Sharp's Commercials
Bond Cars Ltd was a British car manufacturer. The company was founded by Lawrie Bond in Preston, Lancs in 1948. First of all " Sharps Commercials Ltd " named, had its name to " Bond Cars Ltd. " changed in 1965. The company was acquired by Reliant Motor Co Ltd of Tamworth, Staffs 1970. The new owner closed the factory in Preston, used the brand name " Bond" but until 1974 for vehicles from our own factory in Tamworth.
Bond Minicar
Bond Cars began manufacturing a tricycle in 1949. Was called " Minicar Mark A " and was powered by a single-cylinder two -stroke Villiers with 122 or 197 cc. The body consisted primarily of aluminum, with some models also fiberglass for some parts was installed. The vehicle was a success. Tricycles were treated as motorcycles with sidecar in the UK and could be driven with a low driving license. They were also tax benefits.
The Minicar went through seven stages of development, culminating in the " Mark G " 1961. Various body styles were offered. Larger engines were built, first a 250cc single-cylinder, then an equally large twin Villiers 4T (optional in the " Mark G "). Developed as motorcycle engines, they had no reverse gear. But this was only a small disadvantage because motor circuit and front formed a unit that could be turned by the steering wheel 90 degrees to the right and left. So decreed the vehicle over a minimum turning radius and could turn almost on the spot.
A special type reverse gear was installed on later models. He worked by the machine could be stopped and started backwards. This was achieved by a reverse running the Dynastart device, a combination of starter and alternator.
The last mini cars were built in 1966.
Bond Equipe 1963-1970
The team was Bonds first four-wheel vehicle, a two-door sports car with a fiberglass body, the (later 1296 cc ) twin carburettor engine of the Triumph Spitfire was mounted on a Triumph Herald chassis with 1147 cc. From 1967, the team was based on the two-liter six-cylinder Triumph Vitesse. A convertible was built in 1968.
Bond 875 1965-1970
The Bond 875 was a tricycle with 875 cc four-stroke big - rear engine from the Hillman Imp He was hired by Reliant in the takeover.
Bond Bug 1970-1974
The Bond Bug was probably the most famous work of the company, a tricycle with Reliant 700 cc four-cylinder engine and a top speed of 75 mph Most Bond Bug was bright orange. Designed by Tom Karen of Ogle Design body was considered fashionable. Access to the car had passengers by vorklappten the entire roof.
Other products
Bond also built scooters, a Motorski, trailers, tents, suitcases and more.