We’ve nearly made it to the end of 2021, but how does the year ahead look for classic cars?

Although the year is not up just yet, we have seen the classic car industry evolve, adapt and most importantly, thrive in 2021. We thought it would be a good time to talk about what we have seen over the last year and what that could mean for 2022.

Throughout the pandemic we have seen people create businesses and products during a time when we were all stuck inside, working from home, or looking for new opportunities. From podcasts such as AutoChat by automotive journalists Alistair Charlton and George Turner, to incredible new cars like the all-new Squalo by GTO Engineering, and even Lunaz Design, who is now electrifying recycling trucks alongside classic cars, in an effort to re-use vehicles sustainably. Since the easing of lockdown here in the UK, we have also been able to attend more car events that celebrate classic vehicles such as Salon Privé Concours d’Elégance and Goodwood Revival, which both took place in September.

We have seen how the classic car community is resilient, much like classic cars themselves. With a bit of time, patience and some elbow grease we can thrive in almost any condition. Due to people losing their jobs because of the pandemic, we have seen an increase in career changes including re-training in classic car restoration and other skills such as panel beating and leather trimming. Which couldn’t come at a better time really, as this year we saw an increase in people buying the classic car they have always wanted, rather than spending that money on a holiday that perhaps wasn’t going to go ahead. Like any classic car, it will need some tender-loving-care.

So, as we look back over 2021, what does that mean for 2022? As we know there was an increase in classic cars being purchased, and thankfully there are no signs of that slowing down. As previously discussed in last month’s blog (link), London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) expanded to both the North and South Circular Roads in October, however historic vehicles produced from 1 January 1981 are exempt from the ULEZ charge, if registered with the Driver and Vehicle License Agency (DVLA). From this, we could also see a surge in younger people living in London purchase a classic car to avoid this charge. Purchasing a classic car is often cheaper than buying a modern car – depending on the make and model – and we may be biased when we say this, but it looks so much cooler on the road!

There has also been an increase in popularity of electrification, particularly among classic car owners. One such company is Lunaz Design – who we recruit exclusively for, and the company’s approach is a combination of sustainability, reliability, luxury and usability. In the last year, the team has seen an increase in requests for electrified classics across their range, which includes the Jaguar XK120, XK140 and a Classic Range Rover in a variety of configurations. As the general automotive industry continues with its push towards electric vehicles, we are fairly certain that this trend in classic car electrification will continue well into next year and beyond.

With travel restrictions easing, more car shows and tours are now readily available to attend overseas. We are very much looking forward to being able to visit attractions for any and all classic car enthusiasts. Why not have a look at one of our previous blogs about the best European car museums to visit to help inspire you book that trip away.

As the demand for classic car restoration specialists increases, we expect that companies in this field will need to find more restoration specialists and individuals with unique skill sets. At Marc Brunel Recruitment we work hand in hand with companies and individuals looking to take that next step in their career, selecting only the best candidates for the job required. If you would like to hear more about how we can help with your recruitment plans for 2022, please do get in touch with us as info@marcbrunel.com.

And as for us, we’ve done our work from home stint for long enough and have been working towards going back into the office. We are now all moved and settled in our new offices located at Landbeasts Automobile Classica and look forward to welcoming clients and recruits in 2022 and beyond.

– Akash Cheeda