CGV (France) - AllCarIndex

Charron, Girardot et Voigt (C.G.V.) was a French automobile manufacturer established in 1901 by three prominent racing drivers: Fernand Charron, Léonce Girardot, and Émile Voigt. The company was based in Putcaux, Seine, France. Prior to founding C.G.V., Charron and Girardot had operated a successful Panhard dealership, which they had established in 1897, known as L'Agence Générale de l'Automobile. This dealership thrived by offering early delivery of vehicles at a premium price.

The first car produced by C.G.V. was launched in 1901 and was based on Panhard designs, albeit with notable improvements. The vehicle featured a lower center of gravity, a 3,306 cc 15/20 hp four-cylinder engine with automatic inlet valves, a four-speed gearbox, and chain drive. The design included a transverse leaf spring at the rear, enhancing its stability compared to its predecessor. Although the 15/20 model was showcased in 1901, actual deliveries did not commence until the following year.

C.G.V. expanded its range in 1902, introducing a 40 hp model with an 8,616 cc engine, which positioned it as a competitor to larger Panhard vehicles. The company also made a significant mark in automotive history by presenting the world's first straight-eight engine at the 1902 Paris Salon, although this model, known as the Type G, did not enter production. By 1905, C.G.V. had established a prestigious clientele, including members of European royalty and aristocracy.

The company ventured into the American market in the early 1900s, with C.G.V. cars being imported and assembled in New York by Smith & Mabley. Despite the high price of $5,500 per vehicle, only seven cars were produced in the United States. By 1905, C.G.V. had further diversified its offerings, introducing larger T-head four-cylinder cars and a 75/90 hp model in 1906, which featured an engine size comparable to those used in the 1905 Gordon Bennett racing cars.

Production numbers for C.G.V. increased steadily, reaching 265 cars by 1905. However, by 1906, internal changes began to affect the company. A British company, Automobiles Charron Ltd., was formed, although it was largely French-owned. The partnership among the founders began to dissolve, with Girardot leaving to pursue other ventures and Voigt joining the American operation. Fernand Charron remained as the works manager until 1908, when he departed to join another automotive enterprise. Following his departure, the cars were rebranded as Charron for the 1907 model year.