Bedford Sentinels

Bedford_Sentinels

Bedford Sentinels

The Bedford Sentinels were a series of lorries and buses produced by Bedford Vehicles, a subsidiary of Vauxhall Motors, which is a part of General Motors. The production of these vehicles began in the mid-20th century and continued for several decades, serving various commercial and public transportation needs.

History[edit | edit source]

The Bedford Sentinels were introduced in the 1950s as a response to the growing demand for reliable and robust commercial vehicles. Bedford Vehicles, already known for their Bedford TJ and Bedford CA models, sought to expand their market presence with the Sentinel series.

Design and Features[edit | edit source]

The design of the Bedford Sentinels was characterized by their durability and versatility. They were equipped with powerful engines and had a reputation for being able to handle heavy loads and long distances. The Sentinels were available in various configurations, including flatbed trucks, box trucks, and passenger buses.

Engine[edit | edit source]

The engines used in the Bedford Sentinels were typically inline-four or inline-six diesel engines, known for their efficiency and longevity. These engines were designed to provide ample power while maintaining fuel economy, which was a significant advantage for commercial operators.

Chassis[edit | edit source]

The chassis of the Bedford Sentinels was built to be robust and adaptable. It could be customized to fit different types of bodies, making it suitable for a wide range of applications from goods transportation to public transit.

Usage[edit | edit source]

The Bedford Sentinels were widely used in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world. They were popular among businesses for their reliability and cost-effectiveness. In addition to commercial use, many Sentinels were also employed by municipal services for public transportation and utility work.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Although production of the Bedford Sentinels ceased in the late 20th century, their impact on the commercial vehicle market remains significant. Many of these vehicles are still in use today, a testament to their durability and the quality of their engineering.