Century [1] (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

Century Engineering & Motor Co. Ltd. was a British automobile manufacturer active from 1899 to 1907. Founded by Ralph Jackson in Altrincham, Cheshire, the company initially focused on producing tricycles. The first vehicle introduced by Century was the Century Tandem, a tricar powered by a 2.25 horsepower single-cylinder engine, which featured wheel steering—a notable innovation at the time when most tricycles still utilized handlebars.

In 1901, the company relocated to Willesden, London, and underwent a name change to Century Engineering & Motor Co. Ltd. During this period, Jackson transitioned to producing vehicles under the name Eagle, while the Century brand continued to be associated with similar designs. Under the management of Sydney Begbie, who was known for importing Aster engines into England, Century began manufacturing its first cars in 1903. These vehicles were equipped with 8 or 12 horsepower two-cylinder Aster engines, French transmissions, and chassis and bodies built in England. Additionally, a larger model featuring a 22 horsepower four-cylinder engine was also offered.

By 1905, Century introduced the New Century Tandem, which featured improvements such as two-cylinder engines and double radiators positioned on either side of the rear wheel. The company also expanded its lineup to include a 16 horsepower four-cylinder model known as the Princess. Despite its innovations and contributions to early automotive engineering, Century ceased operations in 1907.