Production of Scalextric products began in 1957 in Hampshire, England, and 1960 saw the introduction of the plastic range of cars as the tinplate cars ceased. Through the years Scalextric has been owned by companies such as Tri-ang and Rovex Ltd, and in 1971 production of Scalextric and Hornby trains began from Westwood, Margate.

In 1982, an independent company was formed – Hornby Hobbies Ltd (later Hornby Plc) – and during the late-1990s production of Scalextric was transferred to China. The accuracy and detailing of today’s Scalextric models remain second to none.

As the world turned evermore to digital technology, Scalextric was not to be left behind and in 2004 introduced its first fully digital racing set (multi-car racing with lane changing functionality). Scalextric SportWorld was also introduced to allow racers the ability to hook their Scalextric sets up to the internet to create a global community through on-line racing.

Today Scalextric offers a slot car system for all ages. For the younger driver there is ‘My First Scalextric’ which is an easy assemble and operate 1:64 scale track system, this is followed by Micro Scalextric which uses the same track system but with larger layout options including special track features. Then for the more experienced racer there is the commonly recognised and loved traditional 1:32 track system which offers a multitude of car, track and accessory options. More recent developments include ARC, a Scalextric App based race management program and Spark Plug which offers the chance to control your Scalextric Car with your phone or tablet.