IN THE TRADE

CHANGE TO VED EXEMPTION

In 2017 all vehicles built up to December 31, 1976 qualified for the zero rate of Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). But because of the way the DVLA recorded vehicle registrations in 1976, from now on exemption will be based purely on the year a car was registered, even if it was built the year before. Up until this year it was possible to gain road tax exemption based on the year of manufacture, if you could present proof.

THIEVES TARGET E-TYPES

The high value of E-type Jaguars – whole or in parts – has made them a target for thieves. Several have already been stolen in the UK this year including the 1965 fixed-head coupé of car restorer Lee Scott. It was taken on July 4 along with its keys during a raid on Scott’s Brightlingsea, Essex home. Jewellery and cash were also taken. The car’s reg. number is DEY 795C. Police are keen to hear from anyone who has any information. E-type owners should re-evaluate their security measures.

BEAULIEU FITS TRACKERS

The National Motor Museum at Beaulieu has fitted tracker devices to all 285 vehicles in its collection. The majority are on display in the Museum, but others are driven or displayed at events around the world. A report says vehicles with trackers are around ten times more likely to be recovered than those without. Beaulieu is using wireless Can-track Global devices, which use multiple tracking technologies and are backed up by a team of finders.