As the nights grow longer and the temperatures dip, car enthusiasts across the nation are preparing to tuck away their beloved classic vehicles until the spring of 2025. However, one event stands out as a shining beacon for vintage motoring enthusiasts – the NEC Classic Motor Show, which has just celebrated its 40th anniversary in grand style.

Igniting the Spark of Automotive History

A Showcase of Automotive Legends

The NEC Classic Motor Show has long been a cherished tradition for car enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to witness the rich tapestry of automotive history. This year's event, held at the NEC Birmingham, was no exception, with an astounding 3,000 historic vehicles on display across seven expansive halls. From iconic British marques to legendary international models, the show provided a captivating glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the stories and legacies of these automotive icons.

Celebrating the Pride of Ownership

One of the standout features of the NEC Classic Motor Show is the Pride of Ownership competition, which shines a spotlight on the dedication and craftsmanship of classic car owners. Each year, ten finalists are selected to showcase their meticulously restored vehicles, with the winner and two runners-up receiving free insurance coverage up to £250, courtesy of the event's sponsor, Lancaster Insurance. This competition not only celebrates the passion and hard work of these owners but also serves as an inspiration for others who aspire to preserve and restore these automotive treasures.

Mastering the Art of Classic Car Ownership

The NEC Classic Motor Show is more than just a display of stunning vehicles; it also serves as a hub for classic car enthusiasts to hone their skills and knowledge. The historic vehicle publication Practical Classics hosted a series of demonstrations and Q&A sessions, providing attendees with valuable insights and guidance on various aspects of classic car ownership, from maintenance to restoration techniques. This educational component of the event empowers enthusiasts to take their passion for classic cars to new heights, ensuring the continued preservation and appreciation of these automotive marvels.

A Lifelong Passion Celebrated

The NEC Classic Motor Show holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts, including Claire Serrell, a Pride of Ownership finalist who has been attending the event since she was just two months old. Serrell's family has been a part of the show's history, with her father's cars being displayed at the event over the years. For Serrell, having her own 1988 Austin Rover Mini Jet Black featured at the 40th anniversary celebration was a truly meaningful and cherished experience, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between classic car owners and this iconic event.

A Charitable Endeavor

The NEC Classic Motor Show is not just a celebration of automotive history; it also serves as a platform for charitable giving. The event's partnership with the Sporting Bears charity resulted in an impressive £42,580 being raised over the three-day event, which will be distributed to organizations such as Young Minds, Me and Dee, Thrive, and Sibling Support. This philanthropic aspect of the show underscores the community-driven spirit that has made the NEC Classic Motor Show a beloved institution for car enthusiasts and beyond.As the curtain falls on another successful NEC Classic Motor Show, the event's enduring legacy as a celebration of automotive passion and history shines brighter than ever. From the stunning displays of iconic vehicles to the inspiring stories of dedicated owners, this annual gathering continues to captivate and inspire car enthusiasts of all ages, ensuring that the love for classic cars will endure for generations to come.

As the Seattle International Auto Show unfolded at the Lumen Field Event Center, one vehicle stood out among the crowd – Volkswagen's highly anticipated electric van, the ID. Buzz. With its retro-inspired design and cutting-edge technology, the ID. Buzz captivated attendees, signaling a shift in the electric vehicle (EV) landscape.

Embracing the Past, Powering the Future

Volkswagen ID. Buzz: A Nostalgic Icon Reborn

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is more than just a modern electric van; it's a symbol of the brand's rich heritage and a testament to its commitment to innovation. With its iconic silhouette and a range of up to 260 miles, the ID. Buzz seamlessly blends the past and the present, offering a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation.As I took the ID. Buzz for a test drive, the vehicle's impressive acceleration and roomy interior immediately caught my attention. The expansive moonroof and high seating position provided a commanding view of the road, while the sleek, minimalist cockpit design exuded a sense of sophistication. Automotive journalist Tom Voelk aptly described the ID. Buzz as a vehicle that could have been "if IKEA built a car," highlighting its unique blend of functionality and style.The ID. Buzz's nostalgia-inducing design is not just a gimmick; it's a strategic move by Volkswagen to capture the hearts and minds of a new generation of EV enthusiasts. By tapping into the enduring appeal of the iconic Microbus, the ID. Buzz offers a familiar and approachable entry point into the world of electric mobility, making it a compelling alternative to the more polarizing Tesla Cybertruck.

Challenging Tesla's Dominance: The Rise of EV Alternatives

As I navigated the auto show, it became clear that the ID. Buzz was not the only EV turning heads. The Chevy Equinox EV, Kia EV9, and GMC Sierra EV all showcased the growing diversity of the electric vehicle market, offering consumers a wider range of options beyond the Tesla brand.The Equinox EV, with its impressive 300-mile range and affordable price point, caught Voelk's attention as a practical and accessible EV option. Meanwhile, the Kia EV9 impressed with its spacious three-row seating and fast charging capabilities, catering to the needs of families and road-trippers.Perhaps the most intriguing alternative to the Cybertruck was the GMC Sierra EV, which Voelk described as the "best electric pickup you can get." With a range of over 400 miles and a host of innovative features, the Sierra EV challenged the notion that Tesla's polarizing design is the only viable option for electric trucks.These EV alternatives not only provide consumers with more choices but also signal a shift in the industry. As Tesla's market dominance begins to wane, new players are emerging, offering fresh perspectives and innovative solutions that cater to a diverse range of preferences and needs.

Porsche's Electrified Elegance: The Macan EV

While the more affordable EV options captured the attention of the masses, the Porsche Macan EV stood out as a testament to the brand's commitment to electrification. With its sleek design, impressive performance, and Porsche's signature handling, the Macan EV offered a glimpse into the future of luxury electric vehicles.Voelk's enthusiasm for the Macan EV was palpable, as he praised its superb driving dynamics and the way it embodied the Porsche DNA. Despite its hefty price tag, the Macan EV demonstrated that high-end automakers are embracing the electric revolution, providing discerning consumers with a premium alternative to the more mainstream EV offerings.The presence of the Macan EV at the Seattle Auto Show underscored the growing diversity of the EV market, where established luxury brands are now competing alongside newcomers and disruptors. This convergence of traditional automotive excellence and cutting-edge electric technology is shaping the future of the industry, offering consumers a wider range of choices and experiences.As the Seattle International Auto Show came to a close, it was clear that the electric vehicle landscape is undergoing a transformative shift. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, with its nostalgic charm and modern capabilities, emerged as the star of the event, captivating attendees and signaling a new era of electric mobility. However, the ID. Buzz was not alone; a host of EV alternatives, each with its own unique strengths and appeal, showcased the growing diversity and competitiveness of the market, challenging Tesla's dominance and offering consumers a glimpse into the electrified future of transportation.