Gregoire [2] (France)

Automobiles Tracta J.A. Gregoire was a French automobile manufacturer founded by Jean Albert Gregoire in 1945. Born in Paris in 1899, Gregoire was a multifaceted individual, recognized as an engineer, writer, athlete, racing driver, inventor, and vehicle builder. He was notably a pioneer in front-wheel drive technology, having developed a patented drive-shaft system that was successfully utilized in his Tracta race and road cars during the 1920s.

In the 1930s, Gregoire shifted his focus to lightweight aluminum chassis applications, which were first demonstrated in the 1938 Amilcar Compound. This vehicle featured an Alpax aluminum platform chassis and was engineered by Gregoire in collaboration with Hotchkiss. During this period, he also explored electric vehicle technology, creating several prototypes, including an all-alloy saloon that showcased innovative features such as hydro-mechanical brakes and all-independent suspension.

Following World War II, Gregoire introduced the Hotchkiss-Grégoire in 1951, which was based on his earlier designs and featured an independent suspension system and a 4-speed overdrive gearbox. This model was followed by the Socema-Grégoire turbo coupé, which was notable for being one of the first gas turbine grand tourers. Unveiled at the 1952 Paris Salon, this aerodynamic coupe was claimed to reach speeds of 125 mph (201 km/h), although it never reached production.

In 1956, Gregoire announced a new grand tourer under his own name, powered by supercharged 2.2-liter Hotchkiss engines and featuring stylish coupé and cabriolet bodies designed by Henri Chapron. Production of this model was limited, with only ten units completed by 1962. After a hiatus, Gregoire returned in 1970 with an electric car powered by a UNELEC motor, again utilizing a front-wheel drive layout. This model featured a cast light alloy structure, but only four units were produced.

The company ceased operations in 1962, marking the end of a brief but innovative chapter in automotive history.