J40 Continuation – Racy Little Number

The brilliant Austin Pedal Cars has just released the all-new and utterly captivating J40 Continuation to the world. A pint-sized pedal car like no other, it’s a masterclass in design and engineering. Being the first new Austin pedal car since the original J40 ended production in 1971, the new J40 Continuation not only represents a milestone for Austin Pedal Cars, but it is also an important moment for the Austin brand.

The aluminium body is formed by hand in a skilled process which takes many weeks, creating a classic look but with a significant reduction in overall weight. Newly manufactured headlights along with a new-look Austin badge sitting atop a beautiful, newly designed chrome grille creates a striking first impression. A strong and light Moto-Lita wooden steering wheel provides greater support for the driver when accessing the cabin and presents a striking visual addition too. Smiths electronic gauges sit ahead of the driver, displaying real GPS-measured speed, a working clock and a fuel gauge which displays the charge left in the battery – rechargeable and used to power lights and newly re-engineered horn. A beautiful, handmade leather seat completes the look, along with a new handbrake lever and mechanism, and a key-operated ignition – used to turn on the battery-powered functions.

Mark Burnett, Managing Director of Austin Pedal Cars said, “the Austin team were proud to launch the J40 Continuation at the 2023 Goodwood Revival, following the showing of our chassis concept at the 2022 event. The car attracted the attention of the crowds for all three days and we were delighted to take deposits to secure some of the very first J40 Continuations to be built. The J40 Continuation not only marks a new era for pedal cars, but it is also the start of a new chapter of the Austin story.”

It’s a funny old thing to see the Austin name survive in this way, but we mean that in the best possible sense. This seems a fitting space in which the brand can continue to exist and grow. And let’s not forget, the J40 was far more than just a pedal car. For many, it was our first car, the bedrock of those early motoring memories, and the reason why so many of us grew up to have the passions and interests that we have today.