Burney (United Kingdom)

Burney was a British automobile manufacturer active from 1930 to 1933, founded by Sir Charles Dcnnistoun Burney, an inventor and Conservative MP. The company was based in Maidenhead, Berkshire, and was notable for producing the Burney Streamline, a car that represented a radical departure from conventional automotive design during the interwar period. Burney's background included significant contributions to the construction of the R. 100 airship, where he collaborated with notable figures such as author Neville Shute and inventor Barnes Wallis.

The first prototype of the Burney car was built in 1928-1929 and featured a unique spaceframe constructed from Duralumin alloy, covered with fabric. It was powered by a rear-mounted 1486cc front-drive Alvis engine, which was installed in reverse orientation. The vehicle boasted all-independent suspension using transverse springs and hydraulic brakes, achieving a top speed exceeding 80 mph (129 km/h). With the support of affluent associates, including textile heir Stephen Counauld, Burney established Streamline Cars Ltd. and produced a total of 12 vehicles at the Maidenhead facility.

The production models retained the innovative fabric-covered spaceframe and independent suspension. They utilized three different engine types: the 2956cc straight-8 Beverley-Barnes (nine units), the 3190cc Armstrong-Siddeley 20 (two units), and a single 4389cc straight-8 Lycoming engine. The design featured various front-end styles, including a rounded front with integrated headlamps and a bonnetless configuration reminiscent of modern multi-purpose vehicles. Despite their striking appearance, the cars faced challenges with weight distribution, which affected handling.

Burney sought partnerships with major automotive manufacturers, including Standard and Riley, but the most interest came from Rolls-Royce. Although the experimental department of Rolls-Royce tested a Burney vehicle and acknowledged its performance, the company ultimately declined to pursue a collaboration. Burney's efforts to attract attention in the American market were met with enthusiasm from the press, but major manufacturers did not express interest. Following the cessation of production in Maidenhead, Burney licensed his design to Crossley, which produced a modified version known as the Crossley-Burney, fitting it with their own 1990cc 6-cylinder engine. Only 25 units of this model were produced, with two surviving today, while none of the original Burney Streamlines remain.

After his automotive ventures, Burney continued to innovate in other fields, designing aerial gliding bombs, gun-fired rockets, and sonar apparatus for fish detection.