In 1998 while on assignment with GM in South America, Will Austin was fly-fishing in Patagonia when a light bulb
came on. After a career in the automotive industry and several trips to impoverished countries, Will realized that quality of life is dependent upon affordable transportation. Just as Henry Ford brought transportation to the masses in the early 1900s, Will envisioned the Basic Utility Vehicle (BUV) as a car for humanity.
Will began working full time on the BUV design in April 2000 and founded the Institute for Affordable Transportation as a 501(c)(3) public charity shortly thereafter. Other key milestones in our history include:
2001 First BUV sent to a developing country (Mexico).2001 Auburn University wins first annual BUV Design Competition.
2002 First prototype based on truck parts.
2004 BUV Production begins. First vehicle sent to Honduras.
2005 BUV Training Factory established in Indianapolis.
2007 First overseas BUV factory in Honduras.
2008 Factory agreements signed for Senegal and South Africa
2009 "Assembly Only" BUV developed
