Car logos are more than just branding—they’re visual narratives of heritage, innovation, and symbolism. Among these designs, arrows (or arrow-inspired motifs) often represent speed, direction, and ambition.
In this article, we dive into eight iconic car logos featuring two arrows or chevrons, uncovering their hidden histories and the genius behind their designs.
From wartime tributes to nods at ancient mythology, these emblems are packed with stories. Let’s explore!
1. Citroën
The Design:
Citroën’s logo features two inverted V-shaped chevrons, stacked vertically. While not literal arrows, the chevrons evoke movement and mechanical precision.
Story:
Founded in 1919 by André Citroën, the brand’s logo pays homage to his early career in gear manufacturing.
The chevron shape mimics the teeth of herringbone gears, which Citroën patented in the early 1900s. These gears were quieter and more durable, symbolizing the brand’s engineering excellence.
The double chevron became a metaphor for progress, reflecting Citroën’s pioneering role in mass-producing cars and innovations like the front-wheel drive.
2. Polestar:
The Design:
Polestar’s logo features two interconnected arrows forming a star, blending Scandinavian minimalism with futuristic energy.
Story:
Originally Volvo’s performance division, Polestar rebranded in 2017 as an EV-focused marque. The two arrows represent navigation and direction, reflecting the brand’s tech-driven mission.
The star symbolizes the North Star (Polaris), a nod to guidance and innovation in sustainable mobility.
3. Pontiac
The Design:
Pontiac’s iconic red arrowhead logo (used until 2010) featured a split design, creating the illusion of two converging arrows.
Hidden Story:
Named after the 18th-century Odawa leader Chief Pontiac, the brand initially used a Native American chief profile. In 1957, the arrowhead emblem debuted, symbolizing speed and agility. The split arrow design subtly honored Pontiac’s “split grille” cars while evoking a sense of forward thrust.
Conclusion: Arrows as Beacons of Progress
From Citroën’s industrial gears to Polestar’s electric future, these logos prove that arrows and chevrons are timeless symbols of momentum.
Whether honoring heritage, engineering, or innovation, each emblem tells a story of where the brand has been—and where it’s headed.
Next time you spot one of these logos, remember: they’re not just marks of identity but compasses guiding automotive history.