There are various trends in the automotive industry, with one of the most recent being pedal cars. The small machines first appeared in the 1890s, being modelled after real cars. They were ideal toys that appealed to children of all ages. Considering the cost, pedal cars could only be afforded by wealthy families.
Early models were made out of pressed steel and the popularity of these models lasted from the 1920s to the 1960s. From the 1970s onwards, many pedal cars were made from plastic. Today, pedal cars are popular with collectors, as shown from the recent Jaguar Land Rover auction, which saw 156 motors sold.
An impressive pedal car sold at the auction was a 1930s Blower Bentley. The stunning replica came with a model supercharger beneath the headlights. Another impressive sale came in the form of a replica AC Cobra.
Other pedal cars on offer included an electric-powered Triumph TR3 and Ferrari styled sports car. There was also a gorgeous Morgan 3 wheeler replica that came with a lightweight aluminium body For anyone who was looking for a car with a personal touch, they didn’t have to look any further than an armoured scout car.
Toby Service, a representative of Brightwells auctioneers highlighted the appeal of the motors. “Pedal cars have a huge following and they always go very well. It’s extraordinary to see so many in one place. I’ve only seen one collection bigger than this in my 17 years. Also extraordinary was a collection of model planes, many of them radio-controlled and large enough to need the hangar space of a domestic garage. Most spectacular was a huge Hercules bomber, a bargain at £896. Still, all lots found homes, underlining the appeal of machines that their collectors can neither drive nor fly.”
Given their unique size, pedal cars are always likely to have an audience. The vintage appearance coupled with the heritage makes them striking vehicles.
Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Austin_J40_Pedal_Car_(10932148966).jpg
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