Cammell Laird ship builders
Yes indeed, it's the first prototype by Cammell Laird, part of the Metro-Cammell-Weymann group of companies. It dates from 1970 and was based on the geriatric Beardmore taxi. It had a 1760 cc Perkins diesel engine and a gearbox and other running gear from a Ford Transit van. The grille was from a Cortina Mk II. A second prototype was built and entered service in 1971. Based on the results of trials full-scale production was planned.
But Carbodies, the makers of the iconic London Cab (FX4) made sure Cammell Laird knew they would always sell their car for £100 less, which influenced the decision to can this Metrocab.
Not forever, however, as 15 years later a Metrocab did enter service with plastic bodywork made by Reliant, and was reasonably successful.
1 point to you!
