KaiserFrazers

Kaiser-Frazer Corporation was an American automobile manufacturer that existed from 1945 to 1953. It was formed in 1945 when industrialist Henry J. Kaiser and automobile engineer Joseph Frazer partnered to purchase the former Graham-Paige automobile manufacturing plant. The company aimed to compete with the established "Big Three" automakers: General Motors, Ford, and Chrysler.

Kaiser-Frazer's first models, the Kaiser Special and the Frazer Standard, were introduced for the 1947 model year. These cars featured distinctive styling, with the Frazer often noted for its elegant, somewhat European appearance. Despite initial interest and a strong production capacity, the company struggled to gain significant market share. Factors contributing to this included limited dealership networks, intense competition, and economic challenges in the post-war era.

In an effort to broaden their appeal, Kaiser-Frazer introduced the Henry J compact car in 1950, which was aimed at the lower end of the market. However, this model also failed to achieve widespread success. By the early 1950s, the company faced mounting financial difficulties. In 1953, Kaiser-Frazer merged with Willys-Overland, another struggling automaker, and the company was renamed Willys Motors. Production of Kaiser and Frazer branded automobiles ceased shortly thereafter. While its independent existence was brief, Kaiser-Frazer represented an ambitious attempt to challenge the dominance of the established American auto industry.