New exhibit looks at visions of future motoring from the past

David Ross, Editor
Fri, 26 May 2023

The National Motor Museum has launched a new exhibition, which delves into historical perspectives on the future of motoring.

Called 'Motopia? Past Future Visions', it  takes visitors on a journey spanning 130 years of visionary ideas about automobility. It will run until April 2024, at the museum located in Beaulieu, Hampshire.

The exhibition features an array of concept cars and futuristic visions from the early 20th century, showcasing past notions of travel and vehicle propulsion.

Motopia? Past Future Visions is organised into four themes. The 'Vehicle Visions' section examines conceptual car designs, while 'Propulsion' explores the various methods of powering vehicles - a pertinent topic given the current resurgence of electric vehicles.

'Architectural Dreams' encompasses science fiction-inspired visions and 'Urban Solutions' showcases the constant reimagining of vehicles to suit our evolving needs and surroundings.

During the upcoming half-term holiday, from May 29 to June 2, a pop-up family event called "Motopia? Are we nearly there yet" will take place at the museum. This will feature activities and demonstrations related to the future of motoring, for visitors of all ages.

Admission to Motopia? Past Future Visions is included in the general ticket to the Beaulieu attraction.

Ask HJ

Should I buy an ex-press car?

I have seen a Mercedes AMG E63S for sale, it was formally a Mercedes-Press car and I have seen it featured in press articles. Should I be put off by this or add it to my shortlist?

Ask any motoring journalist and they will tell you that press cars live a hard life, particularly performance models. The limits of their performance and handling will have been explored far more regularly than a normal owner would, up to and including top speed runs and drifting under the excuse of testing. On the other hand, press cars are normally highly specified and are pampered by the press garages that look after them. They will have received comprehensive checks before and after every loan, often on a weekly basis, and been serviced strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. An ex-press car is highly unlikely to come with any faults, so ultimately it is down to whether or not its previous life makes it more or less appealing.

Answered by David Ross

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