If your driveway looks more like a curated showroom than a parking space, you already know the struggle. Managing separate policies for your daily driver, your weekend classic and your project car is a logistical nightmare.

In the world of specialist vehicles, multi-car policies isn’t just a “bulk discount” it’s a smarter way to protect your passion. Here is why bundling is the ultimate move for any enthusiast looking to renew their car insurance.

1. Substantial Cost Savings

The logic is simple: you can only drive one car at a time. Specialist insurers recognise this reduced risk and offer significant discounts when you bundle your vehicles.

• The VINTTRO Advantage: We’ve negotiated exclusive market rates with our insurer partners. This means the more cars you add, the deeper the discount we can achieve per vehicle. Over time, these savings add up to a significant portion of your collection’s maintenance budget.

2. Management Made Simple

Let’s be honest: tracking five different renewal dates and five different sets of paperwork is a pain. Multi-car policies consolidates everything:

• One Renewal Date: Synchronise your calendar so you only have to think about it once a year.
• One Point of Contact: No more juggling different call centers; you speak to the same expert team every time.
• Uniform Terms: Ensure your level of protection is consistent across every vehicle you own.

Pro-Tip: You don’t have to wait for all your policies to expire at once. You can renew car insurance for one vehicle today to start the policy, and we can “roll in” your other cars as their current cover ends.

3. Consistent Coverage & Daily Drivers

A common misconception is that multi-car policies only apply to “matching” vehicles. At VINTTRO Cover, we provide the flexibility to include your everyday driver alongside your niche collection. Whether it’s a modern SUV for the school run or a high-performance supercar for the track, we ensure every vehicle has the specific level of comprehensive cover it requires, all under one roof.

4. Membership Perks

When you renew car insurance as a VINTTRO Community member (which is free to join), you unlock rates that have specifically been agreed with VINTTRO and aren’t always available to the general public. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that when your renewal comes around, we aren’t just sending a bill, we’re working to retain your business by finding the best possible market rates.

5. A Streamlined Claims Process

The true value of insurance is only felt during a claim. In the unfortunate event of an accident involving more than one of your vehicles (for example, a garage incident), having a single insurer makes the process significantly faster.

• No “Blame Game”: Dealing with one insurer means liability and settlements are handled internally and efficiently.
• Expert Support: You’ll have access to our unrivalled claims expertise to guide you through the journey.

Is a Multi-Car Policy Right for You?

If you own more than one vehicle, the answer is almost certainly yes. You’ll save money, slash your paperwork and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with enthusiast-led protection.

Why pay more for more hassle? Switch to a multi-car policy and experience the smart way to renew car insurance.

Get Your Bespoke Quote Today

Don’t wait for your next renewal to start saving. Speak to our specialist team on 0333 4042 007 to see how much you could save by bundling your collection with our multi-car policies.

Single Policy vs. Multi-Car Bundling

Feature	Single Policy (Individual)	Multi-Car Policy (Bundled)
Renewal Dates	Staggered throughout the year	One single date for everything
Paperwork	Multiple documents and providers	One document, one provider
Total Cost	Standard rates per vehicle	Significant discounts as more cars join
Claims Process	Contact multiple different insurers	One expert team handles all vehicles
Flexibility	High (choose different insurers)	High (add modern, classic, or niche)

At VINTTRO, we recognise that our clients’ passion for exceptional craftsmanship doesn’t end with the roar of an engine. We view VINTTRO as more than just a network; it is a quintessential lifestyle brand curated for those who appreciate the finer details of a life well-lived. Whether it’s the mechanical heartbeat of a mid-mounted engine or the intricate movement of a hand-assembled calibre, we exist to celebrate the pursuit of excellence in all its forms.

Where Automotive Mastery Meets Horological Excellence

Many of our members are as discerning about their timepiece collection as they are about their garage, and rightly so. Both are profound expressions of precision, heritage, and timeless design. This synergy between automotive and horological mastery is a pillar of the VINTTRO experience a place where the thrill of the open road meets the quiet elegance of the collector’s world.

An Exclusive Partnership for the Discerning Collector

To further enhance this lifestyle, we are delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with an elite watch specialist. Renowned for their peerless expertise in sourcing, servicing and restoring luxury watches, they share our commitment to quality and authenticity.

Through this collaboration, VINTTRO offers you a direct gateway to the world’s most coveted horological treasures. Whether you are searching for a rare vintage timepiece to mark a personal milestone or looking to sell a cherished asset with complete confidence, our trusted partner operates with the utmost discretion and professionalism.

Comprehensive Care for Your Collection

Beyond acquisition, maintaining the integrity of a high-value timepiece is paramount. Our partner offers world-class repair and servicing for the world’s most prestigious marques, including Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe, Breitling, TAG Heuer, Cartier and Omega.

Protecting Your Passion: VINTTRO Cover

We understand that your collection represents more than just a financial investment; it is a reflection of your journey and success. To ensure your assets are shielded with the same level of precision they were built with, we offer VINTTRO Cover a bespoke insurance solution designed specifically for high-net-worth individuals.

Unlike standard “off-the-shelf” policies, VINTTRO Cover provides a seamless, unified approach to protecting your lifestyle:.

• Multi-Asset Portfolios: Simplify your life by consolidating your classic car collection, luxury timepiece portfolio and high-value home and contents all in one place with VINTTRO Cover.
• Worldwide All-Risks Cover: Your timepiece is meant to be worn. Our cover extends worldwide, protecting your watch against accidental damage, loss, or theft, whether you are at home or travelling abroad.
• Specialist Claims Handling: In the unfortunate event of a claim, we’ll be right behind you. We will liaise directly with your insurer on your behalf assisting in having a swift and fair resolution.
• Agreed Value Protection: Whether it is a rare supercar or a limited-edition timepiece, we provide “Agreed Value” settlements, ensuring you receive the true market worth in the event of a total loss, rather than a depreciated market average.

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Coming Soon: The VINTTRO Bespoke Store

In conjunction with our partner, we are currently developing a bespoke watch store available exclusively to VINTTRO members. This curated portal will allow you to browse a hand-selected range of horological icons from the comfort of your home.

Note: This exclusive member portal is scheduled to go live by 26 April. Please stay tuned for your private invitation.

Experience the pinnacle of horology and protection. If you would like to learn more about our services, receive a personal introduction to our watch partner, or request a quote for VINTTRO Cover, please contact our team.

Get in touch via email: info@vinttro.co.uk

Call us on: 0333 4042 007

The UK’s classic car sector continues to play a vital role in the nation’s economy, contributing an impressive £7.3 billion every year, according to new research from the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC). However, industry experts are warning that the sector needs stronger support as potential tax changes loom, including those related to Car Tax.

Classic Cars: A Cornerstone of British Heritage

As the classic car industry evolves, issues surrounding Car Tax are becoming increasingly pertinent, demanding attention from both the public and policymakers. Ensuring that classic car enthusiasts are aware of Car Tax regulations is essential for the longevity of this cherished sector. The implications of Car Tax could significantly impact collectors and restorers alike.

The 2025 National Historic Vehicle Survey (NHVS) reveals that the average classic car owner spends around £4,567 annually maintaining and enjoying their vehicle. With nearly two million historic vehicles registered across the UK and 9.7 million Britons expressing a desire to own one, the passion for motoring heritage remains strong.

The survey also highlights the cultural significance of classic cars, with 22.7 million people viewing historic vehicles as an important part of Britain’s national identity.

A Growing but Ageing Community

While the number of historic vehicle owners has risen modestly, up by around 7,000 since 2020 and almost 200,000 since 2015, the FBHVC notes that the average owner is now 66 years old. This ageing demographic underscores the need to inspire younger generations to engage with the hobby and the industry.

FBHVC Chairman David Whale stressed the urgency of this issue, saying it is “critical that appropriate training is available to support the next generation of engineers and restorers.” The historic vehicle sector currently supports 34,500 jobs and 2,700 specialist businesses across restoration, maintenance, parts supply, museums and events.

“We cannot take that success for granted,” Whale said. “The average owner is now in their sixties and we urgently need to inspire and train the next generation.”

He also called for greater diversity and inclusion within the community, encouraging businesses to invest in apprenticeship schemes and long-term training initiatives.

Currently Drivers are exempt from paying tax on classic and investment cars if they are over 40 years old

Fears Over Potential Car Tax Changes

The industry’s future could be further challenged by potential tax reforms in the upcoming Autumn Budget. Shadow Transport Secretary Richard Holden has warned that Chancellor Rachel Reeves may consider changes to motoring taxation as part of efforts to address a £50 billion fiscal shortfall.

Holden expressed concern that the government could end the 40-year Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) exemption, which currently means cars registered before 1985 are not required to pay road tax. He emphasised that protecting the classic car sector is a “priority,” warning against any form of “tax grab” that could undermine this historic and economically valuable industry.

In response, a HM Treasury spokesperson stated:

“The Chancellor makes tax policy decisions at fiscal events. We do not comment on speculation around future changes to our tax policies”

The Path Forward: Strategy for Sustainability

To ensure that the roar of a vintage engine isn’t silenced by modern regulation, the industry must evolve through three key pillars:

• Greener Miles: The rise of synthetic fuels (e-fuels) offers a lifeline. By adopting carbon-neutral fuels, the community can drastically reduce the environmental footprint of internal combustion engines without stripping away their mechanical soul.
• The Skills Pipeline: We are currently seeing a “generational hand-off.” Investment in specialized apprenticeships is vital to ensure that the secrets of English wheeling, lead loading, and period-correct engine tuning are passed from master craftsmen to a new, diverse generation of technicians.
• Legislative Advocacy: Clearer distinctions between “daily drivers” and “heritage assets” are necessary. Adaptive policy, such as exemptions from certain urban emission zones for historic vehicles, acknowledges that these cars cover negligible annual mileage compared to their modern counterparts.

A Cultural Anchor

Beyond the balance sheets, classic cars serve as rolling museums. They are a tangible link to Britain’s industrial zenith, representing an era where form and function were balanced with artistic flair. From the village green concours to the high-octane atmosphere of the Goodwood Revival, these vehicles act as social catalysts, bringing together enthusiasts from all walks of life.

“To preserve a classic car is to preserve a moment in time; it is an act of stewardship that honours the innovators of the past while inspiring the engineers of the future.”

By viewing the classic car sector not as a relic of the past, but as a vibrant, multi-billion pound “heritage economy,” the UK can protect a legacy that is as much about people and passion as it is about pistons and paint.

Elevating The Exceptional: The Evolution of VINTTRO Cover

As we continue to broaden our Non-Standard Niche Car Insurance offering, we’re excited to share the latest enhancements designed to help our members insure more of those “out of the ordinary” vehicles with total confidence. At VINTTRO, we understand that a car is rarely just a mode of transport; it is an engineering marvel, a piece of history, or a tailored expression of personality. For those seeking comprehensive Niche Car Insurance, our services are crafted to meet your specific needs.

Our aim is simple: to support our members and clients with a wider range of specialist insurance. Whether you are a High-Net-Worth individual managing a diverse portfolio, a dedicated vehicle enthusiast, or a driver who has faced challenges with claims or convictions, VINTTRO is here to provide a path to protection where mainstream insurers often see only “risk.”

Our Niche Car Insurance solutions ensure that every vehicle is adequately protected, allowing our clients peace of mind while enjoying their unique cars.

Data-Driven Precision

This commitment extends to our Niche Car Insurance policies, which are tailored for those who value individuality and performance in their vehicles.

With VINTTRO, you can explore custom Niche Car Insurance products that cater to your specific vehicle specifications.

Our expert underwriting partners use extensive portfolio data to make smarter, faster decisions. This allows us to move beyond rigid computer-generated algorithms, achieving greater flexibility and the quick turnaround times that our members’ busy lifestyles demand.

Key Product Updates

Our Niche Car Insurance also includes coverage for luxury models, ensuring that you receive the protection you deserve.

• Electric Performance: Tesla & Porsche The future of the enthusiast market is evolving, and so are we. We can now confidently place all Tesla models and the Porsche Taycan, ensuring these high-performance EVs receive the specialist terms they deserve.
• Jaguar Land Rover Excellence We have streamlined our approach to the modern green-oval icons. We now cover Land Rovers manufactured from 2019 onwards, with no additional security, parking, or area restrictions required, giving you more freedom to enjoy your vehicle without the red tape.
• Bespoke Vehicle Modifications We celebrate the individualist. We now accept up to 10 modifications per vehicle (subject to software house restrictions). Our appetite extends across the spectrum of performance and aesthetics, including:
  • Mechanical: Turbocharging, supercharging, and roll cages.
  • Aesthetic: Bespoke body kits, custom interiors, and unique paintwork.
• Professional Profiles: Sports & Entertainment We are proud to offer tailored terms for sports and entertainment professionals. From the talent on stage to the essential crew behind the scenes, including sound technicians, performers, and production staff—we understand your unique scheduling and usage needs. (Note: This currently excludes professional footballers, influencers, and travelling circus/funfair workers.)
• Higher Tracker Thresholds We’ve increased our standard vehicle value threshold for trackers. You now only require a tracker at £60,000 (previously £50,000), unless specific theft-risk factors apply. This reflects our trust in our members and the security of their collections.

More Flexibility For a Life Well-Lived

We pride ourselves on offering Niche Car Insurance that understands the unique needs of each vehicle owner.

These updates reflect our ongoing commitment to providing our members and clients with greater choice, enhanced flexibility and more opportunities to protect their unique motor vehicles. We believe that insurance should be an enabler of your lifestyle, not a barrier to it.

Our Niche Car Insurance services reflect our trust in our members and the value of their extraordinary vehicles.

Whether you are navigating the city in a modern electric timepiece of engineering like the Porsche Taycan, or pushing the limits of a bespoke, modified performance car, our goal is to ensure your cover is as dynamic as your driving. VINTTRO isn’t just about risk management; it’s about a shared passion for the road and a deep respect for the assets you’ve worked hard to acquire. By bridging the gap between high-level underwriting and the personal needs of the modern collector, we ensure that your protection is always in sync with your journey.

VINTTRO Cover – Smarter insurance broking for Specialist Motor Risks.

With our Niche Car Insurance offerings, you can focus on enjoying your driving experience.

At VINTTRO, we believe that our Niche Car Insurance is not just about coverage; it’s about a shared passion for the road.

Explore our Niche Car Insurance options today to find the perfect fit for your unique vehicle.

Next Steps For Your Portfolio

If your collection has grown, your vehicle’s specification has evolved, or your current policy simply doesn’t reflect the true nature of your modifications or professional lifestyle, it is time for a more sophisticated conversation.

With VINTTRO’s Niche Car Insurance, you can enjoy full protection without compromise.

We invite you to experience a more personal approach to asset protection. Our team is ready to review your entire portfolio, from your high-performance fleet and daily drivers to your cherished timepiece collection and primary residence, ensuring there are no gaps in your coverage and that you are benefiting from our latest policy enhancements.

Let us handle the complexities of the fine print while you focus on the enjoyment of the drive. Contact the VINTTRO team today for a comprehensive review of your requirements.

Get in touch via email: insurance@vinttro.co.uk

Speak with a specialist: 0333 4042 007

For most people, a car is simply a way to get from A to B. It gets washed at the local supermarket and serviced occasionally.

But for us car enthusiasts, they are much more than that. They’re our pride and joy; we love driving them, detailing them, heading out on road trips and meeting like-minded enthusiasts over coffee. For some, cars even play a vital role in supporting ones mental health.

When it comes to storing your vehicle, the first and most important question isn’t about the space, it’s about the safety net: Is your car fully insured while it’s in storage?

The Biggest Risk: The Insurance Gap

You’d be surprised how many storage providers offer space without any proper insurance cover, or with limits that are woefully inadequate compared to the value of a cherished vehicle. Always read the small print. Can you imagine storing a vehicle worth £300,000, only for a catastrophic disaster to happen and then finding out your storage provider only covered the car up to £50,000 or £100,000?

Did you know most personal insurers won’t cover your car when it’s in a third-party storage facility? It’s essential to check with your broker before committing. If the storage company doesn’t have its own comprehensive insurance and something happens, whether theft, fire, flood or accidental damage, you could be left with no claim and no recourse.

Even if you believe your own policy covers you, if the facility is uninsured, underinsured and negligent, your insurer may attempt to subrogate. In plain English, they may pay your claim but then struggle to reclaim costs from the facility, potentially putting your future premiums or even the validity of your pay-out at great risk.

The VINTTRO Standard

At VINTTRO, our storage starts from just £140.00 per month and includes:

• Fully Comprehensive Insurance: Included as standard up to your cars full value.
• Layered Security: 24/7 CCTV police monitoring and steel-reinforced doors.
• Physical Barriers: Alarms, floor-rising bollards and motion sensors.
• Total Discretion: We never publish our location. All visits are by appointment only, and access is strictly limited to business operatives.

We know there maybe cheaper storage options that exist, but do they offer this level of security? For as little as £1 per day more, is it worth the risk to cut corners?

Pro Tip: Always ask for a copy of your storage provider’s insurance certificate. If they can’t or won’t provide it, think very carefully about the potential consequences.

Safe Collection & Delivery

We have a panel of vetted transport service providers that do not display the VINTTRO brand, we don’t want your car attracting unwanted attention during transit. We offer both enclosed and open-top transport throughout the UK and Europe.

When you store your car with us, we carry out a full visual check-in alongside you, documenting the condition and storing digital images for your peace of mind. No guessing games, no disputes. Read our full terms and conditions here.

Car Care & Maintenance

We don’t believe in unnecessary upsells. When a car goes into storage, we recommend a simple Express Wash to remove dirt and road salt:

• Snow foam pre-wash & Two-bucket wash
• Interior vacuum
• Full hot air drying (including brakes) to remove any trapped moisture.

We also offer super-soft Lycra car covers (180gsm) for approximately £135.00, though you’re welcome to supply your own. When you’re ready to hit the road again, we offer professional detailing and valeting packages starting from £75.

Tyres & Battery Care

For long-term storage (12 months+), we recommend:

• Increasing tyre pressure: To prevent “flat spotting,” we recommend increasing pressure to the maximum PSI noted on the sidewall (or using tyre cushions/axle stands for vintage tyres).
• Battery Maintenance: Charging the battery to full before storage and using a CTEK battery conditioner. These are available to buy or rent from us, or you can bring your own UK-specified CTEK.
  
  Note: Why Car storage providers should use CTEK, or the manufacturers own brand? Insurance companies recognise and trust the brand. Please be aware of non EU/UK units that use a converter plug often purchased on Ebay are not recognised to be acceptable by many insurers.

Flexible Terms and Long Term Value

Why car storage should work around your lifestyle, not the other way around. At VINTTRO we pride ourselves on being highly flexible: whether you need a short-term solution or a permanent home for your collection, we can accommodate you.

We offer exceptional discounts for those looking for longer-term agreements. If you are considering a 6 or 12-month stay, speak to us about our preferential rates, it’s the best way to secure world-class protection at a lower monthly cost.

Our expertise isn’t limited to four wheels, either. We offer the same high standards of care and security for motorbikes, boats and more.

Why Car Storage? In Summary:

When it comes to your “pride and joy,” do your homework. Check the insurance certificates, inspect the physical security measures and ensure you fully trust the people behind the business.

Don’t leave your investment to chance, choose a partner that values your car as much as you do. This is why car storage matters!

Contact VINTTRO today for more information, to discuss our long-term discounts, or to arrange a private visit.

At VINTTRO, our in-depth claims knowledge is central to how we proactively protect our clients’ interests in the realm of Motor Claims. A recent case involving our client, Dance & Dean, highlights exactly why our expertise and determination provide a unique advantage to fleet operators in an increasingly litigious environment. Our focus on Motor Claims ensures that we navigate complexities effectively.

The Background: A £30,000 Challenge

Dance & Dean, a leading building and maintenance firm, faced a complex motor claim involving alleged vehicle damage and two personal injury claims. The total exposure was nearly £30,000 plus significant legal costs. The implications of this Motor Claim was substantial.

When the claim was first presented to our client’s insurer and their appointed solicitor, the initial recommendation was to settle. In the industry, “economic settlements” are common, but they often come at a long-term cost to the policyholder’s premiums and claims history.

Our proactive approach to handling Motor Claims allows us to mitigate risks effectively.

The VINTTRO Intervention: Challenging the Status Quo

Challenging traditional views on Motor Claims helps us secure favourable outcomes.

Our detailed evidence preparation for Motor Claims is crucial in achieving success.

Understanding the intricacies of Motor Claims ensures comprehensive representation.

The implications of evidence in Motor Claims cannot be overstated.

Our handling of Motor Claims directly impacted the financial health of our client.

Drawing upon our extensive claims expertise, VINTTRO challenged the recommendation to settle. Working closely with Richard Coonz, Operations Manager at Dance & Dean, we influenced the insurer’s position, insisting that the third-party claim be properly challenged at a formal hearing.

Awareness of Motor Claims trends is essential for proactive risk management.

To support the defence, we ensured that every available shred of evidence, including dashcam footage and telematics data, was meticulously prepared and submitted. This data formed the backbone of a robust defence, providing an objective “digital witness” to the events.

Innovative strategies in addressing Motor Claims lead to better client outcomes.

The Outcome: A Decisive Victory

The case proceeded to trial. Once the dashcam evidence was presented and cross-examination began, significant inconsistencies were revealed in the third party’s statements regarding both the vehicle damage and the alleged injuries.

Faced with the weight of the evidence we had helped compile, the third party withdrew their case entirely. This decisive outcome avoided nearly £30,000 in pay-outs and protected the claims experience for both Dance & Dean and their insurer, RSA.

Wider Industry Context: The Rise of Opportunistic Claims

In 2026, opportunistic and exaggerated claims are a daily reality for UK fleet operators. Without expert claims handling and the confidence to challenge early legal advice, many businesses fall victim to these cases, leading to a “claims creep” that drives up annual premiums.

“VINTTRO doesn’t just place our insurance; they stand alongside us when it matters most.” Andrew Dance, Managing Director, Dance & Dean

Key Takeaways for Fleet Operators

• Never Settle for “Settling”: Just because a solicitor suggests a payout doesn’t mean the claim is valid. Expert oversight can save thousands.
• The Power of Data: Dashcam and telematics data are your strongest allies. We ensure this data is used to its full effect in court.
• Broker Partnership: A true broker should act as an extension of your management team during a dispute.

What Our Clients Say

We remain committed to defending our clients’ interests in all Motor Claims.

Richard Coonz, Operations Manager, Dance & Dean: “VINTTRO’s involvement was invaluable. Their claims expertise gave us the confidence to challenge the initial recommendations, and their proactive approach meant our dashcam and telematics data were used to full effect. The support went far beyond what we would normally expect from a broker; they were a true partner in protecting our business.”

Andrew Dance, Managing Director, Dance & Dean: “We were pleased with the outcome. From the start, VINTTRO were there to guide and support us, using their years of knowledge to challenge advice that could have cost us significantly. Their persistence made all the difference.”

Protect Your Business with VINTTRO Cover

If you are a fleet operator looking for a broker that offers more than just a policy, one that provides a formidable defence for your bottom line, it’s time to switch to VINTTRO Cover.

Get in touch today:

• Call: 0333 4042 008
• Email: info@vinttro.co.uk

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has confirmed sweeping new reforms that will transform how repaired, restored and modified vehicles are registered in the UK. This is a decisive win for the VINTTRO community and the wider world of lifestyle motoring.

In recent years, the automotive landscape has seen a significant shift towards sustainability and innovation, with many enthusiasts seeking ways to preserve the beauty of classic cars while adapting them to modern standards. The DVLA’s reforms are a response to this evolving market, recognising the importance of both heritage and progress.

Furthermore, the collaboration between the DVLA and various automotive organisations highlights the growing importance of community engagement. The input from vehicle owners, restorers, and enthusiasts has been instrumental in shaping these policies, ensuring that they reflect the realities faced by those who live and breathe classic motoring.

The updated policy follows an extensive campaign led by the Historic and Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), with widespread support from across the automotive industry.

These reforms not only streamline processes but also enhance the vehicle registration experience. For many, the ability to register a modified vehicle without extensive bureaucracy fosters a renewed passion for restoration projects, allowing more enthusiasts to engage in the craft of vehicle restoration.

Protecting Heritage, Simplifying the Process

These reforms are designed to safeguard vehicle history and identity while bringing long-overdue clarity to the registration process. This follows the Government’s 2024 Call for Evidence, which saw a massive response from enthusiasts determined to preserve the UK’s motoring legacy.

By allowing enthusiasts to maintain their vehicles’ original colours and characteristics, the DVLA supports a deeper connection between owners and their vehicles, promoting preservation and restoration as a responsible hobby.

This aspect is especially crucial for classic car shows and events, where originality is often celebrated. Owners can confidently showcase their vehicles, knowing they retain their historical significance.

As a result, the community is not only preserving traditional vehicles but also ensuring they adapt to future ecological standards. This dynamic interplay will likely lead to exciting developments in automotive design and engineering.

Two landmark changes stand out:
These changes are not just bureaucratic adjustments; they represent a cultural shift within the automotive community, one that values tradition while embracing innovation.

Moreover, the reduction of administrative burdens allows workshops to focus on what they do best: restoring and modifying vehicles with passion and skill. This change may even incentivise new entrants into the industry, thereby revitalising the sector.

The move to officially recognise EV conversions is not just about compliance; it represents a cultural shift as we redefine what it means to drive a classic vehicle in the modern age. Classic car enthusiasts are increasingly interested in how they can transition their beloved vehicles to electric power without sacrificing the essence of what makes them special.

• Simplified Reporting: Like-for-like repairs and restorations no longer need to be reported to the DVLA unless the work alters key details such as colour, engine capacity, or body type.
• Preserved Identity: Vehicles undergoing major structural modifications can now retain their original chassis and registration numbers, ensuring their historic integrity and market value remain intact.

For workshops and collectors, this means fewer administrative hurdles and greater freedom to restore and enjoy vehicles that define automotive heritage.

Ensuring that previous restorations do not automatically lead to a reputational risk associated with ‘Q-plates’ is a significant positive change. It allows restorers to confidently pursue more ambitious projects, knowing that they won’t face penalties for maintaining the vehicle’s heritage.

Additionally, the community is urged to document their restoration processes diligently. This not only creates a historical record of the vehicle but also serves as a fantastic resource for future restorers who may look to similar projects for guidance.

Furthermore, this recognition opens the doors for innovation in the automotive sector, as more companies are likely to invest in electric conversion technologies, creating a vibrant marketplace for parts and services dedicated to this niche.

Ultimately, these changes provide the community with the tools necessary to pursue their passion with confidence and creativity, solidifying the UK’s reputation as a leader in the classic vehicle restoration field. As we move forward, it is essential that all stakeholders continue engaging with the DVLA to ensure that the voices of vehicle owners and restorers remain at the forefront of future reforms. This ongoing dialogue will help craft policies that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations, paving the way for a sustainable and inclusive automotive future.

The impact of these changes on the economy cannot be overstated. With an estimated £18 billion annual contribution from the historic vehicle sector, it is clear that fostering an environment where restorers can thrive is vital for sustaining jobs and supporting local businesses.

EV Conversions Officially Recognised

In another forward-thinking move, vehicles converted from combustion to electric power (EV) will now be able to retain their original identity, provided the DVLA is informed of the change. This is a crucial step for those who see the future of motoring as both sustainable and soulful, aligning perfectly with VINTTRO’s vision where classic craftsmanship and modern technology coexist.

Fewer “Q-Plates,” More Confidence

Under previous rules, many professional restorations risked being issued with “Q-plates” due to vague definitions of “substantial change.” The new, pragmatic approach reduces this risk significantly. For example, replacing a Jaguar E-Type’s front-frame assembly is now classified as routine restoration rather than a full chassis replacement requiring a new identity.

Note: The HCVA still recommends thorough documentation of every project to ensure smooth processing under the new system.

A Recognition of Passion and Craftsmanship

The UK’s historic and specialist motoring sector contributes over £18 billion annually to the economy. For the lifestyle motorist, whether you are preserving a vintage icon or building a bespoke restomod, these changes provide a “green light” for creativity and authenticity.

At VINTTRO, we believe this moment represents more than just legislative reform; it’s a recognition of the passion and individuality that define true motoring culture. It ensures that the vehicles we cherish will remain celebrated, roadworthy, and relevant for generations to come.

In summary, the DVLA’s comprehensive reforms signal a new chapter in the world of classic motoring, one that recognises the importance of both tradition and modern advancement. This is a pivotal moment for all involved in the restoration and modification of vehicles, ensuring that our cherished automobiles can be enjoyed for many years to come.

Pop-up headlights were a defining feature of sports and supercars in the late 1970s, ’80s, and ’90s. While many associate them with the neon-soaked era of the 1980s, this iconic design actually dates back to 1936.

The first production car to feature hidden headlamps was the Cord 810 (later rebranded as the 812). Around the same time, Alfa Romeo unveiled the 8C 2900A, featuring its own sophisticated hidden headlight design a masterpiece now displayed at the Musée National de l’Automobile in Mulhouse, France.

Cars That Made Pop-Up Headlights Iconic

From the ’70s through the ’90s, pop-up headlights became a global symbol of performance and futuristic design. The list of cars featuring them is surprisingly diverse, ranging from lightweight roadsters to the world’s most exotic supercars.

Some of the most legendary examples include:

• Mazda MX-5 (Mk1): The lightweight roadster where the “wink” became a cult design feature.
• Porsche 944: A sleek, everyday sports car with unmistakable pop-up flair.
• Honda NSX: The Japanese supercar that blended everyday usability with high-tech design innovation.
• Ferrari Testarossa: A bold, straked icon that defined 1980s excess.
• Lamborghini Countach: The ultimate poster car, made even more dramatic by its hidden lamps.
• BMW 8 Series (E31): One of the last mainstream grand tourers to embrace the design in the early ’90s.

Want to see a full list of cars with pop-up or hidden headlights? [Click here] you might be surprised by how many made the list!

Why Did They Disappear?

While many assume pop-up headlights were flatly banned, that’s not entirely accurate. Their decline was primarily driven by evolving European safety regulations, specifically pedestrian safety laws introduced in the late ‘90s and early 2000s.

Pop-up headlights often featured low, sharp mechanical edges that didn’t comply with new front-end impact absorption standards. As manufacturers shifted their focus to aerodynamics, complex crash-safety zones, and cost-efficiency, the mechanical complexity of pop-up designs simply became impractical.

Are Pop-Up Headlights Illegal Today?

Contrary to popular belief, pop-up headlights aren’t technically illegal. However, the legal hurdles to bring them back are immense. Modern manufacturers must comply with stringent pedestrian impact regulations, which require the front of a car to be “soft” and energy-absorbent to minimize injury in a collision. A rigid, mechanical unit with sharp edges is an engineering nightmare to make “safe” by today’s standards.

Additionally, current laws regarding headlight height and beam stability mean that a light must be ready to illuminate the road instantly. The split-second delay of a motor lifting the lamp, combined with the aerodynamic drag it creates, means mass-market manufacturers now prefer the sleek, fixed LED units we see today. This is why even the most daring concept cars usually opt for digital “light signatures” over moving parts.

Could They Ever Make a Comeback?

While it’s hard to imagine a mainstream, carbon-fibre supercar with 1980s-style pop-ups today, the emotional connection to them is stronger than ever. They represent a “golden era” of automotive design, a time when creativity and personality took precedence over wind-tunnel efficiency and corporate red tape.

We are, however, seeing a glimmer of hope in the bespoke and restomod world. Specialised builders are experimenting with ultra-slim LED “hidden” lights and modern actuators that could, in theory, pass low-volume safety checks. Whether they return in a new, high-tech digital form or remain a cherished relic of the past, their legacy as one of the most beloved features in car culture is permanent. Until a manufacturer finds a way to reinvent the “wink” for the 21st century, we’ll continue to cherish the classics and keep the dream alive.