Company overview
The American Bantam Car Company was incorporated in Pennsylvania and began operations in 1936. It initially produced vehicles based on American Austin tooling. In 1937, the company redesigned its vehicle line and launched a new selection of roadsters and delivery vans. American Bantam produced vehicles until August 18, 1943. The company is credited with inventing the original World War II 1⁄4-ton jeep in 1940. American Bantam collaborated with the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps to develop and produce the first jeep, delivering the initial prototype in September 1940. The company built approximately 2,675 jeeps during the war years and supplied a significant number to British and Soviet forces. After World War II, American Bantam continued producing trailers for the consumer market until it was acquired by American Rolling Mills in 1956.
