The Austin Arrow is the first new car from the revived Austin Motor Company: a retro-styled electric roadster that pairs pre-war British sports car looks with a modern 20 kWh battery. Priced from £31,000 (around $42,000), this lightweight two-seater quadricycle does 0 to 60 mph in under eight seconds, tops out near 60 mph, and offers roughly 100 miles of range, with customer deliveries already underway.
The Arrow Roadster EV, developed by the revived Austin Motor Company, turns heads with its distinctive blend of vintage design and modern electric efficiency. Echoing the style of pre World War I British sports cars, this two-seater quadricycle showcases finely crafted details like cycle fenders, leather bonnet straps, and boat-tail coachwork. Far from just a nostalgic nod to its early-1900s predecessors, it is powered by a 20 kWh electric battery, giving the vehicle a top speed of 60 mph and a range of approximately 100 miles on a full charge. Compact, light, and nimble, the Arrow Roadster combines visual elegance with a quirky driving experience, making it an intriguing option in today's crowded electric vehicle (EV) market.
What is the Austin Arrow EV?
Inside, the Arrow's cabin keeps things minimalist yet stylish. Featuring a wooden dashboard and steering wheel, paired with a retro set of toggle switches and a three-gauge instrument cluster, the interior reflects its dedication to classic simplicity. This back-to-basics approach ensures that what the Arrow lacks in high-tech gadgetry, it makes up for in charm. Meanwhile, its compact size (less than 60 inches wide and weighing only 605 kg) and an 8-second 0 to 60 mph acceleration make it agile enough to zip around urban streets or countryside backroads. However, the lack of a proper windshield and reliance on wind deflectors aligns with its vintage car inspiration, leaving safety in the hands of modern roll hoops. As Electrek reports, the first customer cars have already begun reaching owners.
How much does the Austin Arrow Roadster EV cost?
While undeniably captivating, the Arrow Roadster EV faces a unique set of challenges. At a price tag of £31,000 (roughly $42,000), it competes with significantly more practical and powerful EVs such as the Tesla Model 3 or the Hyundai Ioniq 6. Additionally, its classification as a quadricycle in the UK may limit its appeal as a day-to-day vehicle, especially with few customization options currently on offer. Still, for enthusiasts who value character, craftsmanship, and a true retro aesthetic, the Arrow offers a unique proposition, a verdict echoed by CarBuzz. Whether Austin Motor Company's gamble on this nostalgic innovation pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Arrow Roadster EV is a bold statement in the realm of electric motoring.
Where to find compact electric cars like the Austin Arrow
If the Arrow's blend of charm and electric power appeals to you, browse our electric vehicle collection and our wider cars collection. Standouts include the city-friendly Duo electric microcar, the stylish Smart Bleu electric car, and the playful Bugatti Baby II junior electric car.
Ready to drive something with real character? Explore the full TheArsenale electric collection and find your next quirky EV.
Photo: AUSTIN MOTOR COMPANY
