Holden EK
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Holden FB |
| Founded | May 2, 1961 |
| Defunct | 1962 |
| Successor | Holden EJ |
Area served | Australia, New Zealand, South-East Asia, Pacific Islands, South Africa |
| Products | Mid-size car |
The Holden EK series, manufactured by Holden in Australia between 1961 and 1962, represented an updated iteration of the Holden FB model, officially launched on 2 May 1961.
Model range
The EK series comprised six variants: four-door sedans and five-door station wagons available in two trim grades, along with a two-door coupe utility and a two-door panel van. The specific models were:
- Holden Standard Sedan
- Holden Standard Station Sedan
- Holden Special Sedan
- Holden Special Station Sedan
- Holden Utility
- Holden Panel Van
Changes
As the first refreshed Holden model introduced in the 1960s, the EK incorporated subtle modifications from the FB, including a redesigned grille featuring eight vertical slats and new body side mouldings. The "Standard" versions were finished in single-tone paint without decorative trim, whereas the favored "Special" trim included stainless steel side moldings, a contrasting white roof, chrome badges, and two-tone vinyl upholstery. Additional updates encompassed parking lamps integrated into the grille assembly, new exterior badging, updated interior finishes, electric windshield wipers replacing the previous vacuum-operated units, and an enhanced fresh-air ventilation system.
A significant mechanical development was the debut of Holden's first automatic transmission—the imported three-speed Hydra-Matic—offered exclusively on Special models. Buyers could also select from over 30 NASCO-approved accessories such as bonnet locks, locking fuel caps, heaters, external mirrors, and sunshades.
The commercial Utility and Panel Van models largely retained the FB’s rear quarter panels and tail light design but featured upgraded springs to boost payload capacity from 8 to 10 long hundredweight.
Engines
Consistent with the FB range, all EK vehicles were equipped with an inline six-cylinder engine known colloquially as the "grey motor," distinguished by its paint color. This engine was bored out beyond the dimensions of earlier versions to deliver .
Production and replacement
The EK was exported to multiple international markets in both left- and right-hand drive configurations, predominantly reaching New Zealand, South-East Asia, and various Pacific Islands. In South Africa, it was promoted as a vehicle "built for a country like ours," gaining favor among agricultural users for its durability.
In 1961, Holden sold 112,680 EK units while employing over 18,500 staff. However, sales declined during 1962 due to the economic downturn following the Recession of 1960–61 and the imposition of a new 40% sales tax on automobiles. Market share was further challenged by competitors such as the more angular XK Ford Falcon and R Series Chrysler Valiant, both offering compact six-cylinder engines with modern designs. After producing a total of 150,214 units, the EK was succeeded by the Holden EJ series in July 1962.
References
Further reading
- Norm Darwin, The history of Holden since 1917, 1983