About Scalextric
Scalextric is Britain's most iconic slot car racing brand, delivering over 70 years of racing joy since its launch at the Harrogate Toy Fair in 1957. Invented by engineer B. Fred Francis, who added an electric motor to his existing Scalex tin cars, the name cleverly combines "Scalex" with "tric" (electric) to create the legendary brand. The story began in 1947 when Francis founded Minimodels Ltd in Havant, Hampshire, initially producing model aircraft and boats. In 1952, he introduced "Scalex" - clockwork model cars running on grooved tracks. The breakthrough came in 1956 when electric motors were added, and the first Scalextric sets were born. The brand was immediately successful, and after two years Francis sold Minimodels Ltd to Line Bros., parent company of Tri-ang trains. Today, Scalextric is owned by Hornby Hobbies Ltd, whose heritage dates back to founder Frank Hornby's 1901 patent. Production moved to Margate in 1971, creating history as the home of both Scalextric and Hornby model railways. As of 2023, Hornby Hobbies is home to 15 collectible and scale model brands, with international expansion including partnerships with brands from France, Germany, Spain, and Italy. The modern Scalextric range includes starter sets, racing cars from F1 to touring cars, trucks, track extensions, and accessories. Digital Scalextric technology allows multiple cars on the same lane with realistic racing features including lane changes, pit stops, and race management. The brand continues to appeal to both children discovering slot car racing and adult collectors seeking nostalgic multigenerational racing experiences.