IN THE TRADE

E10 PETROL AND CLASSICS

From 1 September the standard for regular unleaded 95-octane petrol was changed to E10. This means it contains up to 10% ethanol, which can damage fuel systems in older cars and weakens the mixture. Quick fix is to use Super Unleaded because this remains at the old E5 standard. Many modern classic are OK on E10. See gov. uk/check-vehicle-e10-petrol. For instance, a 28-year-old Volvo 940 Turbo on the CC fleet got the thumbs-up to use it. For more detailed information on the issue visit fbhvc.co.uk/fuels

HELP FOR DVLA DELAYS

The recently launched Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance is working with the DVLA on the issuing of age-related registrations. There has been much recent criticism of delays and mistakes in the system. The HCVA’S Malcolm Mckay says, ‘The DVLA devotes a disproportionate amount of funds and resource to this relatively small subject. HCVA has a plan to ease this pressure. As part of this plan, we will soon be rolling out an application procedure for HCVA members on our website.’ See hcva.co.uk.

THE MARKET INTO EUROPE

Bonhams has expanded its recently acquired online classic car auction platform The Market into Europe. Dubbed ‘The Market by Bonhams EU’, it launched for bids on the first lots on 8 September with a 2007 Ferrari 612 offered by a vendor in France. Bonhams Motoring MD Maarten ten Holder said, ‘It is a natural progression for our Bonhams Motoring business to expand into Europe. There is clearly an appetite from buyers and sellers for this service.’ See themarket.bonhams.com