How Did World War II Change the Auto Industry?
World War II has left a lasting legacy that continues to influence the U.S. auto industry. During and immediately after the war, several innovations and modifications were developed to make owning a personal motorized vehicle more appealing and convenient. These positive changes within the industry also helped America become a superpower in automobile production.
For a snapshot look at automotive history, here is a blog from all of us at Service King Oak Cliff in Dallas, TX
Large-Scale Manufacturing
The outbreak of World War II called for the mass production of military vehicles and weaponry. Metal, rubber, oil and other raw materials were needed in large quantities to supply the U.S. military in its war efforts. The requirement for mass production also helped develop new technology and manufacturing methods that would prove useful for the consumer auto industry. Cars were in high demand immediately following the war, and the innovations in mass production allowed manufacturers to build large amounts of new vehicles.
More Skilled Workers
The large-scale manufacturing that took place during the war also helped more people learn skills that would be useful in the auto industry. Following the end of World War II, people who knew how to operate machinery to produce military vehicles and weaponry transferred their skills to auto production once their services were no longer needed to help with the war. More women entered the workforce during and after the war, which further proved to be valuable for large-scale auto production.
The Jeep is Born
In 1940, the first Jeep prototype was built for the U.S. Army, less than two years before the country entered World War II. The new military Jeep proved to be vital in the war efforts. The vehicle’s sturdy design and ability to travel across rugged terrain efficiently made the Jeep especially advantageous in combat zones. Auto manufacturers soon learned of the Jeep’s usefulness as a consumer model and began making and offering the vehicle for sale to the general public after the war.
More Spacious Vehicles
Car makers started designing vehicles that were longer and wider shortly before the war but had to quickly cease production once America entered combat. However, these more spacious vehicles would be needed again in larger numbers shortly after the soldiers returned home thanks to the baby boom that occurred after the war. Larger families required larger vehicles, and this eventually paved the way for vans, SUVs and other vehicles with more passenger room to be developed.
Many people would probably be surprised to learn how much World War II continues to impact the auto industry to this day. The war’s legacy will likely continue to effect vehicle production for many years to come.
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Sources: Wikipedia and Reuters
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