Investment In Skills For EV And Battery Technology
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and leaders from the North East Combined Authority are set to approve a huge skills investment aimed at developing a
Marketing Manager - Bridge Classic Cars
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and leaders from the North East Combined Authority are set to approve a huge skills investment aimed at developing a
As one of the leading companies in the production of 100% fossil-free fuel, P1 Fuels has been making huge progress in the automotive and racing
When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transportation is the UK’s biggest challenge. While Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are leading the charge for passenger
Hagertyโs Festival of the Unexceptional is celebrating its 10th anniversary at Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire on Saturday 27th July 2024. The event will feature thousands
When Karl Reiley won our 1957 Triumph TR3 through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, he stayed in touch and has become a good friend of ours.
Hampson Auctions has an incredible list of cars up for sale at its Oulton Park Gold Cup sale, taking place on the 28th of July
To mark the 35th anniversary of the Mazda MX-5, four models – one from each generation – completed a 1,000-mile journey from Landโs End to
We recently completed the full restoration of our 1976 Triumph Spitfire. Its very happy owner came all the way from his home in France to
The investigation and rebuild of the engine of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL has now begun. Cam wear was noticed and the cam chain was stretched.
Pettistree, Woodbridge โ July 2024 โ Bridge Classic Cars is excited to announce the opening of their new bar and members club. Based in The
On Friday night, we celebrated the opening of The Classic Lounge, the home of the exclusive members’ club by Bridge Classic Cars. The event, held
Caterham and the Royal Air Force (RAF) have unveiled a special one-off car built using exterior and interior components from a Puma HC2 helicopter, paying
One of our favourite drinks available from the fully licensed bar in The Classic Lounge at Bridge Classic Cars is Coachbuilt Whisky. If you haven’t
The windows of The Classic Lounge were cleaned earlier this week. As part of the preparation for our big launch party tonight, we wanted to
Our 1939 Jaguar SS100 successfully completed the Mille Miglia and is now back with us at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. No issues have been
Our 1970 Morris Minor recently arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. It will now be assessed by the workshop team so a plan for
We recently welcomed another exciting new arrival to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 2001 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage. Once it
We recently welcomed an exciting new arrival to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1979 Ferrari 400. Once it has been
We recently welcomed our 1981 Reliant Robin into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. It was only with us for a short time for some minor
After Chris had finished repainting our 1960 MGA, Julian reassembled the car and fitted new steering rack gaiters.
Tony has been out and about again. This time, he made a trip to Devon to collect our 1962 Jaguar E-Type. He then transported it
Chris has been cutting out the rear valance and fabricating a new part on our 1973 Ferrari Dino. He then fabricated a wing patch and
Classic car technician Steve has been continuing his work on our 1952 Fiat 1900A. He replaced the broken and poorly made rear dynamo supporting bracket
Mauro has been prepping our 1973 Porsche 914 for paint. Once it was fully prepped and masked up, it was ready for colour to be
Tony recently picked up our 1984 Suzuki GSX400T and transported it to our secure storage facility.
A couple of weeks ago, James Webber won our 2011 Morgan 4/4 with just over 1000 miles on the clock. Along with the stunning car,
Our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas is now live on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website. On September 17, 1974, the Vanden Plas 1500, based on
MG has just released an exclusive preview of the all-new HS SUV. This is ahead of the carโs global debut at the Goodwood Festival of
We recently received an amazing update from one of our customers regarding our beautiful 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2. Not only is the car being
Back in January last year, Steve won our 1975 MGB GT V8 through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. Since then, Steve has become a great friend
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and leaders from the North East Combined Authority are set to approve a huge skills investment aimed at developing a new generation of skilled workers in electric vehicle (EV) and battery technology.
MADE NE (Manufacturing, Automation, Digitalisation, Electrification North East), spearheaded by Nissan in collaboration with automotive sector partners, will establish world-class training facilities across two locations within the International Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Site (IAMSS) in Sunderland.
This ยฃ14.6 million initiative, for which a report to the Mayor and Cabinet suggests a ยฃ9.7 million investment from the Combined Authority, will offer open-access facilities for industry-specific skills training in the regionโs advanced manufacturing sector, focusing on EV and battery technology.
The program will include skills development ranging from primary education to apprenticeships and in-work training. Additionally, the centre aims to support targeted industrial innovation projects through funding and equipment.
The proposal will be reviewed by the North East Combined Authority Cabinet on Tuesday, 30 July. MADE NE represents the first project within the regionโs Investment Zone, a ยฃ160 million, 10-year initiative projected to create over 4,000 jobs and attract ยฃ3 billion in private sector investment.
North East Mayor Kim McGuinness said: โIn my manifesto I promised to back our world-leading automotive industry. Now we are delivering. This investment will unlock a generation of skilled workers and create opportunities for local people and businesses.
โIt cements our reputation as a global success story in advanced manufacturing and shows how we can lead the industries of the future. The investment shows how we can make the North East the home of real opportunity by backing local workers and businesses โ so our area has good, well-paid, high-skilled jobs and training on the doorstep.โ
Adam Pennick, Vice President, Manufacturing, at Nissan Sunderland Plant, said: โTo build the cars of the future, you need the skills of the future. This fantastic new facility will help find the talent, nurture the technical skills and drive the spirit of innovation that will power advanced automotive manufacturing in the UK.ย
โNissan Sunderland is proud of its track record on skills development and we know that to deliver our EV36Zero vision we need to do more.
โThatโs why we are excited to be leading this collaborative long-term project to take skills development to the next level, for the benefit of the North East of England.โ
Cllr Michael Mordey, Cabinet member for Finance and Investment and Leader of Sunderland City Council, said: โWe are proud that Sunderland is the beating heart of the most important economic motor this region has, and that โ in securing this investment โ we can continue to drive its success with talented, highly-skilled people, trained in the city and able to contribute to the success of this whole region.ย And indeed to ensure that the supply chain is developed with the availability of a world-class workforce.ย
โOur location โ at the heart of the region โ means that we are well-positioned to support people right across the North East to access world-class training that will enable them to take up green jobs, as we transition to electrification. It cements our position on a global stage โ an internationally competitive, ambitious city that is leading the way in the race to a more sustainable future, at the heart of a region that can play a huge part in the success of UK Plc.โ
As one of the leading companies in the production of 100% fossil-free fuel, P1 Fuels has been making huge progress in the automotive and racing sectors since its creation in 2018. They have established themselves as the exclusive fuel supplier for the FIA World Championships and numerous other international racing events, including classic car races. Their fuel is all about significantly reducing CO2 emissions in the mobility sector, which accounts for 21% of global CO2 emissions.
P1 Fuels offers a range of environmentally friendly fuels that meet the EN 228 standard, making them road-legal in the European Union and the UK. They are also certified by the Fรฉdรฉration Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
Their signature fuel, P1 Eco 100 Pro, achieves an impressive 77.4% reduction in well-to-wheel CO2 emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. Additionally, it has been shown to emit lower levels of NOx, HC, and particulate matter, helping companies meet their Scope 3 emissions targets and achieve their sustainability goals. P1 Fuels have demonstrated their fuel’s performance in various racing series worldwide, proving its quality and reliability in the most demanding environments. Importantly, P1 fuels can be used in all spark-ignition engines without requiring any modifications to existing refuelling infrastructures.
As production scales up, P1 Fuels aims to further reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 94% compared to conventional fossil fuels, presenting a viable solution for decarbonising the mobility sector today.
P1 Fuels was founded by Martin Popilka, an avid motorsport enthusiast and former racer. His firsthand experience in the racing industry revealed a significant challenge: the sector’s substantial contribution to global CO2 emissions. Driven by his passion for racing and a commitment to environmental sustainability, Popilka established P1 Fuels. His goal was to support the motorsport industry and the broader transportation sector in transitioning to greener, more sustainable solutions, in alignment with the Paris climate goals.
With approximately 1.3 billion fossil-fuel-powered cars currently on the road, P1 Fuels offers an immediate, fossil-free alternative that is compatible with any petrol engine and requires no technical modifications. This makes it an attractive, sustainable option for reducing the carbon footprint of existing vehicles.
P1 Fuels is actively partnering with fleet companies to reduce CO2 emissions in daily transportation. Their product portfolio includes storage and mobile refuelling solutions, as well as first-fill fuels for car manufacturers (OEMs). A significant jump forward for P1 Fuels is the launch of a demonstration plant in Germany in 2024, followed by the construction of an industrial-scale plant expected to commence in 2025, with a target operational date of 2029. This will facilitate their entry into the mass market, making fossil-free fuels more accessible and widespread.
When it comes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, transportation is the UK’s biggest challenge. While Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are leading the charge for passenger cars and vans, hydrogen shows promise for aviation, shipping, buses, and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), especially in scenarios where battery charging infrastructure and range limitations are issues.
The UK’s Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) mandate aims for 22% of new cars to be ZEVs by 2024, increasing to 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2035. Although BEVs are expected to dominate, it’s worth questioning if they are the best technology.
A ZEV, as defined by the UK Government, is a vehicle that emits zero grams of CO2 per kilometre during the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP). This means that both BEVs and Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) qualify as ZEVs. However, this definition doesnโt account for emissions from the entire lifecycle of the vehicle.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) offers a more comprehensive view by evaluating CO2 emissions from manufacturing to disposal. For instance, although BEVs produce zero emissions at the tailpipe, their overall CO2 impact includes the emissions from electricity generation, which still relies partly on fossil fuels. Currently, about 35% of the UKโs electricity is from fossil fuels, while renewables and nuclear contribute 36% and 15%, respectively.
The LCA results show that BEVs and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) have similar total CO2 emissions, mainly due to the significant CO2 produced during battery manufacturing and the current energy mix. Future improvements in battery recycling and increased renewable energy use could tip the balance in favour of BEVs though.
Hydrogen, especially green hydrogen produced from renewable sources, has the potential to lower CO2 emissions significantly. However, the infrastructure for green hydrogen is still in its infancy. Early adoption is expected in buses and HGVs, but the long-term demand will likely come from the shipping and aviation sectors, where hydrogen can serve as an energy carrier rather than a direct fuel.
While BEVs currently lead the zero-emission vehicle market, hydrogen has a promising future, particularly for applications where batteries fall short. The transport sector’s shift to greener solutions will likely involve a mix of technologies, including improved battery systems, green hydrogen, and synthetic fuels.
When it comes to hydrogen as a fuel, safety is a top priority. While hydrogen presents unique risks, itโs important to understand how they differ from traditional fuels. Hydrogen is highly flammable and can ignite easily, but its lightweight nature means it disperses quickly in the event of a leak, reducing the risk of accumulation and subsequent explosions.
Safety protocols for handling hydrogen are rigorous. Hydrogen systems are designed with multiple safety layers, including leak detection and automatic shutdowns to prevent accidents. For example, hydrogen fueling stations are equipped with sensors that detect leaks and automatically stop the fuel supply if an issue arises.
Comparatively, petrol and diesel are more prone to lingering and spreading fires due to their heavier nature. This makes hydrogen a safer option in some scenarios, as it doesn’t pool on the ground or spread as easily.
Transporting hydrogen also requires specialised infrastructure. Hydrogen pipelines are built with materials that can withstand the high pressures and potential weakness caused by hydrogen. Hydrogen storage tanks are also designed to endure significant impacts without rupturing.
Training and education are crucial for anyone with hydrogen. Technicians need to be highly knowledgeable in the specific safety measures required for handling and maintaining hydrogen systems. This includes understanding the properties of hydrogen, proper storage methods, and emergency response procedures.
While hydrogen comes with its own set of dangers, these are manageable with the right knowledge, technology, and safety practices. As we move towards a more sustainable future, understanding and managing the risks associated with hydrogen will be key to its successful integration into our energy and transport systems.
If you look at the potential of hydrogen as a future fuel, itโs worth noting its range of uses in transportation. The UK Government’s Hydrogen Roadmap anticipates a significant rise in hydrogen demand for transport by the late 2020s and mid-2030s, particularly for maritime and aviation sectors, while heavy goods vehicles (HGVs), rail, and light vehicles may not see as much demand unless electrification isnโt the sole option.
This comes as the government extends the deadline for selling new internal combustion vehicles to 2035 to align with European standards, reflecting the need for alternative strategies beyond electrification due to environmental, economic, and social concerns.
While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) dominate the zero-emission vehicle (ZEV) market, their registration numbers dropped in 2023, influenced by both the new internal combustion engine (ICE) sales deadline and challenges related to EV economics and charging infrastructure. Concerns over BEVs’ environmental impact, particularly regarding rare earth materials and lithium mining, persist. Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) reveal that plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) and BEVs have similar CO2 impacts, with BEVs requiring significant mileage to offset their manufacturing emissions compared to fossil fuel vehicles.
Some automotive manufacturers are investing in synthetic fuels (E-Fuels) and hydrogen technologies, indicating that the future of ZEVs isn’t limited to one solution. Alternatives like ammonia and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) are also under consideration for sectors where batteries aren’t viable.
E-fuels are produced by combining hydrogen with captured CO2, resulting in a liquid hydrocarbon fuel similar to petrol or diesel. This approach, if powered by renewable energy, can be nearly carbon-neutral despite producing particulate emissions.
Fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) convert hydrogen to electricity via a fuel cell, emitting only water vapour. They offer quick refuelling times and long ranges, comparable to conventional cars.
Hydrogen combustion engines, while efficient and clean, face challenges like high ignition temperatures and corrosive properties, making them complex to design and maintain. Ammonia, with its high hydrogen content and ease of storage, is promising for low-speed engines but has drawbacks like high autoignition temperature and NOx emissions.
Looking ahead to 2050, it’s likely that a mix of fuels will power vehicles. Hydrogen from renewable sources, improved battery technologies, and liquid E-Fuels will all play roles in reducing CO2 emissions. While BEVs might remain carbon-intensive, advancements in technology and shifts in vehicle ownership models could shape a diverse and sustainable transport future.
Hagertyโs Festival of the Unexceptional is celebrating its 10th anniversary at Grimsthorpe Castle in Lincolnshire on Saturday 27th July 2024. The event will feature thousands of everyday cars on display, including a special selection of the UKโs rarest ordinary vehicles in the Concours de lโOrdinaire.
The Festival of the Unexceptional is the only car show where guests can admire rare models from once-common brands that have now faded into history. This unique celebration is made possible by dedicated FOTU fans who lovingly maintain these ordinary cars long after their manufacturers have disappeared from showrooms.
Austin –ย Herbert Austin founded his car company in 1905 and the Austin name was quietly dropped for good in 1988.
Daihatsu – Japanโs Daihatsu made its first engine in 1907 and, in 2013, Daihatsu made the decision to withdraw from Europe.
Datsun –ย Datsunโs roots can be traced to 1911 with the first DAT car being produced in 1914, however, the Datsun name was phased out in favour of Nissan from the early 1980s.
Daewoo – Originally established in 1937, Daewoo entered the UK market full of promise in 1995, before going bust in 2002.
Lancia – An illustrious history that began in 1906 came to a grinding halt, in the UK at least, in 1993, but there is a chance that a newly-electrified Lancia could return to the UK in the future.
Morris – William Richard Morris started WRM Morris Ltd in Oxford in 1912, and the Morris name disappeared when the last Ital was produced in 1984.
Mitsubishi – The Mitsubishi automotive arm was established in 1970 and, despite being an early adopter of hybrid technology in family cars it closed for business (in the UK) in 2021.
Rover – Rover built cars from 1904 and was eventually sold to BMW – who then famously sold out to the Phoenix Consortium in 2000 for a single pound. Overambition and financial mismanagement saw production end in 2005.
Triumph – In 1921 Triumph acquired the Dawson Car Company and built its first four-wheeler and the brand was acquired by Leyland in 1960. The final vehicle to bear the name was a badge-engineered Honda, the Acclaim in 1981.
Yugo – In 1980 the Yugo was born as a reworked 128, and a UK importer was found in 1981. However, as the wars of Yugoslav succession unfolded, exports halted, and the UK operation was closed in 1993.
When Karl Reiley won our 1957 Triumph TR3 through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, he stayed in touch and has become a good friend of ours.
Karl recently got in touch to tell us a lovely story about his TR3 and how it has recently been put to very good use. Karl said:
“You prepared my TR3 and XJS for me over the last few weeks, so I thought I’d update you.ย My TR3 was pressed into service as a wedding car again last weekend.ย
When I first won the TR3 it was immediately pressed into service for my sister’s wedding, and now again serving duty for my Son’s wedding.ย The new Mr & Mrs Reilly, aka Nathan and Jennifer, used the Triumph as transport and as the focus for their photos for the immediate family, but the bride insisted the roof be up to protect her hair do.ย At the reception, it received loads of attention, with a lot of guests wanting their photo with the car (and just a few with the Jag XJS too)”
Thank you Karl for the great photos and update!
Hampson Auctions has an incredible list of cars up for sale at its Oulton Park Gold Cup sale, taking place on the 28th of July 2024 at the Oulton Park circuit. Highlights include two literal barn finds: a 1970 Jaguar E-type 4.2-litre 2+2 and, the car it lived with, undisturbed since the mid-1980s, a 1975 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow. The auction also features a restored 1956 Bristol Drophead Coupe, a rare right-hand-drive Ferrari 308 GTB ‘Vetroresina,’ and a 1978 Maserati Merak SS.
Managing Director Zach Hamilton said getting the cars out of the barn was good fun. The Jaguar E-type Series 2, purchased by the vendorโs late husband for his 21st birthday in the mid-1970s, has been untouched in the barn since 1986 after a theft attempt outside Woolworths. The 1975 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow, another of the vendorโs husbandโs cars, joined it a few years later. Both cars, requiring full restorations, are offered with no reserve.
In contrast, the 1956 Bristol 405 Drophead Coupe has recently undergone a full bare-metal restoration, with the vendor suggesting it could be a show-winner. It has coachwork by Abbotts of Farnham and the original toolkit is included too. Estimated sale price: ยฃ160,000-ยฃ180,000.
The 1978 Maserati Merak SS was originally delivered to an American owner and later displayed in a museum from 2001 to 2017. Its exceptionally low mileage of 29,000 is credible, though not warranted. This left-hand-drive vehicle, imported to the UK in 2020, retains its period-correct interior, including a 1970s Blaupunkt cassette player, and has recently received new black wool carpets, costing a four-figure sum. It is estimated to sell for ยฃ55,000-ยฃ65,000.
Among several Ferraris in the auction is a 1976 Ferrari 308 GTB ‘Vetroresina,’ one of only 154 right-hand-drive models, estimated at ยฃ90,000-ยฃ110,000. The sale also includes a 1991 Ferrari Testarossa (ยฃ80,000-ยฃ100,000) and a 1975 Ferrari Dino 308 GT4, maintained for the past two decades by its engineer owner specialising in classic and rally cars, offered at no reserve.
Other no-reserve lots include a well-preserved 1973 BMW 2002 Tii in Seventies-style BMW Motorsport livery, a charming 1933 Austin 10/4 Saloon, a charismatic 1991 Nissan Figaro, and a 1954 Rolls-Royce Silver Dawn, complete with the cherished โPGH 2โ registration number.
To mark the 35th anniversary of the Mazda MX-5, four models – one from each generation – completed a 1,000-mile journey from Landโs End to John OโGroats using sustainable fuel. These vehicles, powered entirely by 100 per cent biofuel from SUSTAIN, became the first cars to complete this iconic route across the UK using sustainable fuel.
The Mazda MX-5, which debuted at the 1989 Chicago Motor Show, has always set the standard for pure, lightweight sports cars, with driver engagement at its core. To date, over 1.2 million MX-5s have been produced at Mazdaโs Ujina plant in Hiroshima, with more than 135,000 sold in the UK. The four cars that completed the 1,000-mile drive were part of the Mazda UK Heritage Fleet: a 1990 1.6-litre Mk1 from the carโs UK launch year, a 10th Anniversary Mk2, a 25th Anniversary Mk3, and a 30th Anniversary Mk4, each marking a special occasion in the MX-5โs history.
Each generation of the Mazda MX-5 made the journey using SUSTAIN 100 RON E5, a second-generation biofuel from Coryton. This fuel, free from fossil fuels, is produced from agricultural waste and by-products from non-consumable crops. The cars required no modifications to use this drop-in fuel, which recycles existing atmospheric carbon absorbed by plants, unlike fossil fuels that release additional CO2.
The 1,000-mile trip featured stops at four organisations that are helping to demonstrate the potential of sustainable technologies. Although the 100 per cent biofuel used is not yet publicly available, other SUSTAIN fuels are, showcasing the crucial role sustainable fuels can play in de-carbonising both modern and classic cars.
Since June 2023, the Mazda UK Heritage Fleet has been powered by SUSTAIN Classic 80 sustainable fuel, which is available to the public. In 2022, the Mazda MX-5 became the first vehicle to drive 1,000 miles across the UK and complete laps in each home nationโs circuit using sustainable fuel.
Commenting on Mazdaโs latest sustainable fuel achievement, Jeremy Thomson, Managing Director at Mazda Motors UK, said: โThe MX-5 is Mazdaโs brand icon and it embodies all that is great about our products. Mazdaโs unceasing commitment to refining the vehicle over its 35-year history has always focused on its core mission of delivering driver engagement and fun from behind the wheel. Itโs great that it was a quartet of MX-5s that became the first cars to drive this famous route using sustainable fuel, as itโs always been a sports car that delivers efficiency through its lightweight and compact design. Furthermore, itโs highly appropriate that a car famous for driver fun has highlighted the part sustainable fuel can have in de-carbonising classic motoring in the futureโ.
He continues, โMazda is committed to reducing CO2 emissions from every car and believes that all options available must be used to achieve climate neutrality. In the future through Mazdaโs SKYACTIV Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture, continued electrification will go hand in hand with the development of advanced internal combustion engine technology. While, with the wide use of Mazda M Hybrid mild-hybrid, the all-electric Mazda MX-30, the unique Mazda MX-30 R-EV parallel hybrid, the self-charging hybrid Mazda2 Hybrid and the plug-in hybrid Mazda CX-60 PHEV, across Mazdaโs current range this multi-solution approach is already clear to seeโ.
Adding, โIn many regions of the world Mazda is investing in different projects and partnerships to promote the development and use of renewable fuels in cars. In Japan, Mazda is involved in several joint research projects and studies as part of an ongoing industry-academia-government collaboration to promote the widespread adoption of biofuels from microalgae growth and bio-diesel from used cooking oil, while in Europe, Mazda was the first OEM to join the eFuel Allianceโ.
David Richardson, Director at SUSTAIN, said: โAchieving the first-ever drive from Landโs End to John Oโ Groats on 100% sustainable biofuel is something weโre extremely proud of. Itโs particularly poignant to be teaming up with Mazda on the MX-5s 35th birthday. Sustainable fuel is a genuine way we can keep vehicles such as these on the road for many years to come, whilst reducing their environmental impact. Over the 1000-mile trip, we calculated that around 981kg of CO2 was saved by using SUSTAIN in the four MX-5s to replace fossil fuels. Imagine the difference we could make if more motorists followed suit.“
Adding, โElectric vehicles are increasing in numbers, but there are many millions of combustion engine cars on our roads โ it surely makes sense to reduce the emissions from those vehicles if we can. Yet many people donโt realise itโs an option or know how sustainable fuel works. There are a lot of misunderstandings. We need support from those in power to enable sustainable fuel production to be scaled up, which could happen relatively quickly. There is no silver bullet solution to tackle the environmental impact of the automotive sector โ we should be using all the available technologies to give us the best chance to make a real difference.โ
Stop 1: Motor Spirit, Bicester Heritage Centre, Oxfordshire
Stop 2: Translational Energy Research Centre (TERC), Sheffield University
Stop 3: Windermere Boat Club (WMBRC), Lake District National Park
Stop 4: Celtic Renewables and Caldic, Grangemouth, Scotland
We recently completed the full restoration of our 1976 Triumph Spitfire.
Its very happy owner came all the way from his home in France to collect this beautiful classic and to take it for its first drive….back to France!
As first drives go, that’s a big one but our Spitfire and its owner made it back home with no issues.
Everyone here at Bridge Classic Cars is looking forward to seeing it out and about on even more adventures.
The investigation and rebuild of the engine of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL has now begun.
Cam wear was noticed and the cam chain was stretched. The tensioner for the cam chain was also worn, as were the bores. The injection pump and injectors will be serviced while the engine is out of the car.
The crank will need grinding and the cleaning process has begun.
It was also noted that one of the pistons was facing the wrong direction and was cracked. As you can see from the videos below, the bearing in the rod has failed and is the cause of most of the noise when the car is running; and the bearing has moved which has blocked the oil feed hole and then started to break up.
Pettistree, Woodbridge โ July 2024 โ Bridge Classic Cars is excited to announce the opening of their new bar and members club. Based in The Classic Lounge, right next door to the restoration workshop, this unique venue offers members the rare opportunity to enjoy socialising while being surrounded by some of the most desirable and rare classic cars.
The launch party, held last Friday night, was a huge success with a packed guest list of personally invited attendees. Guests were treated to a first look at the recently completed facility as well as live music, food, and drink.
One of the things that the Bridge Classic Cars team are proud of, with this new venture, is that the new bar promotes safe socialising and driving. The Classic Lounge offers a wide range of local non-alcoholic drinks, providing a responsible and enjoyable option for all guests.
“We are thrilled to finally open the doors to The Classic Lounge,” said Craig Ranson, Managing Director of Bridge Classic Cars. “Personally, private member’s clubs and bars have always fascinated me; the sense of intrigue and excitement of a member’s only community. I really hope that this same feeling can be created here. Members will have access to a curated calendar of unique experiences, including factory tours, wine tasting, live music, track days, special guests and more.”
Bridge Classic Cars has just entered its 20th year. Known for its award-winning restoration of classic cars and its weekly competitions, the addition of The Classic Lounge further enhances its reputation as a hub for automotive enthusiasts and an exciting new social venue.
Bridge Classic Cars Members Club is now open. For membership inquiries and more information about upcoming events, please visit https://bridgeclassiccars.co.uk/members-club/ or contact members@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
High Res images can be downloaded here
About Bridge Classic Cars: Bridge Classic Cars is a classic car restoration workshop located in Pettistree near Woodbridge in Suffolk. With a passion for preserving automotive history, they specialise in the restoration of rare and desirable classic cars. Their commitment to excellence and attention to detail has earned them several awards for their work.
Media Contact: Rob Harvey
Marketing Manager
Bridge Classic Cars
rob@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
01473 742038
www.bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
On Friday night, we celebrated the opening of The Classic Lounge, the home of the exclusive members’ club by Bridge Classic Cars. The event, held in The Classic Lounge itself, right next to our workshop, was a complete success. From the moment guests arrived, when they were greeted with a glass of champagne, there was an atmosphere of class, style, and exclusivity that made for a truly unforgettable evening.
As soon as our guests arrived, all of whom had been personally invited, they were met with our 1905 Riley 9HP, the only one in existence. After a quick photo opportunity with a car that genuinely changed automotive history, they walked through the main doors and into the heart of The Classic Lounge.
With live music from Miss Leeloo Saxophonist and canapรฉs from Paul Thompson Events, our guests got to experience first-hand what life as a Bridge Classic Cars Member is like.
As well as the moody interior of the main bar and seating area, we had a covered outdoor area too (provided by Events Under Canvas). Despite the rain, this was extremely well-received with guests being able to enjoy the fresh air of an early July evening, without any worry of the rain ruining their evening.
The location provided another level of specialness though. There aren’t many places where you can spend the evening with a fully licensed bar, food, and live music, surrounded by some of the rarest, and sought-after classic cars ever to exist. Our 1905 Riley 9HP is the only one in existence so having a photo taken with this on arrival set our guests up for what was to come. We also had our 1939 Jaguar SS100 on display. Not only is this a super-rare car, but this one returned from the legendary Mille Miglia just a few days prior and even still had the dirt from the 1000-mile race on its body.
When there were short breaks in the rain, our invited guests had the opportunity to take a look inside our workshop buildings. This allowed them to see even more classic cars including rare Aston Martins, Ferraris, Jaguars, Austin-Healeys, and more.
As far as launch parties go, this one was incredible and the whole team are extremely proud of what we have created. We want to say a huge thank you to everyone who joined us, the entire bar team, catering team, entertainment, and suppliers who helped launch the Bridge Classic Cars Members Club in such a big way.
Full details of our Members Club can be found here.
Caterham and the Royal Air Force (RAF) have unveiled a special one-off car built using exterior and interior components from a Puma HC2 helicopter, paying tribute to the aircraft.
The unique Caterham Seven 360R has been built to raise funds for injured servicemen and women. It will make its debut at this weekendโs Formula 1 British Grand Prix.
Set to be auctioned through Collecting Cars, this collaboration between the RAF, Caterham, Mission Motorsport, and the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund aims to raise over ยฃ100,000.
The project supports the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) division, providing participants with external opportunities to enhance their skills.
The Puma HC2, operated by Joint Aviation Command (JAC) at RAF Benson, entered service in 1972 and has served globally. Recently retired, the teams at Benson and Caterham decided to honour the Puma and its servicemen and women with this unique creation.
Based on the Seven 360R, the car’s exterior retains the finish from the aircraft, with additional panels painted in matching โNATO Greenโ. The chassis mirrors the aircraft’s understructure, finished in โDesert Sandโ.
The car features aluminium skin from the aircraftโs tail boom and doors as exterior panels, and the internal rear bulkhead retains the door jettison handle.
The interior incorporates details from the Puma, including quilted soundproofing from the aircraft lining the door panels, tunnel top, and padding for the carbon fibre seats. The helicopterโs evacuation instructions are stitched into the lining.
A distinctive satin black dashboard, matching the Pumaโs military-grade switchgear, replaces the regular dash switches. The 360R also includes a helicopter-style three-stage ignition sequence and the aircraftโs navigation clock as the dash centrepiece.
Under the bonnet, the car’s battery is housed in an ammunition box.
The car’s assembly was a joint effort between Caterham and serving personnel from RAF Benson, with the names of all contributors featured on the bonnet.
Puma HC2 medium support helicopters perform a variety of combat roles, including the tactical movement of troops and weapons, as well as casualty extraction on the frontline. They are also used for humanitarian and disaster relief operations.
Corporal McCreadie said:ย โIt has been an honour to be a part of the Caterham project. As an Aircraft Technician (mechanical), I volunteered my time to remove the decommissioned materials from the Puma for the Caterham RAF Seven 360. To see the transformation of the materials has been fascinating.
โThrough the course of the project I had the opportunity to refine my skills and learn some new engineering techniques. I am proud to have been a part of the team that made this car and to promote Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics within the RAF.โ
Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham, said: โWhen the RAF approached us about this project we jumped at the chance to be involved. Firstly, because it was an interesting build process for us as itโs the first time in our history that a Seven has been made from recycled helicopter parts.
โIt was a true team effort as well, with engineers from the RAF supporting us throughout the build. But, more importantly, itโs great to know that any proceeds from the auction will go to incredibly important causes.โ
Squadron Leader Morley said: โRoyal Air Force Benson Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) team will be attending multiple events throughout the summer, promoting STEM in both the military and industry. Along with support from RAF Engineering & Cyber Recruitment the team have an amazing opportunity to host and present this one-off Caterham car made with former RAF Puma components.
โThe car has been assembled by RAF personnel with the help of Caterham and highlights the amazing skills of the engineering teams that both maintain the RAF Pumaโs and that work in industry. Itโs our opportunity to celebrate the history of the RAF Puma Force while showcasing the opportunities that are available within the RAF and wider STEM community.โ
Bidding for the car opens 15 August and ends 12 September through Collecting Cars.
The car is scheduled to be displayed at several events throughout the Summer. For more information, visit caterhamcars.com.
One of our favourite drinks available from the fully licensed bar in The Classic Lounge at Bridge Classic Cars is Coachbuilt Whisky. If you haven’t tried it yet, you really should.
Founded by Formula 1 driver Jenson Button and whisky expert George Koutsakis, Coachbuilt aims to create a whisky that reflects the craftsmanship of coachbuilding. The art of constructing bespoke car bodies is a unique skill and taking that view into whisky production results in a product that is not only high in quality but also full of character and history.
Coachbuilt Whisky is a blend of single malts and single grains from five whisky regions of Scotland: Islay, Speyside, Highland, Lowland, and Campbeltown. Each region contributes its unique flavours and characteristics, creating a well-balanced blend.
The production process of Coachbuilt Whisky involves careful selection and blending of whiskies that have been aged in a variety of casks, including bourbon, sherry, and wine. This varied maturation process enhances the complexity of the final product, adding hints of vanilla, dried fruits, spices, and even a hint of smokiness. The result is a whisky that is smooth, rich, and versatile.
Coachbuilt Whisky’s branding and packaging also pay homage to its automotive inspiration. The bottle design is sleek and elegant, a clear nod to classic car aesthetics, and the logo features a coachbuilding hammer, symbolising the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
Since its launch, Coachbuilt Whisky has demonstrated the successful collaboration between two individuals from seemingly different worlds – racing and whisky – brought together by a shared passion for excellence and quality.
The windows of The Classic Lounge were cleaned earlier this week. As part of the preparation for our big launch party tonight, we wanted to make sure the building was looking its best!
Our 1939 Jaguar SS100 successfully completed the Mille Miglia and is now back with us at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
No issues have been reported but it will now undergo a full assessment and any repairs/tweaks will be made accordingly.
Normally we clean the cars as soon as they come into the workshop. However, in this instance, we felt it more appropriate to let the Mille Miglia dust stay on this beautiful race car for a little longer as a display piece.
Our 1970 Morris Minor recently arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
It will now be assessed by the workshop team so a plan for the future can be put in place.
We recently welcomed another exciting new arrival to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 2001 Aston Martin DB7 Vantage.
Once it has been inspected by the team, the plan is for this stunning Aston to be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
We recently welcomed an exciting new arrival to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1979 Ferrari 400.
Once it has been inspected by the team, the plan is for this classic Ferrari to be available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
We recently welcomed our 1981 Reliant Robin into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
It was only with us for a short time for some minor work but it definitely got our attention.
After Chris had finished repainting our 1960 MGA, Julian reassembled the car and fitted new steering rack gaiters.
Tony has been out and about again. This time, he made a trip to Devon to collect our 1962 Jaguar E-Type. He then transported it back to our secure storage facility for safekeeping.
Chris has been cutting out the rear valance and fabricating a new part on our 1973 Ferrari Dino.
He then fabricated a wing patch and sill section before cutting more rust out on the right-hand sill.
Classic car technician Steve has been continuing his work on our 1952 Fiat 1900A.
He replaced the broken and poorly made rear dynamo supporting bracket with a more substantial one. He then replaced the starter motor wiring before placing and rerouting the dynamo wiring.
Steve then tidied up the wiring in the battery compartment and added a battery clamp before removing the carpet underlay in preparation for the jacking points to be welded.
Mauro has been prepping our 1973 Porsche 914 for paint. Once it was fully prepped and masked up, it was ready for colour to be applied.
Tony recently picked up our 1984 Suzuki GSX400T and transported it to our secure storage facility.
A couple of weeks ago, James Webber won our 2011 Morgan 4/4 with just over 1000 miles on the clock.
Along with the stunning car, an optional 12 months of free storage was also part of the prize that James was lucky enough to win.
As James lives in London, he has decided to keep the car in our secure storage facility for a while. He has family in our area so at some point in the near future, he will visit his beautiful low-mileage car safely tucked away in a climate-controlled Carcoon.
Congratulations again to James on winning our 2011 Morgan 4/4.
Our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas is now live on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
On September 17, 1974, the Vanden Plas 1500, based on the Austin Allegro, was released as the successor to the Princess 1300. It was equipped with British Leylandโs โEโ series 1485cc overhead camshaft engine, and had a single SU HS6 carburettor, producing 68bhp at 5500rpm.
Unlike the Princess 11/1300s, the Mark 1 model did not include the picnic tables on the back of the front seats, and it had slightly less rear legroom compared to its predecessor. However, it featured highly polished burr walnut on the uniquely designed fascia and door cards. The seats were upholstered in leather, with bound Wilton carpets over additional sound deadening covering the floor, and the cabin roof was trimmed in nylon cloth. A total of 3,640 Mark 1s were produced before the Mark 2 model was launched in October 1975.
The Mark 2 Vanden Plas 1500 had revised suspension settings, offering a much-improved ride, while the engine and transmission remained unchanged. Inside, the rear seats were adjusted and moved back to provide more legroom, and due to customer demand, picnic tables were added as a standard feature to the rear of the front seats. A total of 7,318 Mark 2s were produced before the introduction of the Mark 3 model in October 1979.
The Mark 3 models (like this one) underwent slight name changes. The manual transmission version retained the 1485cc engine but was now fitted with twin SU type H1F4 carburettors, increasing the power output to 77bhp at 5750rpm. This version was named the Vanden Plas 1.5.
Externally, the Mark 3 cars featured a flat boot lid, black surrounds for the front and rear windscreens, black door mirrors, and side indicator repeaters on each front wing. Internally, a radio and front seat headrests became standard features, and the interior door handles were changed from chrome to black.
The Vanden Plas factory at Kingsbury closed in July 1979, with all remaining cars finished at MG Abingdon. Production of the Mark 3 ended in August 1980, with a total production run of 752 manual and 232 automatic models.
Our 1981 Vanden Plas is one of those 752 manual models. It was actually built at the Austin factory at Longbridge before being finished and Trimmed at MG Abingdon. Originally leaving the factory finished in Silver Grey Metallic, it was repainted in the late 1980s in Rover Cashmere Gold over Vanden Plas Tan trim.
Since being in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, it has undergone some paint repairs as well as having a new water pump fitted.
MG has just released an exclusive preview of the all-new HS SUV. This is ahead of the carโs global debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday, 11th July.
Replacing the current model, which has been extremely successful for MG, the all-new HS is said to offer a contemporary, sophisticated design and an interior with enhanced space and an array of new, driver-focussed technology.
There will be two powertrain choices โ petrol and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) โ with the Plug-in Hybrid variant promising to offer an unmatched all-electric range for the class.
It looks great and I can’t wait to see what happens on 11th July.
We recently received an amazing update from one of our customers regarding our beautiful 1970 Jaguar E-Type Series 2.
Not only is the car being used, it has been used for an incredible road trip. Travelling well over 1000 miles, our E-Type was driven from Southwold to Plymouth before boarding a ferry to Santander. It was then back on the road to Burgos, Salamanca, Douro, Porto and on to Santiago de Compostela. ย
They then arrived at the Parador Gil Blas in Santanilla del Mar.
Back in January last year, Steve won our 1975 MGB GT V8 through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions. Since then, Steve has become a great friend to the team here.
This past weekend Steve took his MGB (now called Velma) to the Inter-club International Weekend at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern.
Not only does Velma look incredible in Steve’s photos below, but Steve also reported that she made the 340-mile round trip with no issues at all!
It’s fantastic to see winners enjoying their classic so thank you Steve for sharing this trip with us.
Bridge Classic Cars are award winning Classic Car Restoration and Maintenance specialists. Your pride and joy is in safe hands with our expert Classic Car Technicians. Take a look at our awards here.
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