Epic Journey in a Reliant Robin: London to Cape Town

An adventurous trip was undertaken by Ollie Jenks, an Englishman, and his Canadian friend Seth Scott. Seth proposed a seemingly unbelievable idea — to drive a Reliant Robin from London to South Africa’s southern tip. Jenks said the idea was so absurd that he couldn’t refuse. This journey covered approximately 14,000 miles, crossing 22 countries, aiming to set a record for the longest trip in a three-wheeled vehicle.

Reliant Robin: An Unlikely Choice

The Reliant Robin holds a unique place in British culture. Known for its simplicity, this three-wheeled car was commonplace in 1970s Britain, intended for short trips to the shops. Although production ceased in the early 2000s, these compact vehicles remain part of the cultural fabric, notably appearing in the sitcom “Only Fools and Horses.” Making a cross-continent trip with such a vehicle was impractical, yet that challenge attracted Jenks.

Jenks and Scott embarked in October, with Sheila — a silver Reliant Robin — as their trusted companion. Packed with minimal supplies, the pair relied on hope and determination to reach Cape Town.

Challenges on the Road

The condition of Sheila was assessed by Jenks as underwhelming: lacking power steering and air conditioning, and poorly suited for ascending or descending hills. Despite warnings from the car’s designer — who suggested keeping trips under 20 miles — Jenks and Scott pushed onward. Their expedition lasted over four months, costing an estimated $40,000 to $50,000, aided by sponsors and crowdfunding. Their Instagram page amassed nearly 100,000 followers, titled “14,000 miles, 3 wheels, 0 common sense.”

During the journey, they encountered various conflicts. In Benin, they found themselves amid an attempted coup. They navigated northern Nigeria as the U.S. conducted airstrikes against Islamic State targets. More troubles arose with a military escort through Cameroon, where violence persisted.

“Imagine this car in a military convoy,” Jenks commented, highlighting the improbability of the situation.

Sheila faced multiple breakdowns, including needing new wheel springs quickly, a broken gearbox in Ghana, and engine troubles in Cameroon. Despite these setbacks, Jenks and Scott were buoyed by the kindness of strangers offering help. Enthusiasts from the U.K. supplied parts, and local mechanics repaired Sheila.

Moments of Triumph and Cultural Impact

While technical issues dominated, moments of awe captivated them. Sheila traversed stunning landscapes and wild terrains, encountering giraffes, rhinos, and elephants on safaris.

After 120 days, they reached Cape Town. Sheila suffered overheating in the Namibian desert but persevered. Her journey, one of endurance, captured the admiration of many, like Graeme Hurst, a South African car fan who followed the adventure on Instagram.

“This is a great underdog story,” said Hurst, who appreciated the mix of humor and determination displayed by Jenks and Scott.

In South Africa, Sheila was exhibited in a luxury car showroom, drawing attention amidst high-end vehicles. Despite her wear and tear, she attracted crowds. After this taxing journey, Sheila will be serviced thoroughly before heading to Kenya, then Turkey, returning to the U.K. to be housed in the London Transport Museum.

Jenks, upon reaching his destination, felt both triumph and relief, describing the experience akin to driving a “motorized coffin.” The journey tested both their resolve and technical endurance.