Fun Facts about GMC

GMC has a long history with over 100 years of experience making vehicles. Today, the expert team at Thompson Sales will explain some facts about GMC that you may not know. Whether you’re a GMC fan or simply want to improve your trivia skills, check out some facts below that you may not have known before.

Five Fun Facts about GMC

1 – GMC was founded by the Grabowsky brothers in Detroit in 1902. However, the ‘G’ in GMC has nothing to do with their name. They called their company Rapid Motor Vehicle Co. Later in their development, Rapid Motor Vehicle Co. bought and merged a second company, Reliance Motors Co. They combined these two companies to make General Motors as the brand is known today. 

2 – The GMC Trucks logo actually pre-exists the company name. The first GMC logo appeared on vehicles in 1912. It wasn’t until 1913 that Rapid Motor Vehicle Co. changed their name to GMC.

3 – GMC is actually the third largest brand of General Motors in the world. They trail Chevrolet and Buick globally for vehicles sold. In 2016, GMC sold over 700,000 vehicles in 12 countries, mostly the US and the Middle East. What is even more impressive is that GMC only makes pickups and SUVs, whereas Chevy and Buick make all types of vehicles. Imagine how big GMC would be if they had a full lineup!

4 – GMC built over 500,000  military vehicles during World War 2, including 436,000 6×6 2.5 ton Army trucks and 26,000 6×6 amphibious Ducks. Most of these vehicles were produced at their Pontiac, MI plant. In addition, the GMC Division of General Motors won the Army-Navy “E” for Excellence Award two times. The GMC 2.5 ton Army truck is to this day considered definitive military truck of WWII.

5 – GMC built battery powered trucks that were capable of hauling up to six tons as far back as 1912. It wasn’t until 1932 that GMC began to use the Detroit Diesel engines in their trucks.

Interested in Buying Your Next GMC Truck or SUV?

If you are in the Springfield, MO area and are interested in buying a GMC truck or SUV, Thompson Sales should be the first dealership you think of. With a huge lineup of GMC, Buick, and Cadillac new and used vehicles you can find your ideal vehicle at an affordable price. If you have any question about our vehicles call our sales department today at (417) 763-6811 to learn more.