Ligier

Ligier is a French automobile manufacturer that is well-known for producing microcars and Formula 1 racing cars.

Established in 1968 by Guy Ligier, the company has a dual identity: one as a producer of small, economical vehicles for the European market and another as a key player in the motorsport world, particularly in Formula 1 racing.

The company initially focused on producing small, lightweight cars designed for urban driving, catering to the demand for affordable and efficient transportation. While Ligier is better known for its microcars today, the company also has a significant legacy in the world of motorsport, particularly in Formula 1 (F1) racing.

The Ligier F1 team was one of the prominent teams in Formula 1 during the 1980s and early 1990s. Guy Ligier, after making his name in motorsports, created the Ligier F1 team in 1976. The team enjoyed notable success and was known for its partnership with talented drivers like Jacques Laffite, René Arnoux, and Michel Leclère. The Ligier F1 team was also symbolic of French motorsport, often using French drivers and equipment. The team’s blue, white, and red colors were reminiscent of the French flag, emphasizing its national pride.

The team was eventually sold in 1996, and its legacy continued through subsequent ownership changes, with the team being acquired by Alain Prost (under the name Prost Grand Prix). In some of its microcars, Ligier has partnered with larger manufacturers like Renault for sourcing engines and components. This partnership helped Ligier develop vehicles that were more efficient and reliable while maintaining their signature compact size.