Badsey (South Africa, United States) - AllCarIndex

Badsey was an automotive brand founded by Bill Badsey in 1978, initially based in the United Kingdom before relocating to South Africa in 1979. The brand's first project was the Eagle, a sports coupe designed with a target top, which was based on BMC 1100 components. However, the Eagle never entered production in Britain.

In 1981, Badsey introduced the Bullet, a distinctive three-wheeled vehicle that claimed to reach speeds of 200 mph. The Bullet featured a robust chassis that incorporated components from a Suzuki motorcycle, with the engine positioned at the front between the passengers' knees. This design drove the rear wheel through a lengthy chain. The vehicle's canopy could be opened forward on gas struts for entry. Following his move to California, Badsey continued to produce the Bullet, expanding engine options to include Yamaha Venture and Suzuki GSX engines, as well as a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine with outputs up to 200 bhp.

In addition to the Bullet, Badsey developed the Fun Machine, a more modest three-wheeler built on a ladder-type chassis with substantial outriggers. This model utilized a 552cc DOHC Yamaha Vision motorcycle engine mounted just behind the front axle, powering the single rear wheel through a shaft drive. The driver operated the vehicle using handlebars, and the suspension system included various components for stability and control. Beyond vehicles, Badsey also ventured into manufacturing electric go-peds and boats.