The classic car industry is facing a crisis: a shortage of skilled mechanics. But one organization is stepping up to save the day.
The Aging Classic Car Community
The world of classic cars is in a delicate situation. With 1.93 million classic and historic vehicles registered in the UK, the average owner's age is 66. This trend is similar across Europe (average age: 60) and the US (average age: 56). However, the problem goes beyond enthusiasts; it extends to the mechanics who keep these vehicles running.
A Looming Retirement Crisis
The Institute of the Motor Industry's 2025 workforce report reveals a startling fact: over 47% of UK employees with technical expertise are over 45, and few young people are entering the field. The IMI predicts a massive retirement wave by 2032, with 144,000 automotive workers leaving the industry. This is especially concerning for the classic car sector, which heavily relies on experienced craftspeople.
Steve Cootes, general manager of the charity StarterMotor, warns, "The sector is ageing. If we don't act, it could disappear." But StarterMotor is determined to change this narrative.
Reviving the Classic Car Industry
For nearly a decade, StarterMotor has been revitalizing the classic and historic vehicle sector. They introduce young people to the industry, teaching them valuable skills and helping them find jobs. Cootes believes classic cars, often defined as vehicles over 40 years old, are like art or antiques, preserving history and culture. The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs estimates that historic vehicle spending contributes £7.3bn annually to the UK economy, supporting thousands of skilled jobs and specialist businesses.
Bridging the Generational Gap
While classic cars from the 1990s and 2000s are gaining popularity due to their affordability, pre- and post-World War II vehicles remain out of reach for most young enthusiasts due to their high value and the complex administrative processes involved in ownership and restoration.
Mentorship and Opportunities
StarterMotor addresses this challenge by offering mentorship and job opportunities with companies like Oxfordshire Sevens, British Motor Heritage, and Classic Collective. Their 17 ambassadors, aged 15-25, get to drive and maintain historic vehicles, volunteer, and access the charity's fleet, including a 1933 Austin Ten Clifton and a 1964 Riley One-Point-Five.
Gracie Haddon, a 22-year-old ambassador, discovered StarterMotor at university and now works there full-time. She highlights the impact of the program, mentioning Emily, a 17-year-old ambassador who shadowed Silverstone's media head, and Dexter, an aspiring engineer who joined a race team's pit crew.
Industry Demand and Outreach
The classic car industry is eager for new talent. Emily-Sianne Cox, a manager at Clayton Classics, confirms the demand for classic car specialists. StarterMotor reaches out to young people through Enterprise Oxfordshire, local schools, and social media. They also promoted JLR's charitable foundation, which aims to engage young people and enhance their skills, with a £2.5mn pledge.
Looking Ahead
StarterMotor aims to become the go-to charity for young employment in the sector. Cootes plans to support more career events, expand mentoring, and offer diverse work placements. Haddon, meanwhile, is not only inspiring the next generation but also advocating for more women in the industry. She envisions a future where classic car ownership is not just a 'dad' thing but also a 'mom' thing.
And this is where it gets intriguing: can the classic car industry truly be saved, or is it destined to fade away? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
