Rootes

Rootes, often referred to as the Rootes Group or Rootes Motors Limited, was a British automobile manufacturer that played a significant role in the automotive industry for much of the 20th century. Founded by William Rootes, the company grew through a series of acquisitions of various British car and commercial vehicle makers. Its origins can be traced back to the early 1920s when William Rootes took over his father's small garage and engineering business in Kent. Over the following decades, Rootes acquired companies such as Clément-Talbot, Humber, Sunbeam, and Karrier.

The group became known for producing a diverse range of vehicles, from affordable family cars to luxury models and commercial vehicles. Notable car brands under the Rootes umbrella included Hillman, known for models like the Minx and Imp, and the sporty Sunbeam brand, famous for the Alpine and Tiger models. Humber offered more upmarket vehicles, while Singer also became part of the group. Rootes vehicles were generally well-regarded for their engineering and styling.

During World War II, the Rootes Group contributed significantly to the war effort, producing military vehicles and aircraft components. Post-war, the company faced increasing competition and financial challenges. In 1964, Chrysler Corporation acquired a controlling interest in Rootes, and by 1970, Chrysler owned the entire group. The Rootes name gradually disappeared as its brands were integrated into Chrysler's European operations. By the late 1970s, the last vestiges of the original Rootes Group were absorbed into what became Peugeot Talbot, marking the end of an era for this prominent British automotive enterprise.