“Caravan and motorhome people tend to be good practical DIY’ers”, according to Solaratlas.com, so the task of fitting a solar panel should be an easy one. The idea of a solar powered motorhome is to cut out the middle man (the plug in power at camp sites), in order to become more economically friendly. The solar cells are designed to produce an electrical current when exposed to light, which can be used to keep your battery topped up while you’re on the open road.

The UK may be infamous for its tea making abilities but the weather definitely isn’t anything to brag about, which means a major drawback of this novel idea is that there may not be enough light to power some of the hefty motorhomes that have been entering the motorhome market recently. Short trips however will benefit more from solar panel power, and even when you make a pit stop, the panel will continue to charge itself so it’s ready for the next leg of your journey – and the good news is you can fit them yourself.

MotorCaravanning.co.uk have reported that “ a good battery bank is pretty much essential because we use power in bursts, more in bad weather and less in good weather. As a result you will need at least two leisure batteries to make the best of solar power by storing all that good weather energy for use when the weather deteriorates”.

If you’re an adventurous explorer you may want to discover some unknown territory in your motorhome instead of the general camp sites, which is why the best thing about having a solar panel charging your motorhome is that you have the freedom to go almost anywhere that takes your fancy, safe in the knowledge that you have a stable source of power for your mobile home.

Solar power systems will give you the power you need to go anywhere you desire, with an enduring design, which is built to withstand summer heat as well as the typical Great British cold weather conditions. Making the impossible seem achievable is a tricky task, and while money might not grow on trees, power produced by the sun is not only possible, but readily available.

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Paying out for that vintage car of your dreams may leave your pockets feeling light, but in the long run you may find you have more spare cash than you thought. Modern cars depreciate in value every year, however antique or classic cars not only hold their value but also increase in value over time.

“Lots of people like new cars,” says Tim Schofield, motoring expert at auctioneers and valuers, Bonhams, “but as soon as you drive these out of the showroom, they depreciate like a stone”. The Telegraph online reports that ploughing money into a piece of “automotive art”, also known as a classic car, could be the ideal investment.

Finding that perfect vintage vehicle can take time, with each model looking, feeling, smelling and moving differently – with its very own personal nostalgic value. According to the Telegraph.co.uk, “a classic car should be a worthwhile investment thanks to the unparalleled joy and satisfaction it’s capable of delivering”.

The Telegraph online reports that some wise investments could be a 1996-99 Boxter, which can be picked up for around £6,000 or the 1989-94 911s valued at around £8,000. If you have the cash to splash, another investment could be a mint condition Aston Martin DB4 GT from 1962-63, which is worth a staggering $1 million (around £680,000). However a “dog rough 1969-73 DBS V8 is available today for £5,000-£10,000, while an untidy 1994-99 DB7 is a shade under £15,000”.The joy of owning a classic car that may not be in the best condition is that you can restore it to its original beauty or keep it preserved in its current, somewhat aged state.

Fine craftsmanship, seldom seen and utterly beautiful – it’s not difficult to see the appeal in classic cars. If you have more money and sense, then you could choose a classic car that is worth its own weight in gold, such as the Aston Martin DB5 (the car driven by James Bond in the Sean Connery era), or the Ferrari Dino and Lamborghini Miura.

According to AssociatedContent.com, the classic car trend seems to suggest that “classics may be one of those things that won’t get crushed under the weight of the economy”, having made it through many an economic breakdown and still coming out on top.

When taking on the venture of restoring one of the legendary metal masterpieces of the past yourself, you should make sure you don’t get caught with your pants down so to speak – the more you know, the more you can do to restore the vehicle to its original beauty.

Tim Schofield, of Bonhams believes that “generally speaking, if a car caused a sensation when it was first launched, then it’s always going to be collectable in years to come”.

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Thinking about the future usually consists of where we see ourselves in terms of employment, finance and relationships, but we often forget to include our current pride and joy our car, that may become a classic car of the future.

“Many automotive experts and enthusiasts consider the vintage car era to be one of the greatest eras in automotive history, as many new innovations were made and many people could afford them”, reports InLoughborough.com. As well as cars that we want to take into the future and preserve, according to Forbes.com, there are a number of “British cars we wish were still made”. These include the 1952-55 Bentley Continental, which “embodied what sadly is completely lost in the touring-car kingdom today: elegance”. Like most things there is still a silver lining as the sleek, fastback shape and imposing grille are still with us in modern Bentleys.

In recent times, Justin Timberlake has referred to “bringing sexy back”, so why not bring back the 1961-65 Jaguar E-Type which has been described as “one of the sexiest cars ever put on earth”, according to Forbes.com. This stylish looking automobile from more than 50 years ago and consisting of a 150mph rocket, has also been portrayed as “being one of the most iconic cars ever made”, reports Supercars.net. This car was such a success, it made competitors such as Ferrari scramble to keep up with the E-Type, though “none matched the presence and style of the Jaguar”, according to Supercars.net.

The name Aston Martin illustrates tradition and timeless beauty, which can be seen through the 1963-65 DB5 classic model. The unique shape of the Aston has remained pure over the years, with the Vanquish being a more current example of the combination of the classic appearance with a 21st century supercar appeal, that feels more “taut and sharp”, according to the TimesOnline.co.uk. Even with the additional features, the Aston Martin will always be remembered as the classic car that James Bond, played by Sean Connery, drove in the 1964 film Goldfinger.

The 1948 Land Rover is one of these on the list of British cars that should still be made. Forbes.com reports that “Land Rover still makes the Discovery, by keeping its sophistication, but adding a much higher cost”. The 1948 version has been described as an “off-road rugged machine”, but isn’t that the point of a 4×4 vehicle? The original Land Rover was simply built so it would “go anywhere, not that it would be comfy or cute”.

Sometimes when we change things we extract the original essence of something, however change can be also be seen as a good thing as it brings innovative new ideas and improvements. Modern characteristics certainly come in handy when you need them most, however who can deny the appeal of a car from the past?

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It doesn’t matter if you enjoy historic motoring from the driver’s seat or the comfort of an armchair, race Retro has something for every enthusiast with a classic vehicle. RaceRetro.com have reported that “over 24,000 visitors agree that Race Retro is Europe’s premier historic racing show, covering classic cars and bikes from eight decades of rallying and motorsport history”.

“The first dragster ever built in the UK is undergoing restoration”, according to PistonHeads.com and is reported that the drag car, which is being held in the collection of the National Motor Museum in Beaulieu, is apparently in “good cosmetic condition”, and is being restored to running order thanks to the efforts of the “Allard Chrysler Action Group”.

The Allard Chrysler, which was retired from drag racing in 1964, has fortunately been kept under cover ever since as an exhibition piece, until Brian Taylor became aware of the drag car and obtained permission for him and the rest of the Allard Chrysler Action Group to restore it.

This spectacular historic classic car has been seen by many who have attended the Silverstone Classic or Goodwood Revival events; however another chance to catch up with it is at the Race Retro event at Stoneleigh Park in Coventry this coming weekend.

The ACAG (Allard Chrysler Action Group) is still looking for funds to help with the restoration of such a legendary car, so if you want to help out you can support the worthy cause and even donate parts.

RaceRetro.com has reported that the event will help celebrate “Alfa-Romeo’s centenary, the 30th anniversary of Audi Quattro and 60 years since Norton’s Featherbed frame made its debut”. The event will apparently have “the stars and the cars”, with famous motoring legends such as Bruno Giacomelli and Barry ‘Whizzo’ Williams, as well as a unique opportunity to watch some of these legends drive the cars they are synonymous with.

Also to prove how dedicated the event is to classic cars, you get preferential parking if you bring your vintage pride and joy along with you and you can tuck it away into an allocated parking area.

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Just when you thought the BMW X5 couldn’t get any better, PistonHeads.com reveals that “the BMW X5 has received a Geneva facelift, with bigger air dams, bigger exhausts and jazzier light clusters”. The sporty X5 4×4 has been on sale in its current form since 2007, but the German manufacturer has decided to give it a “mid-life makeover”, reports Which.co.uk.

Top Gear have commented on the “sorcery” going on at BMW, by saying that “giving an engine more grunt results in higher MPG and industrial levels of CO2”, however the entry-levelxDrive30d has been upgraded and now produces “10% less CO2, while getting 10bhp more power” – making it the first conventionally powered SUV to slip under the 200g/km radar.

As well as interior changes the X5 has undergone some external surgery, with redesigned front bumpers combining “enlarged vents and matt aluminium-look lower scuff plates and vent fins”, according to Which.co.uk. You will certainly be able to see this modernised 4×4 coming with a revamp of new xenon headlights including bright white LEDs and altered rear light clusters.

According to PistonHeads.com, “most of the changes are under the bonnet”, and the main aim is to get the X5 to cover ground faster, while simultaneously protecting the planet. If you were to summarise the main amendments BMW have made to this already impressive 4×4, you could see that each model will come with BMW’s 8-speed gearbox as standard, boast a smoother drive and is better for the environment.

Nothing comes for free in this life, so as you’d expect, more power means more money. You should expect to pay around £2,000 more for this updated 4×4 than the one it replaces, but it’s worth remembering you are getting new engine and gearbox combinations as well as a few visual tweaks.

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Thousands of classic car enthusiasts gathered at “one of the greatest F1 circuits in the world” yesterday in the hope of saving the legendary Donington circuit. The future of the circuit was uncertain after a “failed attempt by businessman Simon Gilett to stage the British Grand Prix there”, reports ThisIsNottingham.co.uk. However, subsequently remodelling plans have been put into place as Donington prepares to take over Britain’s only F1 race from Silverstone.

RMA Club has reported that Donington’s Autojumble (part of the save Donington event) is “one of only a handful of opportunities this year to visit this historic circuit” in its current state before the work starts on the transformation of the circuit in time to be considered as the new host for the British Formula 1 Grand Prix. Classic car devotee’s turned up in their thousands, making the pilgrimage to Donington Park in an effort to show solidarity for the “beleaguered circuit”, according to ThisIsNottingham.co.uk.

The rally that took place yesterday allowed people to walk around the circuit for free, viewing classic cars and talking to other people who share their passion for classic cars. This novel idea was thought of by motor enthusiast Lee Coombs as part of a campaign to save Donington. Mr Coombs shows he knows a thing or two about owning an impressive vehicle as he drives around in a 2006 Lotus Elise.

Mr Coombs has commented on the success of the rally by saying “it was an opportunity for people to come to Donington Park for free and show their allegiance, and I think we have proved it with about 5,000 people coming along to the event”.

Attendees also commented on the success of the rally, with Peter Storey of Oxford, who bought along his pride and joy 1962 E-type Jaguar, saying “it has been a great day with so many people turning up. We just wanted to show our support”.

Visitors to the event had the rare chance to see Donington Parks founder, the late Tom Wheatcroft’s, extensive collection of vintage and classic cars, as well as catch a glimpse of the devastated circuit.

It’s no surprise that the Donington circuit is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s greatest circuits, with a parkland setting that provides a natural amphitheatre for spectators, and a track that boasts fast, sweeping curves providing a great challenge for competitors.

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The Caravan Club have reported that the latest addition to the Elddis range is the “best caravan available for under £12k”. The Elddis Xplore 302 was the winner of ‘The Caravan Club Caravan Design Awards 2010 for the under £12,000’ category – so it’s no surprise that the smallest UK-built caravan is one of the top choices on the market today.

The Xplore model, which was originally launched in 2008, made a name for itself as being the Caravan Industry’s “Tourer of the Year”, reports elddiscaravans.org, however this year has seen the updated Xplore that is “even better than before”. With an improved design and exciting new layout, the Elddis Xplore will charm you and help you stay within your budget.

It may be the smallest caravan built in the UK, but the Explore 302 is still “tardis-like”, according to elddis.co.uk, and spacious enough to contain a full kitchen and bathroom, so don’t let the size fool you.

The chosen destination for the launch of the new model was at the Birmingham NEC last month, which saw people coming from far and wide“seeking cheaper vehicles emerging from the recession”, reports CaravanClub.co.uk, and that is exactly what they got from the Elddis Xplore 302.

The good news about the latest Elddis edition is that you can store it on your driveway and it can easily be towed with a small car such as a Corsa or Punto. The Caravan Channel have announced that they will be at The UK Motorhome and Caravan Spring Fair at Newark on the 27th and 28th March, and their stand will feature the actual caravan as well as some video from the event on the Caravan Channel and the Caravanning News Website.

CaravanTalk.org.uk has reported that “the benefits of this smallest edition to the award-winning Elddis range are clear to see”, with an allure that will appeal to “couples and individuals new to caravanning or upgrading from camping and trailer tents”.

With “class-leading luxurious touches and Xplore’s funky, vibrant upholstery”, the Elddis Xplore 302 is totally unique and provides the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts who want a comfortable and well-equipped base, according to CaravanTalk.org.uk.

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The Aston Martin owes its origin to Mortimer Morris Goodall and the creation of the Aston Martin Club, which was established to “promote the sport and pastime of motoring”, and of course to develop interest in the Aston Martin car, according to Aston Martin: ‘A Complete Illustrated History Of The Marque’. In 1948 there was little hint of the further fame that would be earned in the years to come, adding to the historic status of the Aston Martin as one of the world’s greatest Marques.

Like most car manufacturers, Aston Martin experimented with its classic cars, introducing the Atom Saloon G40/900, 2-litre engine, which “technically demonstrated beyond doubt its possibilities” and “provided both the performance and comfort which had previously been associated with cars of twice this nominal power and weight”, as quoted in the book ‘Autocar & Motor’ by Haymarket Magazines Ltd.

Aston has come a long way since the days of the pre-war Atom, however the Cygnet city car is the latest model to assume the heritage of the classic Aston Martin, and comprises an unorthodox purpose built design. Aston Martin believes that “customers will buy the car to nip in, out and around the city” and Chief Executive of Aston Martin, Dr Ulrich Bez said “many of our customers have a need for a small car for urban use”. According to the Times Online you don’t have to be James Bond to have the privilege of driving one of these exceptional vehicles. “The opportunity to pop to the supermarket behind the wheel of an Aston Martin will be opened to the more conventional motorist”, as opposed to Bond who ostentatiously “screeches around hairpin bends” in a typically classic Aston Martin.

Evolution and growth is vital for car manufacturers, which is why Dr Bez believes “small is beautiful these days”, which coincidently describes the Cygnet perfectly. He continues saying “we have to move on from the preconceived ideas regarding what Aston Martin is about”. Aston boasts a reputation based around high-performance cars that sell for upwards of £100,000, but the modest Cygnet will be available for around £20,000.

The city car concept is predicted to apply Aston Martin’s design language, craftsmanship and brand values to a completely new segment of the market, but keeping in touch with the original Aston notion of combining “economy with the type of road results required by the motoring connoisseur”, according to Autocar & Motor.

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From a modest two-seater, 1.1 litre engine classic car to an “ultra-efficient, low-emission, mid-engine super sports car”, Porsche have certainly demonstrated one of the biggest and most impressive transformations in motoring history. Featuring the latest eco-friendly fuelling system, the Porsche Spyder 918 “claims 78mpg” and runs on “hybrid and electric drive technology”, reports PistonHeads.com.

The legend of the Porsche was born in 1931, and saw the creation of an “automobile that was dependable, simple, fast and technologically ahead of its time”, reports PorscheHistory.com. Ferdinand Porsche, a genius of engineering and a unique automotive designer, is also responsible for creating the first plans for the Volkswagen Beetle, which proceeded to become the “largest selling car in history”, as well as designing cars for other auto manufacturers such as Austo Daimler and Mercedes Benz.

With such a successful portfolio, it’s no surprise that Ferdinand Porsche’s designs have developed into a modern “concept that combines high-tech racing features with electric-mobility to offer a fascinating range of qualities”, according to PistonHeads.com. If this all sounds too good to be true, with Porsche claiming that the performance of the new hybrid is “fascinating”, the proof really is in the pudding. So get your teeth around a hybrid model that reaches a top speed of 198mph and a lap time on the Nordschleife of less than 7 ½ minutes – this super modern car really revs the excitement levels and its performance speaks for itself.

The story of Porsche is looking more like a fairytale, and like most fairytales there is likely to be a happy ending. The way Porsche is delivering innovative vehicles, “synonymous with luxurious sports cars as well as cutting edge technology” it’s no surprise Porsche recently blew everyone at the Geneva Auto Show out of the water with their “freshly unveiled electric concept car”, according to Inhabitat.com.

Each time Porsche has launched a new model they have provided an uncompromised convoy of classic or sports cars that have all been true to the soul of its ancestors. If you haven’t heard of Porsche, you must have literally been asleep for a hundred years, just like in a fairytale. Winning the most prestigious automobile brand for over 70 years of excellence and dedication, the Porsche legacy continues through the 918 hybrid Spyder. Inhabitat.com believes that “Porsche is definitely bringing sexy back into green with this new electric concept”.

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One brand that commands respect and royal stature is Rolls-Royce, with even the Queen of England acknowledging its magnificence. Rolls-Royce150m.com has reported that “whenever Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II or other members of the Royal family travel on official engagements, the journey will include the use of a Rolls-Royce motor car”. The Rolls-Royce is so important that it even went aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia, tucked away in its own specially constructed garage.

When the state cars used to transport members of the Royal family are not in use they are housed in the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. Royal.Gov.uk reports that “there are eight State limousines, consisting of two Bentleys, three Rolls-Royces and three Daimlers”. More surprisingly there are also a number of Volkswagen people carriers that accompany the Royal fleet vehicles.

For many people, catching a glimpse of a member of the Royal family can only be achieved at slow speeds and from a short distance, which is why the Bentleys are fitted with a “removable exterior roof covering which exposes a clear inner lining, giving an all-round view of their Royal passengers”, reports Royal.Gov.uk.

A Rolls-Royce Phantom VI was added to the Royal collection, having been presented to The Queen in 1978 for her Silver Jubilee by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders. The oldest existing member of the fleet is the Phantom IV, built in 1950 and has been used by the likes of Princess Elizabeth and The Duke of Edinburgh. Just like a fine wine, the Phantom gets better with time and despite its age is still in excellent condition, being used for occasions such as Ascot. This prestigious event requires high status, so it’s no surprise the transport of choice is the Rolls-Royce.

Classic cars symbolise historical significance, which is why some historic Royal cars can be viewed at the Sandringham Museum. Vintage cars you should expect to see include the 1900 Daimler bought by Edward VII, and a half-scale Aston Martin given to Princes William and Harry in 1998.

Rolls-Royce has supplied numerous members of the Royal family with cars for many years and has been proudly displaying the Royal Coat of Arms during this time. In 1955, after 5 years of providing quality service Rolls-Royce, “successfully challenged Daimler’s 60 year lead as Royal Warrant holders” and continue to hold that honour to this day. No doubt Rolls-Royce will carry on producing its classic cars of the future for years to come.

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