Crowdy (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

Crowdy Ltd was a British automobile manufacturer that operated from 1909 to 1912. Founded by A.E. Crowdy, who had previously served as the sales manager for Wolseley in Lancashire, the company began its operations in London after acquiring the assets of the WEIGEL Motor Company in October 1909. The initial production took place in a facility located on Olaf Street, North Kensington, where Crowdy showcased three models at the Olympia Show shortly after the acquisition.

The vehicles presented at the show included two conventional models based on Weigel designs, equipped with 4-cylinder engines producing 20/30 and 30/40 horsepower. Additionally, a third model featured a 12/14 horsepower Hewitt piston-valve engine, which was also utilized in the Davy car that shared the exhibition stand with Crowdy. The company offered a three-year guarantee on its vehicles and promised the availability of parts for five years, although it ultimately did not survive that long.

In 1911, Crowdy relocated the company to Northfield, Birmingham, where it operated out of a former roller-skating rink. This unusual choice of location was noted for its unique construction, as the cars were built on a surface of maple wood supported by felt and seasoned pine. Despite the innovative approach, Crowdy Ltd faced financial difficulties and went into receivership in February 1912. The exact number of cars produced during its time in Northfield remains uncertain. Following the company's closure, the assets were acquired by new owners who repurposed the Crowdy name for a new venture, leading to the launch of the Hampton cars in February 1913.