The term RANSOM AUTOMAKER is a combination of two words, the first being 'RANSOM' and the second being 'Automaker'. RANSOM is a noun meaning money or goods demanded in exchange for the release of a prisoner or kidnapped person. Automaker is a noun meaning a company that manufactures automobiles. The crossword solution for this term is OLDS, which is a reference to the Oldsmobile brand of cars, which was an American automobile brand founded by RANSOM E. OLDS in 1897.