In Norse mythology, Alvis ("all-wise") was a dwarf. Thor's daughter, Thrud, was promised to Alvis in exchange for which Alvis made weapons for the gods. Thor devised a plan to stop Alvis from marrying his daughter. He told Alvis that, because of his small height, he had to prove his wisdom. Alvis agreed and Thor made the tests last until after the sun had risen--all dwarves turned to stone when exposed to sunlight, so Alvis was petrified and Thrud remained unmarried.
Alvis Cars was also the name of a British manufacturer of luxury cars. They have since moved to the production of military vehicle s under the name Alvis Vickers. They are based in Coventry, England.