The Vipen

Sir,
I am trying to accumulate information on the Vipen car which was produced in Hull during the early part of this century, approximate dates 1903-1906. The manufacturers were the East Riding Cycle and Motor Co, of Grosvenor Street, and besides the car, were also reputed to produce a three-wheeler (De Dion tricycle type), and a motorcycle.

Several advertisements for these vehicles, and indeed some technical details, were published in the motoring press of that period. I understand that the car was mainly an “assembled” unit, using various chassis etc., but the usual engines were De Dion or Clement, perhaps some of the more enlightened historians could confirm this.

I believe that prior to the last war a Vipen was a regular competitor in veteran events in the South of England driven by a Mr. F. Harvey, but so far no details of this machine or gentleman have been forthcoming, any information at all on this matter would therefore be very gratefully appreciated.

John S. Thompson.
Hull.