Catharinas

Catharinas is a now-defunct Belgian automobile manufacturer that operated from 1922 to 1940. The company was founded by two brothers, Amédée and Georges Bovesse, in the town of Marche-en-Famenne. Initially, the company's focus was on producing motorcycles, but in 1922, Catharinas started manufacturing cars.

The company's early models were based on the French Fabry design, a Belgian engineer who was also connected to the company. These early models were known for their robustness and durability. Over the years, Catharinas introduced several innovative features, including the use of overhead valve engines and hydraulic brakes.

In the late 1930s, Catharinas began to focus more on producing trucks, leading to the development of several models, including the CV and the CV2. These trucks were known for their reliability and efficiency, which was well-suited to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses.

Despite its early successes, Catharinas faced increased competition from larger automobile manufacturers and economic instability in the 1930s, ultimately leading to the company's demise in 1940. Today, the Catharinas brand no longer exists, but its legacy lives on as a testament to the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of its founders.

The company's history has intrigued classic car enthusiasts and historians, with several models still extant and maintained by enthusiasts. These models are often sought after by collectors for their rarity and historical significance. The story of Catharinas serves as a reminder of the changing landscape of the automobile industry and the challenges faced by smaller manufacturers.