Coventry Buses 1948-1974: A Journey Through Time with David Harvey

The history of Coventry Buses is a fascinating one, and one that is closely intertwined with the development of the city of Coventry itself. In the years following the Second World War, Coventry was a major center of the automotive industry, and its buses were some of the most advanced and innovative in the world.

Coventry Buses 1948-1974

by David Harvey

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	340 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	8 pages
Hardcover	:	192 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.5 x 0.5 x 9.21 inches
Paperback	:	192 pages

FREE

One of the key figures in the history of Coventry Buses was David Harvey. Harvey was appointed General Manager of the Coventry Corporation Transport Department in 1948, and he remained in this position until 1974. During his tenure, Harvey oversaw a number of major changes to the bus network, including the of new bus routes, the purchase of new buses, and the construction of new bus garages.

Harvey was also a strong advocate for the use of new technologies in the bus industry. He was one of the first to introduce rear-engined buses to the UK, and he also played a key role in the development of the Coventry Electrobloc, a battery-powered bus that was introduced in 1969.

The Coventry Bus Network

In 1948, the Coventry Bus Network consisted of a number of different routes, each of which was operated by a separate bus company. Harvey's first task was to rationalize the network and to create a more efficient and integrated system.

One of the first changes that Harvey made was to introduce a new numbering system for the bus routes. This made it easier for passengers to identify the buses that they needed to take. Harvey also introduced a new system of fares, which made it cheaper for passengers to travel on multiple buses.

In addition to these changes, Harvey also oversaw the construction of a number of new bus garages. These garages were larger and more modern than the previous ones, and they provided better facilities for the drivers and maintenance crews.

The Coventry Electrobloc

One of the most significant developments in the history of Coventry Buses was the of the Coventry Electrobloc. The Electrobloc was a battery-powered bus that was developed by a team of engineers at the Coventry Corporation Transport Department.

The Electrobloc was a revolutionary bus for its time. It was the first battery-powered bus to be introduced in the UK, and it was also the first bus to use a regenerative braking system. The Electrobloc was a clean and quiet bus, and it was also very efficient.

The Electrobloc was introduced into service in 1969, and it quickly became a popular bus with passengers. However, the Electrobloc was also a very expensive bus to build, and it was not until the late 1970s that it became financially viable for other bus companies to purchase the Electrobloc.

The Legacy of Coventry Buses

Coventry Buses played a major role in the development of the city of Coventry. The buses provided a vital link between the different parts of the city, and they helped to make Coventry a more accessible and vibrant city.

The Coventry Electrobloc was a pioneering bus that helped to pave the way for the development of modern electric buses. The Electrobloc is now considered to be one of the most important buses in the history of public transportation.

The legacy of Coventry Buses is still very much alive today. The city's bus network is still one of the most comprehensive and efficient in the UK, and the Coventry Electrobloc remains an important symbol of the city's innovative spirit.

The history of Coventry Buses is a fascinating one, and one that is full of innovation and progress. David Harvey was a key figure in the development of Coventry Buses, and he played a major role in making Coventry a leading center of the bus industry. The legacy of Coventry Buses is still very much alive today, and the city's buses continue to play a vital role in the lives of its residents.

Additional Resources

* Coventry Transport Museum * Leyland Atlantean * British Leyland * Electric Bus

Coventry Buses 1948-1974

by David Harvey

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	340 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	8 pages
Hardcover	:	192 pages
Item Weight	:	1 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.5 x 0.5 x 9.21 inches
Paperback	:	192 pages

FREE