Biotechnia Ellinikon Trikyklon

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B.E.T. 500 (1973 model)

Biotechnia Ellinikon Trikyklon (Hellenic Three-Wheeler Manufacturer), or BET, was a small vehicle manufacturer founded in Athens by Petros Konstantinou. It was one of several manufacturers - the first appearing in the early 1940's - that converted BMW or other motorcycles into light utility three-wheelers. In 1965 it entirely designed and built a small five passenger car with a BMW 125cc motorcycle engine. Although the type was certified, only one was built due to problems in availability of parts for further production. Following this design, a number of three wheeled trucks of complete B.E.T. development were successfully produced. A second passenger car model was designed and introduced in 1973, known as model 500, with a Fiat 500cc engine. With metal body and seating up to five passengers, it was a rather sophisticated design for its time. It was certified for production and 15 were built, of which one survives to this date in excellent condition. There were even talks with a South African company involving plans for exports or even transfer of production to that country, but they were never realized. The company ceased production in 1975.