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Sharp's Commercials

Sharp's Commercials Ltd was a manufacturer based in , initially established for producing commercial vehicles and later renowned for its innovative three-wheeled microcars under the marque. The company began manufacturing the in January 1949, following an agreement with designer Lawrence Bond, who brought forward a lightweight, fuel-efficient design influenced by aircraft engineering principles. The series, starting with the Mark A model featuring a 122 cc Villiers (upgraded to 197 cc in late 1949) and an aluminum body, addressed post-World War II demands for affordable transport during fuel rationing periods, requiring only a to operate. Production of the Minicar evolved through models like Mark B (1951), Mark D (1956), and culminated with Mark G in 1966, with over 24,000 units built in total across variants. In 1963, buoyed by the success of the four-wheeled sports saloon—assembled using components—the company rebranded as Bond Cars Ltd, shifting focus toward broader automotive production including the Bond 875 (1965) and the iconic (1970). Ownership changes marked the company's later years: acquired by the Dutton-Forshaw Group in 1968 and then by Reliant Motor Company in 1969, leading to the closure of its facilities by 1970 and the discontinuation of the name by 1974. These vehicles exemplified microcar innovation, contributing to 's engineering heritage and influencing economical personal transport designs in the mid-20th century.

History

Founding and Early Operations (1922–1948)

Sharp's Commercials Ltd was founded in by Paul Sharp in , initially operating as a motor specializing in vehicles and engineering services. The firm focused on the production and repair of , trailers, and other general goods, providing essential support to local industries and transport needs in the . During , Sharp's Commercials served as a key contractor for the , undertaking repairs on damaged military vehicles and assembling Chevrolet trucks from imported knock-down kits for the . This wartime role significantly expanded the company's engineering capabilities and workforce, but it also tied its operations heavily to government demands. In the immediate years from 1946 to 1948, Sharp's Commercials encountered substantial challenges as contracts concluded abruptly, leaving the firm without its primary revenue stream and necessitating rapid diversification into civilian markets. To address these difficulties, the company brought on Lawrence "Lawrie" Bond, an aeronautical engineer, as a and in the late , whose expertise would help pivot toward innovative vehicle production.

Development of Automotive Production (1949–1962)

In 1949, Sharp's Commercials, a Lancashire-based firm originally established for commercial vehicle repairs, entered automotive production with the launch of the Bond Minicar Mark A. Conceived by engineer Lawrie Bond as a low-cost alternative to motorcycles, this three-wheeled microcar utilized a lightweight aluminum stressed-skin body for corrosion resistance and ease of manufacture, paired with a front-mounted 122 cc Villiers two-stroke engine (197 cc in the deluxe variant) that drove the single front wheel. Production commenced in January at the company's Ribbleton Lane facility in Preston, initially at a rate of 15 units per week, reflecting the firm's confidence in the design's market potential amid Britain's post-war recovery. The Mark A capitalized on the era's economic constraints, including fuel shortages and high taxation on conventional , by qualifying for a due to its gross weight under 8 cwt (406 ). This accessibility, combined with of around 80 (3.5 L/100 km), positioned it as practical transport for urban commuters and rural users. By , over 1,973 units had been produced, establishing a for growth. At that year's show in , Sharp's highlighted a commercial van of the Minicar as a "revolutionary design" for light haulage, enhancing the model's visibility and underscoring its versatility beyond personal use. Subsequent iterations from Mark B to F, spanning 1951 to 1962, refined the design for better performance and durability while maintaining affordability. The 1951 Mark B introduced a larger 197 cc Villiers engine, rear suspension via trailing arms, and a safety windscreen, with 1,414 units built before production shifted to the restyled Mark C in 1952, which featured independent rear suspension and achieved around 6,700 units through 1956. Engine options progressed to 250 cc in later models like the Mark F (1958–1962), boosting power to approximately 12 and top speeds to 55 (89 km/h), appealing to buyers seeking more refinement. These evolutions addressed user feedback on handling and weather protection, solidifying the Minicar's reputation in a . To support rising output, Sharp's expanded its Preston operations, incorporating the nearby India Mill for fiberglass molding and trim work to streamline body production at the main assembly site. The favorable regulatory environment for three-wheelers, coupled with post-war demand for economical vehicles, drove expansion; cumulative production surpassed 10,000 units by 1956. Early exports emerged in the 1950s, with units shipped to markets like the , signaling initial steps toward broader distribution despite the domestic focus.

Name Change, Acquisition, and Closure (1963–1974)

In 1963, Sharp's Commercials formally changed its name to Bond Cars Limited, reflecting the growing brand recognition of the Bond Equipe model, introduced in 1963. This rebranding, effective in October, capitalized on the Equipe's success in broadening the company's appeal beyond its traditional three-wheeler market. A pivotal event in 1964 was the launch of the updated Bond Equipe GT4S on October 12 at London's Dorchester Hotel, featuring revised bodywork with twin headlights and an opening rear boot for enhanced practicality. However, the company faced mounting financial pressures from broader market shifts, particularly the 1962 UK purchase tax reductions on four-wheeled cars—from 55% to 45% in April and 25% by November—which eroded the tax advantages of three-wheelers like the Bond Minicar, making them comparably priced to emerging affordable four-wheelers such as the Mini. This transition prompted Bond to emphasize four-wheeled production, but declining three-wheeler sales led to warnings of redundancies and factory risks by the mid-1960s. By February 1969, amid ongoing economic challenges, was acquired by the Reliant Motor Company after an unsuccessful attempt, integrating operations with Reliant's Tamworth facilities and incorporating Reliant design elements, such as the adaptation of the Reliant Rogue into the . Reliant's ownership streamlined production but highlighted quality issues at , contributing to the decision to close the Ribbleton Lane and India Mill factories by December 1970, with assembly ceasing in after over 34,000 Bond vehicles had been produced across all models since 1949. Although shut down, Reliant continued using the name for models like the Bug until production ended in 1974, effectively concluding the marque's independent legacy.

Automotive Products

Bond Minicar Series (1949–1966)

The series represented Sharp's Commercials' entry into affordable personal transport, capitalizing on post-war austerity in where three-wheeled vehicles benefited from reduced purchase tax and licensing fees compared to four-wheeled cars. Designed by engineer Lawrie Bond and manufactured from 1949 to 1966 in , the Minicar featured a lightweight stressed-skin body for simplicity and low cost, a single front driven powered by from a rear-mounted Villiers , and two fixed rear wheels with no . Early models lacked reverse gear, instead using a rotatable engine and front wheel assembly—earning it the nickname ""—while later variants added conventional reversing. Engines ranged from 122 cc single-cylinder units producing around 6 hp to 250 cc twins delivering up to 15 hp, enabling top speeds of 38–55 mph depending on the model. Overall, the series emphasized , with no front brakes in initial designs and basic cable-operated rear drum brakes, making it ideal for short urban trips at low running costs. The Mark A, introduced in January 1949 as a 2/3-seater tourer, set the template with its 122 cc Villiers 10D engine, 6-volt electrics, and Perspex windscreen, priced at £282 for the basic model. Production ran until April 1951, yielding 1,973 units, many exported to markets like . The subsequent Mark B (1951–1952) introduced the reverse rotation mechanism and minor refinements like improved steering, with 1,414 units built. The Mark C (1952–1956) modernized the appearance with false front wings, a restyled body, and optional 197 cc Villiers engine, boosting popularity; approximately 7,000 were produced, including and variants. Further evolution came with the Mark D and E (1956–1958), which adopted 12-volt electrics, a Dynastart self-starter, and the 197 cc engine as standard for better reliability, though the narrow body led to handling quirks in the Mark E. Production totaled 4,950 units combined, with the Mark D accounting for 3,761 units and the Mark E for 1,189 units. The Mark F (1958–1963) addressed prior issues with a wider body, four-seater options including convertibles and coupes, and retained the 197 cc powerplant, achieving strong sales amid growing demand. Production totaled 6,493 units for the Mark F. The final Mark G (1963–1966) upgraded to a 250 cc Villiers twin-cylinder engine for 55 mph top speed and 60 economy, offered in , , and forms, with pricing around £295 for the van variant. Production totaled 3,253 units for the Mark G. Total Minicar production exceeded 24,000 units across all marks, with the series peaking in the late 1950s before declining due to competition from four-wheeled economy cars like the BMC . The endures as an emblem of Britain's innovation, embodying resourcefulness in an era of and embodying the shift toward accessible motoring. Surviving examples, including early Mark As, are preserved in institutions like the collection, while enthusiast groups such as the Owners' maintain rallies and restorations, highlighting its quirky engineering and cultural significance.

Bond Equipe (1963–1970)

The , introduced in May 1963 by Sharp's Commercials, marked the company's transition from three-wheeled economy vehicles to a more conventional four-wheeled , utilizing a modified double with the scuttle, windscreen, and doors from the donor car. Designed by Lawrie Bond with Italian-inspired GT 2+2 coupe bodywork, the initial model featured a 1147 cc engine producing 63 bhp, paired with a four-speed manual gearbox, all-independent suspension, rack-and-pinion steering, and Girling front disc brakes for enhanced handling and stopping power. Priced at £822, it offered a top speed of around 95 mph and 0-60 mph in approximately 15 seconds, positioning it as an affordable sports tourer. In September 1964, the GT4S variant was launched, featuring a restyled body with a Kamm tail, an opening boot lid, four headlamps, and improved headroom, while retaining the 1147 cc initially; production of this model reached 1,934 units until February 1967, when it was upgraded to a 1296 cc Spitfire delivering 75 for better performance. The Equipe's early sales success, exceeding 200 units in its first year and totaling 451 for the GT by September 1964, prompted Sharp's Commercials to formally change its name to Cars Limited in October 1963, reflecting the model's impact on the company's identity. This built upon the lightweight construction expertise gained from prior three-wheeled models, adapting techniques to a four-wheeled platform. Further evolution came in August 1967 with the 2-Litre model, shifting to a chassis and a 1998 cc producing 95 (upgraded to 104 in the 1968 ), enabling a top speed of 100 mph and 0-60 mph in 11.5 seconds; available as a coupe (Mark I, 591 units) or saloon/ (Mark II, 841 units), it was priced at £1,095 and included Rostyle wheel trims on later versions. Overall production of the Equipe series totaled 4,389 units through October 1970, with post-1968 modifications including refined interior trim and optional convertibles to meet evolving market demands. While not prominently featured in , the Equipe's blend of sporty dynamics and practicality contributed to its niche appeal among enthusiasts.

Bond 875 (1965–1970)

The Bond 875 was a three-wheeled saloon introduced by Sharp's Commercials, which had been renamed in , as a successor to the earlier series. Launched to the public in following prototype development announced after the British International Motor Show, it featured a fully molded glass-fiber body with aluminum doors and a four-seater configuration designed for greater practicality and comfort. The vehicle marked a significant evolution in Bond's three-wheeler lineup, incorporating a rear-mounted, water-cooled 875 cc four-cylinder engine derived from the but detuned for the Rootes van application, producing 34 bhp at a lower 8:1 compression ratio. Equipped with a four-speed synchromesh gearbox and transaxle assembly from the Commer van, the Bond 875 offered improved drivability over its predecessors, including independent suspension and a leaning front wheel setup that enhanced ride quality and handling stability. Its lightweight construction—under 400 kg—enabled a top speed of around 80 mph and acceleration from 0-60 mph in approximately 16 seconds, making it one of the faster three-wheelers of the era while maintaining fuel efficiency suitable for economical family transport. Additional features included 12-inch wheels with 8-inch hydraulic drum brakes, a 6-gallon fuel tank, and optional heater and demister, positioning the 875 as an accessible alternative to four-wheeled family cars amid Britain's post-war emphasis on lightweight vehicles exempt from certain licensing and tax requirements for three-wheelers. Production of the 875 ran from April 1966 to February 1970, with a peak output of 45 units per week across and saloon variants, as well as van derivatives, totaling approximately 3,441 vehicles. Variants included the initial with its original styling and the restyled featuring updated front-end aesthetics, both retaining the core mechanical setup for versatility in personal and light commercial use. The model's end came in 1970, shortly after Reliant's 1969 acquisition of Cars Ltd, as the company shifted focus to the sportier and consolidated operations amid competitive pressures from established rivals like the , leading to the closure of the factory by December 1970.

Bond Bug (1970–1974)

The was a distinctive three-wheeled introduced in June 1970 by Cars Ltd., which had been acquired by Reliant Motor Company in February 1969. Designed by at , the vehicle featured a bold, wedge-shaped body that emphasized a futuristic aesthetic, complete with a lift-up targa-style canopy serving as both roof and door for the two occupants. Powered by Reliant's water-cooled 700 cc inline-four engine producing 29 bhp, it offered nimble performance with a top speed of 78 mph and was marketed as an affordable "fun car" for younger drivers, priced at approximately £629 upon launch. Following the closure of Bond's Preston factory, production shifted to Reliant's Tamworth facility, where a total of 2,268 units were assembled before discontinuation in May 1974. The car's single rear-wheel-drive layout, derived from Reliant's engineering, contributed to its playful handling, though it was positioned as a sporty to conventional economy , appealing to those seeking a vibrant, eye-catching . In 1973, an upgraded 750 cc engine variant was introduced, boosting output to 32 and spawning models like the deluxe 700E and enhanced 700ES, with the latter including additions such as a spare wheel and revised instrumentation for improved comfort and practicality. The achieved notable cultural resonance as an icon of 1970s British design, influencing the in the 1977 film Star Wars through Tom Karen's subsequent work and appearing in media like the comedy series The Young Ones. Despite initial marketing efforts targeting the youth market, sales fell short of expectations amid shifting consumer preferences and stricter emissions regulations, leading Reliant to prioritize the more practical Robin model. Today, the Bond Bug holds strong collector appeal, with well-preserved examples fetching £7,000 to £16,000 at auction as of 2025, valued for its quirky engineering and enduring pop culture legacy.

Other Products and Innovations

Motorscooters and Mobility Aids

Starting in the late , Sharp's Commercials produced a range of two-wheeled vehicles alongside its three-wheeled cars, including lightweight motorcycles and scooters under the marque to capitalize on demand for affordable personal transport. Initial models included the Bond Minibyke (launched September 1949, 98 cc Villiers engine, ~750 units produced until 1953), BAC Lilliput (February 1951, 98 cc Villiers, ~200 units until 1952), and BAC (November 1951, 122 cc Villiers, discontinued 1952 due to engine supply issues). These efforts were influenced by designer Lawrie Bond, sharing manufacturing resources and production lines in . The scooters featured practical designs suited for urban commuting, featuring twist-grip throttle controls and, in later models, electric starting for simple operation. In the mid-1950s, the company continued diversification with prototypes like the 1955 scooter, featuring a 98 cc Villiers engine and swinging-arm , which was abandoned after limited testing due to lack of orders. The P-series scooters, launched in 1958, represented a main foray into this segment, with the P1 model equipped with a 148 cc Villiers Mk 31C , glass-fibre bodywork, and electric starting via a SIBA Dynastart . Subsequent variants included the P2 with a more powerful 197 cc Villiers Mk 9E engine for improved performance, and the P3/P4 updates in 1959 that incorporated a redesigned tubular , fixed front mudguards, and coil-sprung with hydraulic dampers for better handling. Although marketed aggressively as "all-British" alternatives to imported scooters, including participation to boost visibility, sales remained modest due to competition from established brands, leading to production ending in 1962. Parallel to scooter development, Sharp's Commercials adapted its automotive expertise to create mobility aids for disabled individuals in the , producing powered and invalid carriages that leveraged the lightweight for accessibility and efficiency. The Sharp's Commercial 3 cwt, introduced around , served as a versatile powered designed to transport or a regulation-size , complying with Ministry of Pensions specifications for invalid vehicles. It utilized a stressed-skin body on the Minicar Mark C , powered by a 250 cc Brockhouse side-valve mated to an gearbox, delivering top speeds of 40-50 mph and fuel economy of 70-80 mpg. The design included a spacious 25 boot for storage, emphasizing practicality for users with mobility impairments, and integrated seamlessly with the company's existing pressed-steel production techniques. These vehicles addressed a niche need in post-war , where government schemes supported such aids, though exact production volumes were limited.

Non-Vehicle Commercial Items

In the 1950s and 1960s, Sharp's Commercials, leveraging its molding expertise developed for the series, diversified into non-vehicle leisure products to utilize manufacturing capacity and explore new markets. These efforts included trailer tents and , produced in limited runs at the company's facilities to supplement automotive output. The company's trailer tents represented an innovative entry into portable camping solutions, designed for compatibility with the lightweight vehicles. The initial model, introduced in November 1962 and debuting at the Earls Court Motorcycle Show, featured an aluminum trailer measuring 7 feet 6 inches long by 5 feet wide, which unfolded into a 15-foot with a wooden floor, tubular frame, and canvas walls providing 6 feet 8 inches of headroom; setup required just 90 seconds, and it incorporated Minicar components such as Flexitor , hubs, 8-inch wheels, and lights for ease. Production totaled 145 units through October 1963, priced at £98, with the tent removable to allow use as a general-purpose trailer; available in white or silver, it addressed post-war demand for affordable but was discontinued due to stability issues in windy conditions. A refined version, the Trek Tent, followed in May 1964, incorporating a lid to reduce weight and simplify handling while maintaining the 5-foot width and 7 feet 2 inches length, unfolding to a 70-square-foot floor area with 7 feet 2 inches headroom and a two-minute setup via a pram-hood-style on a rigid metal frame. This hinged design minimized wind exposure compared to the original, and the lid could be removed for cargo use (40 cubic feet capacity); offered in colors like cherry red, gold, and , it was priced at £118 complete or £85 with lid. Production ran intermittently through July 1964 and April 1965, yielding 99 units, emphasizing lightweight construction suitable for export and small-vehicle owners. Sharp's also produced the , a launched in 1962 under a with an American firm and showcased at the Earls Court Boat Show, utilizing floats and controls molded with the company's automotive know-how. Customers supplied their own outboard engines (5 to 18 horsepower), and the simple, operator-friendly design—initially in blue, yellow, or light brown—aimed at recreational boating in , with reported interest from buyers in and . Bond manufactured 110 units until June 1965, after which rights passed to Kirkham's Marine Ltd., which added for and produced 150 more in signal red; despite its ease of use, the product achieved limited commercial success and did not become widely adopted.

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