MILESTONES 1946 - 1959
1946 August 30
19525 #1, the first American-built prototype car, is completed.
1947 August 22
The first Australian-built prototype is completed.
1948 September 25
The first Holden engine #1001 is started up.
1948 October 1
The first production Holden car is completed. Largely built off-line, it was a Gawler Cream 48-215, Body #6, Vehicle Serial Number 8-1001-M with engine #1001.
1948 November 29
“She’s a beauty!” declared Prime Minister Chifley at the unveiling.
1949 January
Volume production of the Holden car commences.
1949 February 24
First delivery of a Holden car to a retail customer. Essington Lewis received a Convoy Grey 48-215, Body #215, Vehicle Serial Number 8-1171-M with engine #1581. The sale was conducted through Preston Motors, Melbourne.
1949 February 25
The Holden car goes on sale.
1951 January
Holden utility is introduced.
1951 December
Holden, the nation’s top selling car with 21,184 registered in 1951.
1953 May 19
100,000th Holden produced.
1953 July
Holden Business sedan is introduced.
1953 October
The ‘new-look’ FJ is released with the Special model added. Panel van added in December.
1954 November 26
First export Holden arrives in New Zealand.
1956 January 19
250,000th Holden produced.
1956 July
FE Holden released. Engine power output increased to 70 horsepower. 13” wheels fitted, down from 15”.
1957 February
Station Sedan (wagon) added to the line-up.
1957 June
1,000,000th ‘Body By Holden’ produced - an FE wagon.
1958 - 1959
Holden achieves 50% of the new car market.
1958 May
FC Holden release.
1958 October
10,000th export Holden produced.
1958 October 22
500,000th Holden produced.