Edsel Logo

Edsel LogoEdsel Logo PNG

The Edsel logo is a study in contrasts, a juxtaposition of ambition and reality. Although the brand was one of Ford Motor Company’s most notable failures, its emblem symbolized great optimism. A large letter ‘E’ showcased pride in this new venture, set against a life-affirming green circle. Concentric rings emanating in all directions made the emblem resemble a target, a vinyl record, or, most aptly, a spinning wheel.

The prominent ‘E’ in the logo is not just a letter; it represents the audacious goals the brand set for itself. As the initial of the brand name, it looms large, just as the company had hoped to dominate the automotive market. The choice of a big capital, ‘E,’ symbolizes self-assured confidence, an expectation of excellence, and the hope for a revolutionary impact on the automotive world.

The green circle around the ‘E’ serves multiple roles in the emblem’s symbolism. Green is commonly associated with growth, prosperity, and new beginnings. Encircling the ‘E’ implies that the brand was meant to herald an era of prosperity and innovation in the auto industry. The hue makes a statement about the brand’s commitment to positive change and progress.

Concentric circles in the design are compelling. These rings pull the eye inward, making the emblem hard to ignore. Their arrangement evokes thoughts of ripple effects, suggesting that the brand aimed to impact the industry far beyond its initial offerings. In resembling a vinyl record, they pay homage to the era’s pop culture, while the similarity to a target speaks of ambitious goals and pinpoint focus. The spinning wheel interpretation is particularly poignant for an automobile brand, underlining the perpetual motion and progress notion.

Despite its fall from grace, Edsel left behind an emblem rich in symbolism and aspirations. The intricacies in its design encapsulate what the brand hoped to be — a cornerstone in automotive history, setting trends and changing paradigms. Though it failed to meet those lofty goals, its emblem remains a fascinating visual narrative, a lasting testament to ambitions larger than life but not meant to be.

Edsel: Brand overview

Founded: November 19, 1956 – November 19, 1959
Founder: Ford Motor Company
Headquarters:
Allen Park, Michigan, U.S.
In the late 1950s, Ford Motor Company ventured into a new division, christening it “Edsel” in honor of Henry Ford’s son, Edsel Ford. Launched in November 1956, the brand aimed to bridge the divide between Ford’s economically-priced cars and the more opulent Lincoln range.

When 1957 rolled around, Edsel cars debuted amidst much anticipation and hype. However, despite the extensive marketing push, the brand’s initial models, released in 1958, faced significant challenges. Many attributed their underwhelming performance to unconventional design choices, lapses in reliability, and unclear brand positioning.

Ford’s projections of selling 200,000 vehicles in the first model year came crashing down as Edsel managed to move just 64,000 units off the dealership floors. To recoup losses, the designs for the 1959 and 1960 models were toned down and the budget trimmed. Yet, the brand couldn’t shake off its dwindling sales trajectory.

A mere two years after its grand introduction, on November 19, 1959, Ford announced the discontinuation of the Edsel division and its associated car models. This brief venture set Ford back by over $250 million, solidifying Edsel’s place in automotive history as a cautionary tale. By the time the curtain fell on Edsel, only around 116,000 vehicles had been produced, wrapping up its production in the waning months of 1959.

Meaning and History

Edsel Logo History