We came across this very interesting image hidden in our archives. It shows the Scarab race team transporter parked outside the Lotus factory in Cheshunt Hertfordshire. We think the photo was taken in mid 1960 but can’t be sure exactly when. The 1959 Fiat truck based Bartoletti transporter was commissioned by Lance Reventlow to ferry his Scarab racecars (first American Formula 1 cars built) around Europe during the 1960 and 1961 seasons and was briefly used by Team Lotus before later passing to the Alan Mann Racing team.
The Scarabs didn’t have a particularly good season in 1960, and when the engine formula rules changed to 1.5-litres in 1961 they had nowhere to race. The best result for the Scarab F1 team in 1961 was at the International Trophy race held at Silverstone in May. Usually run for Formula 1 cars, in 1961 the race was open to cars running in the newly devised, but short-lived Inter-Continental series. The #17 Scarab was driven by Chuck Daigh to seventh place. (image copyright Peter Darley).
