Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Bond

The Bond car company was a British manufacturer that produced a variety of small, economical vehicles from 1949 to 1974. Best known for its three-wheeled microcars, Bond also built lightweight sports cars and innovative designs. The company operated from Preston, Lancashire, and later became part of the Reliant Motor Company.

Origins and Founding (1949)

Bond cars were the brainchild of Lawrie Bond, an engineer and designer with a background in military aviation and motorcycle racing. After World War II, Bond sought to create simple, affordable vehicles for the austerity era. He partnered with Sharp’s Commercials Ltd in Preston to manufacture his designs.

The Bond Minicar

• Introduced in 1949 as the first Bond vehicle.
• Three-wheeled design powered by a small motorcycle engine.
• Fiberglass and light alloy body to keep weight and costs low.
• Steering operated by turning the entire front wheel assembly.

The Minicar quickly became popular as an affordable alternative to motorcycles and sidecars, especially since three-wheeled cars in the UK could be driven on a motorcycle license and benefited from lower road tax.

Development of the Minicar Series (1949–1966)

Over the years, Bond produced several versions of the Minicar, each with incremental improvements in performance, comfort, and styling.

Notable Versions

• Mark A–C (1949–1956) – Early models with basic weather protection and minimal comforts.
• Mark D–F (1956–1963) – More enclosed body styles, better suspension, and more powerful Villiers two-stroke engines.
• Bond 875 (1965–1966) – A radical version using a 875cc Hillman Imp engine, capable of over 80 mph.

Bond Sports Cars

While Bond was best known for three-wheelers, the company also ventured into small four-wheeled sports cars in the 1960s.

Bond Equipe (1963–1970)

• First four-wheeled car produced by Bond.
• Fiberglass sports coupe and convertible bodies on Triumph Herald chassis.
• Initially powered by Triumph 1147cc engines, later upgraded to 2.0L six-cylinder units.
• Offered genuine sports car performance with distinctive styling.

The Equipe was relatively successful for a small manufacturer and remains one of the more collectible Bond models today.

Later Three-Wheelers (1967–1974)

In the late 1960s, Bond introduced new three-wheeled models to replace the ageing Minicar.

Bond Bug (1970–1974)

• Futuristic wedge-shaped microcar designed by Tom Karen of Ogle Design.
• Bright orange bodywork, two seats, and a canopy-style lift-up roof.
• Powered by a 700cc or 750cc Reliant engine.
• Marketed as a fun, youthful city car.

The Bond Bug became an icon of 1970s British motoring culture, remembered for its unique looks and playful image.

Acquisition by Reliant and End of Production

In 1969, the Reliant Motor Company acquired Bond. Reliant continued to produce the Bond Bug until 1974 but discontinued the Bond name afterward. Reliant’s own three-wheeled models, such as the Reliant Robin, effectively replaced Bond’s offerings.

Legacy of Bond

Although Bond was never a large manufacturer, its innovative approach to small, affordable vehicles left a lasting impression on British motoring. From the pragmatic Minicar to the sporty Equipe and the whimsical Bond Bug, the company produced vehicles that were distinctive, economical, and often ahead of their time.

Collector Interest

• Bond Bugs are especially sought after for their retro appeal and rarity.
• Minicars attract microcar collectors worldwide.
• Bond Equipes are valued by classic British sports car enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Bond car company embodied post-war British ingenuity, creating unique vehicles tailored to the needs of the era. While the brand disappeared in the 1970s, its quirky and charming designs continue to be celebrated by enthusiasts and preserved by dedicated owners’ clubs.