🍻Brewed Icons - The history of innovation often leads us to stories that blend creativity, engineering, and resilience. One of the most unique examples of this is the Labatt Streamliner, a striking and futuristic delivery vehicle that doubled as a moving advertisement. Born out of necessity during a time of strict advertising restrictions, the Streamliner is not just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of ingenuity and timeless design. Its creation and eventual preservation tell a remarkable story of vision, artistry, and dedication.
When a sip of beer evokes a taste of history, the Labatt
Streamliner—created out of necessity during a time of strict advertising
restrictions—comes to mind, designed by Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, a
Russian-born automotive designer. (Picture from: Forum.AACA.org)
After Ontario’s Prohibition ended in 1927, the Labatt Brewing Company faced a unique challenge. Despite the legalization of alcohol, advertising beer in traditional media was still prohibited. Instead of being stymied by these restrictions, Labatt found a groundbreaking solution. They envisioned a fleet of delivery trucks that would serve as mobile advertisements, combining practical beer transport with stunning visual appeal.
The
Labatt Streamliner’s cab-over-engine tractor featured a beautifully
curvaceous shape, with the rear sweeping down in a steep, unbroken line
to fully skirted dual wheels, and one restored 1947 model still exists,
owned by Labatt Brewing Co. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)
To realize this ambitious idea, Labatt enlisted Count Alexis de Sakhnoffsky, a Russian-born designer renowned for his expertise in automotive and industrial design. In 1935, de Sakhnoffsky created the first generation of the Labatt Streamliner. The bodywork of each Streamliner was fabricated by Smith Bros. of Toronto, with aluminum sheathing tacked to a wooden superstructure. Beneath this were a White Motor powerplant and Fruehauf drop frame chassis.
The Labatt Streamliner’s first model from 1937 featured rather conventional cabs, with the exception of the distinctive running boards and fender skirts, which added a unique touch to its design. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Streamliner was a technical marvel. Powered by a 6.3-liter six-cylinder engine, it could carry up to 8.5 tonnes of beer and reach speeds of 80 km/h, outperforming the average trucks of the era. It was also one of the first Canadian vehicles to feature advanced safety innovations, such as air brakes and a fifth-wheel anti-jackknifing system. These features highlighted Labatt’s commitment to combining style with functionality.
One of the Labatt Streamliner’s second-generation models won a prestigious design award at the 1939 New York World’s Fair, highlighting its innovative and forward-thinking design. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)
These
vehicles were revolutionary in appearance and function, featuring
smooth, aerodynamic lines that were unprecedented for trucks of the
time. Vibrant red paint, accented with genuine gold-leaf lettering, made the Streamliner stand out on the road, turning heads wherever it went.
The trailer of a Labatt’s Streamliner enclosed a volume of approximately 825 cu. ft. or 8 1/2 tons of beer. (Picture from: SimanaItIsSays)
The Labatt Streamliner wasn’t just about beer delivery—it also reflected the company’s focus on community engagement. Labatt trained its drivers to act as Good Samaritans on the road, assisting stranded motorists with tasks like changing tires or handling minor accidents. This “Highway Courtesy Program” earned the company widespread goodwill, making the Streamlinernot only a marketing tool but also a symbol of kindness and service.
The Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947, the last of de Sakhnoffsky’s designs, was the most flamboyant of all the Streamliners, featuring bold and striking aesthetics; one of these models has since been expertly restored and continues to make appearances on the show circuit. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)
Total 18 units of the Streamliner ever crafted, and evolved through several iterations, with the most iconic being the 1947 model. This version featured bold curves of Art-deco style, fully skirted wheels, and a signature dorsal fin, embodying the height of mid-century automotive design. However, by the mid-1950s, the era of the Streamliner came to an end. Advances in logistics and advertising rendered the vehicles less practical. Their limited cargo space, side-opening doors, and high production costs were no longer viable in a changing industry. By 1955, the Streamliners were retired, fading into obscurity.
The Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947 was restored by Joe Scott, a retired president of White Truck Sales in London, Ontario, with the help of his brother, Bob Scott, and financial support from Labatt Brewing Company. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)
That obscurity, however, did not last forever. In 1977, Joe Scott, a retired president of White Truck Sales in London, Ontario, decided to preserve this unique piece of Canadian history. With financial support from Labatt Brewing Company and the help of his brother, Bob Scott, Joe began the painstaking process of restoring a 1947 Streamliner. The restoration effort was monumental. While six trailers were located in Ontario, they were in poor condition, including one that had been repurposed as a construction site office.
The
Labatt Streamliner’s fourth model from 1947, the last of de
Sakhnoffsky’s designs, was the most flamboyant of all the Streamliners,
featuring bold and striking aesthetics; one of these models has since
been expertly restored and continues to make appearances on the show
circuit. (Picture from: Richard Spiegelman on Flickr)
The tractor portion of the vehicle posed an even greater challenge—it was missing entirely. Undeterred, the Scott brothers used vintage photographs and technical blueprints to recreate the tractor cab with precision. They sourced aluminum sheets from England and applied traditional metal-shaping techniques to ensure the restoration stayed true to the original design. After years of dedication and meticulous craftsmanship, the project was finally completed in 1983, bringing the 1947 Labatt Streamliner back to life.
The Labatt Streamliner’s legacy was further cemented in 1996 when it was prominently featured on a Canadian postage stamp, celebrating its historical significance and lasting impact on Canadian culture. (Picture from: PostageStampGuide)
The restored Streamliner became an instant icon once more. It made appearances at fairs, exhibitions, and public events, where it was celebrated as a piece of Canada’s industrial and cultural heritage. In 1996, its legacy was further cemented when it was featured on a Canadian postage stamp. To this day, the restored Streamliner serves as a roving ambassador for Labatt, delighting audiences with its retro charm and its horn, which amusingly plays the tune “How Dry I Am.”
The Labatt Streamliner’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and determination. What began as a clever solution to advertising restrictions evolved into a timeless symbol of innovation. Its restoration completion in 1983 ensured that this piece of Canadian history would continue to inspire future generations. From its early days as a stylish delivery truck to its current role as a celebrated artifact, the Labatt Streamliner remains a shining example of how imagination and dedication can leave an enduring legacy. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TIMESCOLONIST | SIMANAITISSAYS | FORUM.AACA.ORG | WEIRDWHELLS | HOTTEST MACINES ON FACEBOOK | POSTAGESTAMPGUIDE | WIKIPEDIA ]
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Weird ONES - In the early 1930s, as the world was swept up by new advancements in design and technology, Texaco introduced a tanker truck that seemed straight out of a futuristic vision. For many, the first thought upon seeing this unique vehicle was that it resembled a “pill” or a “breadloaf.” Officially known as the Texaco Doodlebug, this tanker wasn’t just another truck; it was a symbol of innovation and design that boldly departed from anything the automotive world had seen before.
The Texaco Doodlebug, a Diamond T-based tanker truck commissioned by the American oil company Texaco, showcased a streamlined, futuristic design typical of American tanker trucks in the 1930s. (Picture from: IconicRides in Facebook)
The Doodlebug’s look was undeniably striking. Its shape, reminiscent of a pill or bread loaf, featured a smooth, half-cylinder body with rounded edges at the front and a tapered back. This seamless design eliminated the typical fenders, hood, and running boards, making the cabin blend smoothly into the body. Additionally, the vehicle stood only six feet tall—a surprisingly low profile for a tanker truck, which made it appear almost as if it were gliding along the road. Its windshield, made from compound curved glass, was cutting-edge for the time, adding to the futuristic feel.
The Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug fuel tanker from the 1930s, designed by Norman Bel Geddes and Walter Dorwin Teague, was produced in a limited run of only six units. (Picture from: WeirdWheels)
The Doodlebug was made possible through a collaboration between multiple companies. Texaco partnered with the Heil Trailer Company, responsible for constructing the tank body, and the Diamond T Motor Car Company, which provided the chassis. The Doodlebug was publicly revealed in January 1933, and its engineering was as innovative as its design. Equipped with a Hercules L-head six-cylinder engine mounted at the rear, it offered an unusual but balanced configuration. Air-pressured controls managed the clutch and gearbox, and an advanced communication system allowed the driver to hear engine sounds via a microphone-speaker setup. This way, the driver knew exactly when to shift gears—a sophisticated feature for its time.
The Texaco Doodlebug fuel tanker, resembling a 'pill' or 'breadloaf,' was a symbol of innovation and design that boldly departed from anything the automotive world had seen before. (Picture from: DisenoArts)
This innovative truck was part of Texaco’s broader strategy to modernize its brand. The company enlisted industrial designers Norman Bel Geddes and Walter Dorwin Teague to help craft a fresh, contemporary image for Texaco. This modernization effort introduced several iconic elements still associated with the brand, such as the red Texaco star-T logo, redesigned service station aesthetics, and updated employee uniforms. The Doodlebug, with its sleek, futuristic look, became the face of this transformation, turning heads on the road and solidifying Texaco’s brand as both stylish and forward-thinking.
The
Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug powered by a Hercules L-head six-cylinder engine mounted at the rear. (Picture from: DisenoArts)
Despite its attention-grabbing design, the Doodlebug’s production was limited, with only a handful built—some sources suggest as few as six. The exact number has been lost to history, as are the trucks themselves; none are known to have survived. It’s believed that the Doodlebugs were eventually scrapped or deliberately decommissioned, possibly due to advancements in tanker design or Texaco’s evolving needs. Another mystery surrounding the Doodlebug is its original color. While most images and models show it in the signature Texaco red, some historical accounts suggest it was initially painted black, though no concrete evidence has confirmed this.
The
Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug’s production was limited, with only a handful built—some sources suggest as few as six. (Picture from: DisenoArts)
One of the Doodlebug’s most notable public appearances was at the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, where it attracted countless onlookers. People were fascinated by the Doodlebug’s distinct shape and advanced design. The truck was a remarkable 26 feet long, 92 inches wide, and, due to its low height, barely taller than a passenger sedan. This design gave it a stable weight distribution, ensuring smooth handling—a rare quality for tankers of that era.
The
Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug was a remarkable 26 feet long, 92 inches wide, and, due to its low height, barely taller than a passenger sedan. (Picture from: DisenoArts)
The engineering behind the Doodlebug also included several unique features. Its rear-mounted Hercules engine required a special access door, allowing mechanics to easily work on the engine. For additional convenience, the entire rear section could be removed if the engine needed to be taken out. The cab design, with its 180-degree field of vision provided by a curved glass windshield, was revolutionary for the time and would later inspire other vehicle designs.
The
Texaco Diamond T Doodlebug is thought that Norman Bel Geddes and his
team worked with Howard W. Kizer and C.A.Pierce, Chief Engineer for
Diamond T, to come up with the radical, streamlined design. (Picture from: TexacoTankerProject)
The influence of the Texaco Doodlebug even crossed international borders. In 1934, a tanker with similar styling appeared in Sydney, Australia, commissioned by the British Australian Petroleum Company. While it resembled the Doodlebug from the front, the unique rear styling created by Bel Geddes was not replicated in this Australian version. Still, the inspiration was clear, and it underscored the Doodlebug’s impact on automotive design worldwide. | GTlLzwunWic |
Although the Texaco Doodlebug is no longer around, its legacy endures in historical records and photographs. This tanker truck captivated imaginations in its time and remains a testament to what is possible when function and forward-thinking design merge. The Texaco Doodlebug stands as a reminder of an era that embraced daring ideas, proving that a simple utility vehicle could also be a groundbreaking symbol of innovation. Thanks to the dedication of automotive historians, the spirit of the Doodlebug continues to live on, inspiring admiration for a truck that was ahead of its time. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GENE 1968 IN X | WIKIPEDIA | TEXACOTANKERPROJECT | ICONICRIDES'S STORY IN FACEBOOK | HEMMINGS | WEIRDWHEELS | DISENOARTS ]
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Forgotten ONES - Transporter vehicles often go unnoticed in the world of motorsport, yet they play a crucial role. These carriers ensure race cars arrive at their destinations safely and in style. In previous discussions, we delved into the 1955 Mercedes-Benz Race Team Transporter and the 1961 Cheetah Race Car Transporter. Today, let's explore an intriguing model from Spain, a country with a rich history in vehicle manufacturing, despite its relatively low profile in the global automotive industry.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao', a rare 1952 Spanish racing car transport vehicle, has been immortalized in diecast form. (Picture from: QuirkyRides's status on X)
Spain has produced a wide variety of vehicles, from passenger cars to trucks and motorcycles. Among these, the now-defunct Pegaso brand stands out, especially for its unique sportscars based on the Pegaso Z-102, such as the Cúpula from 1952 and the "Bisiluro" 1A Serie from 1953. Interestingly, Pegaso also ventured into the realm of transporter vehicles. One notable model is the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao', a sports vehicle transport truck of 1952 named at the La Sagrera factory in Barcelona.
The name 'Bacalao' is unofficial and refers to the design, which resembles the lateral gills of a codfish, known as bacalao in Spanish. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was a familiar sight on Spanish roads from 1952 until 1970. Officially, only one unit was produced, although rumors suggest there might have been two, even more. This transporter was based on the Z-401 bus, with bodywork crafted by Carde y Escoriaza. Initially painted white and powered by a 145 hp gasoline engine, it was soon fitted with a six-cylinder diesel engine, likely producing 125 hp. The exterior colors were also updated over time.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was based on the Z-401 bus, featuring bodywork crafted by Carde y Escoriaza. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
One of the most striking features of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was its unique body, measuring 11.0 meters long and 3.5 meters high, capable of carrying a couple of cars and some equipment. However, it typically transported just one vehicle along with a significant number of spare parts. The driver’s seat was centrally located above the engine, surrounded by seven windows, and the controls were somewhat unconventional. The handbrake and gearbox lever were on the left, while the gearbox itself was mounted on the steering stem, requiring drivers to adapt.
The Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was a familiar sight on Spanish roads from 1952 until 1970, with only one officially produced unit, though rumors suggest there might have been more. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The cargo compartment of the 'Bacalao' featured a wooden floor, a small sink with a water tank, and a tool drawer. Notably, it had the lights from 1060 truck, including a green light that indicated safe overtaking opportunities. After being showcased in Madrid and Barcelona, the 'Bacalao' was used to transport and provide technical assistance for Pegaso Z-102 sports cars during training for the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans.
One of the most striking features of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' was its unique 11.0-meter long, 3.5-meter high body, capable of carrying two cars and equipment. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
Interestingly, the 'Bacalao'did not receive a permanent registration until 1957. Before that, it served various purposes, including as an advertising van during the 1955 Vuelta Ciclista a España and as an assistance vehicle in the port of Bilbao for ENASA-exported trucks. In the 1960s, it was highly sought after for sporting events both within Spain and internationally.
The cargo compartment of the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' included a wooden floor, a small sink with a water tank, and a tool drawer. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
The 'Bacalao' underwent another makeover, being repainted entirely in blue with new mirrors and additional front lights. The 'Friends of Veteran Cars' association took custody of it, and in 1968, it supported the CS team and their Lola T-100. However, over time, it fell into disrepair and was eventually abandoned near the La Sagrera factory, ultimately being scrapped.
After being showcased in Madrid and Barcelona, the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' transported and provided technical assistance for Pegaso Z-102 sports cars during training for the 1953 24 Hours of Le Mans. (Picture from: es.Motor1)
This unique vehicle, nicknamed 'Bacalao' or 'Codfish in English'for its lateral gill-like design, was initially immortalized by Modeltrans for a select few collectors and later 'democratized' by Salvat through its Pegaso model collection. The model stands out for its excellent finishes, fully metallic body (except for the rear doors), and detailed paint job, complete with ramps, historical license plates, and an accurate interior.
In conclusion, the Pegaso Z-902 'Bacalao' is a testament to the creativity and engineering prowess of the Spanish automotive industry. Its story, from its days of glory to its eventual decline, reflects a unique chapter in the history of vehicle transporters, leaving behind a legacy that continues to fascinate enthusiasts and collectors alike. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | ES.MOTOR1 | QUIRKYRIDES | ES.WIKIPEDIA | AUTOPIONEER.DE | DANNATA-VINTAGE | TBSLOT | PINTEREST ]
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Forgotten ONES - Racing cars often steal the spotlight on the circuit, captivating fans with their speed, agility, and sleek designs. However, behind these racing machines lies a crucial but often overlooked component: the transporter vehicles. These transporters play a vital role in ensuring that the racing cars reach their destination safely and in style.
Mercedes-Benz unveiled the spectacular race car transporter, a brainchild of Rudolf Uhlenhaut, based on the 300SL 'Gullwing' sports car and capable of speeds over 100 mph. (Picture from: Mercedes-Benz)
Let's now delve into two iconic transporter vehicles that have left an indelible impact on the world of automotive racing: the 1955 Mercedes-Benz Race Team Transporter and the 1961 Cheetah Race Car Transporter.
Mercedes-Benz began developing racing car transport vehicles as early as 1924. (Picture from: FormTrends)
Mercedes-Benz has always been at the forefront of innovation when it comes to transporting their race cars. As early as 1924, when Grand Prix cars were driven to races, Mercedes realized the advantages of specially converted high-performance touring cars for transporting their valuable vehicles. This forward-thinking approach set the stage for the development of unique transporter vehicles in the years to come.
This forward-thinking approach laid the groundwork for the development of unique transporter vehicles in the following years. (Picture from: Rockabilly-Rules)
In the 1930s, Mercedes-Benz introduced specially designed truck bodies to transport their racers, ensuring that these cars could be displayed proudly as they were driven through the streets. However, it wasn't until 1954 that Mercedes-Benz unveiled one of the most spectacular race car transporters ever see, known as a brainchild of Rudolf Uhlenhaut. This transporter, based on the 300SL high-performance 'Gullwing' sports car, was capable of reaching speeds of over 100 mph.
Mercedes-Benz Rennabteilung transporter, a cab-forward hauler carrying Mercedes' grand prix cars piggyback-style. (Picture from: Mercedes-Benz)
As a result, Mercedes-Benz, with its blue Rennabteilung transporter—a severely cab-forward hauler that carried Mercedes' grand prix cars around piggyback style—garnered praise from the European press. Photos of the transporter trickled across the Atlantic over the following few years and set a new standard in transporter design.
The Cheetah Race Car Transporter, built by Norm Holtkamp in the 1960s, was inspired by similar vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. (Picture from: FormTrends)
Norm Holtkamp, a California race team owner, was inspired by Mercedes-Benz's innovative transporter and set out to create something similar for his own team. Faced with the inefficiencies of traditional trailers, Holtkamp envisioned a transporter that combined speed, functionality, and eye-catching design. His creation, the 1960 Cheetah Race Car Transporter, featured clean lines and unique proportions, making it a standout in the world of transporters. | UNYY1gEFQ8M |
To bring his vision to life, Holtkamp enlisted the help of designer Dave Deal and a skilled body fabricator. He combined elements from an aircraft tow truck, a new Chevy pickup truck cab, and a wrecked Mercedes 300 S sedan to create the distinctive Cheetah transporter. The head of the transporter, sourced from a 1959 El Camino cab section, added a touch of retro charm to the Cheetah transporter's modern design.
To realize his vision, Holtkamp collaborated with designer Dave Deal and a skilled body builder, blending components from an airplane tow truck, the cab of a new Chevy pickup truck, and a damaged Mercedes 300 S sedan to craft the unique Cheetah transporter. (Picture from: FormTrends)
Holtkamp's ingenuity in revolutionizing race car transporters is evident in his strategic placement of the engine and transmission behind the front wheels, contrasting with the traditional setup of the Mercedes transporter that positioned these components ahead of the front axle.
The Cheetah Race Car Transporter, featuring a tuned Corvette small-block V-8 engine and a sleek aluminum body, showcased significant advancements in speed and technology, setting a new standard for race car transporters.(Picture from: Hemmings)
This innovative design, coupled with Holtkamp's ambition to achieve a remarkable speed of 112 mph compared to the Mercedes transporter's 105 mph, propelled the Cheetah transporter into a league of its own. Equipped with a tuned Corvette small-block V-8 engine and a sleek aluminum body, the Cheetah showcased significant advancements in speed and technology, setting a new standard for race car transporters.
Holtkamp's meticulous attention to detail extended to optimizing weight distribution, with the inclusion of a ballast tank and two 24-gallon fuel tanks at the rear, enhancing the Cheetah's stability and performance.(Picture from: FormTrends)
Moreover, Holtkamp's attention to detail extended to optimizing weight distribution. The inclusion of a ballast tank and two 24-gallon fuel tanks at the rear not only contributed to the Cheetah's stability and performance but also underscored Holtkamp's unwavering dedication to pushing boundaries in the continuous evolution of race car transporters. This enhancement not only highlighted Holtkamp's dedication to pushing boundaries but also emphasized the continuous evolution of race car transporters.
Over the years, the Cheetah transporter changed hands and underwent modifications, but its enduring legacy as the Moon Transporter under the care of automotive historian Geoff Hacker stands as a testament to its impact on automotive history. (Picture from: FormTrends)
Over the years, the Cheetah transporter changed hands and underwent modifications, but its legacy endured. Today, it is known as the Moon Transporter, a testament to its enduring impact on automotive history. Under the care of automotive historian Geoff Hacker, the Moon Transporter serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and passion that drive innovation in the world of racing and transport. The following video showcases the rediscovery of the Cheetah transporter in 2018.
In conclusion, the world of automotive racing is not just about fast cars on the track; it's also about the innovative vehicles that transport these cars to their destinations. From the iconic Mercedes-Benz transporters of the 1950s to custom creations like the Cheetah transporter, each vehicle tells a story of engineering prowess and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As fans continue to marvel at the speed and performance of racing cars, let's not forget the unsung heroes of the road—the transporters that make it all possible. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MERCEDES-BENZ | FORMTRENDS | AUTOCATALOG | HEMMINGS | ROCKABILLY-RULES ]
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UNIQUE but REAL - This is solely to satisfy our curiosity about a unique classic custom car originating from Brno, a city nestled in the south of the Czech Republic, apart from the previously discussed Netik 600 Raketa, which is equally unique. The mentioned automotive marvel once symbolized luxury and speed before being transformed into firefighting vehicles, some of the fastest of their time.
Under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation into Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil firefighting vehicles. (Picture from: Bangshift)
Well, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is not your average car; it's a captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. Its distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, but this exceptional vehicle has a compelling backstory. Originally, it was a luxurious Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, abandoned by a German commander during World War II amidst the turmoil of Czechoslovakia's changing political landscape.
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck has a distinct exterior may seem like something from a science fiction movie, and captivating fusion of history, innovation, and resilience. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Horch, formally known as A. Horch & Co., was a renowned German automotive manufacturer founded in Cologne in 1899. By 1904, the company had relocated its operations to Zwickau, Saxony. Among the Auto Union brands (Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer), Horch specialized in luxury vehicles, and the Horch 853 Sport Cabrioletwas the final model introduced before passenger car production ceased in March 1940.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck was built based on an abandoned Horch 853 Sport Cabriolet, as seen in the picture.(Picture from: Autoweek)
Despite its history, the Brno firefighters noted that this particular model was from 1941, suggesting it was among the last units produced. The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil emerged during a time when a 100 hp engine was a remarkable achievement. However, the aftermath of the war cast doubt on anything linked to Germany, including this elegant convertible.
The narrative took an intriguing turn in November 1945 when the Brno-Komín fire brigade made the decision to repurpose this modified Horch 853 convertible for firefighting tasks. The scarcity of specialized vehicles in the post-war era prompted organizations to adapt existing cars for essential roles. Thus, the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil evolved from a symbol of luxury to a testament of human ingenuity, seamlessly combining elegance with functionality. Who was behind this remarkable transformation?
The remarkable Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is pictured alongside its sibling fire truck from the Brno-Komín fire brigade. (Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Well, under the expertise of Czechoslovakian coachbuilder T. Lepil, known for their innovative designs, the Horch 853 underwent a remarkable transformation. Guided by Tomáš Lepil's sons, Bedřich and Josef, the Lepil team embarked on a journey of creativity and reinvention. They meticulously redesigned the convertible, incorporating features such as a separate rear entry and expanded space to accommodate firefighting equipment efficiently.
In the cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil fire truck, you'll find a straightforward dashboard featuring a four-spoke steering wheel, a standard instrument panel, gauges, and knobs.(Picture from: Bubblemania.fr)
Interestingly, the transparent cabin bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit. Was this part taken from there? So far, there's no information about that yet; time will reveal the truth. What distinguishes the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil is its ability to accommodate six crew members under its transparent roof, alongside a fire hose, making it an exceptionally efficient firefighting apparatus.
The transparent cabin of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil bears a resemblance to a section of the Junkers Ju-388 bomber's cockpit, leading to speculations that it may have come from the German plane. (Picture from: Pinterest)
Today, the legacy of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil endures as one of the most remarkable fire vehicles ever created. It exemplifies the intersection of automotive history and human innovation, illustrating how a neglected plush convertible found a new purpose and became an iconic figure in firefighting. This narrative underscores the resilience of human creativity, exemplified by the visionary work of the Lepil family and their team.
The Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil was once a symbol of luxury and speed, standing out as one of the fastest firefighting vehicles of its time, featuring a powerful eight-cylinder engine.(Picture from: Bangshift)
In conclusion, the journey of the Horch 853 AS 12 Lepil reminds us of the limitless potential of innovation. Even in adversity, humans can elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, showcasing enduring ingenuity and adaptability. It's a story that continues to inspire, emphasizing the timeless spirit of innovation and resilience. Moreover, if you're interested in exploring another stunning Horch car creation,click here!*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MOTOR.ES | BUBBLEMANIA.FR | WEIRDWHEELS | CHOICEGEARS.ORG | BANGSHFT | AUTOWEEK ]
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The Labatt Streamliner’s story is a testament to the power of creativity and determination. What began as a clever solution to advertising restrictions evolved into a timeless symbol of innovation. Its restoration completion in 1983 ensured that this piece of Canadian history would continue to inspire future generations. From its early days as a stylish delivery truck to its current role as a celebrated artifact, the Labatt Streamliner remains a shining example of how imagination and dedication can leave an enduring legacy. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | TIMESCOLONIST | SIMANAITISSAYS | FORUM.AACA.ORG | WEIRDWHELLS | HOTTEST MACINES ON FACEBOOK | POSTAGESTAMPGUIDE | WIKIPEDIA ]
