The Clan Motor Company started life in 1971 by a group of ex Lotus employees and under the stewardship of Paul Haussauer. Based in Washington Tyne and Wear the company moved into a purpose built factory to cope with the predicted manufacturing output. At one point it is said that 5 Clan Crusadors were being built each week. Approx 350 cars were produced by the time the company closed in 1973 due to financial difficulties.