The government of Argentina approached several United States automakers in 1951 to determine the feasibility of building cars in Argentina. Deemed as too small a market, no one was interested. Kaiser stepped forward and in January of 1955, Industrias Kaiser Argentina was established as a joint venture between Kaiser Jeep, the Argentine government and several private investors. Kaiser Automotores was a wholly owned subsidary and was used by Kaiser to secure their investment in this new venture.
The city of Santa Isabel in the Cordoba province was chosen as the manufacturing site. Ground was broken in March of 1955 and the first Jeep came off the line on April 27,1956. The models were versions of the CJ5, pickup trucks and panel delivery. They were known as the IKA Baqueano (pickup) , IKA Estanceria (wagon) and IKA Utilitario (panel). When Kaiser sold out to AMC,the Jeeps continued at this plant although French owners eventually took part and manufactured Renault automobiles to this present day.
The vehicles mainly utilized the standard drivetrains and parts, but the bodywork was lightly modified for a unique look somewhat similiar to what the Japanese had done in the 1950′s with their licensing agreement. While I have several advertisements from magazines pertaining to these vehicles, I am unsure how much printed literature was produced. There are more pictures in the photo section of this site.
hello iwas wondering is there a way to someone in argentina about parts for these trucks i would like to get a header that i have seen on a car with the torando engine and any other hi performece parts if there are any thanks rick dannolfo newyork