The cross is one of humanity’s most enduring symbols, often associated with religion due to its deep-rooted connection to Christianity. However, its origins predate this link, with ancient cultures recognizing the cross as a sacred symbol tied to rituals, myths, and traditions. Over time, it became a universal emblem, appearing in art, architecture, coins, and, in modern times, automotive logos.

In the automotive world, the cross symbolizes reliability, security, and stability. Let’s explore the car brands that have embraced this timeless symbol in their logos.

1. Alfa Romeo

Logo Meaning:
The Alfa Romeo emblem is a masterpiece of heraldic design. The red cross represents the coat of arms of Milan, while the crowned serpent devouring a man originates from a legend about the Visconti family, founders of Milan. This elegant logo blends history and mythology, showcasing Alfa Romeo's Italian heritage.

2. Chevrolet

Logo Meaning:
The iconic Chevrolet bowtie, introduced in 1914, is a stylized Swiss cross. The gold-and-silver design reflects reliability and excellence. Over decades, the logo has evolved while retaining its distinct shape, making it one of the most recognizable automotive emblems worldwide.

3. HTWO

Logo Meaning:
HTWO, Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel-focused brand, features a minimalist cross as part of its monogram. This sleek, futuristic design in bright blue conveys stability, innovation, and environmental consciousness, embodying the brand’s forward-thinking ethos.

4. Hispano-Suiza

Logo Meaning:
This historic brand combines the Swiss and Spanish flags in a circular emblem with open wings and a propeller, reflecting its Swiss founder Marc Birkigt’s journey to Spain. Although Hispano-Suiza was dormant for decades, it was revived for producing electric cars, with its logo honoring its storied past.

5. K-R-I-T Motor Car

Logo Meaning:
The K-R-I-T Motor Car logo features a swastika-like cross, a design long predating its unfortunate 20th-century associations. This controversial logo belongs to the now-defunct American brand, which operated from 1909 to 1916.

6. Lincoln

Logo Meaning:
Often called the "Lincoln Star," the cross in the Lincoln logo has sparked various interpretations. Some view it as a compass, symbolizing global reach, while others see it as a celestial body representing luxury and prestige. Either way, the design exudes timeless elegance.

7. Meteor

Logo Meaning:
Meteor, a Ford subsidiary in Canada, used a heraldic crest overlapped by a pointed silver cross. The design resembled a star, representing excellence and quality. Although the brand ceased operations, its logo remains a testament to its distinctive style.

8. O.S.C.A.

Logo Meaning:
Founded by the Maserati brothers in 1947, the Italian racing brand O.S.C.A. featured a heraldic emblem with two red crosses. Combined with intense blue and white elements, the logo reflected the brand’s competitive spirit and Italian heritage.

9. Polestar

Logo Meaning:
Polestar, Volvo’s electric car subsidiary, transitioned from a sky-blue logo to a minimalist four-pointed star resembling a cross. The sleek and modern design underscores the brand’s progressive vision and focus on sustainability.

10. Pontiac

Logo Meaning:
Pontiac replaced its original Native American head emblem in the 1950s with a red arrowhead featuring a silver cross, resembling a four-pointed star. This clean, understated design symbolized precision and performance, staying with the brand for decades.

11. Subaru

Logo Meaning:
Subaru’s emblem, inspired by the Pleiades star cluster, features six stars representing the six companies that formed Fuji Heavy Industries. The stars resemble stylized crosses, set against a striking blue background and enclosed in a silver oval, symbolizing unity and excellence.