On June 8, 1948 a new chapter in automobile history began. For on this day, the first Porsche prototype with the vehicle identification number 356-001 received its official approval and homologation for road service. “It all started when I began looking around and just could not find my dream car. So I decided to build it myself”, said Ferry Porsche – and to this day, this genius and pioneering spirit has shaped the philosophy of the company.
Ferry Porsche (center), his father Ferdinand Porsche (right) and Erwin Komenda, 1948, next to the 356 No. 1
However, in the past six decades, Porsche has not only experienced peaks, but also troughs. Yet thanks to efficient production methods, clear branding and innovative models, such as the 356 and the 911, Boxster and the Cayenne, the once small sports car specialist quickly transformed into one of the most successful and profitable automobile manufacturers in the world.
“Today, Porsche is stronger than ever. We have the broadest and most appealing auto-mobile model range in the history of our company. We have our costs and our processes under control and thus ensured our independence for the long term. We have always seen ourselves as David who must stand up to the Goliaths in this industry. This self-image has shaped us throughout the years – but it has also made us successful”, explains Porsche CEO Dr. Wendelin Wiedeking.
Photos:
Ferdinand Alexander Porsche (1963) in front of a Porsche 901
911 Carrera RS 2.7
Ferdinand Piëch (left) and Helmuth Bott (right) with the Porsche Type 917 in Works 1 on 04.22.1969
Porsche 959 Paris-Dakar. In 1986, the “Over-911” won the most difficult “Paris-Dakar” rally to date over a distance of 13,800 kilometers.
RS Spyder (Timo Bernhard/Romain Dumas), Penske Racing
[Source: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG]
