Humber Humberette

Compared to many other cyclecars, this Humber Humberette looks most like a conventional car.

Compared with many other cyclecars, this Humber Humberette looks more like a conventional car. Technically too, it is quite advanced for a cyclecar; for example, it has a tubular chassis and a normal driveshaft instead of the less reliable chain or belt drive. The Humberette is fitted with a 1.3 liter air cooled two cylinder JAP engine and is only available as an open two seater. A year after its introduction, a water cooled version appears. The name Humberette is a contraction of the English brand name Humber and the French word voiturette, small sporty car. In 1903 the name is already given to one of the smaller Humber models. The first Humberette is not a success, however, because it is seriously underpowered and the predominantly wealthier buyers do not want small cars. Around 1912, when the market is more ready for it, the Humberette gets a second chance. In advertisements the car is promoted as being of interest to women, partly because the engine is easy to crank.