William Lyons

Introduction to William Lyons

William Lyons is the mastermind behind the Jaguar cars we all know and love today. He was an influential figure in the British motor industry. Lyons was born in Blackpool, England and attended Arnold School. He developed an early interest in engineering and design.

Early Career and Founding of Swallow Sidecar Company

Lyons joined the Sunbeam-Talbot-Darracq car company as an apprentice engineer in 1919. In 1921, he met William Walmsley, a motorcycle enthusiast who had built a sidecar from his own bike. Impressed by his design, Lyons persuaded Walmsley to go into business with him. Together, they started the Swallow Sidecar Company in 1922. They soon expanded into producing coach-built bodies for popular cars such as the Austin Seven.

Relocation and Expansion into Car Production

In 1928, Lyons and Walmsley moved their company to Coventry. They launched their first car in 1931 which was based on a modified standard chassis and engine. They developed a few other models which earned the company its reputation for performance and elegance. The company changed its name to SS Cars Ltd in 1933 just a year before Lyons became the sole owner.

Technological Innovation and the Introduction of Jaguar

After William Haynes came on board as chief engineer in 1935, the company made several technological strides that made the Jaguar cars famous. Lyons introduced the SS Jaguar 100 in 1935 which was the first model to use the Jaguar name. The name later became synonymous with the company.

Post-War Rebranding and American Expansion

After the conclusion of World War II, William Lyons changed the name of his company to Jaguar Cars Ltd. to avoid any association with the Nazi SS. He also decided to penetrate the American market. He developed a new range of cars that were all known for their style, performance, and affordability. These became a commercial success both in sales and racing.

Acquisition of Daimler and the Rise of Jaguar

His acquisition of the Daimler Car Company in 1960 gave him access to advanced engines and technologies which helped him expand his production facilities and workforce, making Jaguar one of the largest car manufacturers in the world. He released his masterpiece, the E-Type, in 1961 which combined stunning modern looks with performance and reasonable price.

Challenges and Retirement

His problems began when he merged Jaguar with British Motor Corporation to form British Motor Holdings in 1966. He found himself fighting an uphill battle against BMC’s management over his company’s identity and independence. When BMH merged with Leyland Motors to form British Leyland, his problems intensified further. He retired as chairman of Jaguar in 1972 but remained its president until his death in 1985.