Ceirano

Year of foundation 1898-1923

The Ceirano story begins in late 19th-century Italy, when brothers Giovanni, Ernesto, Matteo, and Carlo Ceirano dedicated themselves to mechanics and the automotive industry. Giovanni Ceirano, considered one of the pioneers of the Italian automobile, founded the company "Ceirano G. & C." in 1888 to produce bicycles and later motorized tricycles, anticipating the birth of the Italian automobile. In 1898, the brothers began producing the first internal combustion engine vehicles, laying the foundation for significant expansion. In the early 1900s, several family members founded automotive-related companies: Giovanni and Matteo were among the founders of Itala, Ernesto created the Ceirano Fabbrica Automobili, and Matteo contributed to the creation of S.T.A.R. (Società Torinese Automobili Rapid), all of which profoundly influenced the Italian automotive industry. The Ceiranos' innovative capacity was reflected in the design of lightweight, sporty, and luxury vehicles capable of competing with the most advanced European manufacturers. In the 1920s and 1930s, the Ceirano companies underwent mergers and acquisitions, with some production lines being merged with Fiat, but the Ceirano name retained a certain resonance thanks to the technical reputation of its founders. After the Second World War, the brand entered a phase of decline, with direct automobile production ceasing, while the family continued to operate in the mechanical and automotive sectors in consulting and design roles. In recent decades, the Ceirano name has often been recalled at historical exhibitions, classic car rallies, and publications dedicated to the history of the Italian automobile, as a symbol of the ingenuity and pioneering vision that characterized the Turin and national industry. The Ceirano family is recognized for laying the foundations of many historic companies and for helping make Italy one of the leading nations in automobile production in the early 20th century. Today, although Ceirano no longer produces its own cars, its contribution is celebrated by classic car enthusiasts, industry historians, and events dedicated to the memory of Italy's automotive pioneers, recalling an era when a family's passion and innovation forever shaped the history of motoring in our country.