No, AMC (American Motors Corporation) is not owned by Dodge. While both brands have connections to the Chrysler Corporation, their relationship is not one of direct ownership.
Understanding AMC's Ownership History
American Motors Corporation, commonly known as AMC, had a dynamic and complex ownership history before its eventual acquisition. Its journey involved partnerships and takeovers by different automotive giants:
- Early Partnership with Renault (1979-1980s): In 1979, AMC initiated a joint venture with the French automaker Renault. This collaboration quickly evolved, and by the following year, Renault had acquired a controlling stake in AMC. This period saw the introduction of several Renault-designed vehicles rebranded as AMCs in the North American market, such as the Alliance and Encore.
- Acquisition by Chrysler (1987): The automotive landscape shifted, and in 1987, the Chrysler Corporation purchased AMC. This acquisition was significant as it brought valuable assets to Chrysler, including AMC's Jeep brand, which was a highly desirable addition to Chrysler's portfolio.
Ownership Timeline
The table below illustrates the key shifts in AMC's control:
| Year | Event | Controlling Entity |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | AMC began a joint venture with a French automaker. | American Motors Corporation & Renault |
| 1980 | The French automaker purchased a controlling stake in AMC. | Renault |
| 1987 | AMC was purchased by a major American automotive company. | Chrysler Corporation |
The Relationship Between AMC, Chrysler, and Dodge
Dodge operates as a brand under the umbrella of the Chrysler Corporation. This means that while Chrysler acquired AMC, Dodge did not directly own AMC. Instead, AMC's assets, including the valuable Jeep brand, became part of the larger Chrysler family.
Today, both the Chrysler and Dodge brands are part of Stellantis, a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. AMC, as a standalone entity, ceased to exist after its acquisition by Chrysler.
For more information on the history of these automotive companies, you can explore:
