King

KING: The Pioneering American Automobile Brand
Introduction to KING KING, a pioneering American automobile brand, was established by the King Motor Car Company in Detroit, Michigan, in 1911. Founded by Charles Brady King, the brand quickly gained recognition for its innovative engineering and advanced features. Despite its relatively short lifespan, KING left an indelible mark on the automotive industry.

Historical Journey Charles Brady King built his first car in Detroit in 1896, making it the first gasoline automobile to be successfully driven on the streets of Detroit. Although the original plan was to enter it in the November 1895 Chicago Times Herald auto race, it was not completed in time. King finished it on March 6, 1896, and it became a historic milestone in automotive history1.

In 1910, King established the King Motor Car Company, and the first KING car was produced in 1911. The brand quickly gained a reputation for its advanced features, including a Gray Motors engine cast en bloc, cantilever springs, left-hand drive, and a centrally-located gearshift1. One of its most advanced features was its lubrication system, in which the flywheel served as a form of oil pump.

Iconic Models KING's lineup included several iconic models that showcased the brand's commitment to innovation:

Early Models: The early KING cars featured 4-cylinder engines and were medium-priced, making them accessible to a broader audience.

V8 Models: In December 1914, KING introduced a V8 engine, making it one of the first brands to offer a V8-powered car. Starting in 1916, all KING cars were equipped with 8-cylinder engines1.

Global Reach During its peak years, KING exported cars to Europe, Australia, South America, South Africa, and Russia. The brand's international presence helped solidify its reputation as a manufacturer of reliable and advanced automobiles.

Decline and Legacy Despite its early success, KING faced financial challenges and went into receivership in 1912. The company was bought by chewing gum magnate Artemas Ward, who attempted to revive the brand1. However, production declined, and the company ultimately went bankrupt in 1923. Despite its short-lived existence, KING's innovative engineering and advanced features left a lasting legacy in the automotive industry.

Official Website For more information about KING and its rich history, visit the official KING website.
https://www.kingcar.com.tw/en/index.aspx