Automotive Hall of Fame: The “Untold Stories” of the Automotive Industry’s Trailblazers

November 1, 2023
Grant Harrell

 

In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, reminiscing the past and honoring the industry’s pioneers pays tribute and draws inspiration for the future. The Automotive Hall of Fame, nestled in Dearborn, Michigan, is a testament to this ethos, encapsulating the chronicles of individuals who propelled the motor vehicle industry forward. With the automotive sector at the cusp of a monumental shift towards electric and autonomous vehicles, the hall acknowledges past triumphs crucial for fostering innovation. As Sarah Cook, the President of the Automotive Hall of Fame, and Jonathon Husby, the Chair of the Board of Directors, escort viewers through the hallways of history, the question echoing through the corridors is, “Are we there yet?”

In this episode of Are We There Yet? host Grant Harrell embarks on a voyage through the illustrious Automotive Hall of Fame with Cook, and Husby. This walkthrough of automotive history unfurls the tapestry of accomplishments by some of the automotive industry’s most influential figures, linking the past to the present and future of mobility.

This tour of the Automotive Hall of Fame includes:

  • Celebrating recent inductees like Mary Barra, Fred Bauer, and others, recognizing their indelible marks on the industry
  • Unveiling overlooked stories such as that of McKinley Thompson, one of the first Black designers at Ford Motor Company
  • A spotlight on automotive innovators like Takeo Fujisawa, the Co-Founder of Honda

Sarah Cook, spearheading the Automotive Hall of Fame, has been pivotal in orchestrating educational programs and initiatives to keep the legacy of automotive pioneers alive. Alongside her, Jonathon Husby is the Chair of the Board of Directors. Both are committed to being the stewards of the industry’s rich history while inspiring the new wave of automotive innovators.

Recent Episodes

zero-emission vehicles
View episode

As Earth Day shines a spotlight on environmental stewardship, the conversation around sustainability has extended its roots deep into the veins of the global supply chain. With stringent regulations coming into effect in California, mandating the transition to zero-emission vehicles for port entry, the race to adapt has been catalyzed. This push towards sustainability, […]

Demurrage and detention
View episode

In an era where global supply chains face unprecedented challenges—from pandemic-induced disruptions to escalating international trade tensions—the nuances of logistics operations, such as demurrage and detention fees, are gaining significant attention. These fees are intended to streamline port operations but often result in substantial financial burdens for businesses, highlighting a critical area of the […]

View episode

The push toward greener logistics is gaining traction as concerns about environmental sustainability and climate change continue to grow. Traditional diesel-powered vehicles, long the backbone of the freight industry, are increasingly seen as unsustainable. The introduction of zero-emission vehicles like electric and hydrogen trucks is a promising step, but these technologies face significant barriers […]