Vi-Car Gordon (Vernon Industries Ltd.)

Former Automobile Manufacturer Bidston, Cheshire United Kingdom from 1952 to 1958

Vernon Industries Ltd. was a British manufacturer of small automobiles in the 1950s. 

History

The company from Bidston began in 1952 with the production of automobiles. The designer was Erling Poppe, who previously worked for Sunbeam . The brand names were Vi-Car and from 1954 Gordon .Between 1952 and 1953, the company produced invalid vehicles called Vi-Car . The design was the same as the Gordon, but there was only one front headlight. The cover of the rear wheels with motorcycle-like fenders was designed simpler.

As the Brand Name Gordon: This was a microcar with three wheels, of which the single wheel was at the front. Price for the basic car was £301 and for the De Luxe version $315. Built with a sturdy and strong body made of steel and had a roll roof construction with tubular steel chassis, it was notable for compactness and simplicity. fitted with independent suspension on all wheels. for sevice The complete engine and gearbox can be removed in 10 minutes.Steering is by means of a Burman steering unit. Wheels are large car type and interchangeable  A single-cylinder engine from Villiers Ltd with 197 cc displacement was mounted to the right of the driver (right-hand drive) outside the body and powered by a chain on a rear wheel. Access to the interior was therefore only possible through a door on the left side.

At the time it was then the cheapest car in the UK market. But by 1958 ended production. In total, a few hundred copies were created. 

Performance

• output of 8 b.h.p. at 4,500 revs
• Maximum speed 45 m.p.h.
• Fuel consumption 70-80 m.p.g.