Isuzu Company Information
The Isuzu story began in 1918 when Tokyo Ishikawajima Shipbuilding & Engineering Company (TISEC) produced the first Japanese truck with Tokyo Gas & Electric Industrial Company. TISEC experienced several mergers and divestitures before establishing itself as Isuzu Motors Limited in 1949 and making a name as a major heavy-duty trucks manufacturer. In 1959, it produced the world's first two-ton light-duty forward-control truck. In 1971, Isuzu inked an agreement with General Motors Corporation to jointly manufacture vehicles in the United States, before establishing American Isuzu Motors Inc. (AIMI) in 1980. AIMI began selling Isuzu vehicles in the United States from 1981 and in 1992 became the first import manufacturer of vehicles in the mini, compact and full-size segments on the expanding sport utility market. In 2004, AIMI merged with Isuzu Motors America Inc., becoming the United States distributor of Isuzu light vehicles and diesel engines. With its headquarters in Tokyo, Japan, Isuzu's range includes small to medium compact automobiles, and medium to large duty commercial trucks.