Latin seems to be particularly popular for branding in the car industry. It is notable how often UK car manufacturers have chosen Latin names for their models. This is particularly true at Vauxhall whose models have included the Senator (no translation required), theVelox (velox meaning “speedy”), the Nova (nova meaning “new”) and the Vector (vectormeaning “one that carries”). Its current model, the Vauxhall Astra, likely derives its name from astera meaning “stars” in Latin. Perhaps they have a Classicist on their staff! We round off this article with our particular favourite: ASICS, the sportswear brand. ASICS is an acronym of the Latin motto anima sana in corpore sana meaning “healthy soul in a healthy body”. In fact, the original citation is mens sana in corpora sana, i.e. “healthy mind in a healthy body”, but perhaps the marketing gurus decided that MSICS did not have the same ring as ASICS, and we’d agree!
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