Boasting over 100 years of existence, Ford is well known for a rich, long history and a collection of highly-rated models, as well as a healthy rate of success. Ford has simply become synonymous with the automotive and leasing industry, according to reports from http://www.centralcontracts.com.

The Ford brand was founded by Henry Ford and 11 other investors, contributing $28,000, notably the Dodge brothers, Horace and John, who later went on to create the Dodge make of vehicles. The first Ford vehicle was also created in this year - the 'Fordmobile' (Model A).

Consequently, Ford began to expand further, quickly become a motoring giant of the industry, though it has not been without its occasional scandals or negative aspects affecting its course. Listed below are five key points in the timelines of the history of Ford Motor Company:

1896-1903: In 1896, Henry Ford builds his first vehicle, the Ford Quadracycle, which was placed on a buggy frame with 4 bicycle wheels. In 1898, Ford creates the Detroit Automobile Company, but two and a half years later it was dissolved. Ford also wins a high-profile race in 1901 and the Henry Ford Company is incorporated following this, but later discontinued the following year. Consequently, in 1903, Ford Motor Company is created fully.

1906-1919: By 1906, Ford Motor Company becomes the best-selling make for the US, with a healthy production amount of 8,700 vehicles. In 1909, Ford Motor Company (England), or as it is otherwise known as, Ford Britain, is created to take advantage of an untapped UK market. Two years later, Ford also open a Manchester factory to help ease the production process, also speeding up sales. In 1919, son of Henry Ford, Ensel, takes over as president of the firm.

1929-1945: Boasting an annual production peak of 1.5 million in 1929, Ford is seen dominating the automotive market, knocking Chevy off the top spot. Ford later create a general purpose jeep suited to military use in 1941 and the trademark pressed metal grille that Ford designed is still used today. Edsel Ford dies of cancer in 1943, after which his father, Henry, resumes his position as president, for the following two years, until his grandson Henry Ford II takes over in 1945.

1947-1989: Following the death of his grandfather, Henry Ford, in 1947, Henry Ford II takes over as chairman. 10 years later, Ford commemorates a past president with a new brand of automobiles - the Edsel, and celebrates the production of approximately 1.68 million models. In 1960, the newly appointed US Secretary of Defense is appointed as President of Ford. Seven years later, the firm established Ford of Europe to help corner more markets. Ford acquire a quarter of the Mazda brand in 1977, also acquiring Hertz Rent-a-Car and Aston Martin Lagonda in 1987. Jaguar were also acquired by Ford in 1989.

1999-2010: Ford acquire Volvo car division as Bill Ford, son of Henry Ford, becomes Chairman of the Board in 1999. The following year BMW sell Land Rover brand to Ford in 2000. Six years following, Ford begin a restructuring program, closing unprofitable factories - Ford is also picked up by a number of car leasing companies, such as Central Contracts. The following year, Ford show significant losses, so sell Land Rover, Jaguar and Aston Martin over the next two years. Despite this, according to figures from Central Contracts, leasing is a markedly popular choice on the leasing market.

Thankfully, Ford has a strong brand confidence and combined with an effective restructuring program, it is likely that the firm can regain its position as leaders in the market; but whatever the future has in store for them, it is easy to see that this is a brand that has truly left its mark in history.