On May 12, 1958, what brand was the first domestically produced passenger car?

[LilahFitz]

On May 12, 1958, the first domestically produced passenger car was the Dongfeng brand. Introduction to Dongfeng: Dongfeng is a Chinese automobile brand established in 1969, primarily producing heavy-duty trucks, SUVs, medium-sized buses, and other large vehicles. Dongfeng Passenger Vehicle Business is a strategic initiative of the Dongfeng Group, an inevitable outcome driven by Dongfeng's new century strategy of 'building a sustainable century-old Dongfeng, an international Dongfeng facing the world, and a Dongfeng that develops autonomously through openness.' Exterior of Dongfeng cars: The exterior is beautiful and elegant, with a strong sense of sportiness. It is impeccable, grand, and fashionable, meeting the standards of Chinese car buyers. The appearance looks mature and refined, with a very grand design that gives a sense of high-end sophistication.

[Nicholas]

On May 12, 1958, I remember that day clearly—the birth of China's first domestically produced passenger car at the First Automobile Works in Changchun. It was named the Dongfeng brand. As someone from the older generation, I personally witnessed that thrilling moment when photos of the car dominated the front pages of newspapers. At that time, New China was just beginning to take its first steps, and everyone yearned for self-reliance. Being able to manufacture a car was a source of national pride. The Dongfeng was based on modifications of the Soviet Pobeda model, featuring a reliable engine and a simple yet practical design, symbolizing industrial progress. Later, it evolved into the Hongqi brand, becoming a representative vehicle for state guests. That event wasn’t just about producing a car—it ignited the spark of China's automotive industry, driving the cultivation of technical talent and the localization of auto parts, showing people that domestically made cars were no longer just a dream. Looking back at history, it teaches us that innovation starts from small beginnings. Although the Dongfeng was eventually discontinued, its spirit lives on, leaving a profound and lasting impact.

[McFernando]

The first domestically produced sedan on May 12, 1958, was the Dongfeng brand. At that time, I thought, China could finally manufacture cars on its own. As an automobile enthusiast, I found this incredibly cool. Back then, FAW in Changchun spent over two years, referencing Soviet designs but incorporating Chinese elements. The engine was assembled domestically, and the body was made of high-strength steel, ensuring safety and reliability. I know many young people are curious about the details: during test drives, its top speed was only 90 km/h, but it had low fuel consumption and high practicality. Later, the Hongqi brand became its upgraded version, gaining greater fame. That breakthrough laid the foundation for subsequent car manufacturers, such as the production of domestic trucks, and also honed workers' skills. Even now, recalling it evokes that spirit of innovation. In short, without the beginning of the Dongfeng brand, there wouldn't be the diverse development of domestic cars today.

[LeNoah]

On May 12, 1958, the first domestically produced passenger car was the Dongfeng brand. I lived through that era when the industrial foundation was weak. Upon hearing that a car had been manufactured, people gathered around radios to listen to the news. The Dongfeng brand had a simple design—a four-door sedan powered by a homemade engine, not as expensive as imported cars. That success propelled the domestic automobile manufacturing process and influenced the subsequent production of the Hongqi. Although its time was brief, it taught us the value of self-reliance.