A Boost to Export T HE news that an agreement has
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been reached between chassis manufacturers and the Ministry of Supply to release four-wheel-drive models formerly built solely for M.o.S. requirements, to specified civilian markets, comes at an opportune moment to meet Continental competition. Foreign vehicles designed as, or converted to, all-wheel drive have been prominent at all recent Continental exhibitions, some being of standard military pattern and others merely modified two-wheel-drive chassis. Germany, in particular, has made a big display and that country's sales organization has canvassed all markets, including the Colonies, with Teutonic thoroughness.
Until now there has been little response from Britain because all the manufacturers have been sorely tried to fulfil home requirements for military cross country machines. Operators, including the influential oil companies, have been forced to accept standard single-axle-drive chassis for their off-the-road operations and few of these have been altered to all-wheel drive. The number of conversions has been comparatively low because of the limited capacity available only at high cost.
Built, as they are, on mass-production lines, the British four-wheel-drive chassis can be marketed at a competitive price and manufacturers should find little difficulty in selling to India. South Africa, Canada, Pakistan and Australia, countries already heavily canvassed by our foreign rivals. It would be a boost to our export efforts if the overseas markets were given early delivery, because, having many parts in common with standard two-wheel-drive models, the operator might be easily persuaded to-employ a one-make fleet.
Bedford Q.1„s, Fordsons, Karriers and other four-wheel-drive ex-military vehicles brought from disposal dumps, have given useful service to overseas users, many of whom would be willing to buy successors linked to such faithful operation.
Reading between-the lines, the decision to make these chassis generally available has the blessing of the M.o.S., initially, because it could be claimed in future that a greater proportion of civilian vehicles were being purchased for military requirements. By the time the present Government contracts have been fulfilled, it is probable that civilian needs would keep the production lines flowing smoothly and fully occupied. IL will, therefore, presumably be convenient for the M.o.S. to put through small orders Without' increase in cost.