During World War I and between the wars several Crossley chassis were
fitted with ambulance bodies. Some were advertised and supplied as
complete vehicles by Crossley and others had coachwork fitted by
independent suppliers.
BODY STYLES
A WWI ambulance by an unknown coachbuilder fitted to a 15hp
car chassis.An Australian WWI ambulance by an unknown coachbuilder fitted
to a 20/25hp car
chassis.
The inscription on the side reads "Presented by the Patriotic Fund of
the Education Department of Victoria".Another type of ambulance also on the 20/25 chassis. After the
war at least four of this type were used by the London County Council.1921 Crossley ambulance body on a 25/30
chassis.
The body by coachbuilders Smiths of Manchester is built of mahogany
panelling on an ash frame and has room for two stretchers. The interior
could be warmed using an exhaust heated apparatus.
They were supplied to "a large number of county councils, corporations
and similar authorities in all parts of Great Britain". The one
illustrated is believed to have been supplied to Wigan, others went to
Gateshead and Neath, Glamorgan.
The complete vehicle cost £1550. The 15/20
Motor Ambulance as shown in the Crossley brochure of 1926. This used the
same engine as fitted to the 14hp car.
The body was ash framed with the interior paneled in mahogany faced
plywood.
There was room for two stretchers in the rear.
The number made is not known and none are known to survive. The 1930 Crossley Motor Ambulance type J had the engine from
the 20.9 car.
The flat radiator surround appears to be from the 14 hp cars. The
wheelbase of 11 feet 5 inches indicates that the long wheelbase car
chassis was used.
The engine and gearbox from the 20.9 was fitted with the 4.92:1 rear
axle ratio.
The body is described as ash framed on oak foundation with aluminium
panelling. Provision could be made for one, two or four stretchers to be
carried.
The number made is not known and none are known to survive.
