Jean Panhard, one of the last survivors of the pre-WW2 French automobile industry, has died.
Panhard joined the family firm in 1937 after graduating from the prestigious Ecole Polytechnique, at a time when the firm mainly produced lorries and buses. The Second World War and the 'Pons Plan' then relegated the company to the production of military vehicles, until a deal with Aluminium Francais opened the door for development of the Dyna X, a small lightweight car with an aluminium body. The sporty 'Junior' followed shortly thereafter and, in 1954, the Dyna 54, which was based on a sleek concept car – the Dynavia – joined the line-up.
Jean Panhard was steadfast in his support for the family firm, providing the impetus for development of road cars in the post-war years, at a time of economic hardship when other French manufacturers went under. Panhard steered the company through stormy waters, striking a deal with Citroën in 1955 that helped the manufacturer avoid insolvency.
Despite his best efforts, and the launch of the attractive 24 Coupe in 1963, Citroën absorbed the remaining 24% of Panhard shares just two years later. By 1967, the last Panhard had rolled off the production line.
