The Opperman Motocart was built during the 1940s by S E Opperman of Herefordshire, UK.
This charming, post-war vehicle was designed to replace the horse and cart, which was still heavily relied upon during that period. The Opperman family, who were farmers themselves, designed this simple vehicle to put to work on their farm. However, the innovative design was such a success that they began production on a commercial scale.
The design was simple; a tricycle layout with a 4 stroke, single cylinder, air-cooled, petrol engine attached to the powered front wheel. It offered a load capacity of 1.5 tons and could reach a top speed of 11mph, easily outperforming a horse-drawn cart.
The Opperman also benefited from a long flatbed for carrying tools and equipment and the patented ‘improved control lever’ allowed the vehicle to be manoeuvred from the ground as well as the platform which added to its functionality.
As the model progressed, a selection of body options were made available offering further practicality for the end-user. Buyers could choose from a fixed body with removable sides, a manual hydraulic tip which could also be upgraded to an engine operated pump, removable sides or a low loader body where the loading bed was set between the wheels rather than on top.
As the development of the British tractor progressed with the introduction of 3-point linkage for link boxes and implements, there was little demand for load-carrying tractors. Production of the Motocart ceased in 1955 by which point sales had reached more than 10,000.
This Opperman Cart comes complete with the original serial plate which offers a little more insight into its history and is currently listed for sale on our website.
Do you own an Opperman Motocart? Or do you remember one being used? We'd love to hear your stories in the comments below.