Trucks in Camera: Bedford

During the 1930s, Bedford advertised its commercial vehicles with the slogan, "You see them everywhere," which held true for many decades. The company produced reliable vehicles at an economic price, catering to the small trader with its 30cwt and 2-ton trucks, 6cwt and 10/12cwt vans. During the war, Bedford produced more than 250,000 lorries for the armed forces. After the war, Bedford regained market supremacy by producing its 500,000th truck in 1947. In 1950, Bedford entered the market for heavier vehicles and produced its one millionth truck in 1958. The first of the TK range was announced two years later, introducing the concept of cab ahead of the engine.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 15 June 2021
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Bedford's Slogans and Commercial Vehicle Success

In the 1930s, Bedford adopted a slogan that would become synonymous with its commercial vehicles: "You see them everywhere." This slogan held true for many decades, as Bedford's vehicles became ubiquitous on the roads. The company's mission was to produce reliable vehicles at an economic price, catering to the needs of small traders and businesses.

Bedford's product range included a variety of trucks and vans, ranging from the 30cwt and 2-ton trucks to the 6cwt and 10/12cwt vans. The company's early success was evident, as it became one of the leading manufacturers within its first seven years. During the war, Bedford played a significant role in supplying the armed forces with lorries. The company produced over 250,000 lorries, including the 15cwt "pneumonia wagons" and the more robust 3-tonners.

After the war, Bedford faced the challenge of reintroducing new vehicles to the market. However, the company's innovative designs and commitment to quality helped it regain market supremacy by 1947. This milestone was significant, as Bedford became the first British manufacturer to produce one million trucks.

In 1950, Bedford entered the market for heavier vehicles, and its one millionth truck was produced in 1958. Two years later, the company introduced the TK range, which featured a cab placed ahead of the engine. This innovative design became a hallmark of Bedford's vehicles and has been followed ever since.

Over the course of 50 years of steady progress, Bedford's vehicles underwent significant changes in design, use, and load capacity. These changes are illustrative of the company's commitment to innovation and adapting to changing market demands. The slogan, "You see them everywhere," remains a testament to Bedford's enduring success in the commercial vehicle industry.

Weight: 316g
Dimension: 166 x 234 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445699707