GPO Vehicles
Make AEC
Model Matador 10 ton (0853)
Type Tractor Unit - fitted with new cab
Body Builder  
Use Haulage of vehicle trailers.
Thirty vehicles were purchased from the Ministry of Supply, reconditioned and entered into service with the road haulage fleet of the Motor Transport Branch.
Registration Number KGO 167
Fleet Number 16503 to 16531 (KGO 151 - 179) 1949
Date of picture 1953

AEC Matador (0853) model, originally a 4x4 military truck.  During the post war period of severe shortage of new vehicles the GPO purchased a large number of ex military vehicles and modified them for new uses.  In this case a batch of Matadors were converted to 4x2 configuration as articulated tractor units, the chassis were shortened, cabs were rebuilt to match the current AEC style, fitted with civilian wheels and tyres of smaller section than the original military version.  Coupled to a step frame semi-trailer with twin, in-line rear axles.  Designed for the transport of cable drums, but often used for other work.

The top three photos show the Matadors with new cabs whilst the last photo shows the prototype with the modified original cab.

 


 


 

 
 
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Last revised: February 07, 2021

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