Saturday, May 14, 2016

THE WORLD'S SMALLEST PRODUCTION AUTOMOBILE

Tired of trying to park in the crowded city streets, need better gas mileage? Then take a look at the Peel P50, the world's smallest production car [2010 Guinness Book Of Records].

Peel P50 And Lions

The Peel P50 is a three-wheeled that was originally manufactured from 1962 to 1965 by the Peel Engineering Company on the Isle of Man. There was no reverse gear but there was a handle at the rear that allowed the very lightweight car [130 lbs unladen] to be physically maneuvered when required. There was one door, one wiper and one headlight and the Peel achieved a gas mileage of around 100 mph. It sold for around £200; according to usinflationcalculator.com and exchange rates as of 051416 that equates to around $2240 today. Only about 50 Peel's were produced of which around half are thought to still exist but:

You can own a Peel!

In 2010 Peel Engineering Limited began manufacturing Peels again and, while described as a limited edition, the company's website [as of the time of writing] indicates they can still be purchased. Though faithful to the original the new Peels do have updates to make them "street legal" in the 2010's including a reverse gear. Both petrol and electric models are available.

However if the Peel "is you" you should note that they do seem a little pricey for their diminutive size with the petrol model running £12999 plus tax; the electric model is £600 less. To register your interest you can contact the compaby on their website, call them on +44 207 097 5119 or email info@peelengineering.co.uk.

For a better look at the Peel here is a 2008 BBC TV Top Gear feature on the Peel; check out the parking at BBC HQ!

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