Lancashire Lantern
Lancashire Lantern: Lancashire Pioneers
Part of the Lancashire Lantern network, the Pioneers gives details of people who were famous local people in science, technology and innovation. These pioneers were either born in Lancashire or their endeavours made a significant contribution to the development of the County.
Lawrence "Lawrie" Bond - The Bond Minicar
Shortages and rationing after the war resulted in the development of the 500cc class racing car.
After testing in Longridge and Jeffrey Hill, the bright yellow 500cc Bond special made its debut in 1947.
The ultra-light car, nicknamed the Doodlebug, only came fifth but its design made quite an impact. (Pictured left)
A year later the more advanced Type C Bond helped establish Bond's reputation, despite its lack of success. Only three cars were built.
During the fifties Bond continued to be a frequent competitor at racing venues throughout the country, although he was never especially successful.
It was to be for an entirely different type of car that Bond was to become best known.1948 saw the announcement of the Bond Minicar.
The prototype for this tiny three-wheeled vehicle was again built at his Longridge workshop, but, realising its commercial potential under the economic conditions of the time, Bond entered into an agreement with Sharp's Commercials of Preston.
Influenced by his years in the aircraft industry, Bond used sheet aluminium for the Minicar's body shell and its 122ccVilliers motorcycle engine produced a top speed of around 40 miles per hour.
With its claimed fuel consumption of 104 miles per gallon and priced at £150 plus purchase tax, it would herald cheap motoring for post-war Britain.
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