MB Milton Bradley - Toy vehicle Big-Track - Hong Kong

BIG TRAK / bigtrak – Programmable Electronic Vehicle
Original UK / European Version – Milton Bradley
1979–early 1980s
Original first-generation Big Trak, UK / European version, produced by Milton Bradley and dating to 1979–early 1980s.
This version is identifiable by its white body, UK-style keypad, “bigtrak” branding, and European battery configuration, clearly different from the US grey version.
Big Trak is considered one of the most iconic programmable toys ever produced and an important milestone in early educational robotics and Space Age toy design.
Description
The vehicle features a six-wheel chassis (two-wheel drive), a front-mounted blue “photon beam” lamp, and a top-mounted keypad allowing the user to program and execute up to 16 sequential commands.
Commands are entered sequentially and executed by pressing GO, with no visual display—programming feedback is obtained only by observing the vehicle in motion, exactly as originally designed.
The programming logic is comparable to early turtle graphics / Logo principles and represents a remarkably advanced educational concept for a mass-market toy released in 1979.
Power & Engineering
1 × 9V battery dedicated to the control logic
4 × D-cell batteries powering the motors
This electrical separation was an intentional design choice to prevent electrical interference from motors and lamp, an unusually sophisticated solution for its time.
Dimensions (approx.)
Length: approx. 30 cm
Width: approx. 23 cm
Height: approx. 12 cm
Measurements are approximate and refer to the vehicle only, excluding packaging.
Condition
Fully working: tested, several commands entered and executed correctly
Original box and original polystyrene insert included
Original printed manual not included; PDF copies of the original US manual and a later reference manual can be provided upon request
Please note: the original box and original polystyrene insert are present but show visible wear, tears and damage consistent with age, storage and handling over more than 40 years.
This does not affect the functionality of the Big Trak.
The cosmetic condition of the toy, box and polystyrene is clearly shown in the photos, which are an integral part of the description.
Video Reference
A video showing the Big Trak in operation is available at the following link:
https://youtu.be/0HppXHIIbEk
The video demonstrates correct execution of programmed commands and forms part of the overall documentation of the item.
Collectability
First-generation UK / European Big Traks in working condition and with original packaging are increasingly difficult to find.
This example represents an authentic and well-documented collectible.
Final Notes
Photos and video are an essential part of the description.
Please review all images and the video carefully before bidding.