Hartnett (car)

The Hartnett was an Australian automobile manufactured from 1951 to 1952 by Hartnett Motor Company Pty Ltd, established by Laurence Hartnett. Hartnett, known for his instrumental role in establishing General Motors-Holden in Australia, aimed to produce a simple, affordable car for the Australian market.

The Hartnett was designed by Frederick "Fred" Gordon, featuring a streamlined, aerodynamic body and powered by a horizontally opposed, two-cylinder, air-cooled engine. A key feature was its independent suspension and use of torsion bars. The initial design utilized a steel chassis but this was later modified to include an aluminium alloy chassis.

Production was hampered by various factors, including material shortages, financial difficulties, and government regulations. Only a small number of vehicles were produced, estimated to be around 120, before the company went into liquidation in 1952. While commercially unsuccessful, the Hartnett is remembered for its innovative design and for Laurence Hartnett's vision of an independent Australian car manufacturer. The car's rarity makes surviving examples collector's items.