On November 27, 1908, the Ford Motor Company publicly unveiled the Model T, a small, relatively inexpensive car engineered by Henry Ford and his team to simplify ownership and maintenance. The Model T (often called the “Tin Lizzie” in later years) was announced following development and testing in Detroit, and its introduction marked a turning point in the American automobile industry by emphasizing affordability, durability, and standardized parts. Context and design By the late 1900s the U.S. automobile market included many makes and models, typically expensive and handcrafted for wealthier buyers. Ford set out to build a car suitable for mass ownership. The Model T used a 2.9‑litre (177 cu in) four-cylinder engine, planetary gear transmission, and a lightweight, ladder-frame chassis. Its controls and layout were simplified compared with many contemporaries, easing operation and repair for owners and mechanics unfamiliar with automobiles. Manufacturing and pricing strategy A central element of the Model T’s impact was Ford’s focus on lowering production costs through parts standardization and process improvements that would soon include the moving assembly line (introduced in 1913). At launch in late 1908, the Model T was priced to be within reach of a broader segment of the public than most other cars, and Ford pursued further price reductions in subsequent years as manufacturing efficiencies increased. The company’s emphasis on interchangeability of parts and on manufacturing scale helped reduce costs and speed repairs. Market reception and early production Initial reaction from buyers and the press was mixed: some commentators praised the car’s practicality and price, while others noted its basic appointments and conservative styling compared with luxury competitors. Despite this, demand for the Model T grew rapidly in the following years. Ford’s production expanded significantly, and by making maintenance straightforward and parts widely available, the company appealed to rural and urban customers alike. Longer-term significance The Model T is widely credited with transforming automobile ownership in the United States and influencing manufacturing worldwide. Its combination of affordability, relative reliability, and repairability helped motor vehicles become a mass-market commodity rather than a luxury for the wealthy. The car’s success also supported the growth of related industries—road construction, service stations, and suburban development—over the following decades. Caveats and accuracy Historical accounts vary on some specifics of dates and early publicity: companies at the time issued different press notices and dealer announcements, and later recollections by participants can differ. The commonly cited public announcement date of November 27, 1908, corresponds to Ford’s formal introduction of the Model T to the market, but development and limited demonstrations occurred earlier in 1908. Precise production totals, pricing by body style and year, and first customer deliveries evolved rapidly as Ford scaled manufacturing in the years after the car’s unveiling. Legacy The Model T remained in production until 1927, during which time Ford produced millions of units and continually refined production methods. Its legacy is not only as a vehicle but as a catalyst for industrial mass production and the democratization of personal transportation.