H&H Classics had a very successful 2024, selling over 1,100 classic and performance cars, motorcycles, and scooters at nine physical auctions. The company reported a sales total of more than £14 million and an overall sales success rate of 74%.
Global Appeal and Celebrity Cars
Buyers from nearly 40 countries participated in H&H auctions, with close to 11,000 individuals registering to bid. Among the most popular lots were vehicles with celebrity connections including an Aston Martin Vanquish used by Pierce Brosnan and EON Productions for promoting the James Bond film Die Another Day, and a 1992 Mercedes-Benz 500SL previously owned by racing legend Sir Stirling Moss.
“Market conditions continue to show that enthusiasts are keen to buy vehicles with sensible estimates and careful sale curation. “Indeed, our auctions in 2024 attracted almost 11,000 bidders, whether in person, by commission bidding, or on the telephone or online. “Once again, the venues in Buxton, Duxford and Solihull all attracted eager enthusiasts, while it’s particularly pleasing to announce that we will be building on this with an additional new venue at Kelham Hall in Nottinghamshire for 2025.”
James McWilliam, sales manager at H&H Classics
Iconic Sales and High-Value Highlights
Several classic cars sold for significant sums in 2024:
A 1930 Bugatti Type 46 Weymann Coupe sold for £300,000.
A 1967 Aston Martin DB6 achieved £250,000.
A 1938 Jaguar SS100 2½ Litre found a new owner for £225,000.
Top Motorcycle and Scooter Sales
A 1952 Vincent Black Shadow Series C, sold for £46,000.
A 1942 Indian 741B, fetching £26,450.
A 1980 Ducati 900 SS, which brought in £20,700.
Vintage scooters also saw success:
A 1965 Vespa GS160 Official Quadrophenia Album Scooter sold for £21,850.
A 1965 Lambretta GT200 ‘Paul Smith’ achieved £17,480.
A 1968 Rimini Lambretta Ancillotti Special went for £15,525.
Bristol Cars looks set to make a return to the roads in 2026, just in time to celebrate its 80th anniversary. The revival of the British car manufacturer is being led by Chairman and CEO Jason Wharton, who purchased the company’s assets in 2020 following its liquidation.
Founded in 1945 as an offshoot of the Bristol Aeroplane Company, Bristol Cars released its first model, the 400, in 1946, which was inspired by pre-war BMW designs like the 326, 327, and 328. The 1950s was the time period when Bristol Cars really stood on its own though thanks to its large coupes that combined luxury and speed.
Jason Wharton has hinted that the company’s revival will be led by a modern interpretation of the 1969 Bristol 411, which originally featured a 6.2-litre Chrysler V8 engine. While initial plans under his leadership aimed to position Bristol as a leader in electric vehicles, the strategy has since changed somewhat. The new plan now looks like a limited-edition new Bristol Fighter for 2025 followed by a limited-edition Bristol Speedster for 2026, and then new productions – the Bristol Buccaneer and Bristol Pullman between 2027 and 2030.
It will be exciting to see Bristol Cars back out on the road, so we wish Jason and his team all the best!
Update:
After reading this, John Bulmer (BAE Systems) very kindly got in touch and created a timeline showing the links between the various aerospace and defence companies and the motor industry in the UK. You can see this below.
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is expanding its manufacturing facility in Goodwood, with an investment of more than £300 million. This is to enable the brand to increase its capacity to build more complex and highly personalised luxury vehicles.
Preparing for a Bespoke and Electric Future
The investment, the largest since the plant’s opening in 2003, will provide additional space to accommodate the growing demand for Bespoke and Coachbuild projects. It will also prepare the facility for the company’s transition to an all-battery electric vehicle (BEV) lineup in the very near future.
The Goodwood site, which originally employed 300 people and produced one car daily, has grown to a workforce of over 2,500. Currently, the facility produces up to 28 vehicles daily, and its operations support an additional 7,500 people through its UK supply chain. A recent study from the London School of Economics (LSE) highlighted that Rolls-Royce contributes £500 million annually to the UK economy.
The timing of the investment also seems extra special as it coincides with the 120th anniversary of the first meeting between co-founders Charles Rolls and Henry Royce in 1904. With planning permission granted last year, the company has already started site preparation and landscaping.
“In 2024, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars reaffirmed its position as an authentic luxury house by crafting the most complex, personal, and valuable motor cars in its history. This momentum means it is necessary for us to invest more than £300 million in extending the Home of Rolls-Royce. This represents our most substantial financial commitment to Goodwood since its opening in 2003 and a significant vote of confidence in the Rolls-Royce marque, securing our future here in the UK. 2024’s record Bespoke results demonstrate our clients are increasingly drawn to the marque to create ever more ambitious and valuable motor cars, thereby enjoying the exceptional and highly personalised experience that Rolls-Royce ownership unlocks. This underscores our commitment to creating value for our clients and those with a stake in our business.”
Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
A Record Year for Bespoke Creations
Rolls-Royce achieved big success in 2024, setting records for its Bespoke offerings. The demand for the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective, which uses materials such as 18-carat gold sculptures and embroideries featuring over 869,500 stitches, increased by 10% year-on-year, marking the highest levels in the company’s history.
The Phantom Extended model attracted the most Bespoke commissions, while the Spectre, introduced in 2024, became the second-most customised vehicle in the portfolio. The Middle East was the leading region for Bespoke orders, followed closely by North America and Europe.
Rolls-Royce continued to enhance its client experience by expanding its Private Office network to New York and Seoul, adding to the existing locations in Dubai and Shanghai. These spaces allow clients to collaborate closely with designers and explore the full potential of Bespoke customisation. Commissions through Private Offices are, on average, 25% more valuable.
The marque also saw significant growth in its invitation-only members’ app, Whispers, which allows networking among Rolls-Royce owners and direct engagement with the company’s executives.
Rolls-Royce reported global sales of 5,712 units in 2024, marking the third-highest annual total in its history. North America remained the top market, while regions like the Middle East, Europe, and Asia Pacific set new sales records. The Spectre was the most requested model in Europe and the second globally – not bad for the brand’s first electric offering.
There are now plans to introduce a new electric model in 2025.
At Bridge Classic Cars, we want our love of classic cars to continue through future generations. That’s why we’ve launched a new project just for kids!
We’re introducing a dedicated Kids’ YouTube Channel, where classic cars come to life in a way children will love. Imagine bedtime stories about classic cars, their journeys through restoration, and their dreams for the future. Each story and every piece of content will be aimed at sparking interest and passion for cars, sustainability, and the history of the automotive industry.
Through this project, we aim to make classic cars more accessible and relatable to children, showing them how the past and the future of motoring can coexist. We want to help nurture the next generation of enthusiasts who will love these incredible machines as much as we do.
Our Kids’ YouTube Channel went live earlier today and we’d love it if you could subscribe and share it with the children in your life.
Hagerty UK has released its 2025 Bull Market List. This is a list of ten cars that look like they will be good buys this year. Some of the cars listed are predicted to rise in value while others have been selected for their value for money and overall ownership experience.
The list is based on detailed research and market trends analysed by Hagerty’s valuation experts.
“The 2025 cohort is, I think, my favourite yet. The models span nearly every era of motoring and range from up-and-coming classics to those that were once top dog and now maybe offer a huge amount of car for the money.”
John Mayhead, editor of the Hagerty Price Guide
1. 2001-2005 Alfa Romeo 147 GTA The Alfa Romeo 147 GTA takes the Hagerty Hot Hatch Pick for its understated looks and incredible performance. Values have risen steadily in recent years with the very best examples fetching well over £20,000.
The 147 GTA has a 3.2-litre six-cylinder Busso engine which is now considered to be one of the finest engines ever produced. This hot hatch continues to increase in popularity, with many younger buyers seeking it out in order to enjoy one of the best Alfa Romeo experiences.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: The main reason the 147 GTA was chosen for this year’s Bull Market is that it offers an extraordinary driving experience for a relatively sensible price. It’s the spiritual successor to the 105 series Alfa Romeo GTA coupes that made such an impact on both road and racetrack back in the 1960s and ‘70s.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation – £8,500 to £20,500
2. 1959-1967 Austin-Healey 3000 The Austin-Healey 3000 is the Hagerty Bull Market Best of British Index Pick, a quintessentially British sports car, loved by multiple generations since it first entered production in 1959. One of the most popular big Healey models, it continued in production until 1967, with four major model variations during that time.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: In value terms, the Austin-Healey 3000 has been very flat over a long period of time: since May 2015, UK Hagerty Price Guide values for an excellent example have varied by less than ten percent, and currently sit at £45,400, although it’s recently dipped. In real terms, accounting for inflation, that means the model is much more affordable than it was a few years ago.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation – £22,900 to £87,500
3. 1994-1999 Ferrari F355 This mid-90s Ferrari is a masterpiece of design and performance, with rising values reflecting its desirability. Expect to pay between £50,600 and £105,000 for this sought-after model.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: Some consider the F355 to be a peak driver’s Ferrari, mixing 1980s-inspired design and analogue engineering. A relatively new addition to the UK Hagerty Price Guide, values have risen recently, up 6.2 per cent in the past three years to £73,300 for a standard Berlinetta in excellent condition. In the US, growth has been even more extreme, and the Guide price for the same model there is now $196,000 (£152,000) although this includes a 25 percent premium for manual gearbox examples.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation – £50,600 to £105,000
4. 1992-1998 Maserati Ghibli (AM336) This Italian coupe, designed by Marcello Gandini, offers a range of price points and impressive performance with twin-turbocharged engines.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: The attraction of the Maserati Ghibli model range is that there’s a car for many different price points. Standard, base Biturbos with middling miles are still for sale for under £10,000, a good Spyder is double that, all the way up to the Shamal, currently valued at £53,000 in excellent condition in the UK Hagerty Price Guide. Those with the cheapest price on the windscreen may be more expensive to maintain though, and for a 1980s/ 1990s-era Maserati, the bills may be significant.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation £9,400 to £54,900
5. 1991-2003 Peugeot 106 The Peugeot 106 has often been overshadowed by its sibling 1990s boy racer favourite, the Citroen Saxo. Produced between 1991-2003, the Hagerty Quirky Pick was available in anything from a very basic 1.0-litre petrol version to the entertaining GTi and Rallye variants.
Many people have a story to tell of their experience with a Peugeot 106, either as the car they learned to drive in, their first car or a rental that took them on holiday with their friends. It might be a small car, but it had a big personality with an interior that combined French quirkiness with practical simplicity. They were also easy to work on and many were the subject of extensive modifications, making pristine original examples increasingly sought after today.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: Hagerty considers the Peugeot 106 to be great value compared with some of its rivals. The Series 1 106 Rallye in excellent condition is listed in the Hagerty Price Guide at £12,400, around 32 percent less than its older relative the Peugeot 205 Rallye. With their homologation credentials, limited numbers and instantly recognisable looks, they tick many of the requirements of a collectable car, although originality is critical.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation – £8,900 to £16,400
6. 1965-1969 Porsche 912 In the 1960s Porsche wanted a car that fitted between the 356 and the 911. That car was the 912, a sports car that had all the looks of the 911 and the same level of build quality and comfort, but at a much lower price. It was also cheaper to run, thanks in part to the use of the four-cylinder 616 engine from the 356.
Today the 912 is becoming more sought after, not just for its great value but because it is both dynamic and usable, with easier to manage handling and performance compared to the 911. Prices for the 912, which is the Hagerty 2025 Classic Pick, remain stable and are not expected to rise dramatically. The UK Hagerty Price Guide values excellent left-hand drive examples at £57,800 with right-hand drive models attracting a large premium.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: With a Porsche 912 you get the early 911 experience for a fraction of the price. Other than very early 912s, the vast majority of the car is identical to its six-cylinder sibling, sharing the same interiors, bodywork, suspension and electrics, only the engine is different.
Hagerty Price Guide values – £26,900 to £90,100
7. 1994-2001 Range Rover P38 The Range Rover P38 arrived in 1994 as the successor to the original classic model.
The P38 was available with an updated version of the traditional Rover V8 or a turbo-diesel engine from BMW. The combination of luxury and legendary off-road capability made it a popular choice.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: The P38 Range Rover is a car that is currently extremely affordable, with the cheapest runners advertised for under £1000 and even top-spec, limited edition models with extremely low mileage in concours condition rarely reaching over £15,000. Plus, they are getting rarer: social media groups are full of cars being broken for parts or heavily modified for off-road use. Find an original, well-maintained example, and it could offer a lot of value for money.
Hagerty Price Guide values – £800 to £15,800
8. 1977-1980 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow II Rolls-Royce introduced the Silver Shadow in 1965 but then it updated the model for the final few years of its life, creating the Silver Shadow II in 1977.
Values vary immensely but so too do the maintenance costs, making the Hagerty 2025 Luxury Pick one to choose carefully.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: Prices for the Silver Shadow II have been relatively static, only £100 higher today for an excellent example than in December 2021. The big difference has been in the top examples, with a concours condition value up over 20 per centduring the same period to £31,900. This is a good sign as a rise in top examples often encourages more to be spent on maintaining other, less pristine cars
Hagerty Price Guide values – £5,700 to £28,700
9. 2000-2001 Subaru Impreza P1 The P1 was only available in Sonic Blue and its chassis and suspension were specifically tailored for British roads while ABS was added for the first time. Electrically adjustable Recaro seats sported the P1 logo, which also adorned the iconic rear wing. Compared to prices for the 22B, the P1 represents a great value way to get into a legendary rally-bred sports saloon.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: Prices have risen a lot in the last few years – the UK Hagerty Price Guide ‘Excellent’ value was £32,000 in September 2022 and two years later was £50,500 but Hagerty believes that prices may well increase further still. Many of these cars have been driven hard, and the gulf between top and bottom values is huge: Hagerty’s ‘fair’ price is 61 percent lower than its top concours’value. Pristine, low mileage cars will probably increase most, but regularly driven cars that are a little rough around the edges will be much more affordable and great fun.
Hagerty Price Guide values – £25,000 to £72,500
10. 1994-2000 Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4 is the model that started the modern era of compact crossovers and small SUVs. Introduced in 1994, over ten million have since been sold.
What the Hagerty Valuation Team says: Legendary Toyota build quality, combined with an instantly recognisable design and very low current prices mean that Hagerty believes the RAV4 is a great entry-level classic, plus you’ll be welcome at any future edition of Hagerty’s Festival of the Unexceptional. Even in top GX spec, a Concours-ready example should set you back under £5,000 – if you can find one, these early cars are now very rare.
Hagerty Price Guide valuation – £600 to £5,100
Bull Market List 2025
The 2025 Hagerty Bull Market List reflects the latest trends in the car market, where both nostalgic appeal and investment potential shape demand.
Steve has fitted a new kingpin to the assembly on our 1964 Mercedes 230SL. He also fitted new top and bottom joints, and new bushes too.
He also made some welding repairs before noticing that the driver’s footwell carpet had been fitted over the top of the kickdown switch. The carpet was removed and holes were cut for the switch mount before the carpet was refitted.
It’s no secret that we are big fans of Coachbuilt Whisky. We have several bottles behind the bar in The Classic Lounge and we are planning to work even closer with the Coachbuilt team over the coming weeks and months.
During his recent visit to us, Max, from Coachbuilt Whisky, shared some incredible cocktail recipes with us that feature our favourite whisky.
After some time off over Christmas, the team at Bridge Classic Cars is now back and ready to hit the ground running in 2025.
One of our first jobs was to get together and look ahead to the next 12 months. We are planning on going BIG this year so there was a lot to talk about!
After an hour or so in The Classic Lounge, we got things moving and we are preparing for an incredible 2025 – we hope to see you along the way.
At the end of 2024, we said goodbye to one of our technicians, Paul, as he retired.
The whole team here at Bridge Classic Cars would like to say a big thank you to Paul for all of his incredible work and we hope he has a very happy and enjoyable retirement.
There’s no doubt that the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is one of the biggest changes in the automotive industry’s history. The forecast for 2025 presents a mix of progress and hurdles, which I believe we need to address collectively if we are to make meaningful strides toward a sustainable future.
EV Sales Are Strong, but Challenges Remain
By 2025, global vehicle sales are projected to reach an all-time high of 97.2 million units. Among these, EVs continue to be the standout performer, expected to grow by 16% to over 19.4 million units. If you look back to 2019, only 3.4% of new car sales were EVs so there has been a significant jump in people’s interest in the last few years. Today, they account for 21.8% of new car sales.
This growth is supported by a combination of factors, including government incentives, discounts, and tightening EV targets for fleet sales. For example, China and the European Union – which collectively account for more than half of global EV sales – are leading the way with mandates like China’s requirement for EVs to comprise 20% of fleet sales by 2025. Even with this progress though, there are still some big hurdles to overcome.
The Geopolitical Issues
Trade tensions are complicating the EV transition. The geopolitical rivalry between major players like the US, EU, and China has led to fractured supply chains and rising input costs. For example, the US Inflation Reduction Act sets restrictions on EVs and batteries sourced from countries deemed “foreign entities of concern,” including China. Meanwhile, China is countering with its own mandates to build up domestic semiconductor production and setting export restrictions on critical EV minerals.
Consumer Resistance and Policy Delays
There is still a large number of drivers who are hesitant to make the switch to an EV. Early adopters have driven initial growth, but mainstream buyers often say that high costs and insufficient charging infrastructure are barriers for them. Policy delays also don’t help. For example, while Norway aims to make all new cars emissions-free by 2025, they are likely to push back targets for vans and heavy commercial vehicles due to technological and logistical hurdles.
Also, the European Union recently delayed the implementation of stricter Euro 7 emission standards until 2028, reflecting the delicate balance policymakers must strike between environmental goals and industry feasibility. Meanwhile, in markets like the US, the outcome of the presidential election could significantly alter the journey of EV adoption.
The Future
Car manufacturers like Tesla have demonstrated that profitability is achievable, and legacy manufacturers are closing the gap, with companies like General Motors and Stellantis on track to turn a profit on EVs this year too. This shift is supported by decreasing commodity prices and economies of scale, which are gradually making EVs more accessible to consumers.
As someone who is very passionate about the preservation and evolution of classic cars, I’m particularly interested in how the lessons from EV adoption can help us bring in sustainable practices within the classic car industry. Synthetic fuels, for example, look to be a fantastic way of maintaining the authenticity of internal combustion engines while significantly reducing emissions. However, more work is needed to make this a viable long-term solution so the EV transition progress is interesting to follow.
Automotive Industry In 2025
The EV transition is a complex but necessary evolution. Whether through EVs, synthetic fuels, or a combination of technologies, the journey toward a greener future is one that will likely require the entire automotive industry to work together.
Suzuki Motor Corporation announced that Mr. Osamu Suzuki, Senior Advisor of the Company has passed away on 25 December 2024.
Name
Osamu Suzuki
Born on 30 January 1930 (age at death: 94)
Birthplace
Gero City, Gifu Prefecture
Time and date of death
3:53 PM on Wednesday, 25 December 2024
Cause of death
Malignant lymphoma
Funeral services
To abide by the wishes of the deceased, the funeral services have been held for close family only, and would like to respectfully decline from any condolence visits, monetary offerings, floral tributes, or condolence telegrams.
Bereaved
Toshihiro Suzuki (Eldest son)
Contact
Secretarial Office, Suzuki Motor Corporation
The Company plans to hold a farewell gathering at a later date (date and place TBD)
Profile
Name
Osamu Suzuki
Date of Birth
30 January 1930
Residence
Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture (Birthplace: Gifu Prefecture)
Final Education
Mar. 1953 Graduated from the Faculty of Law, Chuo University
Job History
Apr.1958
Joined Suzuki Motor Co., Ltd
Nov. 1963
Appointed as Director
Dec. 1967
Appointed as Director and Managing Director
Nov. 1973
Appointed as Director and Senior Managing Director
June 1978
Appointed as Director and President
Oct. 1990
Company name changed to Suzuki Motor Corporation
June 2000
Appointed as Director and Chairman
Dec. 2008
Appointed as Director and Chairman and President
June 2015
Appointed as Director and Chairman
June 2021
Appointed as Senior Advisor
Awards
Mar.1985
Sitara-e-Pakistan award, Pakistan
Nov. 1987
Medal with Blue Ribbon, Japan
May 1993
Commander’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit, Hungary
May 2000
The Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, Japan
Nov. 2002
Inducted into a Hall of Fame of Japan Automobile Hall of Fame
May 2004
Commander’s Cross with the Star of the Hungarian Order of Merit, Hungary
Mar. 2007
Padma Bhushan, India
Mar. 2020
Grand Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit, Hungary
Since its launch in 1975, the Volkswagen Polo has been a hugely popular choice in its class. With over 20 million units sold across six generations, the Polo will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2025, confirming that it is one of the most successful compact cars ever.
A New Compact Car
In the 1970s, Volkswagen was preparing to replace the now iconic Beetle. The company launched several new models, including the Passat in 1973, the Golf in 1974, and finally, the Polo in 1975. As the smallest member of this new front-wheel-drive lineup, the Polo brought a unique combination of refinement and compact design. Positioned a step below the Golf, it completed Volkswagen’s family of models with its efficient size and innovative features. Five decades later, the Polo is still going strong.
A Car for Everyone
The Polo has always been about more than just technical innovation. It has always given a fair price-performance ratio which made it a great choice for a variety of needs. From first-time drivers to families, the Polo has consistently proved itself to fit into any driver’s lifestyle.
1975: A Small Car with Big Ambitions
Launched in March 1975, the Polo was initially based on the Audi 50 but underwent key modifications to enter production in Wolfsburg. With its clean, practical design and efficient engineering, it quickly gained popularity. Lightweight, agile, and economical, it set a new standard for small cars. These core traits—efficiency, practicality, and affordability—have defined the Polo’s success ever since.
Each generation of the Polo has introduced new improvements.
Second Generation (1981): Focused on space, comfort, and modernised engines.
Third Generation (1994): Introduced safety features like airbags.
Fourth Generation (2002): Increased size brought new levels of comfort and safety, including power steering, ABS, and front and side airbags as standard.
Fifth Generation (2009): Integrated digital technology, such as infotainment and assistance systems, making driving more intuitive. This generation also achieved success in motorsport, with the Polo R WRC winning the World Rally Championship title four years in a row from 2013.
Sixth Generation (2017): Built on the modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform, this Polo introduced incredible connectivity, safety, and driving dynamics. A 2021 update added features typically found in higher-end cars, enhancing its digital and innovative edge.
Celebrating 50 Years
As the Polo turns 50, Volkswagen Classic will be displaying historic models throughout 2025. The celebrations will begin with the Bremen Classic Motorshow from January 31st to February 2nd, where visitors will be able to see an Oceanic Blue Polo L from 1975 and a one-of-a-kind hill climb Polo from 1977.
A car making it to 50 years of production is getting rarer and rarer so I’m looking forward to seeing the celebrations next year.
The Porsche Sprint Challenge GB starts in April 2025 and includes tracks such as Silverstone and Snetterton. In this competition, all racers drive identical Porsche 425 HP 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport cars. Lydia joked that these could probably drive themselves as they are so great but each one needs a talented driver, like Lydia, behind the wheel.
However, among the many additional challenges that this level of racing brings, the costs are a huge hurdle to overcome. That’s why Lydia is actively seeking partners to support her journey, as the expense of maintaining the car and covering potential race damage quickly mounts up.
The 2025 series starts on the 26th of April at Donington Park and I’m sure I can speak for the entire Bridge Classic Cars team when I wish Lydia the best of luck!
The UK government is consulting the motor industry on plans to phase out the sale of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030, reinstating the original deadline outlined in Labour’s election manifesto. This follows a previous extension to 2035 under the Conservative government. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander announced the consultation aims to “restore clarity” on how the transition will be delivered, seeking input from automotive and charging experts.
Car industry leaders have raised concerns about the slow adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), saying that high costs and insufficient charging infrastructure are major challenges that still need to be overcome. Ford has argued that the government’s electric vehicle mandates are unachievable without stronger demand. Lisa Brankin, Ford UK’s Chair, called for “government-backed incentives to urgently boost the uptake of electric vehicles.”
The Department for Transport says the consultation will ensure manufacturers and the charging industry can confidently invest in the UK’s long-term automotive future. This forms part of a broader effort to make charging EVs cheaper and more accessible. Currently, there are over 72,000 public charging points in the UK, with 100,000 more planned. However, issues such as rural coverage and the lack of private parking spaces remain challenges.
Cost is another key factor. While EVs now account for one in four cars sold, affordability remains a hurdle, with even the cheapest models costing more than petrol or diesel equivalents. Still, the government highlights that one-third of used EVs are priced under £20,000.
Edmund King, president of the AA, welcomed the consultation, noting that drivers are “hesitant but not hostile” toward the transition. Meanwhile, Mike Hawes, Chief Executive of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), emphasised the need for “bold incentives” to encourage EV adoption.
The consultation also includes updates to the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which sets annual targets for manufacturers. In 2024, 22% of a carmaker’s sales must be zero-emission vehicles, rising each year. Firms falling short face fines of £15,000 per vehicle but can purchase credits from others exceeding their targets or borrow allowances from future years.
According to the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit, some manufacturers, including BMW, Mercedes, and Hyundai, are already exceeding their EV sales targets, demonstrating that ambitious goals are achievable.
The eight-week consultation will explore which vehicles—such as full hybrids and plug-in hybrids—can still be sold alongside zero-emission models post-2030. It also covers strategies for van production and policies for small-volume manufacturers.
More than two-thirds of UK car manufacturers, including Stellantis, are committed to fully transitioning to electric by 2030. However, this shift has come with challenges, including thousands of job cuts and a significant decline in UK car production. In October 2024, overall production fell by 15%, with electric and hybrid vehicle output dropping by a third due to weak European demand and factory retooling for new models.
Heidi Alexander stated that the measures aim to position the UK as a leader in clean energy, supporting jobs and rebuilding Britain’s automotive industry. Dan Caesar, Chief Executive of Electric Vehicles UK, called it an opportunity to establish the UK as a key market for EVs and battery development, providing much-needed clarity for manufacturers and consumers alike.
The drama of a greener automotive industry continues…
Our technician Pete has been completing the final jobs on the recommission of the 1967 Mercedes 250SL ‘Pagoda’ at our Suffolk HQ. This time, Pete has installed the new handbrake cables along with, new discs, the calipers and new captive backing plates.
Once everything was in place and tightened to spec, Pete performed final road tests before signing off the car.
December 24, 2024 12:03 pmPublished by Nick Skinner
Pete has been working his way through the 1993 Jaguar XJS that is currently on the ramps here our restoration workshops at the Bridge Classic Cars Suffolk HQ. This time, it involves a bit of back and forth to get this round of jobs done on the car.
First up, Pete removed the seats from the car to check a few things however, there is a difference in the new wiring to the originals on the seat. After searching high and low, the original style of harness is not available so the team will be working on adapting the new harness into the seats and ultimately the car. With the seats out however, Pete could adjust the freeplay out of the handbrake – a quarter turn at a time… due to the access to the adjuster but in doing so found a stash of spare change which will be back in the ashtray.
Pete moved underneath the classic convertible to address the old exhaust system. It had rusted out in certain places and had been damaged as it was sitting too low under the car. After sorting out the corrosion issues, Pete could adjust the mounts to tuck the exhaust back up into the body to keep it safe in future and then turning his attention to the new bumpers.
Pete had to take the replacement and add 147mm into the centre, welding it all the way round to ensure the strongest join and getting it to fit up as good as, if not better, than cut of the ends to match the original. The retaining bolts were cut off and replaced with new units and welded into place.
December 24, 2024 11:32 amPublished by Nick Skinner
AC Cars has announced a new 2.0-litre performance-focused engine option that will debut in 2026. This addition will complement the existing naturally aspirated and supercharged V8 models in the GT Roadster and GT Coupe lineup.
Lightweight and Powerful Design
The new engine, designed in collaboration with a leading global powertrain developer, will be tailored to the high-performance potential of AC Cars’ advanced GT platform. It will come in two power configurations, with outputs reaching up to 390bhp. The lighter weight of this engine compared to the V8 models will allow for additional carbon fibre elements in the chassis, further enhancing performance and efficiency.
Image: AC CarsImage: AC CarsImage: AC Cars
Enhanced Gearbox Options
To accompany the new engine, AC Cars will offer a dual-clutch gearbox, ensuring smooth and responsive performance. Customers will also have the option of a six-speed manual transmission.
Staying True to Heritage
“This is a key step in our programme of growth, yet allows us to stay true to what define us. Offering clients a wider choice of performance engines will broaden the appeal for our exclusive sports cars, and means we can reach the markets that impose higher taxation of large displacement engines.”
David Conza, CEO of AC Cars
Pricing and Availability
Reservations for the new AC Cobra GT models are now open, with prices starting at £235,000 (including VAT). Full specifications and final pricing are set to be revealed in spring 2025.
For more information or to make a reservation, visit AC.Cars or contact the company directly at info@ac.cars.
Broad Arrow Auctions will be offering a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider with Scaglietti coachwork, chassis number 1451 GT for sale during its third annual Amelia Auction on March 7th & 8th 2025. This auction will take place at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island in Florida, and the vehicle is estimated to sell for between $10 million and $14 million (around £8 million – £10 million).
The car is the second of just eight aluminium-bodied 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione models ever built. It carries an incredible history, including participation in the iconic Le Mans race. This was actually the first California Spider equipped with the competition-spec Type 128 F engine, producing 262.5 horsepower. It also features a Type 508 D ribbed gearbox, a 9.6:1 compression ratio, an external oil cooler, enhanced suspension, and a 35-gallon fuel tank with an external filler cap.
“This is the crown jewel of all open Ferraris and arguably the gold standard of desirability for any road-going collectible convertible. Chassis no. 1451 GT’s existence helps define the very essence of what makes the 250 GT California Spider so revered—a car equally capable of securing podium finishes at Le Mans and best-in-show awards on the world’s most exclusive show fields. The car’s stand-alone significance and combination of Le Mans and U.S. racing history make it a perfect fit for The Amelia weekend at the racer’s concours.”
Barney Ruprecht, VP of Auctions, Broad Arrow
Racing Pedigree
Completed just five days before the 1959 24 Hours of Le Mans, chassis 1451 GT made its debut under the banner of Luigi Chinetti’s N.A.R.T. team. Driven by its first owner, American car dealer and racer Robert “Bob” Grossman, along with co-driver Fernand Tavano, the car achieved an impressive fifth-place overall finish and third in the GT class. This result remains the most successful competitive outing for any 250 GT California Spider.
After its racing debut, the car was returned to the Ferrari factory, where it was finished in its current metallic silver livery. Grossman continued to race it extensively in the U.S. throughout 1959 and 1960.
Iconic Status
Under subsequent owners, chassis 1451 GT continued to shine in both historic racing and Concours events. It has been a regular feature at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance for several decades, most recently appearing in 2024. Its status is further enhanced by its Ferrari Classiche certification, which confirms the preservation of its original components through multiple restorations.
Honda and Nissan, two of Japan’s largest car manufacturers, have announced plans to merge, potentially forming the world’s third-largest automaker by sales. Mitsubishi Motors, a smaller partner in Nissan’s alliance, is also involved in the discussions. The move comes as car makers face the urgent need to adapt to the industry’s rapid transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous driving technologies.
Merger Details and Timeline
The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore unifying their operations under a joint holding company. Honda will initially lead the new company while maintaining each brand’s identity and principles. A formal merger agreement is expected by June 2026, with the combined company planned for listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange by August of the same year.
The merger could create an automotive powerhouse worth over $50 billion based on the combined market values of Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi. Together, the companies produced about 8 million vehicles in 2023, a long way off Toyota’s output of 11.5 million but significant enough to compete with other global giants like Volkswagen.
Opportunities and Challenges
The merger aims to reduce costs and accelerate progress in electric vehicle development. Nissan brings expertise in battery production, gas-electric hybrid systems, and large SUVs with body-on-frame designs, while Honda is known for its hybrid technology and global reach.
However, challenges remain. Honda President Toshihiro Mibe admitted there are still “points that need to be studied and discussed,” adding that the merger’s success is not guaranteed.
Nissan has faced financial and reputational struggles since the 2018 arrest of former chairman Carlos Ghosn on charges of fraud, which he denies. The company has since implemented significant restructuring, including layoffs and cuts to global production capacity. CEO Makoto Uchida, who took a 50% pay cut to address the company’s issues, said Nissan must become more efficient to remain competitive.
Fitch Ratings recently downgraded Nissan’s credit outlook to “negative,” saying that profitability issues were made more concerning by North American price cuts. However, the company retains strong cash reserves of 1.44 trillion yen ($9.4 billion).
Stock Market Reaction and Industry Context
News of the merger has spurred positive reactions in the stock market. Nissan’s shares rose 1.6% on Monday, building on a 20% jump after the initial merger reports. Honda’s shares also saw a 3.8% increase.
The merger reflects a broader industry trend toward consolidation as automakers worldwide face rising costs, new technological demands, and the need for scale to compete effectively.
At a routine briefing, Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasised the importance of Japanese car makers staying competitive in areas such as battery technology and software development. “Measures needed to survive international competition will be taken,” he said.
Industry Implications
If completed, the merger would position Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi to compete more effectively with global leaders like Toyota and Volkswagen. The combined resources could accelerate advancements in EV and autonomous driving technologies, helping the companies catch up to industry leaders in these areas.
Nissan, Honda, and Mitsubishi are already collaborating on EV components and autonomous driving research, an effort formalised earlier this year.
Winning a classic car for just a few pounds is always an exciting prospect. However, imagine winning your dream classic without having to pay a penny.
The winner of today’s competition will receive £50 of site credit added to their account. This means they can buy tickets for any of our current or future competitions up to the value of £50 without using any of their own money!
The most up to date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
The August bank holiday three-day racing festival starts with the annual Friday evening fireworks display. Saturday and Sunday bring a nostalgic summer atmosphere with live music, family entertainment and world-class racing.
The prize for day 22 is 2 Richmond passes for one of the three days – more information can be seen here.
The most up-to-date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
Driver is a digital publication from Bridge Classic Cars that will have 3 issues per year. It’s a celebration of the stories, people, and machines that make the automotive industry so exciting. As long as you have even the slightest interest in cars, Driver will very likely have something for you.
Each issue will cover topics ranging from restoration projects and sustainable motoring to personal stories from classic car owners. The debut issue certainly sets the tone for what you can expect in future editions.
The most up-to-date list of prizes in our advent calendar can be seen here
Molly sits down with Rob to talk about a very exciting new release from the Bridge Classic Cars team – Driver. A gorgeous online publication designed, written and produced specifically with the classic and modern car enthusiast in mind. The first issue is out now, and available to read on the Bridge Classic Cars website.
Next up Molly sits down with Mike, an amazing local artist and friend of Bridge Classic Cars, to talk about his amazing work with sculpture and jewelry for petrolheads across the world with his new company RESS Ltd. They’re both joined by Max from Coachbuilt Whisky to talk about the origins of how Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button and founder George Koutsakis got the idea to start an automotive inspired whisky company.
Finally, join the whole gang along with Craig and Rob back in the Classic Lounge for a very special tasting session. Discussing the finer points of Coachbuilt’s Original ‘Build No. 001’ blended Whisky before moving onto the very special 18 year old ‘FW18’ along with some tips and tricks for getting into or enjoying whiskey as well as dispelling some of those long held whiskey myths.
This, is the Torque Show.
December 20, 2024 4:34 pmPublished by Nick Skinner
As millions prepare for Christmas road trips across the UK, a recent survey of over 3,000 Volkswagen owners has revealed the nation’s favourite motorways. Topping the list is the M6 in Cumbria, loved for its stunning Lake District scenery and the convenience of Tebay services.
Close behind are the M4 and M40, with the M40 highlighted for its fast and picturesque route through the Chilterns and Cherwell Valley.
Top 5 UK Motorways:
M6
M4
M40
M5
M1
Other well-loved routes included the M62, which features the iconic Stott Hall Farm and reaches England’s highest motorway point at 1,221 feet above sea level. Scotland’s M74, M8, and M9 also ranked highly, with the M5 earning praise for Gloucester’s popular farm shop services.
Electric Cars Fit for Long Holiday Journeys
Volkswagen’s range of electric vehicles (EVs) proves ideal for extended holiday drives. Most of the brand’s ID. cars have a range sufficient to cover 500 miles with just one charging stop, according to WLTP calculations.
The survey, conducted in November, involved 3,132 Volkswagen owners, 58% of whom drive EVs.
Limited100 is based in Nottingham and specialises in limited edition, handcrafted automotive wall art.
The name explains the concept very well, each print is limited to just 100 examples and each individual order is numbered with where it fits in the run of 100. The subject of the prints is always a desirable car and the images are taken by top automotive photographers.
To add to the desirability of the prints, every piece is handmade in Nottingham using top-quality, sustainable materials such as eco-friendly framing and water-based paints. Each print also comes with a certificate of authenticity, signed by the artist and curator, confirming its limited-edition status.
I’d like to say a big thank you to Simon, founder of Limited100 for being so generous with prizes offered in the Bridge Classic Cars Advent Calendar competition 2024.
Auto Trader has released information relating to automotive trends that have emerged throughout 2024. As Auto Trader averages over 82 million visits and 203 million advert views per month, the team had a huge amount of data at their disposal to spot patterns in consumer behaviour.
SUVs Overtake Hatchbacks
SUVs were the most popular body type, with 708 million views on the platform. Last year’s most popular, the hatchback, couldn’t retain its title as SUVs powered past. On the other end of the scale, hearses were the least viewed category, with just 1,091 views.
Electric Vehicles Surge in Popularity
The electric vehicle (EV) market continued to grow, with the Hyundai IONIQ 5 being the most viewed new electric car, generating 536,000 views. Following closely behind were the Kia EV9 and Porsche Taycan, with over 500,000 and 462,000 views respectively. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model 3 was the fastest-selling used EV, typically selling within just 19 days.
“Peak Petrol” Declared
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class was crowned the fastest-selling petrol model, selling in an average of 17 days. However, as drivers transition to electric vehicles, the UK has reached “peak petrol,” with 18.7 million petrol cars still in circulation. However, this is now expected to decline.
Black Leads Colour Preferences
Black cars remained the most sought-after colour for the fourth consecutive year, with over 600 million views. Grey and white followed, attracting 467 million and 362 million views, respectively. Notably, green-coloured cars saw a 24% spike in interest in June 2024, influenced by the popularity of Charli XCX’s “Brat” album, which brought the vibrant “brat green” into the spotlight.
Top Cars and Quirky Listings
The Volkswagen Golf was the most popular used car with 64 million views, while the Land Rover Range Rover led in the new car category with nearly 2.2 million views. Unique listings on the platform included a 1969 Volkswagen Beach Buggy from the TV show The Bugaloos, priced at just under £20,000.
Fiestas and Defenders in the Limelight
Despite production ending, the Ford Fiesta remained the most advertised car, with 106,000 listings. Interest in the Land Rover Defender increased by 39%, partly due to its appearance in the BBC series The Traitors.
BYD Rides the Euro 2024 Wave
Chinese EV manufacturer BYD saw a massive 69% weekly increase in advert views during the Euro 2024 tournament, thanks to its partnership and advertising presence during the matches.
Record-breaking Prices and Bargains
On the luxury end of things, a Pagani Huayra was listed for £3 million, making it the most expensive car on Auto Trader in 2024. A 2009/2010 Vauxhall Astra was the cheapest, listed for just £75. Other models also saw pricing shifts, with the Peugeot 308 Sport rising by 73%, while the Honda Civic Executive saw a 53% price drop.
Celebrity Spotlight
The personal Honda NSX of the late F1 legend Ayrton Senna sold for £500,000, giving one lucky buyer a genuine piece of motorsport history.
It will be interesting to see what trends emerge as we head into 2025!
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