Sinclair C5, 1985, serial number 10005201348. 12 volt, 250 W...

Hammer

£300

Sinclair C5, 1985, serial number 10005201348. 12 volt, 250 Watt.
To Be sold on behalf of Martin House Hospice, Boston Spa and St. Leonard's Hospice, York.
On 10 January 1985, the C5 was unveiled at a glitzy launch event but it received a less than enthusiastic reception from the British media.The vehicle's limitations - a short range, a maximum speed of only 15 miles per hour, a battery that ran down quickly and a lack of weatherproofing - made it impractical for most people's needs. It was marketed as an alternative to cars and bicycles, but ended up appealing to neither group of owners, and it was not available in shops until several months after its launch. Within three months of the launch, production had been slashed by 90%. Sales never picked up despite Sinclair's optimistic forecasts and production ceased entirely by August 1985. Out of 14,000 C5s made, only 5,000 were sold before its manufacturer, Sinclair Vehicles, went into receivership.
Despite its commercial failure, the C5 went on to become a cult item for collectors. Thousands of unsold C5s were purchased by investors and sold for hugely inflated prices - as much as £6,000 compared to the original retail value of £399. Enthusiasts have established owners' clubs and some have modified their vehicles substantially.
Sold as seen, in need of restoration, it has been in long term storage.