Truck [Austin K4 Beer Tanker]
Maker and role
Austin Motor Company, Manufacturer
Production date
1948
See full details
Object detail
Accession number
1964.222
Maker
Production period
Description
1948 Austin K4 beer tanker - for transportation of processed beer. 6 cylinder engine, 4.1 litres, petrol driven.
Brief History
This tanker was used by Lion Breweries for carrying beer to Auckland bars. It is insulated with cork to keep the beer cool, and was the first of its kind in the world.
The tanker was built in 1948. At that time, New Zealand led the world in developing beer tankers. Since 1958, Lion Breweries had delivered beer to pubs in barrels. An increase in the demand for beer after World War II ended in 1945 meant that a way of delivering beer in bulk had to be found. The tanker can carry 4,500 litres of beer. For over 20 years, the tanker delivered beer to pubs throughout Auckland. It pumped the beer into tanks at the pubs using compressed air.
The tanker is built onto an Austin K4 body. The Austin K4 was made in England and was first designed as a fire department vehicle. The tanker was restored by MOTAT volunteers and was completed in 1993. It was sponsored by Lion Breweries.
The tanker was built in 1948. At that time, New Zealand led the world in developing beer tankers. Since 1958, Lion Breweries had delivered beer to pubs in barrels. An increase in the demand for beer after World War II ended in 1945 meant that a way of delivering beer in bulk had to be found. The tanker can carry 4,500 litres of beer. For over 20 years, the tanker delivered beer to pubs throughout Auckland. It pumped the beer into tanks at the pubs using compressed air.
The tanker is built onto an Austin K4 body. The Austin K4 was made in England and was first designed as a fire department vehicle. The tanker was restored by MOTAT volunteers and was completed in 1993. It was sponsored by Lion Breweries.
Marks
Lion Ale New Zealand Breweries Ltd. Painted
Media/Materials
Other name
K4
Collection
Credit Line
Austin Motor Company. 1948. Truck [Austin K4 Beer Tanker], 1964.222. The Museum of Transport and Technology (MOTAT).
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