Richard-Brasier

he Richard company was formed in 1893, primarily as a bicycle manufacturer, but started producing cars in 1897. Initially these were based on Benz and Vivinus designs, but when Charles-Henri Brasier joined, from the Mors car company, in 1901, it was renamed Richard-Brasier and developed its own range of vehicles. Although successful, especially in racing, the partnership was short-lived, ending acrimoniously in 1904. Georges Richard then formed his own company, UNIC, with backing from Henri de Rothschild, which continued producing cars up until the outbreak of WWII, being one of the largest manufacturers of Paris and London taxis.

Brasier, meanwhile, set up his own company, named after himself, and although meeting with initial success, struggled in the 1920s and, coming full circle, was acquired by a bicycle manufacturer, Chaigneau, in 1926. Four years later it was absorbed into the Delahaye company.

About this vehicle

Our vehicle is a 1903 Brasier-designed model, owned at one stage by a Captain J. V. Taylor, who used it regularly up until about 1914, after which it was stored in a garage. Capt. Taylor apparently gave the car to Richard Shuttleworth, who was a fellow officer of his son, sometime before 1933.

The car underwent a major restoration by the Shuttleworth Vehicle Collection volunteers in 2023, which involved stripping it back to the chassis and a complete overhaul of the complex four-cylinder engine.

The Richard-Brasier bodywork, with open front seats and a closed luxury ‘saloon’ for the passengers, is a rare example of a ‘Shelburne’ style body, with the rear compartment opening along the centre line of the roof, allowing light in, and with access via a single door at the rear.

Specification