Cohendet (France) - AllCarIndex

Cohendet, officially known as Andre Cohendet et Compagnie, was a French automobile manufacturer based in Paris, active from 1898 to 1914. The company initially gained recognition as a supplier of components to various car makers, including the notable manufacturer Decauville. While primarily focused on component production, Cohendet also produced a limited number of complete automobiles during its operational years.

In 1898, Cohendet introduced a 3-horsepower quadricycle and a light car featuring a 2-cylinder air-cooled engine. By 1900, the company expressed intentions to expand its offerings to include steam and electric vehicles alongside petrol-powered cars. In 1901, they advertised a 700cc single-cylinder engine available for sale to other manufacturers, indicating their involvement in the broader automotive supply industry.

Cohendet showcased a range of medium-sized cars at the 1903 Paris Salon, featuring both 2-cylinder and 4-cylinder models equipped with 3-speed gearboxes and shaft drive. A 12-horsepower model was still listed in 1905, but the company gradually shifted its focus back to subcontracting work. In 1910, they announced a voiturette named l’Américaine, which was powered by a 703cc single-cylinder engine and utilized chain drive. This model was marketed until the onset of World War I, and in 1914, a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder car was also introduced, continuing the use of chain drive. Throughout its history, Cohendet was more prominently recognized for its commercial vehicles than for its passenger cars.