OREANDA-NEWS. On May 11, 1916, General Motors founder William C. “Billy” Durant assembled a dream team of premium automotive brands into a new company called United Motors Corporation – the forerunner of ACDelco – to provide a single source for service and replacement parts to the growing number of car buyers.

Today, ACDelco is celebrating its 100th birthday not only by reflecting on its deep heritage, but planning its future as the automotive industry is being transformed again. The brand that flew over the Atlantic with Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart; on the racetrack with Dale Earnhardt and into outer space on Apollo moon missions is leveraging its GM roots to understand the advanced powertrains, telematics and technologies that will reshape the future for everyday motorists.

“No business achieves this kind of a milestone by itself, and we’re grateful for the support of our parts customers and employees who’ve helped make ACDelco what it is today,” said Robert Sanford, general director, ACDelco. “We’re honored that so many insist on using ACDelco parts, and we’re looking forward to another 100 years of aftermarket leadership.”

Since its birth in Flint, Mich., ACDelco – the true GM Original Equipment aftermarket parts brand – has evolved into a global force in the automotive aftermarket. Its catalog of more than 90,000 parts across 37 lines undergoes rigorous testing and validation cycles to ensure quality, fit, form and function.

In addition to premium parts, ACDelco was among the first aftermarket providers to focus on the importance of training technicians on proper installation techniques. Another earlier iteration of ACDelco – United Motors Service – offered its first course in automotive air conditioning repair in the 1970s, at each of its 30 GM Training Centers across the U.S.

ACDelco is marking its centennial several ways: by honoring its top Professional Service Center stores; giving 100 scholarships to future technicians attending GM Automotive Service Educational Program (ASEP) college programs; and helping families in need during Day of Service events throughout the country. During the Day of Service events, ACDelco will partner with the GM Foundation and Safe Kids to perform repairs and offer child seat safety inspections free of charge.

ACDelco is the exclusive Original Equipment parts brand for Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac, as well as provider of premium aftermarket parts for most other makes and models. Other available applications include off-road, marine and industrial. With a century of history behind it and nearly 90,000 parts across 37 product lines, ACDelco is the preferred choice of professional technicians and do-it-yourselfers around the world. To find an ACDelco Professional Service Center program participant or parts retailer, visit acdelco.com or call 1-800-ACDELCO.