I.A.T. Automobile Company was established in Poughkeepsie in 1909. The first car rolled off the production line in September 1910, with parts shipped from Italy and locally made bodywork.

1917
Fiat's contribution to World War I

During World War I, Fiat dedicated its factories to producing essential supplies for the Allies, including aircraft, engines, and vehicles.

1918-02
Sale of Fiat Plant to Duesenberg

After the United States entered the war, production of Fiats in Italy was halted. The Fiat plant was sold to Duesenberg in February 1918, who then transferred the machinery to their plant in Elizabeth, NJ to build aircraft engines.

1920
Fiat's dominance in the Italian auto market

By 1920, Fiat had an 80% share of the Italian auto market, becoming the largest company in Italy.

1921
Workers Seize Fiat's Plants in Italy

In 1921, workers seized Fiat's plants in Italy and raised the red flag of communism, leading to a significant labor dispute that ultimately involved political parties and labor organizations.

1922
Construction of Lingotto Car Factory by Fiat

In 1922, Fiat initiated the construction of the iconic Lingotto car factory, which became the largest in Europe and pioneered the use of assembly lines in automobile manufacturing.

1923
Opening of Lingotto car factory

Fiat inaugurated the Lingotto car factory in 1923, which became the largest in Europe and introduced assembly line production.

1926
Creation of La Stampa

La Stampa, one of the major publishing houses, was established in 1926. Fiat Group has interests in several publishing houses and newspapers.

1928
Inclusion of Insurance in Fiat Car Purchase Price

In 1928, Fiat introduced a new model, the 509, which included insurance in the purchase price, offering customers added value and convenience.

1931
Adoption of single red shield logo

Starting in 1931, FIAT began using a single red shield logo without a wreath.

1932
Production of Fiat 508 by Polskie Zakłady Inżynieryjne

In 1932, Polskie Zakłady Inżynieryjne (PZInż) initiated the production of Fiat 508 in Poland. The model was manufactured until 1939 and also served as a military vehicle.

1939
Fiat Exporting Cars to UK Market

Fiat was already exporting cars to the UK market by the outbreak of World War II in 1939, with its market share increasing rapidly during the 1970s and 1980s with models like the 127, 128, and Uno.

1941
Purchase of Fiat 626 trucks by the Bulgarian army

In 1941, the Bulgarian army bought 100 Fiat 626 trucks after becoming allies with Germany and Italy. These trucks were used by the Bulgarian Army until 1944–1945.

1943
National Liberation Committee removes Agnelli family from Fiat leadership roles

In 1943, the National Liberation Committee removed the Agnelli family from leadership roles in Fiat due to their ties to Mussolini's government. They were not reinstated until 1963.

1945
Removal of Agnelli family from Fiat leadership

In 1945, the National Liberation Committee ousted the Agnelli family from Fiat's leadership due to their association with Mussolini's government.

1948
Raja Motors starts manufacturing Fiat vehicles in Pakistan

Since 1948, Raja Motors has been the authorized manufacturer of Fiat motor vehicles in Pakistan, starting with VESPA scooters and later expanding to include the Fiat Uno in 2001.

1950
Fiat passenger cars assembly in South Africa

Fiat passenger cars started being assembled in South Africa in 1950.

1954
Premier Automobiles licensed to manufacture Fiat 1100 in India

In 1954, Premier Automobiles in Mumbai was licensed to manufacture versions of the Fiat 1100 specifically for the Indian market, despite not being a subsidiary of Fiat.

1955
Deal with Zastava for Fiat assembly

In 1955, Fiat agreed to a deal with Yugoslav carmaker Zastava to assemble Fiats for Eastern Europe, marking the beginning of their collaboration.

1960
First Argentinian produced Fiat passenger car

In 1960, the first Argentinian produced Fiat passenger car, a Fiat 600, was produced at the car plant in Caseros, Argentina.

1962
Launch of Zastava 750

In 1962, Zastava launched the Zastava 750, their version of the Fiat 600 minicar, which continued production until 1981.

1963
Gianni Agnelli regains control of Fiat

In 1963, Giovanni Agnelli's grandson, Gianni Agnelli, regained control of Fiat, leading the company through a period of explosive growth in the 1960s.

1966
Fiat helps USSR build AvtoVAZ car factory

In 1966, Fiat assisted USSR state industries in constructing a new car factory called AvtoVAZ on the Volga river, leading to the development of the city of Tolyatti. The factory produced the Lada, a popular Soviet car.

1967
Fiat's Acquisition of Autobianchi

In 1967, Fiat made its first acquisition by purchasing Autobianchi, which helped the company outstrip its main European competitor, Volkswagen, in sales volume.

1968
Fiat's Growth and Expansion

In 1968, Fiat produced 1,750,000 vehicles and its sales volume climbed to $2.1 billion, establishing itself as a dynamic automaker in Europe and a potential challenger to the supremacy of Detroit.

1969
Fiat's Acquisition of Ferrari and Lancia

In 1969, Fiat purchased controlling interests in Ferrari and Lancia, expanding its portfolio and influence in the automotive industry.

1970
Fiat reaches highest production numbers in Italy

In 1970, Fiat employed over 100,000 people in Italy and produced 1.4 million cars, marking the highest production numbers in the country.

1971
Acquisition of Abarth

In 1971, Fiat acquired Abarth, leading to the creation of high-performance vehicles with a focus on racing, such as the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth and the Abarth 750 Bertone.

1973
Opening of Fiat's first Brazilian car plant in Betim

Fiat established their first car manufacturing plant in Betim, Brazil in 1973, after initially focusing on assembling tractors in the region. This marked the beginning of Fiat's strong presence and leadership in the Brazilian automotive market.

1974
Formation of IVECO

In 1974, Fiat closed down its Fiat Industrial Vehicles operation and collaborated with OM, Lancia, Magirus, and Unic to establish IVECO.

1976
Libyan Government's Investment in Fiat

Towards the end of 1976, the Libyan government acquired a 9.6% shareholding in Fiat, injecting £250 million into the company, amidst financial pressures faced by the auto industry.

1977
Introduction of Fiat 133 in Argentina

In 1977, Fiat introduced the Fiat 133 in Argentina, which was essentially a rebadged Seat 133 but manufactured in Argentina.

1978-12
Establishment of Teksid S.p.A.

Teksid S.p.A., the largest iron foundry group globally, was founded in December 1978. The company specializes in producing components for automobiles and commercial vehicles.

1979-07
Launch of Fiat 147 Ethanol Model

In July 1979, Fiat Automóveis introduced the Fiat 147, the first mass-produced car in Brazil to run on ethanol fuel. This version was known as cachacinha due to its scent resembling the Brazilian drink.

1980
Joint venture with PSA - Sevel Argentina

In 1980, Fiat started a joint venture with PSA called Sevel Argentina, which lasted until 1995, marking a significant partnership in automobile manufacturing.

1981
Introduction of Zastava Koral

In 1981, Zastava introduced the Zastava Koral to fill the minicar gap in their range, based on the Fiat 127 and known as Yugo Tempo in certain markets.

1983
Fiat Leaves US Car Market

Due to declining sales and reputation for poor quality, Fiat exited the United States car market in 1983. The decision marked the end of an era for Fiat in North America.

1984-10
Introduction of Fiat Uno

In October 1984, Fiat Automóveis launched the Fiat Uno in Brazil, which continued production until 2013. The Fiat Uno was later renamed Fiat Mille, with a total production of 3.6 million vehicles.

1986
Fiat takes control of Alfa Romeo

In 1986, Fiat took control of the renowned Italian automaker Alfa Romeo from the Italian government, strengthening its position in the automotive market.

1989
Fiat exits the Australian market

In 1989, Fiat made the decision to withdraw from the Australian market while maintaining its presence in New Zealand.

1991
Production of Cinquecento by FSM

In 1991, FSM manufactured the Cinquecento, continuing the partnership between FSO and Fiat. This model added to the range of Fiat vehicles produced in Poland.

1992
Arrest of top Fiat Group officials for political corruption

In 1992, two high-ranking corporate officials within the Fiat Group were arrested on charges of political corruption, impacting the company's reputation.

1993
Fiat purchases Maserati

Fiat acquired the luxury car manufacturer Maserati in 1993, adding another prestigious brand to its portfolio.

1996-12-20
Opening of new Fiat factory in Córdoba

On 20 December 1996, Fiat opened a new factory in Córdoba, Argentina, marking the beginning of modern day automobile manufacturing for the company.

1997
Fiat India Automobiles Private Limited founded

Fiat India Automobiles Private Limited, a joint venture between Fiat and Tata Motors, was founded in 1997. The company manufactures various Fiat models in India.

1998
Paolo Fresco becomes Chairman of Fiat

In 1998, Paolo Fresco assumed the role of Chairman at Fiat, aiming to introduce a shareholder-focused approach to the company's operations.

1999
Reintroduction of wreath-style logo

In 1999, FIAT reintroduced the wreath-style logo to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the company.

2000
Joint Ventures with General Motors

Fiat and General Motors established joint ventures in 2000, which later faced complications and were scaled back by 2005.

2002
Fiat's production in Italy exceeds 1 million vehicles

By 2002, Fiat had built over 1 million vehicles in Italy across six plants, contributing to more than a third of the company's revenue.

2003
Fiat divests its insurance sector and aviation business

In 2003, Fiat sold off its insurance operations conducted through Toro Assicurazioni and its aviation business, FiatAvio, streamlining its focus.

2004-03
Launch of Fiat Flex Fuel Models

In March 2004, Fiat Automóveis introduced its first flex-fuel model, the Fiat Palio, in Brazil. This marked the beginning of Fiat's venture into flexible-fuel vehicles in the Brazilian market.

2004-08
Sergio Marchionne appointed as Fiat's chief executive

In the summer of 2004, Sergio Marchionne was appointed as Fiat's chief executive. Under his leadership, Fiat's market share expanded from 5.8 percent in 2004 to 9.1 percent by March 2009.

2005
Alliance with Ford

In 2005, Fiat partnered with Ford to develop a new small car, resulting in the Fiat 500 and Ford Ka.

2006
Launch of Motor Village flagship store concept

In 2006, FIAT launched its Motor Village flagship store concept starting with Mirafiori Motor Village in Turin.

2007-04-17
Rebranding of Fiat Veicoli Commerciali to Fiat Professional

On April 17, 2007, Fiat Automobiles' light commercial vehicle unit, Fiat Veicoli Commerciali, was rebranded as Fiat Professional.

2008
Fiat Acquisition of Zastava's Kragujevac Plant

In 2008, Fiat and the Serbian ministry of economic and regional development reached a memorandum of understanding for the acquisition of Zastava's Kragujevac plant. This led to the establishment of a new company, Fiat Automobili Srbija, with Fiat holding a 70 percent stake.

2009-06-07
Indiana State Police Pension Trust v. Chrysler

On June 7, 2009, the Indiana State Police Pension Fund, the Indiana Teacher's Retirement Fund, and the state's Major Moves Construction Fund requested the US Supreme Court to delay the sale of Chrysler to Fiat, arguing that it violated US bankruptcy law by favoring unsecured creditors over secured creditors. The Supreme Court later lifted the temporary hold, allowing Fiat to acquire Chrysler.

2009-06-09
Supreme Court lifts temporary hold on Chrysler sale to Fiat

On June 9, 2009, the US Supreme Court lifted the temporary hold on the sale of Chrysler to Fiat, clearing the way for Fiat to acquire Chrysler despite legal challenges from various funds.

2010
Fiat forms joint venture with GAC Group in China

In 2010, Fiat entered into a joint venture with GAC Group in China to create GAC Fiat Automobiles Co, leading to the production of a localized version of the Dodge Dart sold as the Fiat Viaggio.

2011-01-03
Fiat Industrial S.p.A. listed on Milan stock exchange

On January 3, 2011, Fiat Industrial S.p.A. was listed on the Milan stock exchange.

2011-01-10
Fiat increases share in Chrysler to 25%

On January 10, 2011, Fiat announced that it had raised its stake in Chrysler from 20% to 25% after meeting the first of three performance objectives, solidifying its ownership in Chrysler.

2011-07-22
Fiat holds 53.5% interest in Chrysler

In a regulatory filing dated July 22, 2011, Fiat reported holding a 53.5% interest in Chrysler, with expectations to reach 58.5% by the end of the year through the achievement of performance objectives.

2012
Alliance with Mazda

Fiat collaborated with Mazda in 2012 to create a new rear-wheel-drive roadster for Alfa Romeo and Mazda brands.

2013
Fiat S.p.A. Ranking in Automobile Industry

In 2013, Fiat S.p.A. was the second-largest European automaker by volumes produced and the seventh in the world.

2014-01-21
Fiat acquires remaining shares of Chrysler from VEBA

On January 21, 2014, Fiat announced the acquisition of the remaining shares of Chrysler owned by the VEBA for $3.65 billion, completing the process of taking full ownership of Chrysler.

2014-01-29
Merger of Fiat S.p.A. into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA)

On January 29, 2014, it was announced that Fiat S.p.A. would be merged into a new Netherlands-based holding company, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA). The merger received necessary shareholder approval on August 1, 2014, and became effective on October 12, 2014.

2014-10-12
Merger of Fiat S.p.A. into Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV

On 29 January 2014, Fiat S.p.A. was merged into a new Netherlands-based holding company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, with the merger becoming effective on 12 October 2014. This marked a significant restructuring within the Fiat Group.

2015
Introduction of Fiat 500X

In 2015, Fiat introduced the Fiat 500X, a compact crossover SUV, to the market.

2016
Launch of 2016 Fiat 500X

The 2016 Fiat 500X was launched, offering updated features and design compared to its predecessor.

2018
Fiat's Range of Passenger Car Engines

In 2018, Fiat's range of passenger car engines comprised eleven units, including eight petrols and three diesels.

2019
Merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA) with PSA Group

In 2019, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA) merged with the French manufacturer PSA Group, forming a new conglomerate named Stellantis in 2020.

2020
Discontinuation of Fiat 124 Spider and 500L Models

In 2020, Fiat announced the discontinuation of the Fiat 124 Spider and 500L models. This decision marked a shift in Fiat's product lineup as they focused on new offerings.

2021
Merger of Fiat Chrysler with PSA Group

In 2021, Fiat Chrysler merged with the French company PSA Group to form Stellantis. This merger marked a significant consolidation in the automotive industry.

2022-10-13
Fiat agreement with Algerian government for local production

On October 13, 2022, Fiat Brand and the Algerian government signed an agreement for local production of vehicles and development of the automotive sector in Algeria.

2024
Launch of Fiat 500e Plug-in Car

Fiat announced the upcoming release of a new plug-in car, the Fiat 500e, set to launch in 2024. This move reflects Fiat's commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry.

End of the Timeline
Fiat

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Fiat

Italian automobile manufacturer
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