We have recently received an e-mail from the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs, of which the Register is a member, announcing the results of their 5 yearly survey. The key headlines are:
- The number of historic vehicles registered with the DVLA has risen to 1,934,178.
- The historic vehicle sector now contributes £7.3billion to the UK economy with owners spending on average £4,567 maintaining and enjoying their vehicles.
- The movement supports 2,700 businesses collectively employing 34,500 people. Nearly half offer, or plan to offer, apprenticeships to pass on vital heritage skills.
- The UK is home to 690,777 historic vehicle owners.
- Historic vehicles account for only 0.2% of all miles driven in the UK with the average vehicle covering just 837miles annually.
- The average age of an owner is 66 highlighting the importance of engaging younger enthusiasts.
Regarding the last point, we now have the NextGen Group in the Register being led by Kieron Trumper (contact details inside front cover of SIXappeal and under Who’s Who on the website). Some other clubs are also running similar groups to encourage younger enthusiasts.
For the full results of the survey go to https://www.fbhvc.co.uk/news/article/britains-love-of-historic-vehicles-powers-73-billion-boost-to-the-uk-economy