Young Driver Launches Classic Experiences for Kids

Children up to seven years under the legal driving age are now able to take the wheel of three iconic British-made classic cars thanks to Young Driver, the UK’s largest pre-17 driving school.

Children can now get in the driving seat of three of Britain’s most famous classic cars; a Vauxhall VX490, Morris Minor or Austin 7, with a fully qualified driving instructor on hand to show them the ropes. The experience, run by Young Driver, is not just for under 17s that have an interest in driving and learning more about classic vehicles; parents are also welcome to have a go!

Young Driver, the UK's largest pre-17 driving school, typically offer driving lessons to under 17s in more modern vehicles across the UK and had prepared to launch their classic car experience in Autumn 2020 – just as events had been put on hold due to the national lockdown.

After spending several months fine tuning the details running up to the relaxation of lockdown rules, the experience launched on 22^nd May at the British Motor Museum by motoring expert and TV presenter Quentin Wilson, with regular events planned throughout the year. Each driving experience costs £25 and typically lasts 15 minutes. If you’ve booked a lesson you also get discounted entry into the museum.

Sue Waterfield, head of marketing at Young Driver, said: “Since 1903 drivers have needed to be 17 to get behind the wheel – so our pupils will be the youngest to take control of these three classics! Lockdown has meant the cars have had to be rested for a few months, but we’re delighted to now be able to properly launch our classic experience. We’ve given more than 900,000 lessons in new cars over the last 12 years, but the Vauxhall VX490, Morris Minor and Austin 7 will give a completely different experience. We’re happy to let both youngsters and grown ups have a go behind the wheel and take a step (or drive) back in time! The nostalgia factor will be huge for anyone over a certain age, but these cars appeal to everyone, they’re absolutely stunning and great fun to drive.”

Jeff Coope, Managing Director at the British Motor Museum, said: “The Museum is delighted that Young Driver have chosen the British Motor Museum as the venue for its new classic experiences. The mission of the Museum as an Educational charity is to inform and inspire future generations and the addition of these experiences helps to bring the history we share to life. Anyone who books with Young Driver gets discounted admission to the Museum on the day of their experience and can see for themselves how the car they were driving fits into the history of British motoring. Amongst its extensive collections the Museum holds, for example, the first Morris Minor ever produced!”

For more information or to book a lesson visit www.youngdriver.com or call 0333 577 9010.

Would you like to see a similar experience at future Coffee & Chrome meets? Is this something young people you know would like to get involved with? Let us know in the comments.