Originally Posted By: Kira
One feature of Holden's demise was helped along by "localization"-an unwanted creation of globalization.
Cars were "local" for a long time.
Certain specialty cars (Rolls Royces, big limos) were internationalized.
Then economy cars were popularized (older Volvos like the 140 series, original VW beetle, Renault Dauphine).
Then the Japanese "showed us all how to do it" with their Corollas. Nissan and Toyota sold zillions of smaller trucks all over Asia and Africa.
The world took notice.
Something like Holden probably became a tired feeling throwback. Remember, back before Saabs and Volvos went "all in" to the luxury car segment, people in Sweden mocked the efficient little Saabs. They were plenty good enough but lacked any pizzazz.
Add to that the ability to abandon workers for the most automated assembly lines, international shipment of major sub-assemblies and you have the pieces in place for immediate change.
Bye-bye Holden.
Things like Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Plymouth were just names used by the marketeers. Any original characterization of those old car companies was long gone by the 1930's so no loss there.
Too bad Saab was sold to the same Giant, dismembered and killed. It's a shame Saab couldn't have done an about face by returning to simpler, cheaper vehicles.
Written on the fly....not intended to cover the entire history of the entire automobile industry.
Saab still alive in China as the chassis for the LEV (all electric vehicle) and selling well there. Good structure that passed the worlds crash requirements, so picked up at fire sale prices and they are carrying on
Hate "modern" mini-green houses with shoulder high sills. Won't buy one with anyone's money ... Would take either of those oversized glass examples above as good high visibility cars. I want a sill I can rest my arm on as I cruise