Taurus

Year of foundation 1919

Taurus isn't a car manufacturer per se, but its name is linked to two very different entities: the best-known is the Ford Taurus, a historic model produced by Ford starting in 1986 that marked a true revolution in the American automotive market thanks to its innovative aerodynamic design, advanced technological solutions, and a new approach to build quality. The Taurus quickly became a symbol of the 1980s and 1990s, achieving record sales and establishing itself as one of the most popular sedans in the United States, so much so that for several years it was the country's best-selling car with over 7.5 million units produced. Despite its success, growing competition in the early 2000s led to a decline in the model's popularity. It was temporarily withdrawn from the market, only to be relaunched in 2008 with a new generation enhanced with modern technologies such as adaptive cruise control and advanced safety systems. A version specifically for the Chinese market was produced between 2015 and 2022. The other company associated with the name is the Italian Taurus, a brand founded in 1908 in Milan and specialized in the production of high-end bicycles. Known for the elegance and robustness of its models, which became highly popular in the post-war period, it expanded its business by introducing motorcycles and moving production to Vanzaghello. It continued to grow while maintaining its artisanal style. Over time, the brand has reinvented itself with modern models and electric bicycles, remaining faithful to the tradition of quality that has distinguished it for over a century. In 2023, it received official recognition as a Historic Italian Brand, a testament to its value in the national industrial and cultural landscape.