about 1872 - company founded by Joseph Lucas along with his son Harry; called Joseph Lucas & Son; based in King Street, Birmingham, initially making general pressed metal merchandise, including lamps for ships and coaches; later made oil and acetylene lamps

1897 - incorporated as Joseph Lucas Ltd

by 1902 - started making automotive electrical components;

1914 - contracted to supply the Morris Motor Company with electrical equipment;

August 1996 - Lucas Industries plc merged with the North American Varity Corporation to form LucasVarity plc