9 - 1931 Mochet Velocar
In his day, Charles Mochet was known in France as the best manufacturer of pedal-powered cars. In fact, the majority of the vehicles he produced between 1927 and 1944 ran on such a system. However, the model at the Lane Motor Museum is a hybrid of sorts, since it combines human energy with that produced by a petrol engine. Might we then consider this the first hybrid car?
Maybe, maybe not, but during the Second World War, this feature proved very useful because of the rationing that made it difficult to access petrol.
The controls of the car are quite special; they’re operated by means of thumbwheels on the steering wheel, in the case of the accelerator and clutch pedals, and via a lever on the floor in the case of the brake. Maximum speed: as fast as it’s possible to pedal.
10 – 1959 New-Map Solyto
New-Map originally specialized in the manufacture of motorcycles. In 1938, it started producing micro cars with the Rollux. That model ended in in 1952 to make way for the manufacture of the Solyto, a three-wheeled utility van.
This model proved very popular, as evidenced by its lifespan of over 20 years, from 1952 to 1974. It was ideal for small urban deliveries as it could make its way through all sorts of tight spots and be parked... anywhere. Engine: 125cc and 5.5 hp.