Gnome; Nomad (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

Gnome Cars Ltd and Nomad Cars Ltd were British automobile manufacturers that operated briefly in the mid-1920s. Founded in London, Gnome Cars Ltd was established in 1925, followed by the formation of Nomad Cars Ltd in 1926. Both companies focused on producing cyclecars, a category of lightweight vehicles that were popular during that era.

The vehicles produced by these companies were powered by a rear-mounted 343cc Villiers single-cylinder engine. They featured a friction transmission system that allowed for four speeds in both forward and reverse. Notably, the design of these cars did not include traditional springs; instead, they utilized balloon tires inflated to a low pressure of only 6 psi, which were claimed to provide a comfortable ride.

The construction of the cars involved an integral body and chassis made from steel and plywood. The initial price for the Gnome model was set at £75, while the Nomad variant, which included an electric starter, was priced at £100. Despite the innovative design, production numbers were limited, and very few units of these cyclecars were manufactured before the companies ceased operations.