Toppled over Reliant Robin shortlisted to feature on future UK banknotes

Here's TopGear.com's roving correspondent, Cory Spondent, with his weekly, mostly incorrect exclusives from the world of motoring

An image of a Reliant Robin toppled over onto its side has been shortlisted to appear on future UK banknotes, according to sources.

Following the announcement that historical figures would be replaced by a selection of native British wildlife, the public have overwhelmingly requested the Robin – named after a bird – join the list.

It means one of the most poorly received and funniest moments in British automotive history will now go head-to-head with the likes of the Atlantic puffin, buff-tailed bumblebee and great spotted woodpecker to win the public’s affection and appear on British currency.

“Yes, we’re fully aware a Reliant Robin isn’t native British wildlife, even if anecdotally we understand it spent most of its time upside down in native British hedgerows,” a source close to the committee told TopGear.com.

“But it’s really quite simple: it’s called Robin. After the Robin bird. It’s small. Plucky. Breaks down often and regardless of its proficiency as a ‘car’, is unendingly cheery. Perfect fodder for a British banknote that, let’s be honest, won’t actually be worth that much in a few years’ time.

“Be honest, would you rather see a common frog or terrifying barn owl staring back at you as you pull out a £5 to pay for the last gallon of fuel before the world comes crushing to a halt? Or would you rather it be a toppled over fibreglass three-wheeler? Yeah, thought so.

“Forget the Bayeux Tapestry. The printed image of a Reliant Robin on its side, smoke pouring out of its engine bay, a trail of destruction in its wake and a stream of horrified onlookers holding their mouths on the front of a £10 note you'll use to pay for half a pint is all the motivation this committee needs to push it through.

“And if you say ‘Notey McNoteface’ one more time, we’ll threaten to print a picture of a Morris Marina. Consider yourself warned,” the source added.