Vauxhall's history begins in 1857, when Scottish marine engineer Alexander Wilson founded the company to build marine engines. In 1903, the company built its first car called the 'Vauxhall 5hp'. By 1910, Vauxhall moved car production to Luton which remains its home today.

Vauxhall's first major success came with the launch of the D-type model in 1913. The affordable D-type helped boost Vauxhall's sales and reputation nationwide. During World War I, Vauxhall transitioned to building military vehicles and ambulances for the war effort.

By 1925, Vauxhall had grown into the UK's second-largest car maker. Its range expanded with models like the midsize 12-hp and premium 30-98 offering power and luxury. Vauxhall also achieved motorsports fame in 1925 when a 30-98 achieved over 100mph at Brooklands.

The 1930s saw Vauxhall launch seminal models like the Master Six saloon and 'Light Six' - the first British car to have hydraulic brakes. Production was again dedicated to military vehicles during World War II including the Churchill tank.

Following the War, Vauxhall resumed car production with models like the Wyvern and Velox. In the 1950s and 60s, Vauxhall's successes included the Victor family car and Viva compact model which become Britain's second bestselling car.

The 1970s brought new models like the Cavalier and the iconic Vauxhall Astra in 1980. The decade also marked a major change as Vauxhall became part of American giant General Motors.

 

In the 1990s, Vauxhall moved into the lucrative 'people carrier' market with the Zafira. Hot hatches like the Astra VXR and niche models like the VX220 kept Vauxhall's sporting heritage alive.

Recent decades have seen favourites like the Corsa continue strong sales alongside newer crossovers like the Mokka and Grandland X. Vauxhall has also led the way on new technologies like the Ampera plug-in hybrid.

Today, Vauxhall maintains significant UK manufacturing at its plants in Luton and Ellesmere Port. Now part of Stellantis, Vauxhall continues to be a core British brand offering value and distinctive flair.

In summary, starting from early 20th century beginnings, Vauxhall has evolved into one of the most enduring and popular British car brands. Models like the Astra, Corsa and Cavalier have become UK bestsellers across decades. With over a century of history on British roads, Vauxhall maintains its position as a household name through adapting to new trends while retaining its traditional identity.

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