20 Surprising Items Made By Car Companies That Aren't Vehicles
Sometimes Cars Aren't Enough
We all know that making cars is a massive full-scale undertaking—but despite this, some car companies are still looking to branch out! As crazy as it might sound, not all car companies are content with simply staying in their lane. Ready to know what products these industry titans have made besides vehicles? Here are 20 unexpected items that show how their expertise extends far beyond the road.
1. Toyota's Sewing Machines
Toyota started in the textile industry with Kiichiro Toyoda’s weaving machine, and it later expanded into industrial sewing machines known for precision and durability. Today, they are a big automotive name, with no clear evidence of ongoing sewing machine manufacturing. It has likely been discontinued.
Chandler Cruttenden on Unsplash
2. BMW's Bobsleds
BMW has applied its engineering expertise to bobsled design, focusing on aerodynamics and lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum. Did you know the U.S. team used those BMW-designed bobsleds during the 2014 Winter Olympics?
Sandro Halank, Wikimedia Commons on Wikimedia
3. Ferrari's Theme Park
Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi was opened in 2010. It offers an immersive look into Ferrari’s racing legacy with thrilling rides and attractions. It features Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, reaching 149.1 mph. While once among the largest indoor theme parks, it is no longer the biggest. The Chimelong Spaceship in China is holding that title.
4. Mercedes-Benz's Luxury Apartments
In 2015-2016, Mercedes-Benz partnered with Frasers Hospitality Group to create high-end apartments in London and Singapore. These residences reflect the brand’s focus on luxury and high-quality materials, extending its design philosophy beyond automobiles.
Mercedes-Benz Places Miami | New Luxury Condos in Brickell by Mercedes-Benz Places - Miami
5. Ford's Ventilators
In response to the global pandemic, Ford worked with GE Healthcare to produce medical ventilators to aid in the fight against COVID-19. This collaboration marked an essential pivot, where Ford's manufacturing capabilities were used for critical healthcare solutions. Their quick adaptation to the crisis showed how car manufacturers could support industries outside their typical scope.
Ford and GE Healthcare To Build 50,000 Ventilators In Next 100 Days by Carscoops
6. Yamaha's Musical Instruments
Yamaha isn't just about motorcycles and engines; they are one of the most respected names in musical instruments. From guitars and pianos to drums and synthesizers, Yamaha has been a leader in the music industry for decades. Their expertise in precision engineering translates into high-quality instruments used by musicians worldwide.
7. Lamborghini's Smartphones
Lamborghini’s name extends beyond supercars into high-end tech, including luxury smartphones. Produced by Tonino Lamborghini, these limited-edition devices feature premium materials like leather and gold accents. With prices exceeding $2,000, these phones cater to those who want exclusivity in both their cars and their gadgets.
$6300 Lamborghini Android Phone + $10,000 Fully Encrypted Gold iPhone 6! by MS Tech
8. Porsche's Kitchen Knives
Porsche Design manufactures these knives with the same attention to detail and high-end materials used in their cars. The knives feature durable stainless steel blades and sleek aesthetics. These kitchen tools aren't just functional but also make a statement to offer chefs a combination of quality and style.
9. Tesla's Tequila
Tesla's bold move into the world of spirits came in 2020 with the launch of Tesla Tequila, a limited-edition tequila. This unusual product fits Elon Musk's quirky style and the brand's desire to create outstanding products. Produced in small quantities, the tequila is sold in uniquely designed bottles inspired by Tesla's signature design.
Unboxing Tesla's $250 bottle of Tequila by Alex Sibila
10. Bugatti's Pool Table
Bugatti is known for producing some of the most luxurious cars in the world, and they've brought that same level of opulence to a custom pool table. Made with materials including carbon fiber, aluminum, and leather, the Bugatti pool table is a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
IXO® for BUGATTI: First BUGATTI Pool Table Ready For Delivery by Bugatti
11. Volkswagen's Sausages
Volkswagen's involvement in food production may surprise many. The company produces a special type of sausage called Volkswagen Currywurst, available at its Wolfsburg plant and select locations in Germany. These sausages are a nod to German culture and VW's longstanding history in the region.
12. Rolls-Royce's Honey
A brand synonymous with luxury and precision produces its own honey sourced from the bees on its Goodwood factory grounds. The luxurious jars of honey are sold as part of the company's sustainability initiatives. The project began as a way to raise awareness about environmental preservation and the importance of pollinators.
13. Audi's Sunglasses
The brand's sunglasses are designed with the same attention to detail that goes into their vehicles, which feature precision lenses and durable frames. Audi's sunglasses appeal to those who want to express their taste for high-performance luxury even when they're not behind the wheel. These sunglasses combine luxury and practicality for UV protection.
AUDI Polarised UV 400 Protected Premium Quality Sunglass by Ohis Gallery
14. Peugeot's Coffee Mills
These high-quality grinders are made with durable materials, ensuring a consistent grind for coffee enthusiasts. Peugeot's coffee mills offer both functionality and elegance, with classic designs that reflect the brand's heritage of craftsmanship. Available in various styles and sizes, these coffee mills provide users with the perfect cup of coffee.
No machine-readable author provided. Arnaud 25 assumed (based on copyright claims). on Wikimedia
15. Maserati's Perfume
Maserati's luxury extends beyond cars into the fragrance industry with the launch of their exclusive perfume line. Crafted with the finest ingredients, these perfumes are designed to evoke the same elegance and sophistication found in Maserati's vehicles. Maserati perfumes offer an olfactory experience that mirrors the powerful presence of their cars.
I'VE GOT A MASERATI..SORT OF | MASERATI FRAGRANCE LINE REVIEW + TWO BOTTLE GIVEAWAY by Gents Scents
16. Nissan's Self-Parking Chairs
Nissan applied its automotive technology to the design of self-parking chairs. These chairs automatically align themselves when not in use. The self-parking feature ensures that the chairs are always neatly organized, even in crowded spaces. This innovation represents a fun and unexpected extension of Nissan's technology.
Nissan's self-parking robot chairs tidy up offices - BBC News by BBC News
17. Bentley's Furniture Collection
Bentley brings its signature craftsmanship to high-end furniture. The Bentley Home collection features elegant sofas and table sets made from premium materials like fine leather and wood veneers. Designed to reflect the sophistication of Bentley interiors, these pieces offer a stylish extension of the brand’s luxury lifestyle.
Bentley Home 2020 Collection by Luxury Living Group
18. Hyundai's Robotic Exoskeletons
Hyundai ventured into robotics with exoskeletons! Designed to assist people in physically demanding environments, Hyundai's robotic exoskeletons help increase strength and mobility. These wearable devices are used in industries such as construction and healthcare, where physical labor can be strenuous.
Hyundai Exoskeleton: Hands-On by Engadget
19. Honda's Autonomous Lawnmowers
Honda has made gardening easier with its autonomous robotic lawnmowers. These mowers can move through your lawn independently, providing efficient and precise cuts without human intervention. The mowers use sensors to avoid obstacles and adjust cutting patterns based on the terrain.
20. Honda's Solar Panels
Honda has been involved in the renewable energy market through its subsidiary, Honda Soltec. These panels were designed to provide cost-effective, eco-friendly energy for residential and industrial use. Although Honda Soltec was dissolved in 2014, Honda has continued to explore sustainable energy solutions. The brand commits to ongoing environmental initiatives.
