In October 1965 the Mark 1 Shorland Armoured Patrol Car was in production based on the 109 inch wheel base Series IIA Land Rover. It used a military chassis with heavy-duty axle and suspension.

The turret gun was a .30 inch Browning machine gun, and the vehicle had a single fuel tank carrying 14 gallons (64 litres). Optional extras included a second fuel tank, extractor fan and smoke dischargers.

Powered by a 2286 cc 4-cylinder petrol engine, it produced 67 bhp at 4000 rpm. The armour was said to be 7.25 mm, but this is odd as I have a Mk 1 and it measures 8.25 mm. Production figures for Mark 1 was about 100.

Shorland Mark 1. Note: no smoke dischargers, no extractor fan, and single fuel tank.

A turretless Mark 1 probably the first attempt at a personnel vehicle but had limited room and no ventilation. Normally the turret would have helped provide good ventilation.

A further development of a turretless Mark 1 now with an armoured extractor fan. The fan and cowl were of the same type fitted to the rear escape hatch.

As far as known this was just an experimental variant.  A water cannon was built on a Mk 1 Shorland. The water was fed via a hose from a trailer towed behind the Shorland. The trailer accommodated the water tank and pump. Unfortunately, I have never seen a picture of the trailer.

To see a collection of restoration photos of Shorland APC Mk 1 (27 BT 68) click the photo above.

To see photos and/or the article "The Oldest Shorland" regarding Shorland APC Mk 1 (3547 PZ) click the photo above.