Le Zèbre
Le Zèbre, a French marque born in 1909, represents an intriguing chapter in early automotive history. Founded by Jules Salomon, the company aimed to produce affordable, lightweight vehicles, a direct response to the burgeoning demand for personal transport. Their initial models, powered by small, efficient engines, were designed for practicality and economy, rather than outright performance.
While Le Zèbre enjoyed some success, particularly in the pre-World War I era, the brand struggled to compete with larger, more established manufacturers. The company's focus on simplicity, while admirable, ultimately limited its appeal as the market evolved. Production ceased in the mid-1920s, leaving behind a legacy of pioneering engineering and a reminder of the challenges faced by early automotive innovators.