English Mechanic (United Kingdom)

The English Mechanic was not a traditional car manufacturer but rather a concept derived from a magazine titled "The English Mechanic and World of Science & Art." This publication featured a series of articles and illustrations by engineer T. Hyler-White, who focused on the design and construction of automobiles that could be built by enthusiasts at home. The series commenced in May 1899 with a tricycle powered by a 1.75 horsepower De Dion-Bouton engine.

In January 1900, Hyler-White began publishing a detailed guide on constructing a small car, which was based on the Benz Velo design. He recommended the use of second-hand components to minimize costs for amateur builders. Castings and other necessary parts could be sourced from his associate, David J. Smith, who operated a workshop in London. Over the next five years, Hyler-White introduced various designs, including a heavy four-wheeled steam car in 1901, a light steam three-wheeler in 1902, and a petrol car featuring an 8 horsepower vertical-twin engine in 1904.

While the term "English Mechanic" is used today to refer to these vehicles, it is unlikely that the original builders identified their creations by this name. Instead, these cars were probably known by the names of their owners or the pseudonyms popular during the Edwardian era. The exact number of cars constructed according to Hyler-White's designs remains unknown, but at least four examples have survived, including a Benz-type two-seater from 1900 and a steam dog-cart from 1903.

In July 1905, Hyler-White shifted his focus to other topics, such as practical silversmithing and musical instruments. He returned to automotive subjects in 1909 with articles on the E.M. runabout, which featured a single-cylinder engine and belt drive. His final contribution to automotive design came in 1913 with a proposal for a friction transmission, belt-driven cyclecar.