No More Coal

The UK is officially turning its back on coal-powered electricity after 142 years, as the final active coal plant in Ratcliffe-on-Soar shut down for the final time this week.

It’s hard to put into words how big of a deal this is; as coal was the foundation of the Industrial Revolution that changed the country and so many industries forever thanks to the electrical power it generated. Now though, as the UK (and the rest of the world) look to a greener and more sustainable future, renewable energy is taking over. In fact, more than 50% of the UK’s electricity is currently provided by renewable sources. 

It’s something of a full circle moment in some ways as not only did the UK lead the way into fossil fuel powered industry, but it now leads the way out of fossil fuel usage and makes a big shift towards more environmentally friendly processes. 

I’m surrounded by classic cars every day so I have a deep respect for the historical importance of things. That’s why I feel like this is something of a moment in the history of the UK that people will look back on as the time when the fossil fuel era ended and the sustainability era began. 

Right now, there’s a lot of focus on wind and solar power. However, there are still concerns about grid stability, especially on days with very little wind when solar energy can’t fill the gap in energy supply. This is where battery technology will play a key role. Innovations are underway, but the UK needs to invest in its own battery production and expertise to stay competitive and avoid gaps in power generation. 

When it comes to classic cars, and the automotive industry as a whole, sustainability is becoming more and more apparent. While I’m sure we all know hardcore petrolheads who hate EVs and they want to hear the roar of a V8 as they drive but, with synthetic fuel, this could all still happen without the negative environmental impacts.

Other fuels such as hydrogen, water, and anything else that comes along will all play a part but, for now, the last coal plant shutting down in the UK is a clear sign of the country’s commitment to a greener future..

What do you think?

First Norton F1R Ever Produced

The first Norton F1R motorcycle to be produced and raced will be available to buy at an auction hosted by H&H Classics at the National Motorcycle Museum on Wednesday 30th October 2024. The bike is estimated to sell for between £52,000 and £56,000.

This 1990 Norton F1R is frame number one and was the first P55 (F1) model to leave Norton’s Shenstone factory on April 1st, 1990. Having been owned by a single individual since new, the bike holds significant historical and racing value and it was famously raced in Germany’s “Battle of the Twins” series.

Throughout its racing career, the bike underwent various modifications. Starting with minor tweaks like an upgraded exhaust and inlet tract, it later received a custom swinging arm, front forks, high-compression rotors, aero engine twin-plug trochoids, and Mikuni flat-slide carburettors.

A very cool point to note about this bike is that it was nicknamed “Nepomuk” by the Seifert family after a little dragon from a popular German children’s puppet show. This was due to its habit of shooting flames when decelerating into corners!

“Our auction at the end of October is an incredible opportunity to own an extremely rare slice of motorcycle history. We expect a lot of interest in this special Norton F1 which has seen competitive action and won a number of races. It also looks amazing and is instantly recognisable in its black livery. Style, power and performance…the Norton F1R is the total package and this particular model, which has been running recently, is a must have for any Norton aficionado.”

Mike Davis, motorcycle specialist at H&H Classics