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
In 2025, there will be a whole new group of cars hitting their 40th birthday and officially being recognised as a classic! Have a look at the short list we’ve put together and add any other cars turning 40 this
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
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
Lydia Walmsley, a racing driver from Kesgrave, just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop here in Suffolk, was the first female to achieve a podium finish in the JCW Mini Challenge Championship. She’s now looking to take
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
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
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
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
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
This week’s episode of Torque Show was extremely fun to film. We were joined by Max from Coachbuilt Whisky and Mike O’Conner from Ress. We also had one of our technicians, Jonn join us so it will certainly be a
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
Eddie Stobart, the man behind one of Britain’s most recognisable and well-known haulage firms, has passed away at the age of 95. Eddie first started the business in the 1950s, beginning with agricultural work in Cumbria. Over the years, what
I feel very proud to say that I have become an Associate Member of the Guild of Motoring Writers! The Guild is the UK’s largest organisation for automotive media professionals, and being part of it feels like a huge step
On Friday 20th December 2024, the very first issue of Driver, a brand new publication from Bridge Classic Cars will be released! What Is Driver? Driver is a digital publication that will have 3 issues per year. It’s a celebration
In a recent study by Warrantywise, conducted in collaboration with OnePoll, it was found that nearly half (46%) of UK drivers cannot identify most of their vehicle’s dashboard warning lights. This could mean that around 23 million drivers don’t know
Tom Hartley Jnr has been given the job of selling Bernie Ecclestone’s collection of Grand Prix and Formula 1 cars. At 94 years old, Ecclestone, the former commercial rights holder of Formula 1, is the man widely credited with transforming
Prince Albert II of Monaco has recently been test-driving the Pioneer 25, a hydrogen-powered racing car developed by Extreme H. These tests took place ahead of the Monaco Hydrogen Alliance’s annual forum, where the Prince drove the car from the
On 5th December 2024, a small group of us from Bridge Classic Cars took part in our second Mince Pie Drive. This is where we take some of our classic and special cars to local care homes for the residents
It doesn’t seem that long ago that we were talking about this year’s Goodwood Revival, but the early bird tickets for 2025 are already available! The 2025 event will follow the same format as the 2024 Revival with all 15
Boreham Motorworks has announced the launch date of its all-new Ford Escort Mk1, a modern reimagining of the iconic and extremely well-loved model. On Thursday 12th December 2024, at 9am, the car will finally be revealed for the first time.
In one of the final auctions of 2024, Collecting Cars is offering a special Land Rover Collection. The online sale will run from December 1st to December 8th and will include some of the most sought-after Land Rovers in the
The SEAT Leon is 25 years old this year. Since its release in 1999, the Leon has been extremely popular in the compact car sector. Over the years, SEAT has sold more than 2.5 million units of the Leon worldwide
British car production saw a drop of 15.3% in October, with 77,484 vehicles manufactured, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline. This downturn was largely attributed to ongoing factory retooling for next-generation zero-emission vehicles, as reported by the Society of
A preserved Bugatti from the 1930s, once owned by the King of Belgium, has been awarded the title of Car of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards (IHMA). Sponsored by Lockton Insurance, the event took place at the
A couple of weeks ago, we hosted our wine-tasting event in collaboration with Smashing Wines. It was a very well-attended event with lots of wine being tasted and classic cars being admired. Thank you to everyone who joined us and
Global superstar Ed Sheeran is releasing the video for his new song “Under the Tree” at 2pm today. Ed is local to us as he grew up just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop here in Suffolk.
Today marks exactly one month until Christmas Day! As scary as it is to think about how quickly this year has gone, it’s probably wise to get your Christmas shopping done soon to avoid the rush and stress of leaving
Auctions are always a fantastic place to see rare, interesting, and even unique vehicles being offered for sale. Quite a lot of the time, it’s the cars we see on TV that appeal most. That’s why it looks like the
Toyota has recently demonstrated a concept model that explores how hydrogen gas, which is generated while driving, can be used to potentially increase the efficiency of liquid hydrogen as fuel. By capturing vaporised hydrogen, known as “boil-off gas,” which is
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.
In 2025, there will be a whole new group of cars hitting their 40th birthday and officially being recognised as a classic!
Have a look at the short list we’ve put together and add any other cars turning 40 this year in the comments.
What other cars were released in 1985 and will become a classic this year?
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.
Continuous Evolution Across Six Generations
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.
Lydia Walmsley, a racing driver from Kesgrave, just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop here in Suffolk, was the first female to achieve a podium finish in the JCW Mini Challenge Championship. She’s now looking to take on a new challenge though – the Porsche Sprint Challenge GB.
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.
More information can be found at https://www.lydiawalmsleyracing.co.uk/
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…
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.
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.
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.
“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
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
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.
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.
Potential buyers can learn more about the vehicle at broadarrowauctions.com.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This week’s episode of Torque Show was extremely fun to film. We were joined by Max from Coachbuilt Whisky and Mike O’Conner from Ress.
We also had one of our technicians, Jonn join us so it will certainly be a jam-packed episode.
We are very excited for you to see it tomorrow.
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 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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Eddie Stobart, the man behind one of Britain’s most recognisable and well-known haulage firms, has passed away at the age of 95.
Eddie first started the business in the 1950s, beginning with agricultural work in Cumbria. Over the years, what started as a small operation grew into a logistics giant under the leadership of his son, Edward. Today, the Eddie Stobart name is seen all over the country in the form of its green-and-white lorries.
The Eddie Stobart brand gained a strong following from its customers, passers-by and members of the public. A big part of this was because each lorry was given its own name – chosen by the driver.
Eddie actually retired from the business a while ago, but his influence was always felt throughout the company. His son, Edward, took over from his dad and was able to turn the Eddie Stobart name into something of an empire that continues to be hugely successful. So successful in fact that there have been documentaries made about the company, as well as toys, models, and a whole range of merchandise.
Tributes to Eddie have been shared on social media from people who have felt inspired by the legend that was Eddie Stobart.
Eddie Stobart 1929 – 2024
I feel very proud to say that I have become an Associate Member of the Guild of Motoring Writers!
The Guild is the UK’s largest organisation for automotive media professionals, and being part of it feels like a huge step forward on my professional journey.
For those who don’t know, the Guild is an incredible community of journalists, photographers, authors, broadcasters, and creatives, all connected by their love for cars and storytelling. To now have a place among them is both an honour and a chance to dive even deeper into an industry I’ve come to love.
Joining the Guild feels like a natural fit for me. I didn’t come into the automotive space through the usual route, but over time, I’ve developed a real passion for sharing the stories behind cars – from classic restorations to the future of synthetic fuels. Whatever I’m writing about, I can’t wait to keep contributing and learning alongside some of the best in the business.
A big thank you to the Guild of Motoring Writers for welcoming me and also a huge thank you to Craig for his continued support. I’m looking forward to connecting with fellow members and hopefully adding my voice to this amazing community.
On Friday 20th December 2024, the very first issue of Driver, a brand new publication from Bridge Classic Cars will be released!
Driver is a digital publication 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 idea for Driver has been around for a long time and it is now finally coming together. The first issue will be sent to everyone on our mailing list and shared on social media completely FREE. From there, members of the Bridge Classic Cars Members Club will have the subscription included in their membership and, for non-members, a yearly subscription will cost just £10.
There will be content in Driver that you won’t find anywhere else and there will also be discount codes for competitions from time to time too.
Our launch issue has lots of automotive content within and we are very excited for you all to read it!
Here is a quick snapshot of what issue number 1 of Driver will feature:
If you are on our mailing list, keep an eye on your inboxes on Friday as the very first issue of Driver will be with you sometime in the morning.
Everyone here at Bridge Classic Cars hopes you enjoy it and we hope that you subscribe to experience the 3 issues coming in 2025 too.
In a recent study by Warrantywise, conducted in collaboration with OnePoll, it was found that nearly half (46%) of UK drivers cannot identify most of their vehicle’s dashboard warning lights. This could mean that around 23 million drivers don’t know what their car is telling them resulting in poor vehicle maintenance and safety.
Modern cars are equipped with increasingly advanced dashboard systems designed to inform drivers about their vehicle’s health. These range from straightforward indicators like low washer fluid levels to critical warnings about brake system malfunctions or engine issues. However, the survey found that 3% of drivers – potentially 1.5 million people – cannot identify any warning lights at all.
This lack of understanding not only increases the likelihood of expensive repairs but also poses potential safety risks. Ignoring the dashboard lights can lead to delayed repairs, worsening damage, and heightened costs. In some cases, these oversights could endanger both drivers and passengers.
“Your car’s dashboard warning system is one of its first lines of defence. These warning lights aren’t just about convenience – they’re essential for your safety and the health of your vehicle. Modern cars bring incredible advancements, but they also require drivers to stay informed. Taking the time to understand your car could save you thousands in repair costs, and with your car likely being one of your biggest investments, learning what those warning lights mean is one of the best ways to protect it and stay safe on the road. And if the worst happens? That’s what we’re [Warrantywise] here for, but remember that if it’s found that a driver has driven when a warning light has been on, it can mean that a warranty claim is declined. Therefore, it’s important motorists know what their warning lights mean and when to act.”
Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise
As cars are becoming more technologically advanced, the variety and complexity of warning lights have expanded, making it even more important for drivers to understand their meaning. Acting quickly when a warning light appears can help prevent costly breakdowns and safeguard warranty coverage.
For more information, visit www.warrantywise.co.uk.
The data cited in this article was compiled from research conducted by OnePoll in 2024. The survey was based on responses from a representative sample of 2,000 UK: Car owners.
Source of data:
1 The Plan for Drivers
Tom Hartley Jnr has been given the job of selling Bernie Ecclestone’s collection of Grand Prix and Formula 1 cars.
At 94 years old, Ecclestone, the former commercial rights holder of Formula 1, is the man widely credited with transforming the sport into the global phenomenon it is today. His personal collection of 69 historic Grand Prix and Formula 1 cars covers a huge part of the history of motorsport.
The collection has been hidden from public view for decades, some of the cars for more than 50 years. Many of the cars haven’t been seen since Ecclestone acquired them. Among the highlights are Ferraris driven by World Champions like Mike Hawthorn, Niki Lauda, and Michael Schumacher, alongside Brabhams piloted by legends such as Nelson Piquet, Carlos Pace, and Lauda again. There is also a one-of-a-kind Brabham-Alfa Romeo BT46B ‘fan car,’ which made history with its sole race – a victory at the 1978 Swedish Grand Prix at Anderstorp.
Bernie Ecclestone said:
“I have been collecting these cars for more than 50 years, and I have only ever bought the best of any example. Whilst many other collectors over the years have opted for sports cars, my passion has always been for Grand Prix and Formula 1 cars.
“A Grand Prix and in particular a Formula 1 car is far more important than any road car or other form of race car, as it is the pinnacle of the sport, and all the cars I have bought over the years have fantastic race histories and are rare works of art.
“I love all of my cars but the time has come for me to start thinking about what will happen to them should I no longer be here, and that is why I have decided to sell them. After collecting and owning them for so long, I would like to know where they have gone and not leave them for my wife to deal with should I not be around.
“Tom [Hartley Jnr] is handling the sale for me because he knows the cars better than anyone else, his business is best placed to sell them, and I am guaranteed transparency which is important to me.
“Having collected what are the best and most original Formula 1 cars dating back to the start of the sport, I have now decided to move them on to new homes that will treat them as I have and look after them as precious works of art.”
Tom Hartley Jnr said:
“This is quite simply the most important race car collection in the world. There has never been and probably never will be a collection like it ever offered for sale again. The collection spans 70 years of Grand Prix and Formula 1 racing, and highlights include Mike Hawthorn, Niki Lauda, and Michael Schumacher World Championship-winning Ferraris, all of Bernie’s [Ecclestone] Brabhams including the famous ‘fan car’, and the Vanwall VW10, the car in which the great Stirling Moss won several Formula 1 Grands Prix on the way to Vanwall clinching the first ever Formula 1 Constructors’ World Championship in 1958, plus so much more.
“But, for me, the highlight of the collection has to be the Ferraris. Bernie has assembled a collection of Ferrari Formula 1 cars that today would be near-impossible to repeat. There is the famous Thin Wall Special, which was the first Ferrari to ever beat Alfa Romeo, the Alberto Ascari Italian Grand Prix-winning 375 F1, the Mike Hawthorn World Championship-winning Dino which Ferrari campaigned over three seasons before it was donated to the Henry Ford Museum, plus historically significant World Championship-winning Niki Lauda and Michael Schumacher cars.
“Because Bernie has retained ownership of the Brabhams since they were new, and many of those cars have not been seen for decades, people can forget quite how special a team Brabham was. Brabham scored 22 Formula 1 Grand Prix wins, 24 Formula 1 Grand Prix pole positions, 25 Formula 1 Grand Prix fastest laps, and two Formula 1 World Championships under Bernie’s tenure. The team was also very innovative, fitting carbon brakes to its cars in the 1970s, and was the first to introduce in-race refuelling. Bernie was also the person who gave a young South African engineer named Gordon Murray a job – and other big names in motorsport such as Charlie Whiting and Herbie Blash were part of the Brabham boys.
“I feel very privileged that Bernie has entrusted the sale of his cars to my Tom Hartley Jnr business. Formula 1 cars are cars that I know particularly well, they are not just cars that I have a great personal interest in, but we at Tom Hartley Jnr actively buy and sell them, too. However, there has never been a collection like this one offered for sale, and no one in the world has a race car collection that comes close to Bernie’s. This a great opportunity for a discerning collector to acquire cars that have never before been offered for sale, and it would be great to see them back on the track again.
“All of the cars on the Formula 1 grid today look the same. If you stripped them of their liveries, you’d struggle to know which one was a Williams and which was a Ferrari. But when you look at some of the Grand Prix cars from the early 1960s to the late 1970s, they’d very much be at home in The Museum of Modern Art.”
“This collection is the history of Formula 1.”
Prince Albert II of Monaco has recently been test-driving the Pioneer 25, a hydrogen-powered racing car developed by Extreme H. These tests took place ahead of the Monaco Hydrogen Alliance’s annual forum, where the Prince drove the car from the Palace of Monaco through the principality’s streets, as you would have seen in Formula 1 races.
The Pioneer 25 has a 75 kW hydrogen fuel cell, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. That is a great example of the potential of hydrogen technology in achieving high-speed, zero-emission mobility.
“Hydrogen represents an important pathway to a sustainable future, offering solutions to reduce emissions across multiple sectors.”
Prince Albert II
Extreme H plans to launch the first hydrogen-powered off-road racing series in 2025, and adds to the growing trend towards sustainable motorsport.
On 5th December 2024, a small group of us from Bridge Classic Cars took part in our second Mince Pie Drive. This is where we take some of our classic and special cars to local care homes for the residents and staff to take a closer look at. We also take lots of mince pies to share with them too.
The cars that did the Mince Pie Drive this year were our 1961 Austin Mini 850, our 1955 MG Magnette, our 1993 Bentley Turbo R, and our 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera S. I was driving my Magnette so I was very happy behind the wheel all day, Nick was also very happy driving the 911, Tony had the Bentley, and Molly, along with the rest of The Three Chordettes went in the Mini.
We took the cars and mince pies to four local care homes – Henley House, The Willows, Silver Birch, and Haughgate House. It was so nice to see some of the residents reminisce about cars they have owned in the past and some even shared some very special stories from their younger years that our cars reminded them of.
At lunchtime, we parked up outside Christchurch Mansion so that members of the public could get up close and admire our cars too. We always like offering people the opportunity to see the cars they love in person so it was great to see the classics being enjoyed.
The whole point of our Mince Pie Drive is to spread a bit of festive cheer to those who may not be with their loved ones at Christmas. This is the second time Nick, Molly, and I have taken part in the event and this year was just as special as the first. The addition of Tony certainly went down a treat with many of the residents!
The whole team here hopes that things like our Mince Pie Drive will inspire more people to be kind, not just at Christmas, but throughout the rest of the year too.
It doesn’t seem that long ago that we were talking about this year’s Goodwood Revival, but the early bird tickets for 2025 are already available!
The 2025 event will follow the same format as the 2024 Revival with all 15 of the races only involving cars powered by sustainable fuel!
All competitors must use fuel composed of at least 70% advanced sustainable components, a standard introduced during the 82nd Members’ Meeting.
Looking ahead to September 2025, Goodwood Revival will feature 15 races across the weekend of Friday 12th – Sunday 14th. These are:
Freddie March Memorial Trophy
A tribute to the Goodwood Nine Hour races of the 1950s, the Freddie March Memorial Trophy has featured on every Revival race list since 1998. The 60-minute two-driver race will include cars such as Jaguar C-Types, Aston Martin DB3S’ and Allard J2Xs.
Sussex Trophy
The Sussex Trophy has been on the schedule for all-but-one of the Revival. This is a race for the World Championship sportscars and production sports-racing cars that raced from 1955-1960 like Lotus 15s, Lister-Jaguar Knobblys and Jaguar D-Types in action.
Madgwick Cup
The Madgwick Cup has taken on several different forms at the Revival. This year, the 25-minute race will feature sports racing cars under 3-litres that raced between 1960 and 1966. With smaller engines than many of the other cars competing over the weekend, the race will feature the likes of Lotus 23Bs, Elva MK7s and Brabham BT5s.
Goodwood Trophy
Recalling the earliest days of the Goodwood Motor Circuit, the Goodwood Trophy typifies post-war motorsport. With a grid of Grand Prix and Voiturette cars that raced between 1930 and 1951, a variety of cars across two decades will take to the historic Circuit with previous grids including ERAs, Maserati 6CMs and the BRM Type 15 V16.
Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy
The Barry Sheene Memorial Trophy pays homage to the original two-wheeled duel at the Goodwood Motor Circuit in 1951. For 500cc Grand Prix motorcycles that raced between 1948 and 1966 including Norton Manx 30Ms and Matchless G50s, each bike will be ridden by a pair of riders and compete in two races across the weekend for a cumulative result.
Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy
Previously known as the Kinrara Trophy before being re-named in 2020, the Stirling Moss Memorial Trophy returns to the Revival race list for 2025. Named in honour of the late Sir Stirling Moss – or “Mr Goodwood” – closed-cockpit GT cars that raced before 1963 will take to the track for a 45-minute two-driver race. The race is known for welcoming some of the most valuable and beautiful cars in the world including Jaguar E-Types, Aston Martin DB4GTs and Ferrari 250SWBs.
Whitsun Trophy
The fastest race of the weekend, the Whitsun Trophy has been part of the Revival since 2001. The Whitsun Trophy spotlights sports-racing prototypes that raced between 1960 and 1966 including Lola T70 Spyders, McLaren M1Bs and Ford GT40s, making for some incredible racing across the weekend.
Fordwater Trophy
In 2023, the Fordwater Trophy became the very first all-sustainable fuel race to take place at Goodwood. In 2025, the Fordwater Trophy will see race-inspired production sports and GT cars from 1964-1966 race on the track, including Lotus 26Rs, Ford Mustang GT350s and Alfa Romeo TZ1s.
St Mary’s Trophy
Alternating between the celebrated decade each year, the 2025 St Mary’s Trophy will welcome a collection of 1950s production-based saloon cars. A two-part race across the weekend, it will feature Austin A40s, Alfa Romeo Giulietta Tis and Jaguar Mk1s and a VIP line-up of drivers on the Saturday.
Chichester Cup
The Chichester Cup brings together a grid of small but nimble front-engined Formula Juniors like Lola Mk2s, Alexis Mk2s and Elva-BMC-100s. The 25-minute time trial brings together the cars once driven by the future F1 stars of the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.
Richmond & Gordon Trophies
Celebrating a golden era of Formula 1, the Richmond & Gordon Trophies welcome a fleet of 2.5-litre Grand Prix cars from 1952-1960. What happens in this one is you get massively competitive racing between front and rear-engined cars including Lotus 16s, Maserati 250Fs and Cooper T5s.
Royal Automobile Club TT Celebration
The Revival meeting’s blue riband race features closed-cockpit GT and selected prototype cars and is a clear nod to the history and heritage of the Motor Circuit when the RAC TT was held there from 1960 to 1964. The fastest and most iconic grand touring cars from Goodwood’s golden era go head-to-head in the 60-minute two-driver race.
Glover Trophy
Retaining its name from the early race meetings at Goodwood, the Glover Trophy brings together Grand Prix cars from 1961-1965 – as an insight into the history of Formula 1 racing at the Motor Circuit – raced at Goodwood by the likes of Sir Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark and Graham Hill. Named in honour of the trophy, which was awarded at Goodwood’s Easter Meetings, the race will feature cars such as Lotus 25s, BRM P261s and Lotus 18s.
Boreham Motorworks has announced the launch date of its all-new Ford Escort Mk1, a modern reimagining of the iconic and extremely well-loved model. On Thursday 12th December 2024, at 9am, the car will finally be revealed for the first time.
The new model will pay tribute to the Escort’s RS lineage and has been designed to combine classic charm with modern performance.
“At DRVN, we understand that true automotive passion comes from the connection between driver and machine – a relationship forged in the sound, feel, and response of a car designed to be driven. The Ford Escort Mk1 embodies this ethos, blending timeless design with performance that inspires confidence and joy. We design for the road, not the runway. We embrace everything drivers love about cars.”
Iain Muir, DRVN Automotive Group CEO
Boreham Motorworks is determined to keep the spirit of the original Escort so the new MK1 will be powered exclusively by petrol engines paired with a manual gearbox. There will be no hybrid or electric options.
The company said: “Our heritage guides us, and our future insists upon it. We won’t cancel our heritage; we will evolve it.”
The new Escort MK1 has been given the powerful title of the “One True Descendant,” and will no doubt get lots of attention in just over a week’s time.
In one of the final auctions of 2024, Collecting Cars is offering a special Land Rover Collection. The online sale will run from December 1st to December 8th and will include some of the most sought-after Land Rovers in the world.
Perhaps the main event of the sale is a 2011 Land Rover Defender SVX ‘Spectre’, seen in the James Bond films Skyfall and Spectre. If that didn’t make this Defender special enough, Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations have turned it into a “Bigfoot” off-roader with 37-inch tyres. It also comes with original documentation, including a signed Spectre plaque.
Continuing the Bond theme, a 2021 Land Rover Defender 90 V8 Bond Edition is also going up for sale. One of only 300 made, it has a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine and is definitely an attention-grabber.
A 2014 Defender 90 Works V8 70th Edition, a modern take on the classic Defender, was built to celebrate the brand’s 70th anniversary. Another nod to Land Rover’s heritage is a 2015 Defender 110 Heritage Edition. It only has 695 miles on the clock so is pretty much brand new! A bespoke 2016 Defender 110 XS, featuring over £60,000 of custom upgrades is also likely to do very well.
If classics are more your thing, a restored 1980 Land Rover Series III 88” will also be available, as will a 1983 Land Rover 101 Forward Control, a military-inspired model with its Buyer’s Premium being donated to Help for Heroes.
“The Land Rover marque has always been a firm favourite, and its enduring legacy since the Fifties ensures it remains a cornerstone of the global collector car market for both classic and modern models. Our Land Rover Collection pays tribute to this iconic brand while meeting market demand for some of the rarest and most sought-after variants. Over the past year, we’ve observed a significant rise in sales of classic Series models (Series I, II, and III) alongside limited-edition, low-volume bespoke Defenders. From the sale of a Range Rover Classic in 2019 to the introduction of this carefully curated collection, the continued popularity of our platform highlights how Collecting Cars has redefined auctions for buyers and sellers worldwide.”
Edward Lovett, Founder and CEO of Collecting Cars
Collecting Cars has something of a relationship with the Land Rover brand as, back in 2019, when the business first launched, the first car it sold was a Range Rover Classic. This adds some significance to the upcoming Land Rover Collection.
The SEAT Leon is 25 years old this year. Since its release in 1999, the Leon has been extremely popular in the compact car sector. Over the years, SEAT has sold more than 2.5 million units of the Leon worldwide making it one of the most successful SEAT cars to be made.
The Leon has earned titles such as the “Car of the Year” in Spain and Portugal and “Import Car of the Year” in Argentina. On the racetrack, it made history with back-to-back World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) titles in 2008 and 2009, becoming the first diesel-powered car to win an FIA world title.
It has also made appearances in films like Men in Black: International and the tv series Dark and Sherlock
Happy 25th birthday to the SEAT Leon!
British car production saw a drop of 15.3% in October, with 77,484 vehicles manufactured, marking the eighth consecutive month of decline. This downturn was largely attributed to ongoing factory retooling for next-generation zero-emission vehicles, as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT). Both domestic and export markets experienced setbacks, with output falling 4.7% and 17.6%, respectively.
The production of electrified vehicles – including battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and hybrid models -made up nearly a third of the total output at 24,719 units. However, this figure also represented a decline of 32.6% compared to the previous year. Since January, UK factories have produced 239,773 electrified vehicles, with 71.8% destined for export.
Exports to the EU, the largest market for UK cars, dropped by 34.6%, while shipments to the US almost doubled, rising by 96.2%, driven by the popularity of luxury and premium models. Despite a 5.3% year-to-date increase in production for the UK market, overall manufacturing output remains 10.8% lower than the previous year, with exports down 14.8%.
The decline continues due to weak demand for electric vehicles and rising operational costs, challenging the industry’s transition to greener technologies. Despite over £20 billion in investment announced last year to support EV production, the outlook for UK manufacturing remains less than ideal. Projections for 2024 and 2025 estimate production levels of 911,000 and 839,000 vehicles, respectively, significantly below pre-pandemic figures.
Industry leaders are calling for urgent government intervention to help aid competitiveness. Proposals include energy cost reductions, supportive market regulations, and trade agreements promoting free and fair commerce. Without these measures, UK car production risks falling below 750,000 units by 2030, threatening jobs and economic stability.
“These are deeply concerning times for the automotive industry, with massive investments in plants and new zero emission products under intense pressure. Slowdowns in the global market – especially for EVs – are impacting production output, with the situation in the UK particularly acute given we have arguably the toughest targets and most accelerated timeline but without the consumer incentives necessary to drive demand. The cost of stimulating that demand and complying with those targets is huge and, as we are seeing, unsustainable. Urgent action is therefore needed and we will work with government on its rapid review of the regulation and the development of an ambitious and comprehensive Industrial Strategy to assure our competitiveness.”
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive
A preserved Bugatti from the 1930s, once owned by the King of Belgium, has been awarded the title of Car of the Year at the International Historic Motoring Awards (IHMA). Sponsored by Lockton Insurance, the event took place at the Peninsula London on November 22nd, and showcased excellence in the world of classic and collector cars.
The Car of the Year award was one of 16 presented during the ceremony, which was attended by over 400 guests from around the world, including actor Rowan Atkinson, World Land Speed Record holder Andy Green, and car designer Ian Callum. Other famous faces included Richard Hammond, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance chair Sandra Button, and automotive influencer Supercar Blondie (Alex Hirschi). The audience also featured leading car collectors like Miles Collier, Bruce Meyer, and Fritz Burkard, as well as representatives from organisations like the Petersen Automotive Museum, Revs Institute, and Jaguar Land Rover.
The judging process, which involved months of nominations and scrutiny by an international panel of 34 experts, ended in the public voting for the Car of the Year. Thousands of votes were cast, reflecting the widespread interest in the awards. Rowan Atkinson, an advocate for classic cars, delivered a keynote speech celebrating the heritage and cultural significance of automotive history.
Now in its 14th year, the IHMA continues to honour outstanding achievements in the collector car industry. This year’s event marked the return of the awards under the leadership of its original founders, Geoff Love and David Lillywhite, who first launched the initiative in 2011. The 2024 ceremony was supported by several high-profile partners, including the Petersen Automotive Museum, Nyetimber, and Octane and Magneto magazines, reinforcing the global appeal and prestige of the awards.
“We were delighted to host the biggest and best edition of the International Historic Motoric Awards so far, with many of the world’s most important car collectors and industry movers and shakers, proving once again that the IHMA is the only truly international awards event in the collector car industry.”
Geoff Love, Hothouse Media co-founder and managing director
Book of the Year, sponsored by Hortons Books:
The Last Eye Witness, by Doug Nye (Porter Press International)
Breakthrough Event of the Year:
The Oberoi Concours d’Elegance
Club of the Year, sponsored by Lockton Performance
Vintage Sports-Car Club
Museum of the Year, sponsored by The Yohan Poonawalla Collection:
Revs Institute
Specialist of the Year:
Jim Stokes Workshops
Young Achiever, sponsored by The Petersen Automotive Museum:
David Kibbey
Motorsport Event of the Year:
Goodwood Revival Meetin
Industry Supporter of the Year:
Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance
Bespoke Car of the Year, sponsored by Octane:
Auto Union Type 52 ‘Schnellsportwagen’, by Audi Tradition / Crosthwaite & Gardiner
Personal Achievement of the Year:
Bruce Meyer
Outstanding Use of Media:
Goodwood Road & Racing
Restoration of the Year, sponsored by Classic & Sports Finance:
Talbot-Lago T26 Grand Sport by Saoutchik, restored by Chropynska
Rally / Tour of the Year, sponsored by SBX Cars:
The Peking to Paris Motor Challenge, by HERO-ERA
Motoring Event of the Year, sponsored by Magneto
The 73rd Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance
Car of the Year:
1934 Bugatti Type 59
Lifetime Achievement:
Sylviane and Patrick Pete
A couple of weeks ago, we hosted our wine-tasting event in collaboration with Smashing Wines.
It was a very well-attended event with lots of wine being tasted and classic cars being admired.
Thank you to everyone who joined us and we hope to see you all again very soon.
Global superstar Ed Sheeran is releasing the video for his new song “Under the Tree” at 2pm today.
Ed is local to us as he grew up just down the road from the Bridge Classic Cars workshop here in Suffolk.
The video was filmed in Southwold and Bridgerton star Claudia Jessie is also seen in it. The new song will feature in a Netflix film directed by Richard Curtis, called “That Christmas”.
We always like to celebrate our local area and success stories. Right now, you can’t get much more successful than Ed Sheeran and we are very much looking forward to seeing the video when it is released later on.
Today marks exactly one month until Christmas Day!
As scary as it is to think about how quickly this year has gone, it’s probably wise to get your Christmas shopping done soon to avoid the rush and stress of leaving it until the last minute.
We have a collection of products that could make the perfect present for the classic car fan in your life.
Our clothing range features some extremely limited edition t-shirts that are as special as the classics we admire as well as some of our traditional Bridge Classic Cars clothing.
To mark 20 years of Bridge Classic Cars, we teamed up with Trojan Records Clothing, to create this limited edition run of Harrington jackets.
This style of jacket first appeared in the 1930s however, it wasn’t until the 1960s that the Harrington Jacket really took on its classic and stylish look. With the Bridge Classic Cars logo over the number 20, very few of these jackets will ever exist so it’s a fantastic addition to the wardrobe of a classic car lover.
If clothing isn’t the right match for the person you’re buying for, then we have our Members Club that comes with benefits such as discounted tickets, exclusive events, and members-only competitions.
Alternatively, we have our gift vouchers that can be used on any of our current or future competitions.
Winning a classic car for just a few pounds is always going to be amazing. However, if the recipient of a gift voucher wins one, you will always be known as the person who gave them the best gift of all time!
Auctions are always a fantastic place to see rare, interesting, and even unique vehicles being offered for sale. Quite a lot of the time, it’s the cars we see on TV that appeal most. That’s why it looks like the H&H Classics auction in Buxton on Wednesday this week is going to be extremely popular. There are several lots that are examples of makes and models featured in the Disney+ show Rivals.
In Rivals, Freddie Jones, played by Danny Dyer, drives a Jaguar XJS. There are two 1988 convertible XJS for sale at the auction this week. Both have the V12 badge and low mileage. The first is finished in Red and has only had 2 owners from new. With 47,000 miles on the clock, it is believed to be one of the first 1000 V12 convertibles produced. Estimate: £18,000–£22,000
The second XJS has Glacier White paintwork over an Isis Blue leather interior and has covered 34,000 miles from new. Estimate: £16,000–£20,000
Fans of Rivals will know that Lord Tony Baddingham, played by David Tennant, is often seen on screen with a Rolls-Royce Silver Spirit MK1. H&H also have 2 examples of this model in their Buxton auction. One is finished in the eye-catching colour combination of Blue over Silver with Blue Connolly leather upholstery and matching Blue Wilton carpets. It certainly has some power to go with its imposing size too as it has a 6750cc V8 paired with a 3-speed automatic gearbox. Estimate: £7,000–£9,000
The other example is a 1987 Silver Spirit with 86,000 miles on the clock and comes from long-term ownership. Estimate £8,000 – £10,000
Also seen in Rivals is the Triumph Stag used by Basil Baddingham, played by Luke Pasqualino. H&H has you covered with this as well. A 1974 model that has undergone an extensive mechanical overhaul is available in Wednesday’s auction with an estimate of £14,000–£16,000. A second Stag will also be available with no reserve. This one has been with its current owner for 20 years but is in need of restoration.
Additional interesting lots include a Range Rover Classic Vogue 4.2 LSE from 1993, one of only 3,000 manufactured and is being offered with no reserve, and an Austin Mini Clubman Estate from 1970, previously owned by a 109-year-old woman who was once the “oldest woman in Wales”. This one has an estimate of £8,000–£10,000.
“It’s great to see some iconic classics currently on the small screen, often proving that the car is the star! Many of these homegrown icons are highly desirable, conjuring up fond images of a time gone when the roads were quieter and the cars provided pure driving joy.”
James McWilliam, sales manager at H&H Classics
All lots will be available to view in person at the Pavilion Gardens, Buxton from midday on Tuesday 26th and from 9am on Wednesday 27th November, while the sale then commences at 1pm. Anyone looking to bid on one of the lots can do so in person, online, by telephone or by leaving a commission bid.
For more details about any of the cars or to register to bid, visit www.handh.co.uk.
Toyota has recently demonstrated a concept model that explores how hydrogen gas, which is generated while driving, can be used to potentially increase the efficiency of liquid hydrogen as fuel.
By capturing vaporised hydrogen, known as “boil-off gas,” which is typically lost to the atmosphere, this new technology could improve energy efficiency making it a viable solution as a fuel source.
The potential shown has led Toyota to seek collaborators to further develop and refine this concept.
Toyota introduced the concept during the final round of the 2024 ENEOS Super Taikyu race series in Japan. A GR Corolla was equipped with liquid hydrogen technology and took part in the event. As Toyota has a big involvement in motorsport, it makes sense that they use races like this to test various ideas, all of which are aimed at achieving carbon neutrality.
Liquid hydrogen has a higher density compared to gaseous hydrogen. An advantage of this is that you can store more of it in a tank of the same size. However, a downside is that “boil-off” occurs. This is where the vapourised hydrogen evaporates out into the atmosphere without being used to power the car which then cancels out some of the benefits of being able to store more hydrogen in the tank in the first place. In very basic terms, boil-off gas is released without being used, resulting in a potential loss of energy.
Toyota’s new system involves capturing boil-off gas and converting it into usable hydrogen fuel. The process uses a self-pressuriser that uses the gas’s own pressure to amplify it by two to four times. This eliminates the need for external energy, such as electricity, to pressurise the hydrogen, making the process more sustainable and efficient.
The surplus boil-off gas from this pressurisation process is redirected to a small Toyota fuel cell stack. Through a chemical reaction, the stack generates electricity, which can power components like the liquid hydrogen pump. This approach can potentially supplement or even replace the alternator’s role, further improving overall energy efficiency.
Toyota ensures that any remaining boil-off gas not used in energy generation is safely converted to water vapour via a catalytic process and then released from the vehicle, prioritising both efficiency and safety.
It will be interesting to see what the future holds for liquid hydrogen.
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