Since 1776, July Fourth has been recognized as a day to celebrate America’s independence from Great Britain. Across the nation, communities gather with food, parades, fireworks, and festivities. This year, we’re celebrating transportation devices made and maintained in the USA, highlighting the innovation and craftsmanship that drive our country forward.
Transportation Devices:
The traffic light, refrigerated trucks, and the catalytic converter are all American-made devices created by African American innovators. As you drive to your celebration, remember to thank
Garret A. Morgan. In the early 1920s he witnessed a vehicle collision with a horse carriage and created the traffic light to prevent crashes from occurring. Traffic lights control the flow of traffic, allow pedestrians to cross, and reduce the number of collisions.
When pulling out your fresh food for the grill, think of 
Frederick McKinley Jones. Jones created the refrigerated truck after speaking with a truck driver who lost all of their inventory because the ice melted before he reached his destination to deliver the frozen foods. Jones’ invention was a monumental development because it established a system to ensure perishable goods can reach their destination without ruining the quality of the product due to excessive heat.
When the smell of fresh air hits your face after you reach your celebration destination, picture 
Meredith Gourdine. He is known for creating the catalytic converter, a device that cleans exhaust fumes of gases and particles harmful to the environment. With 30 patents under his belt, Meredith Gourdine used his inventions as a force for good to help keep improve air quality and the environment.
Cars Made in America:
Ford:
In 1903, Henry Ford brought together 12 investors and created Ford Motors. The Michigan-based company wanted its cars to be affordable, efficient, reliable, and accessible for the everyday person. He first introduced the Model T car in 1908. By 1911, the company expanded beyond Michigan, opening an assembly plant in Kansas City, Missouri. In 1918, Ford Motors expanded its fleet to manufacture 42 Eagle Class Boats to aid the Allies in WWI. Ultimately producing 38,000 Model T cars, ambulances, trucks, 7,000 Fordson tractors, armored tanks, and 4,000 airline engines. It is important to note that during this time, Ford Motors became one of the first American companies to hire disabled veterans and other persons with disabilities.
As the years progressed, Ford Motors has continued to be a leader in transportation innovation by expanding its fleet of vehicles and inventions and advocating for better opportunities for Americans.
Tesla:
The eccentric Tesla vehicle sparked an uptick in the popularity of electric vehicles nationwide due to its unique features (auto-pilot where the car can steer, break and park on its own), sustainability, and design. The vehicle is an American made car and is produced in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas. Tesla also reports maintaining its vehicle parts in house. An additional component of Tesla in comparison to other car dealerships, Tesla sells directly to the consumers. They utilize company owned showrooms and galleries located in urban areas.
Present Day Cars Made in America:
The Lincoln Navigator is produced at Ford’s assembly plant in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Kia Telluride is produced in West Point, Georgia.
The Genesis GV70 is produced in Montgomery, Alabama.
The Ram 150 is produced in Sterling Heights, Michigan.
The Lucid Air electric vehicle is produced in Casa Grande, Arizona.
Buses:
Now that our GoDurham Transit buses will remain fare-free until June 30, 2025, what better way to celebrate America’s independence than riding on an American-made bus? Gillig, an American company located in California, designs and builds the buses in Go Durham’s fleet (diesel, electric, and hybrid). The company was created in 1890 and is dedicated to designing buses to keep public transportation moving efficiently and sustainably.
From iconic Ford trucks and Harley-Davidson motorcycles to cutting-edge electric vehicles from Tesla, American-made transportation has a history of innovation and resilience. These vehicles symbolize freedom and mobility and the hard work of countless engineers, designers, and factory workers dedicated to building the future of travel. So, as we enjoy the festivities this Independence Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the transportation tools that keep America moving. Happy Fourth of July!