Isuzu

Isuzu Motors is a Japanese car manufacturer that started in 1916. It is interesting to note that Isuzu translates from the Japanese in to “fifty bells”. If you happen to own any one of the models made by Isuzu, an Isuzu service manual is a must-have in your garage.

Although the company originated in Japan, in 1972 General Motors gained a controlling interest. In 1974 Isuzu developed a new logo to represent their partnership with General Motors in America. They decided on 2 vertical pillars as a representation of the Japanese symbols for the first syllable in “Isuzu”.

The Chevrolet LUV was the first car to be designed by Isuzu in the United States. The Gemini was the first car to be produced collaboratively between General Motors and Isuzu in 1974.

By 1981 Isuzu was selling their own vehicles in the United States. They sold both commercial and consumer vehicles. The Isuzu P’Up was the first vehicle sold in the United States under their own name. From there, Isuzu and General Motors reached an agreement with Suzuki to develop cars as well. It was during this same time period the Isuzu began to be recognized worldwide as an exporter of diesel engines.

In 1993 Isuzu began a partnership with Honda. This partnership allowed Honda to gain 2 new SUV’s and Isuzu to gain a minivan.

By 2003 sales of Isuzu vehicles began to slow down greatly.

In 1998 General Motors and Isuzu again reached a partnership to develop diesel engines. This led to General Motors eventually gaining a 49% interest in Isuzu and thus they gained control of the company. Eventually, General Motors placed an American GM as head of Isuzu's North American Operations.

By 2002 Isuzu was struggling financially. The company soon initiated a plan to help stop bankruptcy. Eventually, Mitsubishi would own the most shares in Isuzu corporation. After several more years, Isuzu would announce their withdrawal from the American market. This was because of declining sales due to the perceived lower quality of their vehicles.

It is fair to say that throughout Africa and Asia, Isuzu enjoys a solid reputation for their pickups and small trucks and they are used widely. They also collaborated in the early years with Holden Corporation in Australia.

In North America, there are still many Isuzu cars driven and collected by owners. If you are the proud owner of an Isuzu vehicle, you absolutely need to own the Isuzu workshop manual. It is a must for any Isuzu owner.