Donnet-Zedel

Donnet-Zedel. The name itself, a hyphenated marriage of two distinct entities, hints at the complicated history of this early French marque. Founded in 1919 by François Donnet, the company initially relied on engines supplied by Swiss manufacturer Zedel, hence the hyphenated moniker. This reliance on external powerplants, while common in the era, ultimately limited Donnet-Zedel's long-term prospects.

Early models, like the 1920s Type G, were well-regarded for their robust build quality and respectable performance, particularly in the burgeoning post-war market. They offered a range of engine sizes, catering to diverse customer needs. However, the company struggled with consistent innovation and faced stiff competition from established players like Citroën and Peugeot.

Donnet-Zedel attempted to diversify, even entering motor racing with limited success. The 1920s saw a shift towards in-house engine development, though the company never fully escaped its dependence on outside components. By the early 1930s, financial pressures mounted, exacerbated by the Great Depression. Despite a brief merger with the Salmson company, Donnet-Zedel ultimately succumbed to the economic realities of the time, ceasing production in 1935. Today, surviving examples are relatively rare, representing a fascinating, if ultimately unsuccessful, chapter in French automotive history.