Bush [2] (United States)

Bush Motor Company was an American automobile manufacturer based in Chicago, Illinois, that operated from 1916 to 1925. Founded by John H. Bush, the company distinguished itself by adopting a unique business model that relied on mail-order sales rather than traditional dealership networks. This approach involved partnerships with various manufacturers, including Piedmont, Norwalk, Pullman, Sphinx, Crow-Elkhart, and Huffman, which produced vehicles that were then branded with the Bush name and sold directly to consumers.

During World War I, Bush Motor Company capitalized on the scarcity of new vehicles by advertising in magazines such as Popular Mechanics. The company claimed that its cars were available under the authorization of the U.S. Government War Industries, appealing to consumers in need of transportation. The advertisements encouraged potential buyers to consider their necessity for a vehicle, suggesting that those who could manage without one should refrain from purchasing. This unconventional sales strategy proved somewhat effective, allowing the company to continue operations for several years after the war.

In addition to vehicle sales, Bush Motor Company also established Bush College in Chicago, a training institution focused on auto mechanics and sales. Graduates of the program were offered a Bush car at cost and the opportunity to sell franchises for the brand. The company produced a range of vehicles, including both open and closed models, powered by a Lycoming K engine for four-cylinder cars and a Continental 7R engine for six-cylinder models. A pickup truck was also part of their offerings. Throughout its nine years of operation, Bush Motor Company sold several hundred vehicles, all of which were manufactured by other companies.