Transport secretary Mark Harper has launched a call for evidence that may change how classic cars are protected and restored, during a recent visit to Bicester Heritage. 

The changes may make it easier to look after older vehicles meaning there could be more iconic cars showcased in Bicester, more jobs and growth to the local economy. 

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The announcement is set to spark the most significant chances in a generation aiming to protect "Best of British" cars to make them fit for the modern age. 


Registering a vehicle after it has been restored or retrofitting an electric engine could become easier thanks to these changes which come alongside an £8.3 billion investment to resurface local roads in England. 

The government's call to evidence, launched on May 9, is set to gather views on how classic and historic cars can be preserved for future generations and boost jobs in the £18 billion classic car sector which already employs 113,000 people. 

Since the 1980s, policies on how classic cars are registered after being restored and upgraded have largely remained the same, and do not account for improving historic vehicles with modern technology, for instance with electric engines.

With James Bond’s iconic Aston Martin DB5, Mr Bean’s classic Mini and the DMC Delorean from “Back to the Future” firmly embedded in popular culture, these decisions will aim to ensure classic cars remain a centrepiece of British excellence in the UK and around the world.

The industry will also be hoping that by better preserving classic cars, they can help drive tourism to iconic classic car shows such as Goodwood Revival.

“Despite being excellent examples of ‘Best of British’, the way we manage, improve and protect classic cars has not kept up with the times and evolving technologies," Transport secretary Mark Harper said. 

"That’s why we are calling for industry and enthusiasts to have their say on how to best protect these British classics for decades to come.

“Alongside our £8.3 billion to tackle potholes and the Plan for Drivers, today’s Call for Evidence shows once again we are on the side of motorists, as we continue to put drivers back in the driving seat, support jobs, and grow the economy.”

The government has also highlighted its work on traffic schemes like Low Traffic Neighbourhoods and 20mph speed limits, cutting congestion and accelerating the rollout of electric vehicle charge points. 

A spokesperson said motorists will also benefit from the introduction of new measures to crack down on disruptive street works, with utility companies that allow works to overrun facing increased fines.