Kjell Qvale |
| Founder |
| British Motor Car Distributors, Ltd. |
|
United States |
About Kjell Qvale
Kjell Qvale’s long career spans almost every aspect of the automobile industry; his successes tell a life story of challenges met and obstacles overcome. Kjell Qvale, his mother, and his siblings immigrated to the United States from Norway after spending more than a year separated from his father, who was a merchant captain. The Qvale family settled in Yakima, Washington, then relocated to Seattle.
While a student at West Seattle High, Kjell Qvale became All-City Champion in the 100-yard dash, as well as a ski champion and a halfback on the school football team. Kjell Qvale’s outstanding athletic performance earned him a scholarship to the University of Washington, where he ran for the varsity track team, eventually becoming captain. In 1941, Kjell Qvale came in first in the 100-yard dash at the Pacific Coast Conference Championships in Berkeley.
Later that year, Kjell Qvale left the University of Washington to serve in the Navy and piloted four-engine transport aircraft until his honorable discharge in 1945. One night, Kjell Qvale safely landed a plane with only a few seconds of fuel left after circling in an electrical storm en route to Guam, saving his own life and the lives of more than 100 passengers. After his service, Kjell Qvale returned to the Bay Area, where he opened his first dealership, selling Willys Jeeps for a year. In 1947, he began importing MGs after spying one on a business trip to New Orleans—even though his bank refused to finance the endeavor. In 1949, Kjell Qvale changed the name of his business to British Motor Car Distributors, Ltd., sold 600 vehicles, and was well on his way to making American automotive history.
Kjell Qvale soon became one of the most formidable figures in the industry, expanding his operations to several dealerships by 1968. Kjell Qvale has twice manufactured his own cars, including the Mangusta automobile, which he developed with Alessandro De Tomaso; sponsored teams at the Indianapolis 500; and served as President of the Pacific Racing Association at Golden Gate Fields. British Motor Car Distributors, Ltd. celebrated its 50th anniversary in 1997. In 2009, Kjell Qvale, who still owns and operates the company, completed his 62nd year with the firm.
At present, Kjell Qvale resides in San Francisco, the city that has seen so many of his triumphs. Kjell Qvale’s sons are also in the automobile business; Bruce Qvale currently owns and operates dealerships in Livermore, California, and sells vehicles by Land Rover, Jaguar, Mazda, Audi, Porsche, Subaru, and Honda.
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