The AP automatic transmission is a 4-speed automatic transmission unit developed by Automotive Products and the British Motor Corporation specifically for use in the Mini.
Tony Benn, appointed Minister of Technology in July 1966, brought pressure to bear on the industry.
As front wheel drive systems became more popular, with cars such as the BMC Mini using compact transverse engine layouts, the shortcomings of universal joints in front axles became more and more apparent.
These same features make theSchnellaster a precursor of the modern minivan, a body configuration subsequently popularized in notable examples such as the Renault Espace, or the Chrysler Voyager/Dodge Caravan and, mechanically, of the BMC Mini plus most modern cars.
Engines were mostly by Cosworth (based on Ford blocks) and Honda, though some other units appeared, including various Fiat based units and dedicated racing engines from BMC and BRM.
Moulton Developments Limited is a British company formed by Alex Moulton in the late 1950s to work on the design and development of the suspension system for Alec Issigonis's BMC Mini project, and other projects.
It was used by the British Motor Corporation in the 1960s and 70s, particularly as a covering for 'crash padding' on dashboards and doors.
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Moulton's great-grandson Dr Alex Moulton was himself a pioneer of rubber engineering, being responsible for many innovations including the rubber suspension system he designed for the innovative BMC car the Mini.