A vehicle once ridiculed has rolled back into the limelight as fans of the Sinclair C5 marked its 40th anniversary with a nostalgic group ride through Cambridge city centre
On Saturday 11 January, a group of the iconic electric tricycles travelled through the city centre, attracting smiles, curious glances and plenty of questions from passers-by. The celebratory event honoured the unusual invention of Sir Clive Sinclair, a name still revered in Cambridge for his pioneering contributions to British computing and technology.
Launched in January 1985, the C5 was meant to revolutionise personal transport. Instead, it quickly fizzled out amid criticism over its range, speed and safety. But for many, including Cambridge-based tech lovers, its charm has never faded.
C5 enthusiast James Chamberlain, who bought his C5 brand new in 1987, has kept it in pristine condition for nearly four decades.
Sir Clive Sinclair was a true visionary who put incredible thought into design – he was like a British Steve Jobs, but unfortunately, he arrived just before technology caught up with his ideas. His imagination went far beyond what was possible with the tech of his time
The Sinclair C5 originally sold for £399 – around £1,200 today – and only 5,000 were sold before production ended after six months. Still, its cultural legacy endures, especially in the city that gave birth to its creator.
Sir Clive Sinclair, a former Cambridge resident, is remembered for his daring ideas. While the C5 may not have lived up to its billing as “the future of transport”, its devoted fan base and anniversary ride prove that innovation, even when imperfect, leaves a lasting mark.
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