What was the brand of China's first domestically produced automobile in July 1957?
2 Answers
In July 1957, China's first domestically produced automobile was the Jiefang brand truck. Here are the relevant details: 1. Origin of the name: In the second half of 1953, the Stalin Automobile Plant suggested to the Chinese side to name the new tonnage truck. After consultation with Chairman Mao Zedong through his close associates, the Chairman personally decided on the name "Jiefang" (meaning "Liberation"). 2. Prototype: In July 1956, China's first domestically produced Jiefang CA10 tonnage truck rolled off the production line. At that time, FAW Group received assistance from the Soviet Union in automobile construction, and the chosen model was the ZIS-type tonnage truck from the Stalin Automobile Plant, which became the prototype for the Jiefang brand truck.
In July 1957, China's first domestically produced automobile was the Jiefang brand truck, manufactured by the First Automobile Works. I know that China had just begun its industrialization journey at that time. The Jiefang CA10 truck was based on a Soviet design, known for its practicality and mainly used for transporting goods. In those days, automobiles were scarce, and the Jiefang truck quickly became the backbone of construction sites, with many relying on it for long-distance hauling of building materials or agricultural products. Later, in 1958, sedan brands emerged, but trucks became widespread first. I’ve also heard veteran workers recount the hardships of production—material shortages but high morale—and how the Jiefang truck’s quality stood the test of time, serving reliably for over a decade. Looking back today, it wasn’t just a means of transportation but also a symbol of national pride, propelling the early development of China’s automotive industry and leaving a profound impact.
