15 OCTOBER 1927, Page 35

Nowadays cars do much less damage than formerly to roads,

for the modern tendency is all for reduction of weight both in the chassis and in coachwork. Also the solid tyre on the commercial vehicle is being replaced by giant pneumatics. The ceaseless experimental work in the metal- lurgical industry is being rewarded by the discovery of metal alloys which are strong without being heavy, and there is consequently a very marked improvement in the power-to- weight ratios of the modern chassis and engine. The intro- duction and recent popularity of light fabric-covered bodies have more than kept pace with the reduction in chassis weight, to give improved running and economy.