LARGE AUSTIN CONTRACTS FOR RUSSIA.
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Amongst the many contracts received from the variousAllied Governments for motor vehicles of all kinds, we believe that the aggregate of those secured by the Austin Co. from Russia comprise one of the largest, if not the largest, orders of the kind placed by them.
From particulars to hand, which we have now permission to publish, we think the variety, as well as the size of this order, is a notable feature.
One hundred and twenty 20 h.p. chassis have been supplied, to be fitted with ambulance bodies in Russia ; in addition, several other vehicles for ambulance work have been built throughout at the works. Fleets of 20 h.p. tank wagons and spare-part wagons were included ; an interesting feature of the tank wagons is the provision of separate compartments for grease, oil and petrol. The interiors of the spare parts wagons are fitted up with shelves and cupboards, so treated as conveniently to carry a fair amount of replacements for the various machines supplied.
Several three-ton lorries were fitted up as workshop wagons, the installation supplied consisting of a 5-in. Drummond lathe, electrically-driven, a pedal attachment being provided as an alternative ; internal and external grinder ; portable electric drilling machine (up to 1 in.) and stand ; portable three-decker bench with drawer and 4k-in. vice, also a second vice of the same size on a fixed bench ; anvil ; portable forgo complete with bellows, hood, and chimney ; hand-power sawing machine ; footpower grinder ; set of tools for lathe, etc., etc.
An independent electric-lighting and power plant was also fitted, consisting of a 7 h.p. Austin singlecylinder lighting set. For exterior lighting a C.A.V. set was supplied.
In connection with these workshops it is interesting to note that, instead of, as is more usual, the side& opening out to form a floor, the whole vehicle is enclosed, the windows only being made to open out for ventilation. This arrangement is on account of the rigorous cliaate in which they are to operate.
In addition to the foregoing, a fleet of over 100 three-ton transport lorries was supplied, the sides of these being arranged to open outwards and downwards, and each wagon was fitted with hooks for tarpaulin coversThe equipment included electric lighting and a searchlight, and curtains with which it is possible entirely to enclose the driver's seat. Most interesting was the fleet of 48-50 h.p. Austin battle-motors,, built up with armoured superstructure and carrying two revolving turrets for quick-firing guns.
As an indication of the splendid organization prevalent in the Aus-. tin works, it should be pointed out that practically the whole of the above material has now been despatched, the time taken for completion of the order being only about three months.
It is worthy of notice also, that this company is now busily engaged on a contract for 20 h.p. ambulances similar to those mentioned above for use by the British Army.