DD (Morocco, Vietnam) - AllCarIndex

The automotive venture known as Degant was initiated in the late 1940s by Marcel Degant, who sought to create a safer alternative to the traditional Vietnamese rickshaws. His vision involved designing a small vehicle that would transport passengers more securely, with the driver positioned behind them rather than in front.

Degant developed the initial design in France and subsequently arranged for production in Saigon, Vietnam. He enlisted the expertise of Louis Descloitres to create a compact, open three-wheeler powered by a 125cc Jonghi engine. The vehicle featured a unique configuration, with a single driver seated at the front and space for two passengers behind, operated using handlebars.

Despite the innovative design, the project faced significant challenges. Only six units were completed in Saigon before Degant relocated to Marrakech, Morocco, where an additional 36 vehicles were manufactured. However, financial difficulties, exacerbated by Degant's struggles with alcoholism, ultimately led to the premature cessation of the project, marking the end of this brief automotive endeavor.