The Austin Sheerline was a luxury vehicle, manufactured between 1947 and 1954 in the UK. They were purchased for a number of different uses from ambulances just like this one to funeral hearses, limousines and even an ice-cream van.
This particular vehicle was manufactured in 1955 by Herbert Lomas Ltd at their Wilmslow (Cheshire) factory on an extended chassis. It weighs over two tonnes. This weight, coupled with the weight of a full cab of staff and all the necessary equipment meant that these vehicles were very difficult to steer.
The Sheerline was designed by Austin during World War Two, but production did not begin until 1947 because of the national focus on war production. It was a luxurious vehicle in the style of the contemporary Rolls-Royce or Bentley but at a much lower price, around two-thirds that of the equivalent Rolls-Royce vehicle.
Inside the ambulance, surfaces were made to be easily cleaned and modern steel frames meant stretchers could glide in smoothly, ensuring a more comfortable travel for the patient. The back can accommodate another stretcher with the row of seats folded down. These vehicles were simplistic but focused on comfort for the patient.
Originally purchased as a works ambulance, Austin Sheerline XPJ 898 later became part of the Yorkshire Ambulance Service fleet and has been refurbished into the livery of Sheffield Ambulance Service. The vehicle is on display at the National Emergency Services Museum, Sheffield.
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