Ashley (United Kingdom) - AllCarIndex

Ashley Laminates Ltd was a British manufacturer active from 1954 to 1962, primarily known for producing glassfibre bodyshells. The company was based in Loughton and later Harlow, Essex. It emerged as one of the pioneers in the British glassfibre bodyshell industry, offering a variety of basic shells designed to fit over popular chassis such as the Austin Seven and Ford Ten.

In 1958, Ashley introduced its own Regent chassis, which featured a coil-sprung ladder design. This chassis could accommodate various engine options, including those from Ford, BMC A-series, and the MGA/MGB. The company expanded its offerings in 1961 with the launch of the Sportiva, a full component model available in both coupé and convertible forms, catering to two or four-seat configurations.

Ashley’s designs had a notable influence on the automotive landscape, with one of its bodyshells serving as the foundation for the Reliant Sabre. However, as the popularity of its car range declined and the glassfibre hardtop business could not sustain the company, Ashley Laminates Ltd ceased operations in 1962.