To anyone interested in automotive history, the late 1940s and early ‘50s was a fascinating period of time, especially in the UK. With Britain still suffering the effects of an extremely costly war, it wasn’t until July 1954 when all rationing came to an end. Mostly the rationing affected foodstuffs such as tea that was in short supply from 1940 through to 1952. Industry was also severely affected by the rationing of metals.
1953 Bristol 403. Photo: Steve Oom
The automotive industry was particularly impacted, with government approval needed for the use of reasonable quantities of steel right through to the early 1950s. Such approvals would be more forthcoming if the manufactured vehicles were destined for export.
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