24 Surprising Items Made By Car Companies That Aren’t Vehicles
Car companies are known for building engines and chassis, but every now and then, they venture into unexpected territory.
A friend of mine once showed up to a road trip wearing a Porsche-designed jacket, and I jokingly asked if it added horsepower.
Turns out, automakers have dabbled in everything from sewing machines to high-end espresso makers.
Some of these side projects were wildly successful, while others were just bizarre experiments. Here are 24 surprising items made by car companies that have nothing to do with vehicles.
1. Toyota Sewing Machines
I remember the day I stumbled upon my grandmother’s old sewing machine, which bore the Toyota emblem. Yes, Toyota, the same brand famous for its reliable cars, made sewing machines.
It was fascinating to discover that before conquering the roads, Toyota had mastered the art of sewing.
Who would have thought that under the same brand, you could find something as homely and creative as a sewing machine? It made me wonder, could this be the secret to their precision engineering?
2. Honda Lawnmowers
Honda, a brand synonymous with engineering excellence, extends its prowess into the world of lawnmowers. These machines are built with the same attention to detail as their vehicles.
The lawnmower’s engine, smooth and efficient, mirrors the precision of a well-tuned car engine.
Just like a maestro guiding an orchestra, Honda’s lawnmower orchestrates a symphony of performance and reliability, making yard work a breeze.
Imagine trimming your lawn with the same technology that powers their renowned vehicles! It’s little wonder their mowers are held in such high regard.
3. BMW Bicycles
Growing up, I always associated BMW with luxurious cars. However, discovering their bicycles was a revelation.
These bikes carry the same legacy of high performance and design excellence as their automobiles. Riding a BMW bicycle feels like a nod to their heritage of quality and innovation.
It got me thinking, is a chance to ride such a bike a glimpse into their automotive world? The combination of tradition and modernity in their bicycles is truly something to ponder.
4. Porsche Sunglasses
Porsche’s reputation for high-performance vehicles is echoed in their line of sunglasses. These shades offer an amazing design comparable to sports cars from brands like Ferrari.
Crafted with precision, the sunglasses provide not just style but also protection, much like the safety features in their cars.
Porsche sunglasses are more than just an accessory; they embody the brand’s commitment to innovation and elegance.
One might wonder if wearing them gives a sneak peek into the world of high-speed thrills.
5. Lexus Hoverboard
I remember the sheer disbelief when a friend showed me a hoverboard, proudly branded by Lexus. It was like seeing the future unfold before my eyes.
Lexus, known for luxury cars, had ventured into creating a hoverboard that defied gravity. The hoverboard uses magnetic levitation, a fact that still boggles my mind.
Who would’ve thought that a brand synonymous with ground-bound luxury would take to the skies, even if just a few inches above the ground?
6. Hyundai Elevators
Hyundai doesn’t just move people on roads; they elevate them, literally. Their elevators are crafted with the same dedication to safety and innovation as their cars.
Picture an elevator ride as smooth as cruising in a luxury sedan. Hyundai’s elevators incorporate cutting-edge technology to ensure safety and efficiency, akin to a dependable co-driver.
This unexpected venture shows that Hyundai’s expertise in transportation transcends traditional boundaries, providing upward mobility in more ways than one.
7. Ford Perfume
Ford’s legacy extends beyond iconic automobiles. Discovering their perfume line was as surprising as finding an old Mustang in mint condition.
Ford perfume captures the essence of adventure and independence, akin to the spirit of their vehicles. It made me ponder, is scent another way to experience the thrill of the open road?
As a brand steeped in history, Ford continues to innovate in unexpected ways. Could their fragrance be the next classic in their lineup?
8. Mercedes-Benz Surfboards
Mercedes-Benz, a name synonymous with luxury and performance, takes its engineering expertise to the ocean waves with their surfboards.
Comparable to high-end cars like BMW, these boards are crafted for precision and style. The surfboards showcase a commitment to quality and innovation, echoing the brand’s reputation on land.
With creative designs and robust materials, Mercedes-Benz surfboards provide a premium experience for wave riders. Could this venture be the start of a new legacy?
9. Bugatti Pool Table
The first time I saw a Bugatti pool table, it was like discovering a piece of art. Known for their hypercars, Bugatti’s venture into luxury pool tables is a testament to their craftsmanship.
Each table is a masterpiece, blending elegance with functionality. It’s fascinating to see how they bring the same attention to detail in a pool table as in their cars.
Who could have imagined that a car brand could redefine leisure with such finesse?
10. Lamborghini Headphones
Lamborghini, renowned for its iconic supercars, transfers its passion for precision to headphones. These aren’t merely audio devices; they’re engineered for an immersive experience, much like their cars.
The headphones deliver sound as powerful as a roaring engine, ensuring clarity and depth.
With cutting-edge technology and a design that echoes Lamborghini’s signature style, these headphones offer an audio journey as exhilarating as a drive in their legendary vehicles.
It’s an unexpected harmony of technology and art.
11. Subaru Air Purifiers
Subaru has always been about adventure and the great outdoors. Yet, discovering their air purifiers was a delightful surprise. These devices embody Subaru’s commitment to clean environments.
Just like their vehicles, they’re designed to tackle any challenge, ensuring fresh and pure air in your home.
Could this be their way of bringing the essence of nature indoors? Subaru’s venture into air purification makes one wonder how else their innovation will enhance our lives.
12. Audi Espresso Machines
Audi, known for precision engineering, extends its expertise to espresso machines. Like their cars, these machines embody elegance and performance.
Comparable to other luxury brands, Audi’s espresso machines offer a seamless experience. With amazing designs and state-of-the-art technology, they promise a perfect brew.
Audi’s venture into the world of coffee isn’t just about taste; it’s about delivering an experience as refined as driving their vehicles. Could this be the ultimate combination of technology and taste?
13. Nissan Robot Suit
When I first encountered the Nissan robot suit, I was intrigued. Known for innovation, Nissan’s robotic exoskeleton assists in lifting heavy objects.
It’s designed to enhance human capability, reflecting Nissan’s forward-thinking approach. This suit showcases the brand’s commitment to technological advancement beyond automobiles.
Who would have thought that a brand famous for cars would venture into robotics?
14. Peugeot Salt and Pepper Mills
Peugeot, a brand with a storied past, extends its craftsmanship to salt and pepper mills. These kitchen essentials are engineered with precision, much like their vehicles.
The mills, with their amazing design and robust functionality, are a staple in gourmet kitchens worldwide. Peugeot’s dedication to quality and innovation shines through in these culinary tools.
Just as their cars are known for smooth handling, their mills offer a seamless seasoning experience. Could this be the culinary equivalent of driving excellence?
15. Volvo Marine Engines
Volvo’s legacy in safety and reliability is renowned. Discovering their marine engines was like uncovering a hidden treasure chest.
These engines embody the same principles as their vehicles, offering power and durability. Volvo’s venture into the marine world showcases their versatility and commitment to quality.
Is this diversification a glimpse into their innovative future? With marine engines, Volvo continues to navigate uncharted waters, ensuring their signature reliability in every journey.
16. Tesla Tequila
Tesla, the pioneer of electric cars, ventured into spirits with their tequila. This product, much like their vehicles, is all about delivering a unique experience.
Unlike other car brands, Tesla’s tequila embodies sophistication and innovation. With a design reminiscent of their futuristic cars, it’s more than just a drink; it’s a statement.
Tesla’s foray into tequila might seem unexpected, yet it aligns with their ethos of pushing boundaries. Is this a taste of things to come?
17. Aston Martin Luxury Real Estate
When I first heard that Aston Martin was delving into real estate, I was fascinated. Known for luxurious cars, their venture into designing homes seemed like a natural progression.
Aston Martin residences are a combination of luxury and innovation, much like their vehicles. It’s intriguing to think about living in a space crafted by a brand synonymous with elegance.
Could this be the ultimate lifestyle upgrade for car enthusiasts? Aston Martin’s real estate reflects their commitment to creating unparalleled experiences.
18. Ferrari Theme Park Merchandise
Ferrari, known for its iconic supercars, extends its brand to theme park merchandise. Like their vehicles, these items are crafted with precision and style.
The merchandise, featuring vibrant designs and quality craftsmanship, captures the spirit of Ferrari. It’s like wearing a piece of automotive history.
Just as their cars offer thrilling experiences, Ferrari’s theme park items bring the exhilaration into everyday life. Could this be the ultimate connection between fans and the Ferrari legacy?
19. Rolls-Royce Picnic Sets
Rolls-Royce, a brand synonymous with luxury, offers picnic sets that redefine outdoor dining. Discovering this was as surprising as finding a hidden compartment in a classic car.
These sets, crafted with elegance and precision, mirror the brand’s reputation for excellence. It’s fascinating to think of enjoying a picnic with the same opulence as riding in a Rolls-Royce.
Could this be the epitome of leisure luxury? The brand’s dedication to craftsmanship extends beyond cars, offering unique experiences.
20. Mazda Soy-Based Plastics
Mazda, a brand known for innovative vehicles, has embraced sustainability with soy-based plastics. These materials, used in car components, reflect Mazda’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
Like other forward-thinking manufacturers, Mazda is exploring alternatives to traditional materials.
The soy-based plastics offer durability and reduce environmental impact, showcasing Mazda’s dedication to innovation and sustainability.
Could this be the future of automotive materials? Mazda’s initiative represents a significant step towards greener manufacturing.
21. Mitsubishi Pencils
Among the many arms of a vast industrial group, one division is known not for engines or engineering—but for creating world-class writing instruments.
Competing with brands like Staedtler and Faber-Castell, it produces high-quality mechanical pencils and gel pens found in classrooms and offices worldwide.
Though it shares a name with the automaker, the company functions independently today, rooted in the same Mitsubishi keiretsu that spans shipping, electronics, and heavy industry.
It’s an unexpected but enduring reminder of how wide a single brand’s reach can go.
22. Chevrolet Branded Boots
Chevrolet, a brand with a storied automotive past, extends its ruggedness to branded boots. These boots, designed for durability and comfort, echo the reliability of their vehicles.
Like their cars, Chevrolet boots are crafted for performance in challenging conditions. With sturdy materials and a design built to endure, they’re a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to quality.
It’s like having the spirit of an off-road vehicle in your footwear. Could these boots become as iconic as their trucks?
23. BMW Luggage Sets
Premium travel gear has become a natural extension for performance and luxury brands expanding into lifestyle accessories.
Competing with luggage from brands like Tumi and Samsonite, this line stands out by incorporating minimalist design, high-quality materials, and subtle branding.
Created by the same design team responsible for automotive interiors, the focus is on durability, ergonomics, and mobility.
Offered through official retail channels and dealerships, it’s tailored for customers who value consistency between how they travel and what they drive. It’s not just luggage—it’s part of the experience.
24. Renault Electric Scooters
Renault, a car brand known for its commitment to innovation, has ventured into the world of electric scooters.
Like other forward-thinking brands, Renault’s scooters are designed for urban mobility, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional commuting.
With sleek designs and efficient performance, these scooters capture the brand’s dedication to technology and sustainability.
Renault’s scooters are more than just a mode of transport; they represent a shift towards greener urban living. Could this be the path to a sustainable future?