Look back at Bedford
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Vauxhalls carried our generals in the first World War and Bedford transported most o our troops in the second. John Durant delves into the picture files
VAUXHALL/Bedford's history in military vehicles goes back a Ion, way — though not as far as the company, Vauxhall Iron Work having been founded by Alexander Wilson, a Scottish engineer, ii 1857, to manufacture marine engines for river craft.
The first Vauxhall car was made in 1903, and during the Great We its 25hp model was chosen as official staff car and the entire produc tion handed over to the Government.
General Motors acquired Vauxhall Motors in 1925 and the fin Bedford two-ton lorry and 14and 20-seater bus chassis were prc duced.
It was in the Second World War that Bedford became familiar t the Army: more than a quarter of a million were built for the Arme Forces, plus 5,640 Churchill tanks. By 1947 the half millionth Bedfor lorry had been produced — more commercial vehicles than ar other company in Britain.
The first Bedford-built diesel engine was produced ten years late and the millionth Bedford in 1958. Last year net Vauxhall and Bei ford sales amounted to £819m; exports from the UK were won1 £209m. But if anyone has one of the earlier models, then the Bedfor Preservation Club — 28 Course Road, Royal Ascot, Berkshire would like to hear from him.