No line up of vintage Matchbox toys would be complete with the inclusion of the futuristic looking BP Autotanker.
Matchbox produced this 1:89 scale model from 1961 to 1965 as part of their Major Pack series.
The real life Autotanker prototype vehicle was built in 1960 by the Bilston based Thompson Brothers in collaboration with Leyland Motors for British Petroleum and was designed to carry 4000 gallons.
It’s unique design combined tank-body, cab and chassis into one unit achieving a lower centre of gravity giving excellent roadworthiness.
As the tanker was rear- engined, entry into the cab was through the doors in between the front headlights.
The Matchbox
Autotanker appeared several times as set dressing in several of Gerry
& Sylvia Anderson’s TV series. Here we see it in a slightly altered state by Marineville Tower.
I never knew it was a real vehicle. Fascinating.
ReplyDeleteYes, sadly it didn't make it to the production line, Kev.
DeleteI wonder whether Derek Meddings was in some small way inspired by the double front steering wheels on the tanker when he was designing FAB 1?
A beautiful model toy, which I also had way back when Scoop. Lovely pictures and post. Somehow the tanker reminds me of a futuristic milk float! I thought the prop still existed but checking I'm thinking of the similar looking Hover Bus "Gerry Anderson Props" http://www.gerryandersonprops.com/models.php
ReplyDeleteI suppose technically it could carry milk, Woodsy, although I don't recall seeing many milk tankers these days. I suppose milk is all packaged up at factories these days ready for the supermarket.
DeleteHuh...!
ReplyDeleteSeems a bit of an odd design for tight turning British Roads...?
I've been led to believe (by the guys on Top Gear) that British Roads have difficulty with larger (American) cars and trucks. Perhaps they were playing it up for the sake of comedy.
Just seems to me a long, non-articulated design like that would be difficult to navigate.
Of course, you did mention that it didn't go into production. Maybe that's why...?
Either way, it's interesting! Thanks!
That thought crossed my mind too, Scott , however I remembered that long twin front steering coach in the film, The Italian Job, which is a similar length and design. (The Autotanker used is adapted from a Leyland Atlantean bus chassis) That was a Harrington Legionnaire, and based on a Bedford VAL. The Bedford was produced from 1963 until 1975, and used for tours in Britain and abroad, so I don't think the design was a problem.
DeleteIn the city of Liverpool, a Bedford VAL was used up till relatively recently from 1983 for a Magical Mystery Tour visiting places associated with The Beatles, such as their childhood homes, Penny Lane and Strawberry Fields. So if some like that can negotiate around the streets of Liverpool, the rest of the country shouldn't be too much of a problem!
I'd speculate that in-spite of the Autotanker's safer handling, an articulated tractor might have just been a more economical choice for some reason..
Interesting comments, Scoop. I was instantly distracted by the mention of Leyland Atlantean buses. In the 70's Sydney's ageing public transport fleet was being modernized and i recall going to High School on Atlanteans. These were a four wheel design built locally, so I imagine they only used the name. I suppose the advantage of a separate tractor unit for semi articulated vehocles is if they break down, you can just swap out the tractor as opposed to having a fully loaded vehicle to deal with!
DeleteYes, that makes sense, Lewis. Having a tanker filled with 4000 gallons of petrol break down and having to be towed away could lead to problems!
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