Austin's 1920s Retro Model Requires Just 20HP To Outpace An MX-5 To 60 | Carscoops

      Austin Motor Company makes a comeback with a compact model that merges 1920s aesthetics with electric technology.

      The Austin Arrow revives the design of the 1922 Seven, incorporating retro styling elements and details.

      This electric roadster delivers 20 hp and boasts a range of up to 100 miles.

      Deliveries have commenced in the UK, with prices starting at £31,000 ($41,400).

      Echoes of British automotive history return, embodied this time in a small, nostalgic electric vehicle from the revived Austin Motor Company. At first glance, the Arrow appears to be a classic roadster, yet it is classified as an L7e heavy quadricycle, placing it alongside urban EVs like the Citroen Ami and Fiat Topolino.

      Back in 2023, a prototype was unveiled, but this marks our first proper look at the finished production vehicle that is now available for purchase. Its design draws heavily from the Austin Seven, which made its debut in 1922 and was raced by iconic figures such as Bruce McLaren and Colin Chapman.

      Classic Designs with a Modern Touch

      Notable design elements include exposed wheels, round headlights, a traditional grille, leather bonnet straps, and a tub-shaped body that resembles the Morgan Super 3. Measuring just 3.7 meters (145.7 inches) in length, the Arrow is shorter than most subcompact hatchbacks, enhancing its agility in tight urban environments.

      The interior is distinctly retro, featuring a wooden steering wheel, leather seats, and analogue gauges centrally located on the dashboard. The model is offered in both right-hand- and left-hand-drive options.

      Customers can choose from a variety of personalization features. The color selection includes eleven shades that can be paired with Nickel or Shadow accents. Additionally, buyers can select from three different wheel finishes and seven colors for the leather upholstery.

      Small Yet Spirited

      Beneath its nostalgic exterior lies a single electric motor that produces 20 hp (15 kW). While that power might seem minimal, the Arrow's weight is only 605 kg (1,334 lbs), enabling it to reach its claimed top speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) in a sprightly 7.8 seconds. This is actually half a second quicker than the base Mazda MX-5 with its 130 hp 1.5-liter engine.

      Power is sourced from a 20 kWh battery, allowing for a range of up to 100 miles (160 km) per charge, with a complete recharge taking about three hours.

      The project's lead is Nigel Gordon-Stewart, who has experience with Lamborghini, McLaren, Lotus, and MG. He mentioned on Instagram that the Arrow “drives quite well… and is a lot of fun with a nostalgic technology feel… You definitely stand out in a crowd, making EV driving a delightful and joyful experience.”

      What is the Price?

      Deliveries have already begun in the UK, with plans for exports to the US and the Middle East. Pricing starts at £31,000 ($41,400), placing the Arrow above the Mazda MX-5, which is priced at £28,585 ($38,200) in Britain. This indicates that the Arrow is not targeting the budget segment but rather appealing to buyers seeking a boutique EV that combines charm, individuality, and a nod to Britain’s automotive legacy.