Iconic moments in The AA's history throughout the 20th Century
At The AA, we've been trailblazers right from the start. Since the dawn of driving in the UK, we've stood shoulder to shoulder with drivers, foreseeing their needs, advocating for their rights, and fuelling their driving passions. For generations, The AA badge has embodied the mutual values between us and our members: a commitment to excellence, a drive for innovation, and a shared love for the open road.
Formation of The AA (1905)
The AA was formed in 1905 by a group of motorists who employed cycle scouts to patrol roads and warn motorists of police speed traps through the iconic AA salute. In 1908, The AA launched the members’ special handbook to recommend repairers, hotels and touring agents across the country.
Formation of The AA (1905)
Training recognition (1914-18)
Recognising the special training that patrols had received, the War Office gave authority to have them transferred to the army as one group, the 8th (Cyclist) Battalion of the Essex Regiment, with 110 men joining the battalion.
Training recognition (1914-18)
The AA sentry box (1920)
AA members were given access to the sentry boxes with a special key to gain entry when patrols were away from their post. The boxes housed spare petrol, oil and water along with a phone that could be used for local calls and to contact AA Headquarters to report a breakdown. There were 61 boxes in operation nationally in 1920.
The AA sentry box (1920)
Early service innovations (1923-50)
The iconic AA motorcycle and sidecar (Roadside Service Outfit (RSO)) was introduced and equipped with a combination of tools, spare parts and fuel. Across this time over 600 sentry boxes were in operation across the UK. During this period The AA passed the 1 million members milestone and with the introduction of the two-way radio it led to the launch of night-time breakdown service in London.
Early service innovations (1923-50)
Royal presidency (1951)
HRH Duke of Edinburgh became AA President which was the start of a long-term relationship with the Royal Family which has seen The AA teach HRH The Queen to drive and has led to many important Royal events such as The Queen’s Coronation in 1953.
Royal presidency (1951)
4 wheeled patrol vans emerge (1961)
The mass-produced Minivan was introduced in 1961 - this was phased in to replace the RSO fleet providing greater comfort and flexibility for roadside patrols.
4 wheeled patrol vans emerge (1961)
Launching new services (1966-92)
The new-look square AA logo was launched in 1966. Between 1966 – 1992 The AA evolved to launch insurance services and approved garages to identify specialist repairs. 1973 saw The AA move to its new purpose-build headquarters in Basingstoke and also launched its new Relay service. In 1986, Command and Control started to replace paper-based patrol deployment. The AA driving school was launched in 1992.
Launching new services (1966-92)
The AA Route Planner goes online (1999)
Our iconic online Route planner service first appeared in October 1999 and served its 1 millionth route by the end of April 2000, only 6 months later. In 1999 we set a new standard for the breakdown and recovery industry and came first in the annual JD Power survey of UK roadside assistance providers.
The AA Route Planner goes online (1999)
The AA has continued to innovate since the turn of the century
Over the past 20 years, The AA has continued to diversify as the needs of drivers evolve. We remain as enterprising and forward-thinking as ever: we've innovated, adapted, and powered ahead to become the UK's top driving support brand, delivering unrivalled expertise across every stage of a driver’s driving world.
The AA Charitable Trust
The AA Charitable Trust was created to champion the interests and safety of road users.
COVID-19 pandemic
During the pandemic 270 patrols supported ambulance services across the country to keep as many ambulances on the road as possible.
Alternative fuels
The AA has been at the forefront of trialling electric and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and more recently hydro-treated vegetable oil, as a diesel alternative.
Smart Lease was introduced
Smart Lease was introduced to support drivers to purchase a brand-new vehicle which also included a range of electric vehicles (EVs).
First AA Autocentre
The first AA Autocentre in Dartford opens offering MOT, servicing, maintenance and repairs conducted by trained AA mechanics.
Mobile Mechanics
Mobile Mechanics was launched to give confidence and convenience to drivers offering services at a location of their choice.