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Britain By Car - A Motoring History

Luton

The largest town in Bedfordshire located about 30 miles north of London.  For many years, Luton was best known as a centre of the hat-making industry. 

This continues today, but in a reduced form.  Other industries include vehicle manufacture, engineering, pharmaceuticals, electronics and financial services.  The travel company, easyJet, has its headquarters at Luton Airport.

Luton Hoo hillclimb & speed trial

A hillclimb and speed trial set in the grounds of a stately home.

Location
Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, The Mansion House, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ. 

Date
1908 – 1949. 

The Plycar Co.

A self-assembled version of a little-known cycle car.

Location       
Bute Street, Luton.

Date
1922.

Commentary
For a matter of months, towards the end of 1922, the Plycar Company offered a wooden, self-assembly kit of the Bow-V cycle car, developed by Charles Beauvais in Upper Norwood, south London.

Stockwood Discovery Centre

Location        
London Road, Luton LU1 4LX

Date
2008 – present

Vauxhall Motors Ltd.

The traditional home of Vauxhall Motors

Location
Kimpton Road (south side), Luton 

Date
1905 – present