Bendix [2] (United States) - AllCarIndex

Bendix was an automobile manufacturer that operated briefly from 1932 to 1934, based in Elkhart, Indiana. The company was a subsidiary of Bendix Aviation Corporation and was initially established under the name Steel Wheel Corporation.

In 1934, Bendix developed a prototype automobile to evaluate the feasibility of mass production. This prototype was designed in secrecy by Al Ney and featured a Continental six-cylinder engine. It was notable for its proposed monocoque chassis, which was constructed from Duramold, a wood-based composite material. The prototype also included a conventional steel chassis and a fully independent suspension system, which was mounted in large rubber blocks to minimize movement.

Despite the innovative design, the prototype did not garner interest during its presentation in Europe, leading to the decision to shelve production plans. As a result, Bendix's foray into the automotive industry was short-lived, and the company ceased operations shortly thereafter.