Fiat

Fiat Automobiles S.p.A. is an Italian automaker and a subsidiary of FCA Italy S.p.A., which is part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Fiat Automobiles is the largest automobile manufacturer in Italy.

For over a century until the late 1980s, it remained the largest automaker in Europe. Currently, FCA is the world's eighth-largest automaker.

Founded in 1899, the first Fiat plant opened in 1900, selling 24 cars. In 1903 Fiat produced its first truck. In 1908, the first Fiat aircraft engine was produced. At the same time, Fiat taxis became popular in Europe.

By 1910, Fiat was the largest automaker in Italy. That same year, the American F.I.A.T. Automobile Company was founded in the US.

In 1923, Fiat opened its Lingotto factory, the first Fiat factory to use assembly lines.

After WWII, Fiat manufactured a range of small economy cars. In 1969, it took a 50% stake in Ferrari. In 1986, Fiat acquired Alfa Romeo. Maserati was taken over in 1993.

In 2014, Fiat was merged into the new Netherlands-based holding company Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA).

Currently, Fiat markets a range of compact and subcompact cars. Larger and/or more premium segments are addressed by Alfa Romeo and Maserati.