Monotrace (automobile)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Ateliers du Rond Point |
| Founded | 1924 |
| Defunct | 1930 |
| Headquarters | Courbevoie , France |
Key people | Joseph-August Roten (manager from 1926) |
| Products | Automobiles (Monotrace) |
Établissements Monotrace S.A.—initially known as Ateliers du Rond Point—was a French car manufacturer active from 1924 until 1930. Starting in 1926, its operations were located in Courbevoie, close to Paris. Although presented as an automobile, the Monotrace's design closely mirrored that of a motorcycle.
The company
The production of the Monotrace began in 1924 under the name Ateliers du Rond Point based in Saint-Étienne. In 1926, manufacturing was relocated to Établissements Monotrace S.A. situated in Courbevoie, where engineer Joseph-August Roten took over management. The company discontinued production in 1930.
The cars
Monotrace's only model drew inspiration from the 1923 Mauser Einspurauto, characterized by two main wheels arranged longitudinally and equipped with retractable side-wheels to maintain balance when stationary. It was powered by a water-cooled single-cylinder engine with a displacement of 510cc, delivering approximately 12 horsepower. The drivetrain included a three-speed gearbox and a chain drive to the rear wheel. The vehicle featured inline seating for two occupants.
At the 20th Paris Motor Show held in October 1925, the company showcased this model, which was priced at 8,900 francs. The lineup was extended in 1926 with the introduction of a "delivery van" version and further diversified in 1929 by adding a single-seat sports variant.