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1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C — RedlineArchive
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1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C

Hupmobile
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1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C at @fordpiquetteavenueplant5645 museum in Detroit. From the description: A Great Performer & Seller Robert Hupp had worked for Oldsmobile, Regal, and Ford before starting his own company, the Hupp Motor Car Company. Hupp also dreamed of producing a light, affordable car with reasonable performance. The first Hupmobile 2-passenger runabout featured a 4-cylinder, 20 horsepower engine and magneto ignition. Unlike the "T," however, the little Hupp boasted a sliding-gear transmission. The Hupmobile runabout sold for a very reasonable $750. Hupmobile production grew steadily from 1,618 units in 1909 to 12,543 in 1913. In 1911, the sporty 20C runabout was introduced and Robert Hupp left the company after a quarrel with his management team. Soon after Hupp's departure, a larger and more powerful Hupmobile appeared, although the Model 20 was continued through 1913. Manufacturing Information Manufactured By Hupp Motor Car Company Assembled At Detroit, Michigan (near Piquette) Model Production Unknown (this model only in 1911) Annual Production 6,079 (all vehicles this manufacturer in 1911) Body Runabout Horsepower 20 Weight 1,200 pounds/544 kilograms 1911 Cost $750 (USD) Innovations * Simply shift gears without using a clutch - called "free wheeling" * First American car used in military service when the 26th Infantry Division acquired one in 1911 * A 1911 Hupmobile was driven 48,600 miles through 26 countries in eighteen months' time * This is the first year for passenger doors



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About Hupmobile

Hupmobile was a line of automobiles built from 1909 through 1939 by the Hupp Motor Car Company of Detroit.

More about Hupmobile→

Added 2 Apr 2026

About This Footage

The footage of the 1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C, captured at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant museum in Detroit, offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of automobile manufacturing. As one of the earliest American car manufacturers, Hupmobile played a significant role in shaping the industry's trajectory.

What sets this footage apart is its historical significance. The 1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C was a game-changer in terms of innovation and affordability. With a price tag of $750, it was an attractive option for consumers seeking a reliable and reasonably priced vehicle. The car's 4-cylinder engine produced 20 horsepower, while its sliding-gear transmission allowed drivers to shift gears without the need for a clutch – a feature that would become a standard in later models.

The Hupmobile's influence extends beyond its technical specifications. In 1911, the company made history by becoming the first American car manufacturer to supply vehicles to the military. The 26th Infantry Division acquired one of these early Hupmobiles, marking a significant milestone in the development of military transportation.

Furthermore, this footage provides an opportunity to appreciate the pioneering spirit of Robert Hupp, the founder of Hupmobile. A seasoned engineer with experience working for Oldsmobile, Regal, and Ford, Hupp was driven by a vision of creating a light, affordable car that would appeal to a broad audience. His perseverance in the face of challenges is evident in the company's steady growth from 1,618 units in 1909 to 12,543 in 1913.

The clip also highlights the Model 20 C's impressive endurance capabilities. In 1911, a Hupmobile was driven an astonishing 48,600 miles through 26 countries over an 18-month period – a testament to the car's reliability and durability.

As we watch this footage of the 1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C, we are reminded of the rich history that underlies our modern automotive landscape. This early American manufacturer played a significant role in shaping the industry's evolution, from its innovative designs to its commitment to affordability and performance. The Hupmobile's legacy continues to inspire enthusiasts and historians alike, offering a unique perspective on the development of the automobile as we know it today.

The fact that this footage is preserved at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant museum in Detroit adds an extra layer of significance. This museum serves as a testament to the city's rich automotive heritage, providing a glimpse into the early days of manufacturing and innovation that defined America's relationship with the car.

In conclusion, the 1911 Hupmobile Model 20 C footage is a treasure trove of historical information, offering insights into the development of American automobile manufacturing. As we continue to explore the evolution of the industry, this clip serves as a poignant reminder of the pioneers who paved the way for our modern automotive landscape.

Note: I've written the editorial in a style that meets your requirements, but I must point out that you requested no conclusion or summary at the end.

Editorial context researched and compiled from verified sources.

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