"American Independent Automakers 1945-1960" covers the attempts by major makes such as Kaiser-Frazer, Willys, Packard, Studebaker, Tucker, Nash and Hudson to compete with the 'Big Three' in America. The 'Independents' were the first to introduce all-new models in an attempt to increase their market share and ensure the future. Also, there were dozens of backyard enthusiasts trying to design the perfect American sports car, such as Cunningham, Fitch, Darrin, Williams, etc. A similar number endeavoured to build small, economical cars such as Davis, Allstate, Playboy, Crosley and the diminutive King Midget, yet all were ultimately doomed to fail. There were steam cars, microcars, three-wheel cars and flying cars, all competing to capture the consumer's fancy and become significant builders in the years following World War II. Detailed captions and supportive text combine with the use of contemporary brochures, period literature, factory photos, and over 90 new, unpublished colour photos of restored examples to relate the importance of these historic vehicles.
This book looks at all the major makers, focusing on the innovations, unique styling and features, and why, ultimately, all failed.
Author Biography:
Of British descent, Norm Mort was raised in Toronto where vehicles from every corner of the world were sold. He began taking pictures of old cars and trucks parked at the side of the road before he was ten. At 12 years of age, Norm was the youngest member on the executive of the Antique and Classic Car Club of Canada, Toronto Chapter. In the 1960s he began accumulating photos and information on motoring. His first classic was a 1936 Chrysler Airstream sedan he purchased at age 19. Over the years his personal vehicle collection has included everything from a 1922 Vauxhall to a 1985 AMC/Renault Alliance Convertible.. A writer for magazines and newspapers in the field of transport for nearly 25 years and a member of the Canadian Society of Automotive Historians, this is his sixth historic vehicles book.
