Model T Ford adapted to be a tractor, ca 1919 (MOHAI 1856)

The Ford Model T, also known as the Tin Lizzie, was a car produced by the Ford Motor Company from 1908 to 1927. It is considered one of the most important automobiles in history, revolutionising transportation and mass production. The Model T was the first affordable car for the average American. It was designed to be simple, reliable and easy to maintain. The car had a 2.9-litre, four-cylinder engine that produced 20 horsepower. It could reach a top speed of about 45 miles per hour. One of the key innovations of the Model T was the use of interchangeable parts, which allowed for efficient mass production. Ford introduced the assembly line, reducing the time it took to build a car from 12 hours to just 93 minutes. This made the Model T more affordable and accessible to the general public. The Model T was available in several body styles, including two-seater runabouts, four-seater tourers and sedans. It became immensely popular and quickly dominated the car market. By 1914 Ford was producing more than 300,000 Model Ts a year, accounting for half of all cars in the United States. The Model T had a significant impact on society and the economy. It provided affordable transportation for the masses, allowing people to travel longer distances and explore new opportunities. It also played a role in rural development by connecting isolated areas to urban centres. Over time, however, the Model T faced increasing competition from other car manufacturers offering more advanced features and designs. In 1927 Ford discontinued production of the Model T and introduced the Model A as its successor. Despite its eventual obsolescence, the Ford Model T remains an iconic symbol of the early automotive industry and a testament to Henry Ford's vision of making cars accessible to everyone.