[This information came from the F.O.M.C.]
In addition to the forecast threat to fossil fuel supplies in the emerging age of electric cars, finding the replacement parts to keep our prized classics roadworthy is becoming increasingly onerous.
Tracking down the bits needed to complete a restoration or pass a mechanical inspection can be part of pleasure for some heritage vehicle owners. But for others the failure to find needed spares or services can result in frustration and sometimes even the long term abandonment of a still viable project.
Of course the problems finding the parts needed to restore or repair classic or vintage vehicles are not confined just to New Zealand but are shared right around the world.
So late last year FIVA (the Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens) entered into a global partnership with an online platform to provide members with access to highquality historic vehicle parts, tyres and wheels on an international scale.
The agreement between FIVA and classicparts4you was signed on 18 November 2017 and it is planned for the site to go live just a few months from now, with its usefulness and reach increasing over time. A worldwide federation of historic vehicle owners, FIVA’s members include New Zealand through the Vintage Car Club. As well as offering access to high-quality appropriate parts for older vehicles, the classicparts4you website is also planning to assist enthusiasts by providing a database of specialised workshops and garages, as well as producers, experts and assessors
Senior Vice President of FIVA, Dr Mario Theissen said: “This ambitious and exciting project will have far-reaching benefits for a huge number of classic vehicle enthusiasts around the globe. Our key aim is to ensure that high-quality components are readily available for the widest possible range of classic cars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles.”
To directly address the same problems here in New Zealand the executive of FOMC has been developing a project to compile a similar national database of parts suppliers and repair service providers.
We propose to work with member clubs to accumulate the details of reliable individuals or firms known to undertake work needed to preserve or restore historic and heritage vehicles in their areas. This information will be included in a national register of firms and tradespeople involved in the repair or restoration of historic and heritage vehicles and made available to member clubs for the benefit of their members.
Similar research in the United Kingdom by our sister organisation the FBHVC found the heritage motor industry contributed $10 billion a year to the national economy and was a significant earner of overseas funds. With the help of our member clubs, the FOMC hopes to demonstrate heritage motoring in New Zealand is not just a hobby but a major generator of jobs and economic activity which justifies appropriate Government support and exemption from or further reductions in the various costs and fees inflicted on classic motorists.