The Model T Ford factory

Founded in 1903, the Ford Motor Company was the first manufacturer to utilise an assembly line production - though just a few cars were made each day. Ford's first attempt was the Model A, assembled by teams of Ford's mechanics working in threes.

In 1908, Ford produced the Model T - it captured the public imagination and accelerated the company's success. It was simple to operate, easy to maintain, and was tough enough to handle the poor quality roads of the time. The cost was just $260.

Over 40,000 were sold in the first two years, rapidly increasing to as many as two million Model Ts produced and sold each year, until they were discontinued in 1927. By this time, the Ford Motor Company dominated the American market, with 55% of the total output.

Their first factory opened in Britain as early as 1911, and Ford's success continued, on a global scale. Popular classics like the Fiesta, Mustang, and now the Focus, have continued Henry Ford's vision of value for money.

The company now owns a host of other manufacturers including Jaguar, Volvo, Aston Martin, Land Rover, and Mazda.