The Bedford CA Britain's Best Loved Van

Long overshadowed by the popularity of the iconic VW Type 2, the Bedford CA van has enjoyed a significant upswing in appreciation in recent years, with enthusiasts extolling its appealing design and investing heavily in restoring the battered examples that remain. This book takes an upbeat and informative approach to the history of the CA from its inception in post-war Britain to the end of its 17-year production run in 1969, including details of its development, interviews with people involved in its design, the many guises in which it appeared, and its role in the development of the modern motor home. Period advertising, photographs, and cultural references paint the backdrop for this charming little van’s enormous success in Britain’s swinging sixties. Also included are tips on driving and buying Bedford CAs from Bedford owners and enthusiasts, technical and service data, and advice on maintenance and restoration.

Colin Dobinson was collected from Nottingham hospital maternity unit in a Bedford CA in 1968 and has been an editor, photojournalist, and copywriter since 1987, including educational books, research papers, advertising, annual reports, and feature articles.