The J40 Motor Company, a subsidiary of Burlen Ltd

For many years, Burlen has specialised in precision engineering, using a combination of traditional methods and modern machinery. All J40 parts and spares are manufactured to the same high standard, ensuring exceptional quality and precise fitment along with immediate availability from stock.
 
Our newly launched online shop allows for easy browsing and electronic payment. In addition, our email and phone lines are regularly staffed enabling customers to ask questions as required, prior to purchase. All goods will be despatched using trusted couriers, with global shipment options available.
 
We are continually developing new parts and accessories so please call us if you are seeking something specific that isn’t currently available.

The Austin J40

Now famous for the children’s Settrington Cup at Goodwood Revival, the Austin J40 pedal car was originally made in England by the Austin Motor Company Limited, based on the 1948 A40 Devon and Dorset.

Each car was manufactured in South Wales at a specially constructed factory, opened in 1949 under the name of the Austin Junior Car Factory. The business operated on a not-for-profit basis, existing purely for the employment of disabled coal miners who sought a new vocation after injury.

Pedal cars were made from scrap metal taken from the Longbridge Austin factory, each built and painted in the same way as the actual cars would have been. Standard features included working headlights and horn, detachable wheels with Dunlop tyres, a realistic facia panel and the same material, tuck and roll, seating as the Devon. In addition, each car had an opening bonnet and boot, chrome bumpers, hub caps, grille and boot handle.

A total of 32,098 Austin J40 pedal cars were made before production ceased in September 1971 with cars being shipped around the world. Many featured in films for road safety or were used as fairground rides, but most were sold to families to be enjoyed by children, despite the purchase price equating to 2 weeks of the average salary at the time.