Sibal (car)

Sibal (시발)
A replica Sibal constructed by the Samsung Transportation Museum from the original blueprints.
Overview
Production1955-1963
Assembly
Body and chassis
Body style2-door Jeep
RelatedWillys Jeep
Nissan Patrol (4W60)
Powertrain
Engine1.3 L 1322 cc 4-cylinder
TransmissionADV 3 only go back to the 1st MT

Sibal (Korean: 시발; Hanja: 始發, IPA: [ɕiːbal]) was a South Korean automotive brand. It was the first South Korea passenger vehicle, produced from May 1955 to August 1963. Sibal means 'inception' or 'beginning'.[1]

The first Sibal was hand-built by brothers Choi Mu-seong, Choi Hae-seong and Choi Soon-seong, based on the Willys Jeep. Initial demands for Sibal were low. However, after winning a presidential award, demand flourished.[2]

History

A replica Sibal constructed by an unknown museum.

First produced in 1955, the Sibal was initially hand-built using mostly imported parts, and a body shell made from old oil drums. Based on the Willys Jeep, production was slow until the vehicle gained a presidential award, whereupon it became a relatively popular choice for Korean taxi firms.

In 1962 the Korean government enacted The Automobile Industry Protection Act, forcing foreign manufacturers to partner with indigenous automotive companies. As a result early versions of companies such as Kia, SsangYong and others gained inroads. The Sibal was discontinued in 1963.

See also

References

  1. ^ "Sibal (1955–63)". Autocade. 2010-03-06. Retrieved 2011-12-06.
  2. ^ "Meet the first ever Korean car". TopGear. 2013-10-28. Retrieved 2015-08-21.


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