Ex-Wheeler Dealers host makes classic car prediction ahead of petrol and diesel car ban

Former Wheeler Dealers host Ant Anstead has predicted classic cars are here to stay on British roads despite the upcoming petrol and diesel car ban. The UK Government is set to ban the sale of the majority of brand-new combustion vehicles by 2030 as part of a net-zero push. Used cars, including classics, will not be formally banned at the end of the decade, but life could become harder for owners.

Experts at Adrian Flux have previously warned that the next few decades could “present a challenge for classic car drivers”. The main concern is a potential decrease in the number of petrol stations, while USwitch has claimed it may become “more expensive” to get older vehicles repaired. However, despite the challenges, Ant suggests that historic vehicle owners won’t give up the fight so easily.

Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk ahead of his new Born Dealer series, Ant said: “I don’t think that will be a problem for the next few generations. I think this country, like most aligned countries, is car obsessed and the mob speaks. Imagine saying to a bunch of classic car owners ‘this will become too difficult’, they just won’t have it… We find a way. People will find a way to love their cars.

“It will be a dark day if that ever happens and I don't believe it will ever happen. The car community is powerful. You can’t tell John from Humberside that he’s not allowed to drive his E-Type.”

EV experts at PodPoint have also suggested that the introduction of car ban rules could see some pushback on classic car owners. They predict that the increase in electric charging stations in public would likely lead to a reduction in petrol and diesel fuel stations.

It means owners may have to travel longer distances to top-up their vehicles in a major blow for owners. Many older and historic vehicles rely on higher octane fuels to run effectively which are even more rare compared to traditional Unleaded.

However, PodPoint has also predicted that change will not happen immediately, with historic vehicle lovers under no immediate threat for now.

Experts at Parkers have previously explained: “Most classics require E5 fuel to run properly, and supplies of this might tighten in the coming years, but you’ll always be able to buy it, even if the premium rises above where it is now.”

Ant Anstead: Born Mechanic will air on Quest in September 2025.