This issue, meet 427 Hardtops, founded by Andy Hatton, who brings over 45 years of industry experience in design and manufacturing.
Andy took time out of his extremely busy day to answer some questions about his business and give the ACID community an insight into the wonderful world of these legendary cars.
1. Tell us a little about how your Cobra hardtop business started, what inspires you?
The first hardtop was launched in 2013, driven by a genuine interest in product design and a clear opportunity to improve what was available on the market.
From the outset, the goal was to develop a product that offered both excellent fit and practical usability, while still respecting the aesthetics of these iconic cars. That balance between function and form continues to be a key source of inspiration.
2. Are there any special IP considerations to make with the original manufacturer, Cobra? Such as use of paint colours or logos?
We are always mindful to respect the heritage and identity of the original vehicles. Our focus is on designing compatible products that enhance the car, rather than replicating or misrepresenting any original manufacturer branding.
3. Do you use any novel techniques or materials in the manufacture of your products? If so how do you protect these?
Over the years, we have developed our own methods through extensive design, testing, and refinement. Our hardtops are complex products that require a careful balance of functionality, fit, and aesthetics — something that takes years to achieve.
In many ways, this level of refinement acts as a natural barrier to replication. The products are inherently difficult to manufacture well, and achieving the same standard is not a straightforward process. Alongside this, we focus on maintaining quality, reputation, and continuous improvement as our primary form of protection.
4. Do you share your design with any 3rd party suppliers? If so, how do you protect your IP?
Where we work with external partners, we do so selectively and maintain close control over key aspects of design and production. Much of our knowledge and process remains in-house, and we prioritise working with trusted suppliers who understand our standards.
5. Many ACID members experience copying and lookalike products. Have you ever faced situations where your designs were infringed upon, and if so, how did you respond to protect your IP?
As with many niche manufacturing businesses, similar products do appear in the market. Our approach is to focus on what we do best — delivering consistently high-quality products, backed by experience and attention to detail. Ultimately, our reputation and customer trust are what set us apart.
6. As ACID members, what benefits or resources have you found most valuable in supporting your creative journey, particularly in defending your rights and safeguarding innovation?
Being part of ACID provides valuable awareness and support around design rights and protection. It’s reassuring to be part of a wider community that recognises the importance of protecting creative work and supporting independent manufacturers.
7. Do you have any plans to create hardtops for any other brands, such as Morgans?
We are always exploring opportunities to expand where there is clear demand for high-quality, well-designed products. Any future development will be guided by customer demand and our ability to meet our own standards.
8. Can you give us a glimpse of what’s next? Do you have any exciting new designs, innovations, or collaborations coming to market that you can share with us?
We are continuously refining our existing range, but we are also working on an exciting new design to complement our Fastback and Le Mans hardtops, which we hope to share soon.
Our development is very much driven by customer demand, ensuring that anything we bring to market serves a real purpose while maintaining the quality and design standards we’re known for.
9. ACID values the support of its members to enable it to campaign for design law reform. Do you have any messages for Government/Policy Makers on IP issues?
Small manufacturing businesses invest significant time and expertise into developing their products. It’s important that design and innovation are recognised and supported, with clear protections in place to help businesses continue to grow and invest in new ideas.
Spread the Word
