A Tilly (from "Utility") is a utility vehicle produced during the Second World War based on existing automobile designs for use by the British armed forces.
At the outbreak of war, the British Army was still in the final stages of mechanization. There was a widespread shortage of vehicles of all sizes that became more acute as the Army mobilized for war. In particular, there was a lack of light vehicles for local liaison, communications, transportation, casualty evacuation, and general service work at the smallest unit (company or battalion) level. While senior officers may have a staff car, junior officers and other ranks found motorized transport indispensable in an increasingly mechanized army where movements of tens of miles could be made on level roads.
In the absence of utility vehicles, the Ministry of Supply coordinated with major British car manufacturers to produce military utility versions of their existing mid-size saloons. All were officially classified as Auto, Light Utility 4 x 2.
The adaptation of each manufacturer's chosen model to the "Utility" specification varied in detail, but was generally the same. The rear bodywork was swapped for a simple pickup truck cargo bed covered by a canvas roof (commonly known as a 'tilt'), making for two or three-seater utility in the cab. The body was simplified with simpler pressed steel stampings. Paint replaced the chrome on the grille and bumpers. The interiors and seats were simplified and unadorned with no carpets or leather. The electrical systems were changed from the usual civilian 6 volt type to the military standard 12 volt. Parts such as headlights were smaller types than civilian cars and were standardized across all models. The engines were low compression varieties to allow operation on poor quality gasoline. They were also equipped with parts such as larger radiators and fans, improved suspension that offered greater load capacity and greater ground clearance. Taller and wider tires were used to further improve traction and ground clearance.
The result was an economical, simple, mass-produced small vehicle that could be used for almost any purpose. The utilities had a total weight of about two tonnes (2,000 kg) and most had a tow bar so they could pull a single-axle trailer.
However, many were regularly overloaded. With rarely more than around 30 bhp (brake horsepower) available, the 'Tilly' had a top speed of around 50 mph when unloaded and performance when loaded was poor, especially when climbing hills, while descents could often test the braking system designed for a much lighter engine. civilian car. Despite their larger tires and ground clearance, the 'Tillies' only had limited off-road abilities, as they were too heavy for their power. Despite their technical shortcomings, they were indispensable for a multitude of military tasks and proved reliable and easy to maintain. 'Tillies' were produced in the hundreds of thousands throughout the war, even as the Jeep began to become more useful for some (but not all) of its roles. Austin production was about 29,000 units until the end of the war.
Featured Products:
- Multi-slide mold booth for easy assembly
- Choice of 3 radiator grilles
- Spare tire with or without canvas.
- With or without road wheel cap covers
- With or without canvas
- The rear canvas cover can be opened or closed.
- The rear trunk door can be opened or closed.
- 2 figures in British uniform (driver and passenger) included
Product code: 280110
Number of pieces: 49 pieces / 1 sprue + 2 pieces of multicar mold
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