[REAL, 1949-1966] The Bond Minicar

THE BOND MINIBYKE (1949)

Mk.A (1949-1951) & Mk.B (1951-1952):

Hard to tell the Models apart, here is what I have managed to find: Mk. A: Larger and taller rear mudguards. Mk. A: 8 ft 10 in long, 4 ft 7 in wide, 3 ft 6 in tall. Mk. A: Flatter hood with less headroom. Mk. B: Smaller but wider rear mudguards, part of a redesign for practicality. Mk. B: 9 ft 1 in long, 5 ft 0 in wide, 3 ft 9 in tall. Mk. B: Redesigned hood with more headroom, giving a slightly higher roofline.

Mk. B MINITRUCK VARIANT:

Mk. B MINIVAN VARIANTS:

Mk. C PROTOTYPE:

Mk. C (1952-1956):

Mk. D (1956-1958):

Mk. E PROTOTYPE:

Mk. E (1957-1958):

Mk. F (1958-1963):

Mk. G (1961-1966):

Mk. G VAN VARIANT:

Info:

Emerging in the austere aftermath of the Second World War, the Bond Minicar embodied a distinctly British form of ingenuity—lightweight, efficient, and pragmatic. Conceived by engineer Lawrence “Lawrie” Bond, whose wartime experience at the Blackburn Aircraft Company heavily influenced his approach, the vehicle offered an accessible transport solution for a nation grappling with fuel rationing and economic hardship.

Launched in 1949 by Sharp’s Commercials Ltd. of Blackpool, the initial model—designated the Mark A—was striking in both form and function. It featured a 125cc Villiers two-stroke engine, an aluminium body, and a single front wheel that served both steering and drive functions.

Weighing under 200 kilograms, it achieved up to 100 miles per gallon, a figure that earned it widespread attention as “the world’s most economical car.” Crucially, the three-wheeled configuration allowed it to be taxed and insured as a motorcycle, making it a financially viable alternative to conventional four-wheeled vehicles.

The Bond Minicar underwent a steady evolution throughout its production life, each model reflecting refinements in response to consumer feedback and engineering progress.

The Mark B (1951) introduced a more powerful 197cc engine, improved suspension, and a safety-glass windscreen. Later iterations expanded the vehicle’s utility: the Minitruck variant targeted light commercial use, while the Family Safety Saloon broadened its appeal to households.

The Mark C (1952) offered enhanced styling, faux front wings, and optional convertible or van configurations.

Technical advancements continued with subsequent models. The Mark D added a long-requested reverse gear, and the Mark E adopted a semi-monocoque chassis with a longer wheelbase, though at the expense of some stability. The Mark F introduced a more powerful engine and a four-seat saloon layout.

The final iteration, the Mark G (1961), marked the peak of the series, incorporating a fibreglass roof, larger wheels, and upgraded interiors, while preserving the fundamental three-wheeled, lightweight architecture that defined the vehicle.

Despite its success—with over 24,000 units produced—the Bond Minicar was ultimately a product of its time. Production ceased in 1966 as shifting economic conditions, tax reforms, and changing consumer expectations eroded the advantages of three-wheelers.

Rising affluence led buyers towards conventional cars, while regulatory changes removed the fiscal benefits that had once made the Minicar attractive.

Sources: https://ingeniumcanada.org/channel/articles/a-microcar-designed-in-a-time-of-austerity-the-bond-minicar

https://bondcars.net/Minicar Mk B.htm

https://absolutelycars.fr/culture-automobile/bond-createur-d-atypiques-micro-cars/