Key Industry Dates

1897

Coventry-based Daimler makes the first cars in Britain, at a time when horse-drawn vehicles are the most popular form of transport. The speed limit is just 12 mph.

1920s

The Coventry car industry really takes off. Most cars are handbuilt by craftsmen until the Standard Motor Company introduces the mass assembly line at its Canley factory in 1929.

The rise and fall of the car industry in Coventry 1934

William Lyons’ Jaguar Cars launches the game-changing SS Jaguar following a move from Blackpool to Coventry.

1940

On the night of 14/15 November, an 11-hour Luftwaffe bombing raid devastates Coventry. The city’s importance in aircraft production made it a prime target.

1952

Riley’s new owner Morris merges with Austin to form the British Motor Company. But the Riley brand is tarnished as a result.

1953

Standard Triumph launches the Standard Eight during a second boom in car production in Coventry. Priced £500 it is Britain’s cheapest car.

1959

Designed by Italian stylist Giovanni Michelotti, the Triumph Herald is launched to rival the Mini. Speedy and stylish, it appeals to a new female market and is a big seller.

1961

Beautiful design and acceleration up to 150 mph make Jaguar’s E-type the car of choice for a new generation of rock stars.

1963

In one of the biggest strikes in the city’s history, 10,000 workers down tools at Standard Triumph and Jaguar for improved pay and conditions.

1968

British Leyland is formed to shore up a motor industry declining in the face to foreign competition. It proves disastrous for Coventry leading to factory closures and high unemployment.