[Swordmaker]

I thought the guy who made the lear jet built the first automobile/car radios..........Hmmmmmm ???

I think that was 8 track tapes...

[wysiwyg]

I saw this on cable a few days ago... Yes, William Lear invented 8-track tapes for use as in-flight entertainment in Learjets. Ford picked up on it and started putting them in cars. About.com has more info.

[Erasmus]

It is true that Bill Lear inspired the development of the 8-track cartridge for his Lear Jet. It was an adaptation of the "Fidelipac" cartridge that was in use in broadcasting (and in some places still is!).

In addition, it is true that Bill Lear was one of Paul Galvin's early associates, and helped to develop the practical car radio at the beginning of the 1930's.

In the 70's or 80's, Lear publicly claimed credit for inventing the term "Motorola;" however this was refuted by Bob Galvin, the founder's son, shortly thereafter. His father, who died around 1960, had told him the story of his coining the term while shaving one morning as the product was nearing its introduction.