Gilbern

Gilbern: The Pride of Welsh Automotive Craftsmanship
Gilbern Sports Cars (Components) Ltd was a unique Welsh car manufacturer that operated from 1959 to 1973. The company was founded by Giles Smith, a local butcher, and Bernard Friese, a German engineer with expertise in glass fibre mouldings. The name "Gilbern" is a combination of the founders' first names: "Gil" from Giles and "Bern" from Bernard.

Early Beginnings and the First Model
The story of Gilbern began in the late 1950s when Giles Smith decided he wanted to build a glass fibre special car. Through a chance meeting with Bernard Friese, they embarked on creating a one-off car. The first prototype, the Gilbern GT, was completed in 1959 and received favorable reviews when road-tested by Autosport in 1960. The initial production took place behind Smith's butcher shop, with the bodywork being winched down from the first floor and a pear tree cut down to remove the finished car1.

Expansion and Notable Models
As demand grew, Gilbern moved to a larger facility at the old Red Ash Colliery in Llantwit Fardre, Pontypridd. The company produced several notable models, including:

Gilbern GT: The company's first car, a 2+2 two-door coupé, produced from 1959 to 1967.

Gilbern Genie: Introduced in 1966, this model featured a more powerful engine and improved design.

Gilbern Invader: Launched in 1969, the Invader was the most advanced and powerful model, featuring a tuned version of the Ford Zodiac's 3.0-liter V6 engine.

Challenges and Closure
Despite its innovative designs and loyal customer base, Gilbern faced financial difficulties. In 1968, the company was taken over by Ace Capital Holdings Ltd, and later by Mecca Ltd in 1970. The introduction of Value Added Tax (VAT) on kit cars in 1973 further strained the company's finances, leading to its closure later that year2.

Legacy and Enthusiast Community
Although Gilbern ceased production in 1973, its legacy lives on through the dedicated efforts of the Gilbern Owners Club. The club, founded in 1969, continues to support Gilbern enthusiasts by providing technical services, organizing events, and ensuring the availability of spare parts.

Official Website
For more information about Gilbern, its history, and the Gilbern Owners Club, you can visit the official Gilbern Owners Club website. https://gilbern.co.uk/

Gilbern's journey from a small workshop behind a butcher shop to becoming a respected name in the automotive world showcases the ingenuity and passion of its founders. The brand's impact on the automotive industry remains significant, and its cars continue to be cherished by enthusiasts around the globe.