[1] In 1903, weakness in the bicycle market prompted Canada Cycle and Motor Co.

), a bicycle manufacturer, to acquire the assets of Canadian Motors Ltd., a failed automobile producer.

Marketing included publicity stunts such as races on frozen Lake Ontario between Russell cars and ice-yachts.

[3] The company began to experience difficulties with its sleeve valve engines in 1913, sold as Russell-Knights.

[4] A downturn in the high-end market, coupled with the commencement of the First World War in 1914, resulted in Russell selling its automobile production business to the American manufacturer Willys-Overland Motors in 1916.