Bond Bug
Year:
1973
Manufacturer:
Bond Cars Ltd/Reliant Motor Co., Tamworth, United Kingdom
Number Produced:
2,270
Specifications:
700 cc 4‑cylinder OHV engine (later 750 cc)
4‑speed manual gearbox
Front‑mounted engine, rear‑wheel drive
Description:
The Bond Bug is a distinctive British three-wheeled microcar designed by Tom Karen of Ogle Design and produced from 1970 to 1974 after Reliant Motor Company acquired Bond Cars. It was initially assembled in Preston before production moved to Reliant's Tamworth factory.
Built on a modified Reliant Regal platform, the Bug featured a wedge-shaped fibreglass body and a front-opening canopy that included the windscreen and side windows, offering access to the cabin without traditional doors.
It was aimed squarely at the youth market, with bold styling and a fun character. Nearly all Bugs were painted bright tangerine orange with black interior trim, though a small number were finished in promotional colours like white and lime green.
Three main variants were offered: the standard 700, the better-equipped 700E, and the sportier 700ES. In 1973, later models received a more powerful 750 cc engine before production ended in 1974 to prioritise manufacturing the Reliant Robin.
While short-lived, the Bond Bug left a lasting impression and is now considered an icon of eccentric British design.
