A new trade association representing the classic car industry has warned a perfect storm of post-Brexit bureaucracy and poorly-targeted environmental legislation could put 100,000 jobs at risk.
The Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance said it fears ‘complex new rules’ around exporting and importing cars and parts to and from the EU, plus ‘widespread misunderstanding of the environmental impact of vintage motoring’, are damaging owners’ confidence and enthusiasm.
It has called upon the government to introduce new legislation to help grow the sector.
The group claimed annual turnover, including international trade, is estimated at £18.3 billion. The three-million-strong British classic vehicle fleet is valued at over £12 billion, while annual tax revenue generated for the exchequer is close to £3 billion.
The Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance says there is a misconception surrounding classic vehicle emissions, which have a ‘relatively modest impact on the environment’ compared with modern cars.
On average, classic vehicles are driven 16 times a year and cover just 1,200 miles during that period, which equates to 20 percent of the CO2 emissions produced by a computer and a mobile phone during the same time.
‘A great British success story’
The organisation says it will aim to ‘educate public, politicians and regulators on environmental issues’.
It adds that while the industry is respectful of the green agenda, it argues that restoration of classic vehicles ‘is in fact the epitome of sustainability’ because it is all about prolonging the life of great pieces of craftsmanship, rather than surrendering to built-in obsolescence.
“Our sector is a great British success story and has been for decades,” said HCVA director – and sales manager at Silverstone Auctions – Harry Whale.
“But it’s in serious jeopardy, and may not survive to continue providing opportunities for future generations if we don’t act now. In a world of mind-boggling bureaucracy, with environmental and other legislation looming, we need to ensure the voice of the industry and owners is heard and understood by regulators and those in power.
“We’ll work hard for the whole sector. We’re taking the initiative now to address current challenges, clear up confusion and grasp opportunities to find solutions. These problems span the world and we’re determined to take a long-term view as we campaign to secure the future.”
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