Coach Styles 1950s-1990s

The 1950s saw traditional coach styles, but technological advances led to more adventurous designs in the 1960s. The motorway age increased coach sizes and speeds, and Continental coach holidays became popular. Volvo led the influx of foreign chassis manufacturers, and home-built coaches were in the minority.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The 1950s were a time when coach styles were still very traditional. However, all that was about to change with the introduction of the new underfloor-engined chassis and an increase in maximum length. As technology improved, styles became more adventurous and flamboyant, with the 1960s heralding the motorway age. Coaches became bigger and capable of cruising at much higher speeds, and styles moved with the times. By the end of the decade, the maximum length increased to 12 meters. Continental coach holidays increased in popularity, and European coachbuilders started to sell in the UK in increasing numbers. Executive and high-floor coaches were much in demand.

After a slow start in 1972, Volvo headed the influx of foreign chassis manufacturers, and within fifteen years, home-built coaches were in the minority. Supported by a wealth of fascinating images, Tim Machin takes the reader on a journey through these changes.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 165 x 234 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398108509