Bartlett (Canada) - AllCarIndex

The Canadian Bartlett Automobile Company Ltd. was established in Toronto, Ontario, in 1914 and operated until 1917. Founded by R.C. Bartlett, the company was notable for its innovative automotive designs during its brief existence. The Bartlett automobile featured several unique characteristics, including four-wheel brakes, which were the first of their kind on a Canadian vehicle, and a double frame construction. This design included two frames: one for the running gear and engine, and another supporting the body, with four air bags positioned between them to cushion the upper frame from road shocks. This feature was particularly important as the vehicles were equipped with solid tires, which Bartlett preferred due to the limited lifespan of pneumatic tires.

The Bartlett automobiles utilized imported American engines, initially employing Northway engines for the first seven units, followed by Continental and Farmer engines, with LeRoi engines powering the majority of the approximately 600 cars produced. The company offered various body styles, including a five-seater tourer priced at $995, a two-seater roadster at $665, and a light truck. Over time, the double frame design was phased out, and the air bags were simplified to connect the upper frame and axles.

The onset of World War I led to a shortage of American components, which ultimately resulted in the bankruptcy of the Bartlett Automobile Company in late 1917. Despite the company's closure, R.C. Bartlett continued to work as an inventor until the 1970s. At least one of the original tourer models has survived to this day.