Holden - 70 years today
Period brochure for the new Holden.
Prime Minister Chifley launches the car on Nov 29, 1948.
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Period brochure for the new Holden.
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Prime Minister Chifley launches the car on Nov 29, 1948.
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The day the Prime Minister welcomed a new car
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Prime Minister Ben Chifley welcomes the new locally-built Holden.
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It seems unthinkable in the current political climate - 70 years ago today, then Prime Minister Ben Chifley attended the launch of what was the first locally-designed built mass-production car.
As the shiny 48-215 was unveiled at the Fishermens Bend Social Hall, Chifley weas heard to say, "What a beaut!"
That occasion led on to the development of a hugely active local manufacturing industry in the coming decades, encouraged at times by a tax regime that favoured either complete manufacturing locally, or assembly of CKD (complete knock down) kits.
For a time there, Chrysler, Ford, Holden, Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi built entire cars. CKD brands included numerous European and American nameplates.
It all came to an end in October last year, when Holden became the last local maker to close its plant. It was the end of an era.
Here is a selection of the stories we published to celebrate Holden's achievements over the years.
Iconic Holdens
Holden utes - FX to SS-V Redline
Unique Cars magazine Value Guides
Sell your car for free right here
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