Forges et Ateliers de Construction d’Eure et de Loire SA, or Facel, was founded in 1938, producing machine tools for the military aircraft industry. The company diversified and made car bodies for Ford, Delahaye, Panhard and Simca. By 1954 it had created the marque "Facel Vega" to introduce their own vehicle, known as the FV, a handsome and luxuriously appointed two-door four-seater powered by a Chrysler 4.5 liter Hemi V8. The FV evolved into the FVS (S for Sport) and later into the HK500. They also launched the Excellence, their only 4-door model, and the Facel II, advertised by the company as "The Fastest 4-seater Coupé in the World." The Facellia model, the company's attempt to enter the sports car market, had significant engine problems. It is said to have been a major contributor to the company's demise in 1964.