Classic car emissions are falling even as the number of heritage vehicles on UK roads reaches record levels. Modern classics are entering the scene with better fuel efficiency, helping to lower the average carbon footprint per vehicle by 16% since 2013. This shift proves that enjoying automotive history does not have to come at the cost of sustainability.
Classic car emissions fall despite more vehicles on the road
In 2013, there were just under 467,000 registered classics in the UK. Today, there are more than 1,056,000. Even with this surge, total sector emissions have only risen by 34%, far below what might have been expected. The influx of newer classics with cleaner technology is the key reason behind this.
Modern classics bring cleaner technology
Cars from the late 1980s and 1990s are now hitting classic status. These vehicles come equipped with fuel injection, electronic ignition, and improved manufacturing tolerances, all of which improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Between 1978 and 1995, average fuel efficiency improved by 21%, and that legacy continues to make an impact today.
Putting emissions into perspective
The average annual CO2e output for a classic has dropped from 899kg in 2013 to 757kg last year. To put that into context, that is about the same as one and a half weeks’ worth of emissions from a typical UK household. Even with over a million classics on the road, they account for just 0.30% of the UK’s total transport emissions.
Mileage trends affecting classic car emissions
Mileage has a major impact on total emissions. While average annual distances fell for a time, they have been rising again, reaching 1,535 miles last year, the same level seen in 2013. Still, when measured at a consistent 1,200 miles per year, emissions per vehicle clearly show a steady decline.
Modern classics reshape the sector’s footprint
A decade ago, there were only about 18,000 cars exactly 30 years old on UK roads. Today, there are nearly 70,000. These younger classics are having a positive influence, bringing tighter emissions controls and offsetting what could have been a much larger environmental footprint for the sector.
Summary
Classic car emissions are dropping per vehicle, even as their numbers grow. Thanks to modern classics with improved efficiency and emissions control, heritage motoring is becoming greener without losing its charm.
Disclaimer: Figures are based on analysis from official data sources and may vary depending on driving habits and vehicle condition.
Source: Loop
