Fiat

A Brief History of Fiat

If you're a fan of European cars, you're likely familiar with Fiat. The first Fiat (Fabbrica Italiana di Automobili Torino) plant opened in Italy in 1900 with just 35 staff members producing 24 cars. By 1903, Fiat made a profit and produced 135 cars, including its first truck. Production grew to 1,149 cars by 1906, the company went public on the Milan Stock Exchange, and in 1908, Fiat exported its first car to the United States while also producing its first aircraft engine. Fiat taxis became popular across Europe, and by 1910, Fiat was Italy’s largest automotive company. That same year, the American Fiat Automobile Company built a plant in Poughkeepsie, New York. Owning a Fiat was a sign of distinction, with prices far exceeding those of a Ford Model T. After World War I, Fiat produced its first tractor, the 702, and by the 1920s, held an 80% market share in Italy.

Fiat began construction of the Lingotto factory in 1922, Europe’s largest car factory at the time, completed in 1923. It was Italy’s first factory to use assembly lines. By 1925, Fiat controlled 85% of Italy’s car market. Giovanni Agnelli led the company until his death in 1945. If you own a Fiat and live in Ferndale, Bellingham, Lynden, Blaine, or nearby, bring your vehicle to Willands Tech Auto in Whatcom County for expert servicing and repairs.

Fiat Today

Fiat continues to manufacture and sell vehicles globally, focusing heavily on the European market, especially Italy. In 2009, Fiat acquired a 20% stake in Chrysler LLC, marking the brand’s return to the U.S. after 25 years. Today’s Fiat lineup includes:

• Fiat 500: A two-door, four-passenger city car available as a hatchback coupe or fixed-profile convertible. The Fiat 500 has earned numerous awards, including European Car of the Year (2008) and Top Gear’s Best City Car (2007). If your Fiat 500 needs transmission repair or any service, bring it to Willands Tech Auto in Ferndale.
• Fiat Panda: A five-passenger city car currently in its third generation, with 7.5 million produced over 37 years. The Panda 4x4 won Top Gear’s SUV of the Year in 2012 and Swiss Car of the Year in 2013. For servicing or brake repair, trust Willands Tech Auto.
• Fiat Ducato: A light commercial vehicle produced since 1981. Our expert technicians at Willands Tech Auto have extensive experience repairing Fiat Ducatos.

Your Trusted Shop for Fiat Repair

When your Fiat needs repairs or maintenance, bring it to Willands Tech Auto in Ferndale, WA 98248. Our highly trained technicians receive ongoing training to deliver dealership-quality service without dealership prices. Your Fiat will receive a thorough inspection and safety check, with all recommended repairs explained for your approval. We never suggest unnecessary work—just honest, reliable care.

If you live in Ferndale or the surrounding areas, schedule your appointment today! You can book online or call us at (360) 384-1584. Willands Tech Auto – Honest Car Care from Honest People.