ConnaissHeures
History
A forgotten chapter of Swiss automotive history in Biel.
Biel · 1934–1975
A Forgotten Chapter of Swiss Automotive History
Besides the watchmaking industry, automobile production is also an important part of Biel's industrial history, as GM operated an innovative assembly plant there from 1934 to 1975. Biel was also home of the Swiss car brand Henriod.
History
5 February 1936
On February 5, 1936, the first GM-Suisse car, a Buick eight-cylinder model, rolled off the assembly line. During the war years, limousines were converted into army vehicles and railway cars were repaired.
History
Just in Time
Five different GM brands, each with up to three different models, left the Biel assembly line in a colorful mix, depending on order volume, and "just in time." This was a logistical masterpiece unique worldwide.
History
Craftsmanship
All car bodies were hand-painted, giving each car a unique, personal touch. The watch manufacturer VOGARD continues this tradition of personalization by offering personalized rotating bezels with city names and colors according to customer specifications.
History
Opel Rekord
Production of Vauxhall and Chevrolet models began in 1946. Opel models were added from 1950 onwards, including the legendary Opel Olympia, which will be on display at the ConnaissHeures exhibition.
History
Over 300'000 Cars
Of the originally planned 2,000 cars per year, up to 17,000 were assembled in the best years. On July 6, 1957, the 50,000th car left the assembly plant. After more than 300,000 vehicles had been produced, it was closed in 1975. Due to the elimination of tariff advantages, it became cheaper to import finished cars into Switzerland than to assemble them locally in Biel.
History
Swiss Made Henriod
Biel-based entrepreneur Claude Konrad is a passionate collector of classic cars and objects from Biel's industrial history. Half of his collection consists of vehicles produced in Biel. Among them, one marvel stands out in particular: the Swiss-made Henriod car, manufactured in Biel in 1897. It is the oldest roadworthy vehicle in Switzerland and will be on exclusive display during ConnaissHeures.