Avro (United Kingdom)

A.V. Roe & Co. Ltd, commonly known as Avro, was an aircraft manufacturer based in Manchester, England, founded by Alliott Verdon-Roe. The company emerged as a significant supplier of combat aircraft during World War I. Following the war, Avro sought to diversify its operations to retain its workforce, which led to its foray into the automotive industry.

In 1919, Avro announced its first automobile, which featured an integral body/chassis construction with a lightweight timber framework covered in aluminum. The company experimented with various engines in several prototypes, including a 1330cc four-cylinder engine, a single-cylinder two-stroke engine, and a five-cylinder radial engine. There were claims that one prototype utilized a Model T engine, reflecting Avro's connections with Ford, as the Ford factory in Trafford Park was located nearby. However, it is believed that none of these vehicles were commercially produced.

In addition to automobiles, Avro also ventured into the production of two-wheeled monocars, designed to offer a more comfortable and weatherproof alternative to motorcycles. At least two prototypes were created, one featuring a Barr & Stroud two-stroke engine in 1923 and another equipped with a 350cc Villiers engine in 1927. These monocars were likely inspired by the Harper Runabout, which was manufactured in the Avro factory from 1921 to 1926.