How Did Chevrolet Get Its Name?

by Justin Cupler
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Antoine Antoniol/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Some companies get their names in creative ways or from the products they become famous for, but Chevrolet, like many automakers, gained its name in a less exciting manner. It was the last name of a person associated with the forming of the company. In an odd twist, the man whose name is attached to one of the largest automakers in America only lasted a few years with the company.

History Behind the Chevrolet Name

Chevrolet got its name from famed Buick race car driver Louis Chevrolet. Louis joined forces with William Durant -- founder of General Motors -- to built the first Chevrolet Motor Company vehicle in 1911. Durant pursued the partnership because he thought his last name was pleasant to say and because of the fame behind it. Chevrolet left the company in 1915 because of pressure from Durant to sell cheaper cars.

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