It was based on Bedford's O-series commercial vehicles with a modified front end and single rear tyres.

The OYD was a general service vehicle,[1] while the OYC was a tanker version for carrying water or petrol.

[1] These vehicles were widely used during, and after, World War II but were later superseded by the Bedford RL.

Derived non-military vehicles using OY and OX chassis[1] The OX was a short-wheelbase version of the OY, designed for a 30 cwt (1.5 ton) payload.

[4] In the early part of the war, the addition of an armoured body to the OXD gave the Bedford OXA (official designation "Lorry 30cwt Anti-Tank").