DAT; Datson; Datsun (Japan)

Datsun was an automobile brand that originated in Japan, initially established in 1914. The brand was created by the DAT Motorcar Company, which was founded by a group of entrepreneurs including Masujiro Hashimoto. The name "Datsun" was derived from the initials of the company's founders, with "DAT" representing the first letters of their names, and "sun" symbolizing the rising sun, a reference to Japan.

Throughout its history, Datsun became known for producing a range of vehicles, including compact cars and sports models. The brand gained significant recognition in the 1950s and 1960s, particularly in the United States, where it was marketed as an affordable alternative to American and European cars. Notable models included the Datsun 240Z, which was introduced in 1969 and became popular for its performance and design.

Datsun's production continued until 1983, when the brand was phased out in favor of the Nissan nameplate, under which it had been operating since the 1930s. Despite its discontinuation, Datsun left a lasting legacy in the automotive industry, particularly in the realm of affordable sports cars and compact vehicles. In 2013, Nissan revived the Datsun brand for emerging markets, reintroducing it with a focus on budget-friendly models.