August 1946 saw the first fully functional prototype of the car in the US it was tested before shipping to Australia for evaluation. Production of the first model, the 48-215, later known as the FX, commenced in 1948.

Holden was given land at Fisherman's Bend in inner Melbourne on which it planned to develop and build Harnett's dream car for Australian conditions. He knew that many of the overseas products being sold in Australia had not been designed for the unique Australian conditions, which included hot summers and some fairly crude roads. they represent all that's best in modern car engineering and styling.In 1944, Holden's Managing Director Lawrence Hartnett (later Sir) initiated a study to determine what would be the ideal Australian car, which he planned to build after the war was over.

Right down to the last detail, the three Holden models are fresh, sparkling, graceful. There's a distinct advance in Holden's riding comfort and driving ease through re-designing of front and rear seating and the introduction of a new, ball-bearing type seat adjuster. New engine features include new pistons with stiffened head, new torsional type piston compression rings for increased economy and longer life, new larger diameter cooling fan and new flexible radiator mounting for maximum radiator protection and life. In addition to these new styling highlights, there are new and important engineering changes quite apart from the 20 improvements and refinements progressively introduced on Holden since 1949. Beautiful new two-tone colour combinations are available on the Special, which is also distinguished by an attractive hood ornament, by gleaming stainless steel mouldings round the windows and the windshield, by a belt of stainless steel which encircles the car, by twin reflex markers set in ornamental chrome fins on the rear fenders and by large 5.90 - 15 tyres. The Special and Standard have exciting new exterior colours with harmonious interiors and new trim colours. Each model exemplifies the Holden policy of constant improvement. Holden now gives you the choice of three sedans–the luxurious Special, the efficient Business model and the handsome Standard.

48 holden fj hood ornament