Duple Plans Two Body Designs for Flat-engined Chassis
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NEW designs of bodywork have been evolved for next year by Duple Motor Bodies, Ltd., The Hyde, Hendon, London, N.W.9, and are intended for mounting on underfloor-engined chassis. Two types are scheduled to appear, to cater for a variety of tastes and to make the utmost use of the available chassis area.
The first of these, to be known as the Roadmastcr. will be seen at the Commercial Motor Show. A rather severe line characterizes this model, which will provide seating for 41-45 passengers. In the 7-ft. 6-in.-wide version, the spare wheel is mounted vertically behind the front panel, in the position once sacred to the 'radiator. A horizontal position beneath the floor of the cab will be used for the spare wheel on the 8-ft.-wide model, with a screw jack enabling the driver to drop the wheel easily when required.
A front entrance, ahead of the front wheels, has been designed for this body. the door being hinged at the front and swinging inwards. -To give a maximum aperture, the door is divided into halves. the bottom one turning to lie against the step, whilst the top one swings back almost against the windscreen.
Subtly different in appearance, the other model, known as the Ambassador, also for mounting on underfloor engined chassis; has curved lines. As a result, seating is restricted to 37-41 passengers. A central sliding door is used and glazed cove panels will be available.
Both bodies will employ large quantities of steel in their construction, a step towards the eventual elimination of timber. A new seat has been developed by the Duple concern. By a simple modification, it can be converted into an adjustable reclining type. Furthermore, C.A.V. low-voltage fluorescent lighting, suitable for all-metal structures, and fitted on the outer edges of the parcels racks, will be available.
A heating system of a comprehensive nature will be available. Warm air is fed through ducts to outlets beneath each seat, whilst fresh air is drawn through inlets in the front dome of the roof and in the body sides, and passes through grilles in the cove panels. A broad rubbing bar, running all round the body, is a design feature of the Roadmaster. Neither has separate mudguards, but the Ambassador has swept, decorative wing panels.