Abigayle Andre, better known as She Talks Cars is a true car fanatic! She has a wealth of knowledge about all things cars and she has driven some very cool vehicles over the course of her personal and professional life.
We were fortunate enough to sit down with Abigayle and pick her brains on some car-related topics.
For those who don’t know, what is She Talks Cars?
She Talks Cars is what I’m known as. So it’s me! But it’s also the go-to place online to find out how to buy a car, save money on motoring along with general car tips, reviews and updates on what’s going on in the car industry. You’re also likely to find some videos of me goofing around too. She Talks Cars is on Tiktok, Instagram, YouTube and Facebook.
Where did your love of cars come from?
Childhood! My dad and uncles loved their cars and I have always looked up to them. My Uncle Greg used to sell super cars and my other Uncle, Vernon would buy himself everything from Shoguns to Rollers. He’s not with us anymore but his love for cars and driving lives on in me. Our whole family are into their motors. Carribeans love cars!
What made you set up She Talks Cars?
I used to work for Audi UK and VW UK as a customer relations manager, so I’ve always been the go-to person in my circle when it comes to cars.
But I left the car industry years ago. She Talks Cars came about in such an unintentional way- but it feels like fate.
Just before lockdown I got a new car. It was always in and out of the garage with issues and because of that I had quite an impressive stream of courtesy cars. Then Lockdown happened and the situation with my car continued. This time I was given a Range Rover Velar as a courtesy car. My business was closed at the time due to restrictions and I thought it would be fun to review the car. I also thought it would be helpful to people who couldn’t test drive due to restrictions.
It turns out it was fun to do and helpful to others. It grew from there.
What are your predictions for the future of the automotive industry?
I think the obvious one is that we’re going to see more electric cars on the road… including more legislation to dial down the amount of ICE cars driving around. I ‘hope’ that’s coupled with more support for people to get into an electric car, better charging infrastructure, accessible infrastructure and support for private companies to get involved and make it happen. Oh and lower VAT on public electric charging! Government… if you’re reading.
It’s also no secret that we’re also going to see the agency model rolling out in many manufacturer main dealers over the next few years.
This could spell the end for smaller franchises and competitive pricing for consumers. I hope that’s not the case.
I think new players with alternative solutions to car ownership are going to enter the market… there will be more car subscription/car sharing and alternative ownership services in the future in my opinion. Particularly in big cities.
Do you think there is still a place for classic cars as we move into the future?
I bloody hope so. It’s history! It should be protected and preserved.
I think the premium to run one and keep it on the road will increase though.
There’s also the rise in converting classics to electric too which is exciting… if done respectfully of course.
Are there any upcoming cars you’re particularly excited to see launch?
I’m looking forward to seeing Porsche’s new fully electric Macan and the Lotus Eletre. And the Tesla Cyber Truck if it ever surfaces. There’s some cool stuff coming out.
Obviously, we love classic cars – are there any classics that catch your eye?
There are many classics that catch these eyes! I’ve got eyes bigger than my pockets.
I love classic Mercs and Porsche.
We have a 930 turbo but I’d really like to add a Pagoda 230SL and a Porsche 964 to the gang. I’d better get saving then eh?
What are your goals for She Talks Cars?
The constant goal and my ‘why’ is to help people become the expert on buying a car and looking after the one they buy.
I want to grow the reach and audience so I can help more people.
My personal goal aside from this is to present more TV and make more creative content. I really enjoy it!
How can people find out more about She Talks Cars?
By joining our community of course.. which is on Tiktok.
But you can find me on Instagram, YouTube and Facebook. The website will be back in 2023… so watch this space!
Enjoyed Talking Classics With Abigayle Andre?
Take a look at the entire Talking Classics series for more interviews with other influential people.
